Mount Fuji from Tokyo: Day trip itinerary

Monte Fuji al amanecer desde el lago Kawaguchi

A day-trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji and the lesser-known Hakone five lakes area is among the favorite experiences of many travelers to Japan, so here is our guide on how to visit this famous landmark with the Japan Rail Pass. Whether you prefer climbing or a more relaxed pace, we have the perfect guide for you make the most out of this trip!

Let’s start with some interesting facts about Fuji-san: Mt Fuji is not only the highest mountain (3.776 meters), and Japan’s most climbed and depicted one, but it is also the pure representation of good luck and good fortune for all Japanese citizens. This is a curious fact, considering the mountain is actually a giant volcano.

Nevertheless, what is even more fascinating is that it is not a single volcano. It is part of three volcanoes, one on top of the other. The bottom one is Komitake volcano, and the second layer is Kofuji, while Fuji is the youngest of all three. Although officially classified as active, it has a very low eruption risk, since it was last active in 1708.

Interesting fact: Did you know that Mount Fuji is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, located less than 100 kilometers away from Japan’s capital?

Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji at sunset

Climbing Mount Fuji

All travelers eager to climb the top of Mount Fuji must bear in mind that the climbing season lasts from July until September. During summer all hiking trails are open.

In any other period, trails and mountain huts will be closed, so it can be very dangerous for anyone to attempt climbing on their own.

Also read: Mount Fuji climbing guide

To climb Mount Fuji, there are four Fuji trails, which will take you to the mountaintop:

  • Yoshida trail – 2,300m (altitude of head trail)
  • Subashiri trail – 2,000m
  • Gotemba trail  – 1,450m
  • Fujinomiya trail – 2,400m

All trails can be accessed via a mountain bus, taking passengers from one of the five 5th stations (although they are all named 5th station, these are different stations), with the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, at Yoshida trail, being the most popular one.

Climbing Mt Fuji
Climbing Mt Fuji by @Azlan DuPree (Flickr)

Tokyo to Mount Fuji via Gotemba

Apart from the Yoshida trail, the Gotemba trail is one of the most popular routes among visitors. Travel time by train is a little over 2 hours from Tokyo. To get there:

  • Take JR Tokaido line for Kozu from Tokyo Station, using your JR Pass
  • Once at Kozu (Kanagawa), take the JR Gotemba Line for Numazu
  • Get off at Gotemba Station | final destination
Tokyo to Gotemba
Tokyo to Mt Fuji via Gotemba – Hyperdia screenshot

Note: The Hyperdia screenshot shows you a detailed description of a journey example with pre-selected departure time and date. Note that the train trip will be free of charge for all Japan Rail Pass holders. The displayed price is only valid for passengers with no JR pass.

Once at Gotemba station, take a bus to Subashiri 5th station, the gateway to climbing Mount Fuji. The bus operated by Fujikyu to reach the Gotemba climbing route. A one-way bus journey is about an hour long, at the cost of 1.540 yen (round trips are 2.060 yen).

Please note that Fujikyu is not part of the Japan Rail Group, which means the Japan Rail Pass does not cover buses ran by this company, and no seat reservations are available.

Note: During the climbing season, buses operate differently in comparison to the off-season. For more detailed information and timetables, please check with the local operator.

Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen trains

Summer is also the time when Mount Fuji can be clearly seen from a Shinkansen train leaving Tokyo towards Nagoya – Osaka – Kyoto. The window view is impressive – make sure to reserve your D or E seat (C or D in Green Cars), which is the right side from Tokyo, left side from Kyoto.

Fuji bullet train
On a clear day, Mount Fuji can be seen from inside a bullet train

What to see in the Mount Fuji area

As we have already mentioned, Mount Fuji forms part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Hakone is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, located less than 100 km. from the capital city of Japan.

Famous for its scenic area, Ashi lake, hot springs and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is more than worth the visit.

Please check our new Hakone guide for more information on visiting the area.

LakeAshi and Mt Fuji Hakone
Lake Ashi – Hakone by @木更津乃風 (Wikipedia)

Best time to visit Mount Fuji and its area

Also, please remember that the best time to visit any of these places is the hiking (summer) season, from July to mid-September. These are the months that promise sunshine, good weather, and fantastic views.

Unfortunately, travelers who decide to make this trip in October or March may not be able to enjoy the area’s scenery fully due to heavy rains or clouded mountain peaks.

Tokyo to Hakone with the JR Pass

Here’s how to get from Tokyo to Hakone with the bullet train:

  • Take the Tokaido Shinkansen (Kodama and some Hikari trains, please check) from Tokyo Station (covered by the Japan Rail Pass)
  • Get off at Odawara station
  • Take the Hakone Tozan train for Hakone-Yumoto (not covered by JR)
  • Get off at Hakone-Itabashi. This is your final destination.

Also very popular among the locals are Fujigoko or Fuji’s Five Lakes, which are located in the northern area of Mount Fuji.

Tokyo to Fuji Five Lakes

Kawaguchiko (or lake Kawaguchi), Saiko, Yamanakako, Shojiko, and Motosuko are the Fuji Five Lakes. Each of them offers unforgettable views and outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, and camping.  Most hotels in the area are located close to the five lakes too.

Mount Fuji as seen at sunrise across Lake Kawaguchi
Mount Fuji as seen at sunrise across Lake Kawaguchi by @Mstyslav Chernov (Wikimedia)

To get to the Fuji Five Lakes:

  • Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station (Tokyo) to Otsuki Station (Azusa trains, covered by the JR Pass).
  • Once at Otsuki, take Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko Station (not covered by the JR Pass).

