Things to do and see around Mount Fuji: Best activities & Day trips
Dreaming of discovering the area around Mount Fuji and its hidden gems during your trip to Japan? Don't panic, Trip.com is here to share our top recommendations and activities so you can make the most of the Fuji-san region, Japan's sacred mountain!
Whether you're a nature lover, a fan of relaxing onsens, or in search of spectacular views, the Mount Fuji region is packed with unforgettable experiences you simply have to try!
Top Activities Around Mount Fuji 🎫
- 🗻 Chureito Pagoda ⭐ Free (400 steps) - Iconic view of Mount Fuji 📸
- 🏞️ Lake Kawaguchiko 🚡 Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway: £6.97 - Perfect reflections of Mount Fuji 🌊
- ⛩️ Hakone & Lake Ashi ⛴️ Cruise: from £36.22 - Shrines and onsen 🛁
- 🏘️ Oshino Hakkai 💧 Free - Traditional village and sacred ponds 🏡
- 🎢 Fuji-Q Highland 🎪 From £32.04 - Extreme theme park 🎢
What to Do Around Mount Fuji by Time Available 🧭
Length of Stay | 💑 Couples | 👨👩👧👦 Family | 👯♀️ With Friends | 🎒 Solo |
1 day | Lake Kawaguchiko + Chureito Pagoda at sunset | Oshino Hakkai + lakeside stroll | Fuji-Q Highland + street food | Chureito Pagoda + Kawaguchiko photo spots |
2–3 days | Hakone onsen stay + Lake Ashi cruise + ropeway | Kawaguchiko + Aokigahara Ice Caves + Gotemba Outlets | Mount Tenjō hike + village exploring + onsen | Cycling around the Fuji Five Lakes + onsen + ryokan stay |
4–5 days | Full Five Lakes tour + ryokan + Hakone highlights | Fuji Safari Park + museums + shopping + Lake Yamanaka | Mount Fuji climb (seasonal) + cycling + full area tour | Hiking routes + temples + quiet retreat |
1 week | Full region + trips to Mishima & Izu Peninsula + spa time | Grinpa Park + museums + water activities + easy hikes | Fuji climb + Five Lakes + Hakone + outdoor adventures | Full exploration + photography + onsen hopping |
Now, let's dive into the must-see sights and activities around Mount Fuji!
Top things to do at Mount Fuji
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Top 7 Activities and Places Around Mount Fuji 🗺️
Chureito Pagoda: the most iconic view of Mount Fuji
It's impossible to talk about Mount Fuji without mentioning the Chureito Pagoda, which offers THE most photographed postcard view in Japan!
Located in Fujiyoshida in the Yamanashi Prefecture, this five-storey pagoda stands majestically on the heights of the Arakurayama Sengen Shrine.
To get there, get your calves ready: you'll need to climb about 400 steps from the main shrine, but the visual reward is well worth the effort!
📌 Trip.com's top tip: the site is particularly spectacular in spring during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April), when the pink sakura create a magical setting around the pagoda with the snow-capped Fuji-san in the background.
👆Good to know: built in 1963 as a peace memorial following the Second World War, this 13.5-metre pagoda symbolises the five elements of the Buddhist universe.
Lake Kawaguchiko: a contemplative spot with views towards Mount Fuji
Lake Kawaguchiko is the unmissable jewel of the Mount Fuji Five Lakes region and the most accessible from Tokyo.
Located in the Yamanashi Prefecture, about 100 km west of the capital, this majestic lake offers perfect reflections of Mount Fuji on a clear day, creating breathtaking panoramas!
Around the lake, a multitude of activities await you, catering to all tastes and ages:
- Hire a bike and cycle the full loop around the lake (it's about 20 km and takes 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace),
- Take the famous Kachi Kachi Ropeway, a cable car that whisks you up to the summit of Mount Tenjō at an altitude of 1,075 metres for a 360° panoramic view of the lake and Mount Fuji (approx. ~£5.20),
- In winter, the area even offers skiing and sledging with a view of the sacred volcano!
