Mount Fuji Day Tour with Matcha Experience, and Arakurayama Park

If you’re considering a day trip from Tokyo to see Japan’s most famous volcano, this Mount Fuji Day Tour offers a chance to check off a bucket list item, see some stunning scenery, and even try your hand at making matcha. Guided in either English or Chinese, the tour promises visits to iconic spots like the Mount Fuji 5th Station, Oshino Hakkai, and Lake Kawaguchi, along with a cultural matcha experience.

What we like about this tour? It’s a straightforward way to cover some of the best views and photo spots in the Fuji region, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer a guided experience. Plus, the stops at Oishi Park and Oshino Hakkai are genuinely picturesque, offering chances for memorable photos and relaxing moments.

However, there are some caveats. The reviews reveal serious issues with organization and reliability, including reports of missed buses, delays, and confusion—particularly troubling given the high cost and the non-refundable policy. If punctuality and smooth logistics are your priority, this tour might not meet expectations. This experience is best suited for travelers who are flexible, eager to see iconic sights, and willing to tolerate some uncertainty.

Key Points

• Scenic Stops: The tour visits Oishi Park, Lake Kawaguchi, Oshino Hakkai, and Arakurayama Park, providing a well-rounded experience of the Fuji area.
• Cultural Experience: Making matcha is a highlight, with a tea ceremony teacher guiding you through the process.
• Weather Dependence: The itinerary can change depending on weather conditions, and sometimes the bus can’t go up to the 5th Station.
• Logistics: The tour departs early at 8:00 am from Shinjuku and lasts around 8-9 hours; punctuality seems critical.
• Customer Feedback: Reviews highlight issues with bus no-shows and poor organization, which can lead to a frustrating day.
• Pricing: At ~$110, considering the included attractions and guide, the value depends heavily on the reliability of the service.

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at Tokyo Mode Gakuen in Shinjuku promptly at 8:00 am. Expect a full day, around 8 to 9 hours, with a group size capped at 35 travelers. The early start is good for avoiding crowds, but it leaves little room for delays or mishaps—something to keep in mind if you’re a light sleeper or travel on a tight schedule.

Transportation and Guides

The key feature of this tour is the guided bus trip. The guides are said to speak either English or Chinese, which is helpful for non-Japanese speakers. However, based on reviews, the actual experience with the bus service can be unpredictable. One review from a traveler named Devika recounts a particularly disheartening incident: “I was there at 7:25, but there was no bus and no message from the tour operator. We suffered all day because the bus didn’t show up.”

This highlights a major problem—timeliness and communication. If you’re counting on this tour to be well-organized, be prepared for possible delays or even cancellations, especially if the weather or traffic complicates things.

Mount Fuji and 5th Station

The centerpiece of the tour is the mountain itself, which is 3,776 meters tall and a cultural icon. During the summer, the tour includes a visit to the Mount Fuji 5th Station, where you’ll get stunning views and an opportunity to soak in the mountain atmosphere.

However, the actual experience can vary. The tour notes that sometimes the bus cannot go up to the 5th Station, and the itinerary will be adjusted to visit the Fujisan World Heritage Center instead. This flexibility is good in theory but can be disappointing if you’re eager for that iconic mountain view from above.

Oishi Park

Next up is Oishi Park in Fujikawaguchiko, which is praised for its beautiful gardens and spectacular views of Mount Fuji reflected in Lake Kawaguchi. During summer, you’ll be treated to vivid lavender fields, making it a photographer’s paradise.

The park has walking paths, picnic areas, and a cozy café. The observation deck offers a perfect spot for photos, especially with the iconic Mount Fuji backdrop. According to reviews, this stop provides a serene atmosphere and is genuinely worth the visit if weather permits.

Lake Kawaguchi and Matcha Experience

The next stop is Lake Kawaguchi, one of the most picturesque of the Fuji Five Lakes. Here, you’ll get a chance to try making matcha under the guidance of a tea ceremony teacher. This activity is a highlight for many, offering a hands-on cultural experience that’s both fun and authentic.

If you’re unfamiliar with matcha, it’s very bitter, but you’ll be given Japanese snacks to taste alongside the tea. The reviewer noted that this is a good introduction to traditional Japanese tea culture, and you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the craft.

Oshino Hakkai

A must-see for many visitors, Oshino Hakkai features eight crystal-clear ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s meltwater. Surrounded by traditional thatched houses and lush greenery, it’s a peaceful spot that feels like stepping into a postcard. The ponds are revered for their purity and stunning clarity, with some visitors describing it as a spiritual place.