Kyoto and Osaka to Hakone

Some travelers prefer to visit the area coming from the Kansai region (Osaka and Kyoto). Here’s how to get there from the west with a bullet train:

  • Take the Tokaido Shinkansen (Kodama and some Hikari trains, please check) from Kyoto Station or Shin-Osaka station (covered by the Japan Rail Pass)
  • Get off at Odawara station
  • Take the Hakone Tozan train for Hakone-Yumoto Station (not covered by JR)
  • Get off at Hakone-Itabashi Station. This is your final destination and the gateway for the Mount Fuji area.

 

Related Tours & Activities

89 thoughts on “Mount Fuji from Tokyo: Day trip itinerary”
  1. Pirate Ship
    Dows the JR pass cover access to the pirate ship on the lake?

    Thanks
    Walid

  2. HI, we are traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto and will use the JR pass. We would love to stop in Hakone on our way, and make a 1/2 day visit to see Mt. Fuji close up. I have been able to find directions on how to get from Tokyo to Hakone, but have NOT found how to get from Hakone to Kyoto, and if there are times I need to be aware of before there no more trains to catch late in the day. Thanks!

    1. Not sure if this is JR rail pass?
      Does your 14 day tour that you have advertised are the trains all covered by the JR rail pass for this trip

  3. KYOTO to FUKUOKA

    I would like to take the JR Pass from Kyoto to Fukuoka. I don’t seem to find any train information on that route. Are trains going from Kyoto to Fukuoka and can I use my 7 day Pass? THANKS

  4. Pls. let me know which train do I need for the following :
    1. Roundtrip ticket train from Tokyo to Mt Fuji and which train station should we get off when reach MtFuji.
    2. Do we need any transportation in order to reach 5th station 5?
    3. Roundtrip ticket train from Tokyo to Kyoto?

    1. Hi Christie! All the details regarding reaching Mount Fuji are detailed in this article you are commenting, we encourage you to carefully read it. Getting from Tokyo to Kyoto with the Japan Rail Pass is easy. You should take the Shinkansen Hikari bullet train from either Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station in central Tokyo, and arrive at Kyoto Station.

  5. Hi there!
    Me and my wife is going to japan on October 9 for 14 days and I am plan to get a 14 days JR pass, my 1st trip to Japan,, can’t wait for it..
    Landing at Narita International Airport
    Day 1 – Arriving at Narita 11:30 am planning to stay in Shibuya or Shinjuku (afternoon Tokyo sightseeing)
    Day 2 – Day trip Kamakura passing by ONODEN
    Day 3 – Day trip Central Nikko & Okunikko
    Day 4 – Day trip Hakone & Mt. fuji
    Day 5 – Move to Takayama and explore Takayama
    Day 6 – Day trip to Shirakawago and Kanazawa
    Day 7 – Move to Kyoto
    Day 8 – Day trip to Arashiyama
    Day 9 – Day trip to OASAK
    Day 10 – Day trip to Nara
    Day 11 – In Kyoto the whole day and back to Tokyo on Night Train
    Day 12 – Tokyo East Side
    Day 13 – Free time (still planning)
    Day 14 – Depart Narita @ 13:10
    Kind of very tight on the schedule , Is the 14 day JR pass worth on our trip?
    Thanks a lot and more power!

  6. Hi,
    I’ll be visiting Tokyo and Osaka by mid-November 2018 and would like to pay a visit to Mt.Fuji.
    I would like to have an experience go by bullet train. I planning to purchase JR pass. Is there any bullet train for:
    1. Tokyo to Osaka (Return)
    2. Tokyo to Mt. Fuji
    Look forward to your reply.
    Thanks

    1. Hi Jovi Ong! Getting from Tokyo to Kyoto with the Japan Rail Pass is easy. You should take the Shinkansen Hikari train from either Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station in central Tokyo, and arrive at Kyoto Station. This line is fully included in your Japan Rail Pass. Regarding how to get to Mount Fuji, the itinerary is partially covered by the pass. This article you are commenting has all the details 😉 please check carefully.

  7. We are traveling 12 days in Japan, from Narita airport to Tokyo to Nagana to Kyoto and Mount Koyasan to Osaka to Hiroshima and Miyajima then fly to Okinawa and then go to Tokyo and Mount Fuji. Do you suggest Japan Rail Pass, or JR East or JR West 4 day or 7 day pass? Thank you for any help. We leave July 23. We want to also go to Universal in Tokyo.

    1. Hi Cindy! The nation-wide Japan Rail Pass is the only pass that will allow you travel along the whole country. Should you want a pass to travel to all mentioned locations it would be adviceable to go for the Japan Rail Pass.

  8. Hello there – I will be In Japan for 9 days only, below is my travel itinerary, I need advise how best to utilise and activate my 7-days JR pass so I can use it for the Narita Express on my departure on my last day as well, any tips and realistic advise is truly and highly appreciated:

    * Day 1-3: arriving Fukuoka Airport and stay in Fukuoka for 4 days
    * Day 4-5: travelling from Fukuoka to Osaka and stay in Osaka for 3 days
    * Day 6: travelling from Osaka to Tokyo and stay in Tokyo for 4 days
    * Day 9: departing Japan from Narita Airport

    Questions that need your expert advise pls:
    1. I would love to visit Mount Fuji (but not climbing, only to view, I believe can be done so at either the Lakes or Hakone (?)), shall I go to Mount Fuji from Hakata (during my Fukuoka stay) or Tokyo (during my Tokyo stay) or Osaka (during my Osaka stay)?