The neighbourhood is also packed with fascinating museums, should time permit:
- Itchiku Kubota Art Museum showcases magnificent traditional kimonos set within peaceful Zen gardens,
- Music Museum showcases a unique collection of antique music boxes,
- Katsura Hamura Art Museum celebrates Japanese Buddhist art.
Hakone: the ultimate onsen destination
Hakone, located southwest of Mount Fuji in Kanagawa Prefecture, is THE legendary hot spring destination in the region.
This historic city offers the perfect blend of total relaxation, deep culture, and spectacular views of Fuji-san. It's the ideal relaxing getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo while soaking up the surrounding natural wonders!
Trip.com recommendation:
- Start your journey with a cruise on Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) aboard a unique, decorative pirate ship (£10-15, approximately a 30-minute crossing).
- On a clear day, you'll enjoy an absolutely stunning view of Mount Fuji reflecting majestically in the calm waters of the crater lake.
- Next, visit the famous Hakone-jinja Shrine, founded in the 8th century, with its iconic vermilion torii gate standing in the lake waters, often shrouded in a mystical, highly photogenic mist.
But that's not all! How could we talk about Hakone without mentioning its must-visit onsens? Relax in the natural thermal baths while taking in the stunning mountain scenery.
💡 Top tip: traditional ryokans offer private baths with panoramic views of the surrounding nature. Don't miss the volcanic Ōwakudani Valley ("Great Boiling Valley"), accessible by cable car, where you can see sulphurous fumes escaping from the ground.
Finally, be sure to try the famous black eggs (kuro-tamago) cooked in the volcanic hot springs – legend has it that eating one adds seven years to your life!
Oshino Hakkai: the traditional village with eight sacred ponds
Peacefully nestled between Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanakako, Oshino Hakkai is a preserved village that looks like it's been plucked straight from a traditional Japanese folktale or a Studio Ghibli film.
Its poetic name literally means "eight seas of Oshino" and refers to the eight sacred ponds fed by pure meltwater from Mount Fuji, which has been naturally filtered for decades through multiple layers of porous volcanic lava.
Perfect itinerary:
- Take a peaceful stroll among traditional houses with magnificent thatched roofs (kayabuki), authentic wooden watermills, and rustic little bridges, all with the majestic Mount Fuji as a backdrop on a clear day.
- If time permits, take a moment to see the eight ponds (Deguchi, Okama, Sokonashi, Chōshi, Waku, Nigori, Kagami, and Shōbu). The crystal-clear water has been recognised as one of the "100 Purest Waters in Japan" since 1985, and the locals drink it straight!
Finally, don't leave without tasting the local artisanal specialities, such as silky tofu made with pure pond water and grilled mochi, served in the village's small, family-run restaurants.
Aokigahara Forest and its mysterious ice caves
One last unmissable spot: the Aokigahara Forest (青木ヶ原), also known as the "Sea of Trees", is a dense, ancient forest located on the north-western slopes of Mount Fuji.
It grows on extremely rugged volcanic soil formed by the eruption of 864 AD. This mysterious forest is famous for its absolute silence, caused by the dense vegetation that absorbs all sound, creating a unique and peaceful atmosphere.
💡Trip.com tip: the real treasure of Aokigahara is hidden underground! Explore the ice and wind caves formed by ancient lava flows. Narusawa Ice Cave and Fugaku Wind Cave are open to the public and offer a truly fascinating adventure.
📌 Trip.com recommendation: Exploring the caves requires a good level of fitness as there are no paved walkways. Be sure to wear non-slip shoes and warm clothing, even in summer!
Fuji-Q Highland: thrills guaranteed
Fans of extreme rollercoasters won't want to miss Fuji-Q Highland, one of the most spectacular theme parks in Japan!
Nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji, this park features world-record-breaking attractions such as Fujiyama (79 metres high), and Takabisha (with a 121° drop angle, once the steepest roller coaster in the world).
Price: from £36.22 (entry ticket + unlimited rides).
Gotemba Premium Outlets: shopping with a view
Shopaholics will love Gotemba Premium Outlets, Japan's largest outlet shopping centre, featuring over 200 international and Japanese brand stores.
Located in Gotemba with spectacular views of Mount Fuji on a clear day, you'll find discounts of up to 70% on brands like Gucci, Armani, Nike, Adidas, Uniqlo, and many more.
