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We knew our first trip to Japan would not be complete without seeing Mount Fuji in person. Hiking the actual mountain itself would have been nice, but due to weather it’s really only open a few months out of the year. Still, we wanted to spend our time finding all the iconic, postcard-perfect vantage points around the base of the mountain. As another benefit, seeing it from afar gives an excellent perspective of just how grand Mount Fuji really is!
But here’s the thing: weather plays a large part in visibility. Mount Fuji is actually only fully visible about 90 to 100 days out of the entire year! So there was some risk, because if the weather was not on our side, we’d still see some cool spots but miss the main draw of the day’s itinerary (the mountain views).
Why Book a Tour?
Instead of stressing over train schedules and bus transfers through more rural areas, I decided to book a full-day tour through Klook. It was the only time we used a tour for our entire Japan trip, and it was totally worth it even as someone who likes to plan things out themselves most of the time. There is something so nice about being a “passenger princess” for a day, especially for this kind of day trip, and letting someone else handle the navigation! The alternative of handling the logistics of this specific day trip ourselves really did not seem worth the hassle.
Also, if you’re still getting used to a new country, a tour is the perfect way to acclimate yourself. Our guide was amazing. She messaged me on WhatsApp to tell me exactly what her sign looked like at the meeting point (which was a lifesaver since there were many different groups there).
During the drive, she taught us about Japanese culture and some basic phrases. It really made the start of the trip feel more personal and gave us a boost of confidence for the rest of our travels.
- Pro Tip: If you want to see as much as possible without the headache, book the same tour we did here and use my code ROADSANDROAMSKLOOK for a discount!
Stop 1: Arakurayama Sengen Park (The Chureito Pagoda)
This is the view you see on all the postcards: the red five-storied pagoda with Mt. Fuji in the background.
- Accessibility note for the climb: Be prepared to work for it! There are about 398 stairs to get to the top. It was definitely crowded, but the view is worth every step. There is a ramp as well, but I would expect a scooter/ wheelchair would only get you most of the way (and with significant exhaustion due to the slope). Additionally, if you book the same tour as us and aren’t used to walking fast, I would highly recommend going straight to the top (at your own pace) before getting distracted by vendors and side trails. Otherwise, you risk running out of time.
- Tip: Once you get the perfect photo at the main deck, keep walking along the less busy paths. You’ll find quieter spots to actually enjoy the view without someone’s camera right next to you.
Stop 2: Hikawa Clock Shop
Next, we headed to another famous photo op on Honcho Street. This is that viral street crossing that looks like it leads directly into the base of the mountain.
- The Vibe: This is a true “social media vs. reality” spot. It’s a functioning local street, and there are actually full-time guards there just to make sure tourists don’t wander into traffic at the wrong time to get their pictures! Wait for the crossing sign and don’t spend too much time on the road. It’s quick, chaotic, but the photo you get is 100% worth the hustle. Remember to respect the instructions of the guards and be aware of your surroundings.
Stop 3: The "Fuji Lawson" & Lunch
You’ve probably seen the Lawson convenience store that has Mt. Fuji perfectly framed behind it. We did a quick photo stop here. It’s such a neat, modern contrast to see a mountain that’s millions of years old behind a convenience store!
For lunch, our guide organized a group meal, which was such a relief because it meant we didn’t have to spend our limited free time hunting for a restaurant. You always have the option to go off and find your own food, but we decided to stick with the group and really enjoyed it! The meal was tasty and filling. The way it’s set up is perfect if you’ve worked up an appetite from the morning’s walk, because you can get extra servings of rice and side dishes at no additional cost. We were seated at tables with other people from our tour, which ended up being a highlight. It’s a great way to swap travel stories and maybe even make some new long-distance friends!
Stop 4: Oshino Hakkai
This was such a charming stop! Oshino Hakkai is a historic village built around eight spring-fed ponds. The water is actually melted snow from Mt. Fuji that has been filtered through layers of lava for decades. It is incredibly clear. Between the old thatched-roof buildings and the mountain backdrop, it feels like stepping back in time. You can drink the water from an old stone fountain while you’re there, which supposedly brings health and good luck.
Kevin and I stopped at the visitor information station here, which was quiet at the time. Despite the language barrier, the two older adults working there were thrilled to help us find their favorite matcha vendor! We used Google Translate to communicate, which was a lifesaver throughout our entire trip. Everyone we met was so patient with us as we figured things out.
- Pro tip: Download the Japanese language from Google Translate BEFORE your trip so you can use it offline.
Stop 5: Lake Kawaguchi/Oishi Park
Our final big stop was Lake Kawaguchi. Even though the fall leaves were mostly gone when we went, the view across the water was breathtaking. This stop had plenty of free time to roam around however we wanted, and did not feel rushed at all. The sun was just about to go behind a mountain peak for sunset when we left. That would have been nice to see, so if you go, the timing might work out for you even though it didn’t for us.
The Reality of Traffic
One thing to keep in mind: the drive back to Tokyo can be LONG. We got stuck in some traffic, which is pretty common on weekends and holidays. Our bus stopped at a conbini (convenience store) halfway through for a bathroom and snack break, which made the trip back much more comfortable.
Did you know? “conbinis” are EVERYWHERE in Japan, and the prices are way more affordable than what you’d typically see in the USA. We stopped at least one every day we were in Japan!
Is it a Day Tour to Mt. Fuji Worth it?
If you want to hit many locations in one day without the stress of Japanese bus routes, yes. It was the perfect, low-stress way to see all we wanted to see.
Oh yeah – remember how I mentioned there are only 90 to 100 days to properly see Mt. Fuji from these spots due to weather? It could not have been more perfect weather for us when we went. We are so grateful!
Want to experience this trip for yourself? Use ROADSANDROAMSKLOOK to save some money on your Klook booking!
Watch my TikTok about our Mt. Fuji tour experience here:
@roadsandroams We went on a Mt. Fuji tour using @Klook USA during our trip to Japan! Use code ROADSANDROAMSKLOOK for a discount! (Affiliate) #mtfuji #klook #klookkreator #mtfujitour #japanplanning ♬ original sound - Taylor | travel creator
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