    2. Is there a night train from “Hakata to Osaka” and “Osaka to Tokyo”? If not, what is the best way/timing to travel in these routes pls?

    3. Is it better to do the Kimono/traditional photoshoots in Tokyo Asakusa or Osaka?

    4. Heard that the “TOEI Animation Gallery” has closed down already, is there any place that we can see most animation-related stuff esp. Naruto and Dragonball pls?

    5. Can we visit the Ghibli Museum & J-World Tokyo on the same day pls?

    I would really appreciate any advise/suggestion/recommendation you can provide me with esp. utilising the 7-day JR pass.

    Thanks again and awaiting your soonest reply.
    Labe

  9. Hi I would like to ask about coin lockers at Numazu Station, our itinerary would be:

    Checkout at Tokyo, travel to Mt Fuji
    Day Trip at Mt Fuji
    Travel to Osaka

    This would be possible if we could leave our baggages at coin lockers. Are there any coin lockers at Numazu Station? Thank you very much!!!

  10. Hi we are planning on a trip from Tokyo to Mt Fuji for the night and then to Kyoto. We have the 7 day pass, how do we go about doing that?

    Thank you

    1. Hi Bronislava! In this article you can read all about travelling between Tokyo and the Mount Fuji. Should you want to move afterwards to Kyoto, as specified also in this article, you can do so in the Tokaido Shinkansen.

  11. Hi,
    I plan to visit Mt Fuji , the five Lakes on 17 June 2018 for a day trip. Then,how do i go to Kyoto after that ?
    Your kind advice is much appreciated.
    Thank you very much.

    Carol.

  12. Hi,

    We want to stop by mount Fuji on the way to Kyoto. We are wondering if there is any large size coin locker to deposit our luggage at the Gotemba or Kozu station? Any other thought about how to handle the luggage would also be appreciated.

    Thanks

  13. Is the JR rail the only way to get to mount fuji? I am considering to get the metro ticket for my stay in tokyo, but i am not sure if it is sufficient or not. Would love to hear from advise on it!

    1. Hi Joyce! Please note Mount Fuji and its area are not part of Tokyo metro. Should you want to reach Mount Fuji you will have to consider purchasing other types of ticket.

  14. Hi JRPass Team. We are arriving Tokyo, Narita airport on May 28 late afternoon. for 10 days. Of course we wil buy JR Pass for 7 days.
    On our arrival to Narita to our accommodation to Urayasu-shi, Chiba-ken, Todaijima we do not want to use yet our JR Pass instead we will buy one off ticket to get into our accommodation.
    OUr itinerary
    1st day – Narita airport to Urayusu-shi, Chiba Ken for accommodation apartment in Urayusu-shi
    2nd day – Disneyland (will buy ticket goin to disneyland) – any idea how much
    3rd day – Disney Sea (will buy ticket goin to disneysea- any idea how much
    4th day – Activate our 7 days JR Pass from this day. Tokyo city centre for Mt Fuji tour, JR Pass
    5th day – Tokyo-kyoto-nara-tokyo or should we go tokyo-Kyoto-nara-osaka(stay overnight)-is this a long long trip
    6th day – Tokyo-Osaka
    7th day – Osaka back to Tokyo
    8th day – tokyo sightseeing
    9th day- tokyo sightseeing
    10th day – 7th day of JR Pass from Urayusu-shi to Narita airport for departure.
    Lastly when is the best time to buy JR Pass online, our departure is May 28, 2018. How long does it take delivery from mail.
    Thank you and looking forward to have this once in a lifetime experience in Japan.

    1. Hi ChiChi!

      If you get your Japan Rail Pass from http://www.jrailpass.com the standard delivery time varies between 24 and 48 hours. However, the exact delivery time will depend on the customer’s location, time of order, public holidays as well as customs problems and/or ground/air transportation disruption. The estimated maximum delivery time is 72 hours.

      Enjoy your trip!

  15. hi,
    My family of 3 adults and 2 kids will arrive in Haneda on the 14 April ard midnight. Our apt is near Hirai Station. Our itinerary as follows:
    D1- Tokyo (15 April 2018)
    D2-Disneyland
    D3-Mount Fuji/ Lake Kawaguchi/Tokyo Skytree
    D4- Day trip to Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route-Nagago-Toyama
    D5- Tokyo/Tsukiji/Tokyo
    D6- Day trip to Shikarawago ? open option on this
    D7- Tokyo-Haneda (21 April)

    I got two questions?
    1- Can I use the JRPass immediately when i arrive and still can be use when we going back to Haneda on the 21 April at 7pm.
    2-Your opinion on my itinerary

    Thank You

    1. Hi Khairul!

      The Japan Rail Pass validity period is calculated in days, not in hours. Therefore, if you have purchased a 8-day pass and your activation date (when you first use the pass) is the 14th of April, the exact expiration time will be midnight on April 20.

      We hope you enjoy your trip!

  16. Hi there,

    I am planning for an 8 days holiday in May 12-19 this year. My rough itinerary is as follow:
    May 12: Arrival Narita airport (1800).
    May 13: Shibuya- harajuku- shinjuku and maybe Asakusa
    May 14: Mt Fuji- chureito Pagoda- shibazakura Festival
    May 15: Yokohama- Travel to Osaka
    May 16: USJ
    May 17: Kyoto
    May 18: Nara- Osaka (afternoon)
    May 19: First train to Tokyo for departure at Narita.
    PS: I want to try the night train (Sunrise Seto) Osaka-Tokyo on May 18.. Is it possible? They said hard to reserve and must be in Japan in time or reservation..