Our Top Picks
5 star
Amazing287 Reviews
Gotemba|1.77km from city centre
Excellent Stay at Hotel Mars Garden Wood Gotemba
We had a wonderful stay at Hotel Mars Garden Wood Gotemba. The hotel was clean, comfortable and well-maintained. Our room was spacious, beautifully designed and offered a relaxing outdoor onsen after a long day of sightseeing.
The location is convenient, with easy access to nearby attractions and shopping areas. The hotel facilities, including the onsen, were excellent and provided a perfect way to unwind.
Overall, this was one of the best hotel experiences we’ve had in Japan. We highly recommend Hotel Mars Garden Wood Gotemba and would definitely stay here again on our next visit.
Note to forget, view of Mount Fuji from the hotel made our stay even more memorable.FromBRL 729
Very Good255 Reviews
Gotemba|1.84km from city centre
This hotel is rather new. Only a 5 minutes drive to Gotemba premium outlet. Free parking at hotel. Spacious modern room with lovely Mt Fuji view. Breakfast is ala carte and limited variety. But yummy still. 7/eleven is a 5 minutes walk away. We stayed for 4 nights. and on the second night had a 5.6 earthquake experience. Building shook and everyone is safe. Thank God. Another good thing is there is a washing machine with dryer. Will come back and stay if I and back to Gotemba. The last trip we stayed at Clad hotel which is nice and very convenient as it's just at the premium outlet. If you drive I will recommend to stay at Edit X seven instead. FromBRL 819
Great1255 Reviews
Gotemba|2.95km from city centre
It was the rainy season, so we couldn't see Mount Fuji, but the hotel is very new, and the room is quite spacious for Japan, with a separate wet and dry area in the bathroom. It's located behind the outlet mall; if you're coming from Tokyo by bus, you'll need to walk through the outlet and take an elevator up. It's super convenient if you're driving as it connects directly to the parking lot. Check-out is a bit early at 10 AM, and the private onsen needs to be booked and paid for separately.FromBRL 373
Great500 Reviews
Gotemba|3.88km from city centre
Highly recommend this hotel, though the building looks weird but the view from the hotel rooms, onsen and the free lounge was amazing. However this place is only accessible if you have a vehicle. The public Bath had two outdoor tubs with beautiful view of the Mt fuji. I have stayed with the hotel next to outlet before, in comparison, this was so much quieter, less crowds and better view.FromBRL 401
Very Good416 Reviews
Gotemba|1.48km from city centre
### ⚠️ Disappointing Breakfast Experience Despite Booking Info
The price was reasonable and the room itself was okay, but I had a very frustrating experience regarding the breakfast, which ruined my mood for the day.
* **The Issue:** The Trip.com booking page **clearly stated that breakfast was included** in my reservation. However, upon arrival, the hotel staff insisted it was not included and demanded an extra charge.
* **The Incident:** When I went to the restaurant during breakfast hours, I was stopped and barred from entering. This miscommunication between the booking platform and the hotel created a very awkward situation and really put a damper on my morning.
If you decide to book this place, I highly recommend double-checking your breakfast inclusion directly with the hotel beforehand to avoid this kind of unpleasant surprise.FromBRL 191
Hot spring
Great700 Reviews
Gotemba|2.61km from city centre
One of our favorite places to stay! It’s just a 5‑minute drive from the premium outlet, which makes shopping super convenient. The snacks after a hot spring bath and the ramen for supper were such a nice touch and really added to the experience.
Be sure to opt for a room with a view of Mt. Fuji—we were lucky enough to see it every morning when we woke up, and you can also enjoy the view from the rooftop (w foot bathing if you’d like)
Overall, it’s a lovely place with great amenities and unforgettable views, and we’d definitely love to return next time!FromBRL 396
Very Good50 Reviews
Gotemba|2.08km from city centre
The twin room was spacious and bright with two windows, but unfortunately we couldn't see Mt. Fuji due to the clouds.
We were able to use the large public bath on the first floor, which was very pleasant.
It was a shame that the welcome drink time had passed while we were out for dinner. I wish we could have enjoyed it after checking in.