On clear days, Mount Fuji looms majestically in the background, making for memorable photos. Reviewers appreciate the calm atmosphere and the chance to see a different side of Japan’s rural beauty.

Arakurayama Sengen Park

Finally, the tour includes a visit to Arakurayama Sengen Park, which is famous for its cherry blossoms and the pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background. The hike to the shrine and the surrounding trails can be a pleasant way to stretch your legs, though some may find it a bit strenuous.

The park provides more stunning views and photo opportunities, making it a fitting end to the day.

Critical Look at the Value

With a price of around $110.75 per person, this tour offers a lot of potential—scenic views, culture, and guided assistance. However, the mixed reviews about organization and reliability are concerning. One traveler mentioned that they arrived early but found no bus and received no communication, which can ruin the day. Given that the tour is non-refundable, this unpredictability adds a risk.

The attractions themselves are beautiful and well-chosen, giving a rounded experience of the Fuji region. But the actual enjoyment hinges on timely transportation and weather conditions. If the weather is bad or the buses are delayed, your experience may fall far short of expectations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience might appeal most to flexible travelers who are willing to accept some unpredictability for the chance to see iconic sights and participate in a cultural activity like matcha making. It’s suitable if you’re looking for a guided day trip that covers key spots without the hassle of planning transportation yourself.

However, if you’re extremely particular about timing, or if you’re traveling with children or in a large group, you may want to explore other options or private tours with better reviews for reliability.

This Mount Fuji tour offers the spectacular scenery and cultural experiences many travelers seek, but it’s marred by logistical issues that could detract from the day. The stops at Oishi Park, Oshino Hakkai, and Lake Kawaguchi are genuinely beautiful and worth the visit if weather permits. The matcha experience is a notable highlight, giving visitors a taste of Japanese tradition in a hands-on way.

Despite some troubling reviews about transportation mishaps, the inclusion of knowledgeable guides and the chance to see Mount Fuji from several different angles make it a worthwhile consideration—if you’re flexible and prepared for possible hiccups.

For travelers who prioritize reliable organization and punctuality, it’s wise to weigh these factors carefully. If you do decide to book, keep in mind the non-refundable policy and the importance of arriving on time.

What is included in the tour?
Guided transportation in a bus, visits to key scenic spots, the matcha-making experience, and admission to attractions like Oshino Hakkai and Arakurayama Park.

What is not included?
Personal expenses are not covered, so souvenirs, extra snacks, or additional activities will be on you.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 0-2 are free, but children aged 3-5 must be accompanied by a paying adult, and the itinerary’s walking and activity levels should be considered.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 to 9 hours, starting early at 8:00 am and returning to Tokyo by evening.

Can the tour go up to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station?
Yes, during the summer, but travel conditions or weather might prevent this, and the itinerary could be changed to visit other attractions like Fujisan World Heritage Center.

What happens if it rains?
The tour is dependent on good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

Is the guide bilingual?
Guides speak either English or Chinese, but availability can vary, so check with the operator beforehand.

What should I bring?
Sunglasses, hats, rain gear, and your passport (with at least 6 months validity). Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.

How reliable is this tour?
Based on recent reviews, reliability can be inconsistent—delays and no-shows have occurred, so prepare accordingly.

Would I recommend this tour?
It’s a good option if you’re flexible and want a guided overview of the Fuji region. However, if punctuality and smooth logistics are your priority, consider other options with stronger reviews.

The Mount Fuji Day Tour with Matcha Experience and Arakurayama Park offers a well-chosen itinerary that captures some of Japan’s most iconic scenery. The stops provide excellent photo opportunities, cultural insights, and a chance to relax amidst natural beauty. The inclusion of a hands-on matcha experience adds authentic value that many travelers appreciate.

However, the tour’s reliability issues noted in customer reviews are significant. The risk of delays, missed buses, or last-minute itinerary changes means it may not suit everyone—particularly those who need strict schedules or are traveling with young children.

For adventurous travelers who are adaptable, this tour can still be a rewarding way to see Mount Fuji’s best viewpoints and enjoy local flavors. But be prepared for potential hiccups, and consider booking with a flexible mindset. If you’re okay with uncertainty and want to tick off some top sights with a guide, this experience could still be worth considering.

• Arrive early and confirm your booking the day before to minimize the risk of issues.
• Bring essentials like snacks, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.
• Keep an eye on weather forecasts; clear days make a huge difference for the scenery.
• Consider the non-refundable policy—make sure your schedule is firm before booking.

With careful planning, this tour can add some beautiful memories to your Japan trip, but it’s not without its challenges. Approach with an open mind and a sense of adventure.