    Will a 7 day pass worth it for my Itinerary? Will it be advisable to get Pasmo card for some trains or buses that does not include the JR Pass?

    Thank you in advance

    1. Hi Bhie!

      The Japan Rail Pass would pay off – please note that it has a cheaper price than a Tokyo to Kyoto return ticket, on a Shinkansen bullet train. Given your itinerary, it will amost be fully coveres with the pass:

      – The Narita Express is the most convenient Tokyo city transfer from and to Narita International Airport.
      – When in Tokyo, the pass affords access to 5 different local lines: the Yamanote Line, the Keihin-Tohoku Line, the Rapid Chuo Line, the local Chuo-Sobu line and other metropolitan lines that circulate on the outskirts of the city such as the JR Keiyo, Musashi, Nambu and Yokohama lines. Please note that Shibuya, Harajuku and Shinjuku can be accessed with the Yamanote line.
      – Hakone and Mount Fuji area can also be accessed with the pass, however some small parts may require to buy separate tickets.
      – From Tokyo, your Japan Rail Pass gives you direct access to all that Yokohama has to offer. After you will also be able to easily reach Osaka at not additional cost in the JR Tokaido Shinkansen line (Kodama train).
      – While in Osaka, you will be able to make full use of the Osaka Loop Line. This line will also take you straight to Universal Studios Japan.
      – Travelling between Kyoto and Osaka is now easier than ever. Just take the Hikari train on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. You will get between Kyoto Station and Shin-Osaka Station.
      – In order to get from Kyoto to Nara, begin at Kyoto Station. Take the Miyakoji Rapid Train, on the JR Nara line to JR Nara Station. To get then to Osaka jusr raje the Yamatoji Rapid Train to Osaka Station.

      We hope you enjoy your stay!

  17. Hi there,
    I will arrive Toyko on 14/11/18 and depart from Osaka on 23/11/18 . I plan to visit as many places as possible and suggest whether a 7 days JR pass is advisable. Plan to stay in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara ? Osaka or do you suggest that I stay only in Tokyo and balance all days in Osaka but travel out everyday to other places. If I have finished my JR pass on 22nd, how to I travel from Osaka to the airport.

    Thank you.

  18. hello.
    we would like suggestions on how to travel from TOKYO to Mount FUJI in December 23, 2018.
    Five Lakes would be ok. will Mt. Fuji be visible in December 23 or so?

    appreciate reply.
    thanks.

    TONY

    1. Hi Tony!

      Our best suggestions are detailed on this article you are commenting 😉 We recommend you to carefully read it. If travelling in Dececember you may not be able to enjoy the area scenery fully due to heavy rains or clouded mountain peaks – but of course it will always depend on the concrete day.

      We hope you enjoy yout stay!

  19. Hi! Planning to travel this coming April. I have 4 kids in tow so this trip will be quite challenging. My first concern is we want to see Cherry Blossom and first stop is Tokyo or Osaka. We also plan to visit Disneyland. Any suggestion if we are planning to stay for 7 days or better if we book 14 days? You have any suggestion re itinerary? And what route should we do first if we want to see cherry blossom. Thank you!

    1. Hi Eileen!

      Sure, our blog is full of itineraries and travel tips.

      If you want to enjoy cherry blossom you cannot miss our 2018 cherry blossom forecast for Japan article. There you will be able to find which areas are expected to be in full bloom at the date of your trip and then you can just adapt to it. For example, the best times to visit (full bloom) are expected to be around March 24 in Tokyo, and March 28-29 in Hiroshima, Kyoto and Osaka.

      We hope you enjoy your trip!

  20. Hi there!
    I’m going to japan end of this month for 10 days, my 1st trip to Japan,, can’t wait for it..
    Landing at Kansai International Airport
    Day 1 – Arr at Osaka
    Day 2 – Osaka Sightseeing (free and easy)
    Day 3 – Universal
    Day 4 – Kyoto sightseeing
    Day 5 – Shirakawa-go
    Day 6 – Tokyo Sightseeing
    Day 7 – Disney Sea
    Day 8 – Tokyo sightseeing / planning to Gala Yuzawa
    Day 9 – Mt.Fuji
    Day 10 – Narita
    Kind of very tight on the schedule , and we only purchase 7 days JR Pass, any suggestion ?
    And if we would like to do day trip to Mt.Fuji, is it possible to visit Gotemba and Hakone and back to Tokyo before 7 pm? and how to go there from Ueno ? Gotemba first or Hakone first? Do I need to reserve the seat?
    Thanks a lot!!

    1. Hi Rina!

      Your full itinerary is covered by the Japan Rail Pass:

      – To travel from the Kansai Airport to the city of Osaka, board the Limited Express Haruka at the Kansai Airport Station. Take the Haruka to Shin-Osaka Station. At Shin-Osaka, transfer to a local train to Osaka Station.
      – While in Osaka, you can make full use of the Osaka Loop Line.
      – To get to Universal Studios, from Osaka Station take the Osaka loop line to Universal City Station.
      – To get from Osaka to Kyoto you can take the Hikari train on the Tokaido line. The same train will take you straight to Tokyo.
      – While in Tokyo, the JR Pass affords access to five local railway lines: the Yamanote Line, the Keihin-Tohoku Line, the Rapid Chuo Line, the local Chuo-Sobu line and other metropolitan lines that circulate on the outskirts of the city such as the JR Keiyo, Musashi, Nambu and Yokohama lines.
      – DisneySea is a twenty-minute walk from Maihama Station, or you can take the Disney Resort Monorail from Maihama to Tokyo Disney Sea Station.
      – Mount Fuji trip is already described in this article.
      – From central Tokyo to Narita Airport you can travel in the Narita Express, fully included in your pass.