I was happy with the coffee service next to the front desk.FromBRL 161
Very Good91 Reviews
Gotemba|1.48km from city centre
In order to climb Mount Fuji, I had to walk, so I stayed at this hotel near Gotemba. The location is not convenient, but it has the advantages of price and service. I checked in late and the front desk was very polite and explained the hot spring opening hours and breakfast time. Although the room is not big, the overall feeling is very clean. Breakfast It's very authentic Japanese food and it's delicious.FromBRL 295
Very Good8 Reviews
Gotemba|0.78km from city centre
地點就是在御殿場 JR 站出口，往前走5分鐘。地點是方便的，但附近都好像比較寧靜，餐廳選擇也不多。
幸好民宿內提供煮食工具，我們就是去買一些食材回來烹調。FromBRL 579
Very Good58 Reviews
Gotemba|8.3km from city centre
Every year when I visit Tokinosumika, I see this accommodation. I've always wanted to stay there, and my dream finally came true. The inside was spacious, and the kids absolutely loved it! Being able to use the Kirakubo baths as much as we wanted was the absolute best part! The only thing was that the lighting felt a bit dim, but that was fine too. I definitely want to stay here again!!FromBRL 177
Family friendly
Very Good44 Reviews
Gotemba|2.99km from city centre
It was such a lovely experience staying at this place. The staff were friendly and helpful. Our dome tent had a superb view of Mt Fuji, we just had to pull the blinds in the morning and admire the view. The private onsen was a great start to our day as it was a little cold in the morning. The tent was nice and cosy, well equipped with a heater, board games, speaker and a hammock that you have to assemble yourself just next to the tent. The location is not difficult to find and it's a few minutes drive away from the little town.FromBRL 814
Outstanding1 Reviews
Gotemba|3km from city centre
お世話になりました。
御殿場アウトレットからとても近く、最高でした。
ホテルへ行く途中に、鈴廣かまぼこ屋さんもありお土産を買う事ができました。
夜遅くにホテル到着しましたが、とても親切にご対応して下さり助かりました。ありがとうございました。
またアウトレット行く際は宿泊させて頂きます。
ありがとうございました。FromBRL 225
Very Good265 Reviews
Gotemba|0.52km from city centre
PROS
- For this price, the rooms are considered large/adequately spacious, not squeezy or cramped at all, which we think is a steal!!
- We especially love the triple bed room, it comes with a mini room consisting of a table and sofa for sitting.
- While the triple room we had didn't have a Mt. Fuji view, the twin room we booked did, so we are glad that at least one of the rooms has the Mt. Fuji view.
- The staff at the reception are friendly and welcoming to us. They can speak English too.
- Amenities like tea bags, toothbrushes, combs, shavers, etc., are available at the first floor for you to take, there's no need to bring your own.
CONS
- Hardly any, maybe the flat pillows, but you can take extra pillows from the level 1 area.
We were initially worried about the odd smell mentioned in some other reviews, but luckily our rooms are fine and are also pretty clean -- this is the most important factor for us, as we have a toddler. Everything was perfect, except maybe the location is slightly far, but still walkable (7 to 10min). Do bring an umbrella with you though, as there is no shelter from the station to the hotel. Overall, this is a very decent hotel that exceeded our expectations, we highly recommend it and would definitely stay again next time!
PS: Attractions reachable from Gotemba Stn (within 20min-1hr) include Gotemba Premium Outlets, Fuji Safari Park, Komakado Kazaana Cave, Lake Yamanaka, Numazu Deep Sea Aquarium, etcFromBRL 153
Very Good54 Reviews
Gotemba|0.83km from city centre
Business style room that is ok sized for the price u pay. Staff was helpful to move our items up to our room prior to check in. They offer an eco friendly room cleaning option, and if selected, you will receive tokens for a free can of beer.
The hotel is surrounded by many restaurants and easily accessible by car.
There is free onsen but I didn't manage to tryFromBRL 218
Very Good115 Reviews
Gotemba|0.87km from city centre
This is my second stay here, and hands down, it's the best hotel in the Kanto region, considering the views, location, and price. The hotel dates back to 1895, even a year older than my university! The same lovely and kind old gentleman was at the front desk for check-in; he was so friendly and even gave my child a small gift. Absolutely perfect! They also have a free microwave for guest use, which is very convenient!FromBRL 213
Local Food to Try Around Mount Fuji 🍜
What would a trip around Mount Fuji be without discovering the region's gastronomic delights?
