Mt. Fuji View and 2hours+ free time at Gotemba Premium Outlets

Exploring the Mt. Fuji View and Gotemba Premium Outlets Tour: A Practical Look

This tour offers a full-day escape from Tokyo’s hustle, taking you on a journey to Mt. Fuji’s iconic 5th Station, alongside scenic stops at Lake Kawaguchi and a shopping spree at Gotemba Premium Outlets. At roughly 9 hours and 45 minutes, it’s designed for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty and retail therapy, all comfortably supported by air-conditioned bus travel. What stands out most? The opportunity to see Mt. Fuji peeking through clouds, plus that extra hour and forty minutes at the outlets—perfect for picking up designer deals or just strolling around.

One of the things we appreciate most about this tour is the knowledgeable guides like Yoshiko, who gets high praise for speaking fluent English and keeping the energy lively, even when the weather isn’t perfect. The transportation, with WiFi onboard, makes long hours in the bus more bearable. However, a potential hitch is that the itinerary is weather-dependent—if fog or rain roll in, your view of Fuji might be limited, which could impact the overall experience. Still, it’s a solid choice for those eager to tick off classic sights in a single day, especially if you enjoy a mix of sightseeing and shopping.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, reasonably priced day trip without the fuss of planning transportation or worrying about navigating public transit. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time, eager for a taste of Japan’s most famous mountain and scenic lakeside spots. If you’re expecting perfect weather or a quieter experience, you might want to consider whether a private tour or different time of year better suits your travel style.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned coach with WiFi makes long hours more pleasant.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Yoshiko are fluent in English, helpful, and energetic.
• Scenic Stops: Lake Kawaguchi and Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine offer iconic views of Mt. Fuji.
• Shopping Indulgence: 1 hour 40 minutes at Gotemba Premium Outlets provides great discounts on international brands.
• Weather Caveats: Visibility of Mt. Fuji depends significantly on weather conditions; rain or fog can limit views.
• Value for Money: With a price of around $60, this tour packs in diverse experiences, from cultural sights to shopping.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Meeting and Transportation

The tour kicks off at 8:00 a.m. at the Robert Indiana “LOVE” sculpture in Nishishinjuku, a convenient central Tokyo meeting point. From there, you’ll board a modern, air-conditioned bus with WiFi—perfect for scrolling through photos or catching up on emails during the drive. The group size is capped at about 45 travelers, ensuring the experience isn’t overly crowded but still lively enough to enjoy socializing or chatting with guides.

The First Stop: Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine

Expect to spend about 45 minutes here, where you’ll find an atmospheric shrine with a view of Mt. Fuji framed by cherry blossoms (from late March to mid-April). Reviewers like Sarah praised this stop, describing it as “beautiful with traditional charm,” and noted that guides are eager to help with photos. The shrine’s elevated position offers a vantage point that’s both scenic and culturally rich—an ideal spot for those iconic photos of Fuji with the temple in the foreground.

Lake Kawaguchi and Oishi Park

Next, around 40 minutes is allocated for Oishi Park, famed for its lush seasonal flowers and panoramic views of Mt. Fuji across Lake Kawaguchi. This stop receives high marks for its photogenic setting and the chance to enjoy soft ice creams with fruity flavors—reviewers like Sarah and Brown S loved the opportunity to snap photos of Fuji reflected in the lake. The park also offers the chance to relax, wander, and breathe in crisp mountain air, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

The 5th Station: A Conditional Visit

The crown jewel of the trip is the Mt. Fuji 5th Station—a must-see stop that offers a close-up view of Japan’s most famous peak. However, the reviews and tour notes highlight that weather can significantly influence this part of the experience. While some travelers like Sarah were lucky to see Fuji peeking through clouds, others, like CruzJessy, experienced more overcast days that limited visibility. In winter or during bad weather, the 5th Station might be less impressive, or visitors might only see foggy views.

If the Fuji Subaru Line is closed, the guide will adjust the itinerary, as was the case for some reviewers who visited the first station instead. The experience at the 5th Station isn’t just about the view—it’s also about the feeling of standing near one of the world’s most iconic volcanoes, surrounded by souvenir shops that sell local crafts and snacks.

Shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets

The final major stop is the Gotemba Premium Outlets, where you’ll spend about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Reviewers like Jessica H highlighted this as a favorite part, praising the discounts of 5-15% on international brands and the gift coupons. It’s a good spot to pick up designer labels at a fraction of Tokyo or Osaka prices—although Anita pointed out that most stores aren’t real outlets, and with the yen’s strength, shopping can still be pricey.

Many travelers appreciate that the guide always makes sure everyone stays on schedule and that the group can enjoy browsing comfortably. Small groups might be transported in slightly smaller vehicles, which some found less comfortable—especially for taller travelers, as Anita noted. Still, the overall shopping experience is relaxed, with guides often helping take photos and sharing fun facts about the brands.

Return Journey and End Point

The tour wraps up back at Tokyo Mode Gakuen, near Shinjuku Station’s West Exit, around late afternoon. It’s worth noting that traffic can affect the schedule—delays might extend the day, but the guides typically keep everyone informed. The WiFi on board can help pass the time or plan your next move in Tokyo.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

• Guides like Yoshiko receive praise for their fluency and energy, making the long day more engaging.
• Weather remains the biggest variable; many feel lucky if Fuji is visible, but some have noted fog or rain limited views, impacting the overall wow factor.
• The food at Lake Kawaguchi is described as “really nice,” with reviewers enjoying traditional Japanese lunch options that felt authentic and satisfying.
• The Outlets are a hit for bargain hunters, especially with coupons and discounts, though some note that prices aren’t always as low as expected.
• Comfort and logistics can vary—small buses for fewer travelers can be less comfortable for taller people, and traffic delays are a reality in Tokyo.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive, guided day trip to see Mt. Fuji and surrounding sights without the hassle of planning. It’s great for photo enthusiasts, shoppers, and those wanting a taste of Japan’s natural beauty in a comfortable setting. If you’re flexible with weather and don’t mind a busy schedule, you’ll find this tour offers a solid snapshot of Fuji’s iconic landscapes.

However, if you’re seeking guaranteed views of Mt. Fuji or prefer a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider alternative options or private tours that allow more control over timing and destinations.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Tokyo packs in a lot—cultural sights, scenic views, and shopping—all under the guidance of energetic, informative guides like Yoshiko. The value is strong, with a reasonable price point for the variety of experiences included, especially considering the comfortable transportation and helpful extras like WiFi and souvenirs.

While weather can be a gamble, the stops at Lake Kawaguchi and the shrine are reliably charming and photogenic. The shopping at Gotemba offers a fun way to end the day, whether you’re hunting for deals or just strolling through the open-air outlets.

If you’re eager to tick off Mt. Fuji in a single day and want a mix of nature, culture, and retail therapy, this tour is a practical, enjoyable choice—especially for travelers who appreciate good organization and expert guides.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
No, the tour starts at a designated meeting point in Shinjuku; hotel pickup is not included.

What should I bring?
Bring warm clothes, especially if visiting during cooler months, and a camera or smartphone for photos. Water and snacks are optional, as they are not included.

Will I see Mt. Fuji?
Visibility depends on weather conditions. Clear days increase your chances of seeing Fuji’s peak, but poor weather can limit views.

How long is the shopping stop?
You’ll have approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes at Gotemba Premium Outlets for shopping and browsing.

Is there a meal included?
No, lunch is not included. You can purchase food at Lake Kawaguchi or the outlets.

What if I’m late for the departure?
The guide emphasizes punctuality; late arrivals are not refunded or accommodated, as the tour departs promptly at 8:00 a.m.

Can I cancel the tour once booked?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are not available for late cancellations.

What is the group size?
Maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere in the bus.

Are the buses accessible?
The tour uses standard coach buses with WiFi; specific accessibility info isn’t provided, so verify if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers, including families, find it suitable, but consider the long bus ride and weather-dependent stops when traveling with young children.

This tour presents a practical and enjoyable way to experience Mt. Fuji’s beauty and the excitement of Japanese shopping, all with a knowledgeable guide to enhance your day. Whether you’re snapping photos at the shrine, enjoying the lake views, or hunting for designer bargains, you’re set for a memorable day outside Tokyo.