      We hope you enjoy your stay!

  21. Hi , How can I go to My-t Fuji using JR rail pass. Can I go to 5th station. and come bak.

  22. Hi,

    I’m travelling to Japan on 28/04/2018. Touch down in Osaka then will be going to Kyoto for temples visit on 01/05/2018. Next will be Mount Fuji and Tokyo city. Could you please recommend on how can I travel from Kyoto to Mount Fuji? Or can you please suggest some planning to me? As I check online, I find out that all they way from Kyoto to Mount Fuji takes more than 5 hours by train. But I’m not sure with all the trains. Appreciate for your help.

    Thank you.
    Elaine

    1. Hi Elaine!

      Reaching the Mount Fuji is easiest from Tokyo since it’s the closer than Kyoto. Should you still want to go to Mount Fuji from Kyoto, you may take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima (included in th JR Pass), then Fujikyu Bus to Kawaguchiko (not included in the JR Pass). This is the fastest method.

      We hope you enjoy your visit!

  23. Hi,
    I will visit Japan from Osaka (arriving May 01, 2018 – 8AM @Kansai) and then back from Haneda (May 14 – 11.45AM). I will stay in Osaka, and going back and forth the Kansai Prefecture – Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Kobe, then go to Tokyo, then Fuji, then back to Tokyo for shopping. I also would like to visit Gotemba Premium Outlet for my last shopping.

    Any idea on how I maximized by 7 day JR Pass during this visit and any good place that I might be missing. I’m more of a cultural person, but also like to mix with modern entertainment such as Universal Studio, Osaka Aquarium, Museum of Art etc.

    I’m still mixed on having to take JR Pass (fast but expensive) and JR-West rail which is cheaper but spent more time on the road. I’m not looking for a tight schedule. 🙂 Some ppl recommend me to go to Nagoya, or even in the between Osaka – Tokyo cities. Would like to visit a good onsen if any. 🙂

    Appreciate your help. 🙂

  24. hello
    I plan to be in japan from May 13th to May 29th – 17 full days. I’d like to see Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Nikko, Kanazawa, Osaka, Hokkaido, Hiroshima. There is so much information online and I’m not sure how to plan the route of the trip so as to save travelling time. Off course, I’ll be buying the JRP however what route should we take? What is the order of the cities we should take?
    Im most concerned about Hokkaido. How do I get there and which place is the most convenient to stay between Matsumae and Sopporo? Would this trip be covered by the JRP?
    I’m aware that JRP can be used for commuting outside of Tokyo however what can I use to travel within Tokyo? Do i need to purcvhase an additional pass for within Tokyo?

    1. Hi Sasha!

      We recommend you to check our Japan in 21 days: The ultimate travel itinerary article. It features our best recommendations to enjoy to the fullest a stay of 3 weeks in Japan and includes almost all of your desired visits. From our point of view, the best itinerary in your case should be as follows: Tokyo, Nikko, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima.

      You can reach Hokkaido from any of the main cities, being Tokyo the closest one. However the trip from Tokyo to Sapporo would take you 8 hours (and 11 from Kyoto) so we recommend to plan this part carefully. The trip is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass as specified in our redicated article.

      The JR Pass affords access to five different Tokyo railway lines: the Yamanote Line, the Keihin-Tohoku Line, the Rapid Chuo Line, the local Chuo-Sobu line and other metropolitan lines that circulate on the outskirts of the city such as the JR Keiyo, Musashi, Nambu and Yokohama lines. Should you need to take any other line you would need to chose any of the prepaid ic cards available.

      Happy travels!

    2. Just been to Japan for 10 fantastic days. We bought 7 day JR Pass. First 3 spent in Tokyo bought tickets as required (we were not sure how much we would be able to cover per day). Activated JRP on 4th day to get to our next base, Osaka. Stayed there for 6 days in a hotel inside the station and travelled to Kyoto, Hiroshima, Mijeyama, Nara, Namba, one day in Osaka, all covered by JRP, while the luggage stayed in our room. Some stations are enormous so can take 10-12 minutes walking just changing lines. Last day returned to Tokyo because of better weather, made use of JRP on Yamanote line (Loop Line) which takes you to most important sights. Hope this helps.

  25. Hi there!
    We are planning a day trip (27 March 218) from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Lake Kawaguchiko to Gotemba and back to tokyo.
    Could you advise me on how I can get to gotemba from kawaguchiko, then back to tokyo? We have already purchased the 14 days JR pass 🙂
    Thank you!

    1. Hi Yun Jie!

      To travel from Shinjuku (Tokyo) to Kawaguchiko you need to take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (covered by your Japan Rail Pass). Once at Otsuki, take Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko Station (not covered by your Japan Rail Pass). To get to Gotemba, take the JR Tokaido line for Kozu. Once at Kozu (Kanagawa), take the JR Gotemba Line for Numazu, and get off at Gotemba.

      Have an amazing trip!

  26. Hello! We are planning to visit Mt Fuji in Winter January and a day trip from Tokyo. Would Hakone and the Five Lakes be doable to do in both one day and are they in the same direction getting there, or is one more preferable than the other? Which way would we go to first and what would we have to pay that is not covered by the JR Pass? Also, is the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park walkable from Hakone Station? Thank you

  27. Hi, it is advisable to stayover one night in Hakone area or a day trip to Mt Fuji area from Tokyo will be sufficient?

