How to Get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo (2026)
'Getting to Mount Fuji' really means getting to the lake town of Kawaguchiko at its base. The single easiest way is the direct highway bus from Shinjuku — and the golden rule is to book it the day before, on a clear-forecast morning, because seats sell out and Fuji is a no-show on cloudy days.
The options
- Highway bus, Shinjuku → Kawaguchiko: direct, ~2 hrs, ~¥2,000, reserved seat — the simplest
- Train: JR to Otsuki, then the Fujikyu line to Kawaguchiko (~2.5 hrs, a couple of changes)
- Limited-express 'Fuji Excursion' train from Shinjuku on select departures — comfortable, direct-ish
- Bus to the Fuji Five Lakes / Gotemba side if you're heading to outlets or other shores
Local tips
Check the forecast and webcams before you commit — a cloudy day means no mountain, full stop. Reserve the bus online the evening before; same-day seats are scarce in peak season. Arrive mid-morning while the air is clearest, and plan to leave on an early-evening bus to beat the return rush.
What is the best way to get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo? +
The direct highway bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (~2 hrs, ~¥2,000, reserve ahead) is simplest. Trains via Otsuki and the Fuji Excursion limited express also work.
How long does it take to get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo? +
About 2 hours to Kawaguchiko by direct bus; roughly 2.5 hours by train via Otsuki.
Do you need to reserve the Fuji bus? +
Yes — reserve online, ideally the day before, especially in peak season when seats sell out and you want a clear-weather day.