Yamanashi Prefecture and its surrounding areas are packed with unique local specialities that are often overlooked by tourists! Trip.com has selected the must-try traditional dishes for your exploration around Fuji-san:
- Hōtō (ほうとう): this is THE must-try speciality of Yamanashi! These thick wheat noodles simmered in a miso broth with seasonal vegetables (pumpkin, mushrooms, cabbage) make for the perfect comfort food after a day of exploring.
- Freshwater trout (Masu/Iwana): the crystal-clear rivers fed by Mount Fuji's snowmelt are home to some truly exceptional trout.
- Koshu Chicken (Koshu Tori Motsu-ni): This stew of chicken and giblets, simmered in a sweet and savoury sauce, is a traditional Yamanashi speciality, often enjoyed with a glass of local sake.
- Ōwakudani's black eggs (Kuro-Tamago): these eggs, boiled in the volcanic sulphur springs of Hakone, take on a spectacular black colour. Legend has it that eating one will extend your life by 7 years! (4 eggs for ¥500.)
- Mount Fuji cakes (Fuji-san Cake): these local pastries shaped like Mount Fuji are perfect as delicious souvenirs. Be sure to also try the mochi filled with red bean paste.
Best Day Trips Around Mount Fuji 🏔️
If you're staying for a few days around Mount Fuji, take the opportunity to explore the fascinating surroundings!
Mishima and the Mishima Taisha Shrine
- Travel time: 30-45 mins from Hakone
- Transport: JR Tokaido Line train
- Must-sees: the historic Mishima Taisha Shrine (free), the Rakujuen Park spring, and fresh local wasabi
Izu Peninsula
- Travel time: 1–1.5 hours from Hakone
- Transport: Izu Kyuko Line train
- Must-sees: stunning beaches, seaside onsen, the spectacular Jogasaki cliffs, and the thermal spa towns of Atami and Ito
Best Time to Visit Around Mount Fuji 🌤️
The Mount Fuji region can be visited all year round, but every season offers a radically different experience. The mountain climate is characterised by cool, pleasant summers and cold, snowy winters.
Here's a complete overview to help you choose the best time to visit, based on your priorities and the activities you have in mind.
Season | Weather | What to Expect | Fuji Visibility | Top Activities |
🌸 Spring (Mar–May) | Mild (8–20°C) | Cherry blossom season (late Mar–early Apr) | Medium (50–60%) | Chureito Pagoda, hanami, light hiking |
☀️ Summer (Jun–Aug) | Warm (20–30°C) | Climbing season (Jul–Aug) | Low (10–30%) | Climb Mount Fuji, festivals, lake trips |
🍂 Autumn (Sept–Nov) | Cool (10–22°C) | Red autumn leaves (best in Nov) | Good (65–75%) | Photography, onsen, scenic walks |
❄️ Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cold (-2 to 10°C) | Snow-capped views, fewer crowds | Excellent (75–80%) | Onsen, photography, winter lights |
💡 Trip.com recommendation: November to February are the best times to see Mount Fuji clearly (visibility 75-80% of the time).
Flights to Japan
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How to Get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo? 🚄
Towards Lake Kawaguchiko
- By direct bus: from Shinjuku Station (Tokyo), take the Highway Bus express service (approx. 2 hours, ¥2,000–¥3,000 / £10–£15).
- By train: take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki, then the Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko (approx. 2.5 hours, ¥2,800).
Heading to Hakone
- By train: from Shinjuku, take the direct Odakyu train to Hakone-Yumoto (approx. 1.5 hours, ¥2,300).
- With the Hakone Free Pass: a combined ticket including train + all local transport (bus, ropeway, boat) - excellent value for money for 2-3 days.
Heading to Gotemba
- By bus: from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku, take a direct bus to Gotemba (approx. 1.5 hours, ¥1,700).
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Have a wonderful trip around Mount Fuji! 🗻✨
FAQ – Things to Do Around Mount Fuji ❓
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