    1. Hi Hui!

      That will be a chioce that will depend on you, on the time you have to visit Japan, on the kind of places you like to discover… The beautiful lakes, mountains, hot-spring resorts, historical sites and incredible views of Mount Fuji are just a small number of the attractions Hakone has to offer.

      Have an amazing trip!

      Hakone area is full of amazing places to discover: not only Mount Fuji but also the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park,

  28. Hi I have a JR pass for 7 days and plan to do a DIY trip for Mt. Fuji, Hakone and Gotemba. Please let me know what will be the best trip to do to achieve that in 1 day.

    1. Hi Maine!

      If you are planning to reach Mount Fuji it should be easy to combine with Gotemba: if you take the Gotemba trail, as described in this article, you will be able to easily hop off at Gotemba station. It will also be easy to reach Hakone since it is the same area. To get to Hakone you can take the same line that brought you to Mount Fuji (Tokaido Shinkansen) and get off at Odawara station. From there itinerary will be as described in this article.

      Since they might be many places to fit in a single day trip, we recommend you to use Hyperdia to plan the itinerary so that you make sure you get to see them all.

      Have a nice trip!

  29. Hi, I will be going to japan for 10 days and plan to get a 7 day JR pass. However, I’m not sure which day would be the best day to activate it considering I’ll be going to Tokyo Disneyland and Osaka’s Universal Studios, which means the JR pass will be sort of “wasted” for 2 full days.

    My itinerary is as follows:

    Landing at Narita International Airport
    Day 1 – Tokyo (free and easy – Shibuya/Shinjuku)
    Day 2 – Tokyo (free and easy)
    Day 3 – Mount Fuji
    Day 4 – Disneyland
    Day 5 – Transit to Osaka
    Day 6 – Osaka Universal Studios
    Day 7 – Kyoto
    Day 8 – Kyoto/Nara
    Day 9 – Osaka free and easy
    Day 10 – Kansai Airport

    Could you kindly advise on which day should I activate the JR pass? Activating on which day would be the most cost effective as I’m not sure on which day the travelling cost is higher.

    Thank you.

    1. Hi Chacy!

      Indeed the Japan Rail Pass would be useful for almost all days. We recommend you to check which is the cost of the individual tickets for each trip and compare it to the cost of the pass. This can be easily done using Hyperdia – the number 1 Japanese online transportation planning tool.

      See below how the Japan Rail Pass would make your trip easier:

      – You will be able to reach central Tokyo from Narita Airport in the Narita Express, fully included in the pass.
      – When in Tokyo, the JR Pass affords access to five different railway lines: the Yamanote line, the Keihin-Tohoku line, the Rapid Chuo line, the local Chuo-Sobu line and other metropolitan lines that circulate on the outskirts of the city such as the JR Keiyo, Musashi, Nambu and Yokohama lines.
      – You will be able to reach Mount Fuji through the Gotemba trail, as you have already read in this article.
      – To get to Tokyo Disneyland just use your JR Pass to travel from Tokyo Station to Maihama Station, on the JR Keiyo line.
      – To go from Tokyo to Osaka, you will need to take either the Hikari bullet train or Kodama from Tokyo or Shinagawa stations in central Tokyo. Both run on the Tokaido Shinkansen line.
      – When in Osaka, you will be entitled to make full use of the Osaka Loop Line.
      – You can easily access Universal Studios Japan in Osaka: just start from Osaka Station and take the Osaka loop line to Universal City Station. From Nishikujo Station, you can also take the JR Sakurajima line (also called Yumesaki line).
      – To travel between Kyoto and Osaka just take the Hikari train on the Tokaido Shinkansen line. You will get between Kyoto Station and Shin-Osaka Station in less than 30 minutes.
      – To get from Kyoto to Nara, begin at Kyoto Station. Take the Miyakoji Rapid Train, on the JR Nara line to JR Nara Station.
      – And last but not least, to go to Kansai Airport you will just need to take the Haruka Express from either Kyoto or Osaka.

      We hope you have an amazing trip!

  30. Hi, I’m visiting Tokyo in Dec 2017 and will stay in Tokyo mostly except for a day trip to Mt Fuji. Is getting a JR pass worthwhile?

    1. Hi Karen!

      The most economical pass will always depend on your itinerary and that is why we always recommend you to check which is the cost of the individual trips at Hyperdia and compare it to the price of the nation-wide pass. Keep in mind the Japan Rail Pass would not only cover your trip to Mount Fuji but also the airport transfers and some transportation within Tokyo city.

      We hope your have an amazing trip!

  31. My husband and I will go to Japan in March 2018. Plan to stay in Tokyo from march 20 to march 25. Then go to mt. Fuji in march 26 leave in march 27( avoid the crowd in weekend). Then from mt. Fuji to Kyoto from march 27 till April 1. Do we need a two weeks JR pass or just One week pass? Which way, which date should we use the JR pass? And also we will leave Kyoto to Osaka for 3 nights then fly back home. Do we need JR pass from Kyoto to Osaka? Or just use daily pass?

    Mei Kwan from Australia

    1. Hi Mei!

      If you want to assess which pass is more cost effective for you we recommend you to first draw your whole itinerary. Once you have it, check which the cost of each individual trip is. You can do this very easily using Hyperdia – the number 1 Japanese online transportation planning tool. Knowing this should be very easy to compare how much do individual trips cost to the Japan Rail Pass.

      We hope you have an amazing trip!

