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Mount Fuji offers several outdoor activities such as hiking, mountaineering, and sightseeing. The most popular way to experience Mount Fuji is by hiking to the summit during the climbing season (typically July to September). Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views from nearby lakes like Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka, visit the Fuji Five Lakes region, or relax in onsen hot springs. A popular activity is also the visit to the Chureito Pagoda for panoramic views of Mount Fuji.
Mount Fuji is one of the world's largest active volcanoes, straddling Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures. Its peak, at 3,776 meters, is the highest peak in Japan. Located approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, it is within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park in Honshu, Japan.
Two craters on the mountaintop have formed two beautiful volcanic lakes. At the foot of the mountain, the eruption has left behind a variety of caves, some of which are still venting steam. The walls of the Fugaku Wind Cave are covered with stalactite-like icicles, known as "eternal snow."
Mount Fuji, alongside cherry blossoms and the Shinkansen, is a national symbol of Japan and was officially designated a World Cultural Heritage Site on June 22, 2013. The Fuji Five Lakes (Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko) lie at the northern foot of the mountain, offering breathtaking scenery and the perfect vantage point for capturing postcard-worthy Mount Fuji views.
Mount Fuji is covered in snow in winter and doesn't begin to melt until June or July of the following year. July and August are the months for the annual Mount Fuji Opening Festival. Cherry blossoms bloom in March and April, hydrangeas bloom in June and July, lavender blooms in July and August, and the red maple leaves bloom in November. The best times to view Mount Fuji when the snow is still on the summit are the best.
Recommended activities: climbing, circling the crater, day-trip hot spring bathing, praying at the shrine, bathing in the volcanic lake, sending postcards from the world's only volcano post office, camping, swimming, and fishing by the lake in summer, and skiing and skating in winter, attracting people from all over the world.
Recommended attractions: The 5th and 7th station cabins, the 9th station sunrise "Goraiko", the Fuji Five Lakes (Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko), and Oshino Hakkai
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain and an iconic symbol of the country, deeply ingrained in its cultural and spiritual history. It has been a source of inspiration for art and literature and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for both its natural beauty and cultural significance. It has been an object of pilgrimage for centuries and remains a popular destination for climbers and tourists alike.
Mount Fuji is located about 100 kilometers west of Tokyo, in the Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures. To reach the mountain, you can take a bus from Tokyo or Shinjuku Station, or use the JR Chuo Line and transfer to a local train that leads to the mountain area. During the climbing season, special buses run from Tokyo to the fifth station of Mount Fuji, which is a common starting point for those hiking to the summit.
Mount Fuji is open year-round for sightseeing, but the climbing season for the summit is from early July to early September. The best time to visit for hiking is during these months, when the weather conditions are more favorable. For those who want to enjoy the views and visit the lakes, the spring and autumn months (April to November) are ideal as the weather is clear and temperatures are moderate.
There is no entrance fee for Mount Fuji itself, but there is a climbing fee for hikers using the designated mountain trails, especially those climbing during the official climbing season. The fee typically covers facilities such as toilets and mountain huts. Tickets for transportation, such as buses to the fifth station, must be purchased either online or at designated ticket counters at train stations and bus terminals.
For transportation to the fifth station or guided tours, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the climbing season. Tickets for buses or trains can be reserved online or at stations up to a few days in advance. For the mountain climbing fee, booking in advance is not usually required, but securing accommodations in the mountain huts can be done several weeks ahead of time for a more comfortable experience.
If you're hiking to the summit, the ascent and descent can take between 6-10 hours, depending on the route and the level of fitness. For those just visiting the area, 2-4 hours is enough to enjoy scenic views from the lakes or take a short hike. A full day is ideal for a more relaxed experience, including visiting the Fuji Five Lakes or taking part in a cultural activity.
The must-see highlights of Mount Fuji include the summit (accessible during the climbing season), the Fuji Five Lakes (particularly Lake Kawaguchi), the Chureito Pagoda, and the Subaru Line 5th Station. The surrounding forests, volcanic craters, and panoramic views of the mountain and lakes are also noteworthy attractions.
Guided tours are available for those looking to explore Mount Fuji. These tours are typically conducted in English and Japanese and can include transportation, hiking guides, and cultural experiences. Audio guides are available in multiple languages at specific points, like the Fuji Visitor Center or nearby museums.
The best viewpoints include the Chureito Pagoda, which offers a stunning view of Mount Fuji framed by the pagoda, and the Fuji Five Lakes region, especially Lake Kawaguchi. The 5th Station also offers excellent views if you’re unable to hike to the summit. For photography, early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for capturing the mountain.
A recommended itinerary includes starting with the 5th Station for those who want to climb, followed by hiking the Yoshida Trail to the summit. Alternatively, you can spend time at the Fuji Five Lakes region for sightseeing, then visit the Chureito Pagoda for stunning views. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, enjoy a boat tour around the lakes or visit the nearby museums showcasing Mount Fuji’s cultural history.
While Mount Fuji itself is not typically open for night visits, you can enjoy a night view of the mountain from locations like the Chureito Pagoda or the Fuji Five Lakes area. During the climbing season, the ascent of Mount Fuji is often done at night to catch the sunrise from the summit. Special tours may also be available during the peak climbing season.
Mount Fuji can get crowded, especially during the climbing season in July and August. Weekends and public holidays see the most visitors. To avoid the crowds, plan your visit during weekdays or during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early autumn) when fewer people climb the mountain.
At the 5th Station and along the main hiking trails, there are toilets, rest areas, mountain huts, and shops selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. During the climbing season, you can also find emergency shelters along the hiking routes. At the lakes and surrounding areas, there are restaurants, shops, and other tourist facilities.
While the summit of Mount Fuji is only accessible through hiking, the surrounding areas, such as the Fuji Five Lakes and the 5th Station, are more accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some trails can be challenging for those with mobility issues. The lakes area and the Chureito Pagoda are easily accessible by public transport and are suitable for all ages.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas and small shops. However, mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are increasingly accepted at popular tourist sites, particularly around the Fuji Five Lakes area. It’s a good idea to carry cash for smaller shops and rural locations.
There are a variety of restaurants and cafes in the Fuji Five Lakes area and near the 5th Station. These offer traditional Japanese food like soba, udon, and katsu, as well as international options. At the base of the mountain, there are also several resorts with upscale dining options.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at many restaurants in the Fuji Five Lakes region, especially near the lakes. Halal food options are more limited but can be found in major towns like Fujiyoshida or at select restaurants.
There are many accommodations near Mount Fuji, including traditional ryokan inns, guesthouses, and resorts around the Fuji Five Lakes area. Options range from budget accommodations to luxury hotels offering stunning views of the mountain.
Other nearby attractions include the Fujisan World Heritage Center, Fuji-Q Highland (an amusement park), and the Aokigahara Forest. You can also explore the hot springs in the area or take a boat cruise on Lake Kawaguchi.
After visiting Mount Fuji, you can take buses or trains from the Fuji Five Lakes area to Tokyo or other nearby towns. Renting a car is also an option if you prefer more flexibility. For trips to Kyoto or Osaka, trains from Fujiyoshida Station provide quick access to major cities.
