Mount Fuji Full Day Sightseeing Tour from Tokyo

Whenever you think of Japan’s most iconic image, Mount Fuji is probably at the top of your list. If a day trip from Tokyo sounds appealing, this Mount Fuji Full Day Sightseeing Tour offers a solid way to see some of the region’s most picturesque spots. For around $70, you’ll hop on a comfortable bus, visit five scenic locations, enjoy great photo ops, and learn a little about this majestic mountain from knowledgeable guides.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances stunning scenery with practical travel, making it accessible even if you’re pressed for time or not too physically fit. Plus, the tour’s stops like Kawaguchiko Oishi Park and Arakura Sengen Park are photogenic highlights that make for memorable pictures.

One thing to consider is the weather dependency—some reviews mention fog or clouds blocking the views, especially at higher altitudes. If you’re someone who expects clear, unobstructed vistas, you might want to check the forecast before booking.

This tour is perfect for those who want a taste of Mount Fuji’s beauty without the hassle of planning logistics, or for travelers who enjoy learning from guides and capturing fantastic photos along the way.

Key Points

• Convenient full-day itinerary with multiple scenic stops around Mount Fuji.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, providing insights and humor.
• Great value for money, especially considering the variety of locations visited.
• Weather can impact seeing Mount Fuji; clear days offer the best views.
• Limited physical activity required – suitable for most travelers.
• Flexibility in winter, with alternative stops like Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park when snow or fog block higher elevations.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting from Tokyo

The tour kicks off early at 8:00 am from a meeting point near Shinjuku station. While initial logistics might seem a bit chaotic—some reviews mention the challenge of locating the meeting spot—most travelers find it manageable with clear instructions. We appreciate the inclusion of WiFi on board, which makes the roughly 2-hour bus ride more pleasant, especially as you start to see glimpses of the countryside.

Oishi Park: Lake and Mountain Views

Your first stop is Oishi Park on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko. Here, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the lake. Visitors frequently comment on how picturesque this spot is, especially when flowers bloom along the lakeside. The park is free to enter, and with plenty of time (about 30 minutes), you can snap photos of Fuji reflecting in the water or among the seasonal flowers. One reviewer loved how early morning light accentuated the mountain, making for postcard-quality shots.

Arakura Sengen Park: Iconic Cherry Blossoms and Pagoda

Next, you’ll ascend to Arakurayama Sengen Park, famed for its Chureito Pagoda and cherry blossoms. The hike up 398 steps is manageable for most, and from the observation deck at the top, you face a stunning view of Fujiyoshida City with Mount Fuji framing the scene. The park is a year-round favorite, but during sakura season, it’s especially breathtaking. Reviewers like SanSanDoris_H highlighted how their stop here was “terrific,” with beautiful sakura and the pagoda creating the perfect photo backdrop.

Mount Fuji 5th Station: The Iconic Halfway Point

The highlight for many is the 5th Station of Mount Fuji, situated at 2,300 meters. It’s the closest accessible spot to the summit, offering sweeping views, and is packed with gift shops and cafes. Many travelers mention feeling the thrill of being so close to Japan’s tallest mountain. Although the view can be obscured by weather, some reports say that even on foggy days, the atmosphere is special. The 75-minute stop allows for some exploration, souvenir shopping, or a quick snack.

However, a few visitors, like William_M, note that during certain seasons (like late March), access might be limited, and they only managed to reach a lower station. This highlights an important point: weather and seasonal conditions influence how far you can go.

Oshino Hakkai: Clear Waters and Lava-Lake Ponds

The next stop is Oshino Hakkai, a charming collection of eight ponds fed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji. The water here is famously pure—locals even drink it—and the scenery of traditional houses and serene ponds makes it ideal for quiet reflection and photos. Reviewers like Fe_C praise this spot as worthwhile, noting the clarity of the water and the unique lava-lake formations.