  32. Hello JR Pass team!

    Thank you for your amazing customer service. We are a family of 4 going around Japan from mid January for 2 weeks. We are planning to do a day trip from Tokyo to see Mt Fuji with the JR Pass. Obviously we cannot climb it, but which is the best location to receive the best views of the mountain/lake etc during winter and how do we get there using the Jr Pass? Thanks so much

    1. Hi Amelia!

      Thank you for your warm comment 🙂 To have good views of the astonishing Mount Fuji you might want to visit the five lakes, each of them offering unforgettable views and outdoor activities. You have all the details on how to get there in this article you are reading.

      Happy travels!

  33. Hi,

    I am planning to visit Mt Fuji from Osaka in a 1 day trip with my parents using JR Pass (7 day). Is it possible to cover this in a single day. I would like them to see Mt Fuji view from any location, if possible.

    Other days, I would like them to visit Hiroshima and Kyoto.

    Your response would ne highly appreciated 🙂

    1. Hi Ajitesh!

      Visiting Mount Fuji from Osaka in just 1 day might be too much since each individual trip will take you around 3 hours. It might be a best idea to go there while they are in Tokyo. And a tip: if what you aim is to have the majestic view of Mount Fuji and not climbing it you might like to visit Fuji Hakone Izu National Park 😉

      To Visit Hiroshima from Osaka city center you need to first take the JR Haruka Express to Shin-Osaka Station, and then transfer to the Sanyo Shinkansen line (westbound, Hikari trains).

      Happy travels!

  34. Hi,

    Our schedule going to Japan Nov 3, 2017 i ask, when can we reserved seat and how to process to reseved seat to JR pass bullet train
    .Thanks

  35. Hi, we have travel to japan we already purchased the jr bullet train can i ask when can we reserved our seat and how to process to reserved the seat

  36. hi,

    i am going to japan with my family (1 toddler and 1 infant) for new year 2018, we are planning to go to osaka from tokyo and afterwards return to tokyo again using JRpass. I have read in a few travel blog that it is easier changing train in shinagawa station, because its easier and less crowded than Tokyo station. is that true ?

    thank you so much from your answer

    1. Hello Citra,

      For traveling with kids, shinagawa station may be a better option. It is easier to change lines, no hassle and less crowds.
      Still a good location to take the Tokaido Shinkansen to go to Osaka, as you can see in our map.

      Hope you and your family have a great time in Japan!

  37. Aloha,

    Planning a short trip December 11-16. Would this be a bad time to see mt. Fuji on a day trip from Tokyo? We will be in shinagawa near the prince hotel.

    Mahalo
    Chris

    1. Hello Chris,

      Tourists are advised to schedule their visits to this special mountain during the climbing season which is from July to August. These months are ideal because of the good weather, accommodation options and convenient transportation.
      However, the snow will be seen covering the whole mountain during the winter, which reveals the most famous views or pictures of Mount Fuji. Apart from the summer months, temperatures at the peak are usually below freezing with the average temperatures falling around 19°F (-7°C ).

      Winter is a good time to visit Japan and you are looking for some ideas, don´t miss our post best times of the year to visit Japan

      Happy reading!!

  38. I will be going to Tokyo in Dec .
    I shall be staying in Gotanda .
    I need to go togoshi to have dialysis treatment every Mon, Wed and Fri .
    Does jr pass cover that area ?

    Does jr pass cover Yamamoto line?
    I shall be visiting
    Lake kawaguichiko (staying in kananso ryokan)
    Yomiuriland in Kawasaki
    Kamakura
    Odaiba
    Shiodome
    Daimon
    Is it more worthwhile to buy jr pass in my case for 14 days or 7 days?
    What advice can you give me?

    1. Hi Kelly,
      Hope you are well 🙂

      After seeing all the places you would like to visit, I suggest you to go for the 14 days Japan Rail Pass, because it gives you more flexibility and allows you to include more possibilities to your Japan trip. For that matter please have a look at our travel itinerary: Japan in 14 days

      Although, the Yamanote Line is included in the Japan Rail Pass and is the best way to get around Tokyo and discover Tokyo major spots, you won´t be able to use it to go to the hospital. however, you can go walking, wich is 20 minutes or by metro, but you will need to get a single ticket every time you take.

      Anyway, we hope you enjoy Japan as much as you can!

      Have a safe trip

      Best regards

  39. HI..I AM TRAVELLING WITH 4 YEAR OLD GIRL AND INFANT(LESS THAN ONE YEAR)
    DO I HAVE TO BUY JR PASS FOR THEM OR THE TRANSPORTATION CONSIDERED FREE FOR AGE LESS THAN 6
    TQ

    1. Hi Marwiza!

      Babies and children under the age of 6 are eligible to travel free of charge on all JR public transport. However, please note that you will not be able to make any seat reservations for your child if they don’t have a valid train ticket (JR Pass). If there are no available seats, children can be held by their parents in the unlikely event of full train cars.

      Happy travels!

  40. Hi,

    We’ll be spending two weeks in Japan, which we are really looking forward too. Thanks for all the information provided on your page, these are really helpful. Purchasing the JR Pass is a no brainer, but we haven’t figured out yet whether a 1 or 2 week pass is the better option. We’ll arrive at Narita Airport and plan spending the first 5 days in Tokyo, including a trip to Nikko on the last. Then we’ll be heading to Kyoto for another 4 days and to Hiroshima and Myajima for 2 days before heading back to Tokyo and finally flying out from Narita again.
    We plan to validate the 1-week ticket for the second week of the trip where we’ll be using it mainly for the long distance connections between Tokyo-Kyoto-Hiroshima-Tokyo. However, this wouldn’t include the connection to the airport (upon arrival and departure) and the trip to Nikko, as well as some inner-city connections during our stay in Tokyo (such as the Yamanote line). The difference between the 1-week and 2-week JR pass amounts to 17000 Yen per person. Do you think we’ll be spending more than 17000Yen for the back and forth connections to the airport, to Nikko and for some inner-city travel during our stay in Tokyo?

