The simplest routes start in Shinjuku. Highway buses run frequently from the Busta Shinjuku terminal to Kawaguchiko Station. The Fuji Excursion limited express runs a few times a day direct from Shinjuku Station; otherwise take a JR Chuo Line limited express to Otsuki and change to the Fujikyu Railway. Buses also run from Tokyo Station and Shibuya. Fares are approximate and seats on both the bus and the Fuji Excursion should be reserved in advance.
Routes at a glance
| From | Best route | Time | Approx. cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku | Highway bus from Busta Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station | About 1 h 45 min–2 h 15 min | Around ¥2,200 |
| Shinjuku | Fuji Excursion limited express, direct, reserved seats | About 1 h 55 min | Around ¥4,100 |
| Shinjuku | JR Chuo limited express to Otsuki, then Fujikyu Railway | About 2 h 15 min–2 h 30 min | Around ¥3,500–4,000 |
| Tokyo Station | Highway bus from the Yaesu side to Kawaguchiko Station | About 2 h–2 h 30 min | Around ¥2,200 |
| Narita / Haneda Airport | Train or bus to Shinjuku or Tokyo Station, then as above (a few direct buses run from Haneda) | About 3–4 h | Around ¥3,500–5,500 |
| Hakone | Bus from Gora or Hakone-Yumoto to Gotemba, then bus to Kawaguchiko | About 2–2 h 30 min | Around ¥2,500 |
Getting around Mount Fuji & Kawaguchiko
Sightseeing buses: three colour-coded loop lines leave Kawaguchiko Station — the Red Line along the lake’s east and north shores (ropeway, Momiji Corridor, Oishi Park) is the most useful. One- and two-day passes are sold at the station.
Chureito Pagoda: take the Fujikyu Railway from Kawaguchiko to Shimo-Yoshida (about 15 minutes) and walk. JR passes are not valid on the Fujikyu Railway beyond Otsuki.
Without a tour: buses to Oshino Hakkai and the 5th Station are infrequent; note the last departures before you set off.