Alternative Winter Stops

In winter, when snow and weather conditions restrict access to higher elevations, the tour swaps the 5th Station for Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park or other lower-altitude locations. This flexibility ensures you still get a taste of Fuji’s beauty, even if the summit remains out of reach.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour operates in an air-conditioned bus with WiFi, making the long day comfortable and connected. Group sizes are capped at around 40 travelers, creating a good balance between social interaction and personal space. Several reviews praised the driver’s skill—navigating narrow mountain roads safely—and the guides’ ability to combine knowledge with humor.

Guide Expertise and Commentary

Guides like Sheila and Tina received glowing praise for their helpfulness, insights, and engaging personalities. One review mentions that guide Ms Chu was “very helpful and insightful,” adding a personal touch that enhances the overall experience. Guides often share interesting facts about the sites, history, and local culture, making the trip both educational and entertaining.

Timing and Pace

You’ll have roughly 30 minutes at Oishi Park, about an hour at Arakurayama Sengen Park, and over an hour at the 5th Station. Some reviewers note that the stops feel well-paced, giving enough time to snap photos and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Food, Souvenirs, and Practical Tips

The tour does not include lunch, but there are plenty of cafes and shops at the stops—especially at the 5th Station—where you can grab a snack or buy souvenirs. Many travelers recommend bringing a packed meal or snacks, as queues at cafes can be long, and the stop is brief.

Travelers also mention the importance of dressing in layers, especially for higher-altitude stops. Even in spring or early summer, temperatures can drop quickly, and fog or clouds might obscure the views. Some reviews share that the weather can be unpredictable, so packing a raincoat, sunblock, and camera gear is smart.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Beyond the main stops, some reviews mention the beauty of the towns near Mount Fuji, with a few highlighting the charm of Fujiyoshida and the surrounding lakes. For example, the Fujisan World Heritage Centre was mentioned as an interesting addition to supplement the trip when access to the 5th Station was limited.

One reviewer described their experience as “amazing”, emphasizing that the trip felt “well organized” and the views were spectacular—even when the weather wasn’t perfect. The calming lakes and vibrant townscapes provided a good contrast to the mountain vistas, making the day more diverse and fulfilling.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This Mount Fuji tour offers a great balance of scenic beauty and cultural stops, making it a value-packed option for travelers short on time. While the weather can sometimes be a challenge, most reviews suggest that the experience is memorable, especially thanks to friendly guides and the chance to see Mount Fuji from multiple angles.

It’s best suited for travelers who value photography, want a guided experience that covers key sites, and don’t mind a long day of travel. If you’re hoping to reach the summit or enjoy uninterrupted mountain vistas, be aware that seasonal weather may limit those plans.

This tour provides a solid introduction to Mount Fuji’s surroundings—with enough flexibility and stops to keep the experience engaging and rewarding.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is popular and on average gets booked 43 days ahead, so securing your spot early is recommended.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point later in the day.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have time at stops to buy food or bring your own snacks.

What’s the maximum group size?
Up to 40 travelers, which helps keep the experience manageable and friendly.

Can I see Mount Fuji clearly?
Visibility depends on the weather; clear days offer the best views, but fog and clouds are common at higher elevations.

What alternative stops are there in winter?
In winter, the tour may go to Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park or other lower-altitude locations since access to higher stations may be limited.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, it requires moderate physical activity—mainly walking and climbing stairs at Arakurayama Sengen Park.

Are guides helpful?
Most travelers find guides like Sheila and Ms Chu knowledgeable, personable, and funny, enhancing the overall experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with full refunds.

To sum it up, this Mount Fuji sightseeing tour is an accessible, reasonably priced way to experience Japan’s most famous mountain and its surroundings. Featuring attentive guides, multiple scenic stops, and flexible options in winter, it offers a balanced look at the region’s natural beauty. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a guided day trip that combines photography, culture, and mountain views—all without the hassle of arranging transport or accommodations.