    Thanks in advance.
    Akin

    1. Hi Akin!

      Thank you for your nice comments on our blog 🙂

      For the exact cost of each train ride please check Hyperdia – the number 1 Japanese online transportation planning tool. Please note that the Japan Rail Pass is more useful the more you travel and the far you do so it will always depend on the use you are going to give to the pass.

      The Narita Express ticket price will differ depending on where you head to, its cost will be between 3.000 and 6.000 yen approximately since you will have to pay to reserve a seat a part of paying for the trip (please note you cannot travel without the seat reservation). All costs related to Narita Express are included in the Japan Rail Pass.

      Travelling to Nikko from Tokyo will take you around 1 hour and 30 or 45 minutes and cost starts from a little more than 2.500 yen, one way. However to this you will have to add the cost of reserving your space, which will either be a seat or a standing space. All of them have an additional price that can go from 2.500 yen onwards.

      We recommend you to take your time to draw your itinerary and to compare the cost of purchasing individual tickets with Hyperdia’s help to the cost of the Japan Rail Pass itself. It will for sure help you make the best choice.

      Happy travels!

  41. Hello JRailpass,
    We are a family of five (2x adults and 3x kids under 10) traveling to Tokyo (Narita airport) from 5th April to 12th April 2018 inclusive. We plan to base in Tokyo (Ueno area) to see the cherry blossoms but also like to fit in a day trip to see Mt Fuji (not hiking, just looking from base or nearby with pagoda/ hot-spring side-trip), and possibly a day trip to Universal Studio or Disneyland.

    Please can you recommend an itinerary based on above that maximize JR pass?
    Will a 7 days pass be sufficient? the kids will be 10, 7 and 4 so we should only need 2 children tickets?
    (we will arrive in Tokyo very early on Thursday 5th April around 8.30am, so would it be better to go somewhere first before checking to Ueno accommodation? logistic of luggages and train travel plus most accommodation only checks in after 3pm)

    Many thanks,
    Leo.

    1. Hi Leo!

      Sure – we recommend you to check our Japan in 7 days: Travel itinerary as a reference of our recommended itinerary. Since you will spend an additional day you can easily add a visit to Universal Studios Japan (Osaka) or Tokyo Disneyland easily, and both can be reached with the Japan Rail Pass.

      You will only need 2 children tickets since only 2 of your kids are between 6 and 11 years old. Children under the age of 6 are eligible to travel free of charge on all JR public transport. However, please note that you will not be able to make any seat reservations for your child if they don’t have a valid train ticket (JR Pass).

      Happy travels!

  42. Wanting to get the Shinkansen from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko. Is this possible or are the trains just regular local trains? It is the only opportunity we will have to experience the Shinkansen and I understand that it may not be the most economical or time-saving option but we really did want to travel on a bullet train. Thank you in advance.

    1. Hi Danielle!

      To travel from Shinjuku (Tokyo) to Kawaguchiko you need to take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (covered by your Japan Rail Pass). Once at Otsuki, take Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko Station (not covered by your Japan Rail Pass).

      We hope you enjoy the bullet train experience!

  43. Hi there,

    Thanks for the great article and just want to say firstly your customer service seems fantastic!
    I’ll be travelling to Mount Fuji next month and just wanted to ask what is the easiest route to travel from Mount Fuji onwards to Kyoto using the JR pass?
    Thanks in advance.

    1. Hi Alex!

      We are happy you like our site 🙂

      To go to Kyoto from Mount Fuji you can take Fujikyu Bus from Kawaguchiko and then JR Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima, it is the fastest method.

      Have a nice trip!

  44. Hi dear sir or madam:-
    I am wish to come Tokyo see Mt Fuji which train station should we be staying close from Tokyo to mt.fuji?
    Is it Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station (Tokyo) to Otsuki Station (covered by JR)
    Once at Otsuki, take Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko Station (not covered by JR)

    Where to stay will see mt fuji everyday ? Hotel La vista ?
    Airport -Tokyo 2 night
    Mt Fuji 3 days 2 night

    Back to Tokyo

    Need to buy JR pass ?
    Thank you.

    1. Hi Fiona!

      You might start your trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo Station – the central as well as a terminal station for all Shinkansen bullet trains. From there take JR Tokaido line for Kozu and, once at Kozu (Kanagawa), take the JR Gotemba Line for Numazu. Then get off at Gotemba Station and you will be there. All the trip is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

      Have an amazing trip!

  45. Hi,

    at which station of the tokaido line should I get off ?It says Kozu but I cannot find it on the tokaido itinerary.

    Thank you!

  46. Hi
    If we are visiting Mt Fuji and Lake Ashi from Hakone, which train station should we be staying close by to if we are to head to Kanazawa early morning next day by JR pass?
    Any ideas of airbnb in the area?
    Thanks

    1. Hi Raj!

      The closest JR station in Hakone is Odawara JR station. You can take JR Tokaido Shinkansen line from there to go to Mt Fuji. It takes about an hour to get the Shin-Fuji station which is the closest Shinkansen stop to Mt Fuji.

      We hope you enjoy your stay in Japan!

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