Day Trip to Mt. Fuji & Hakone from Tokyo — 5th Station, Chureito Pagoda & Lake Kawaguchiko
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires the ability to climb short flights of stairs and walk unpaved paths.
Overview
A guided day trip from Tokyo that stitches together Mount Fuji’s 5th Station, Chureito Pagoda, Oshino Hakkai and Lake Kawaguchi — plus optional Hakone hot springs. Expect two-hour drives, short scenic walks and picture-perfect Fuji viewpoints.
Day Trip to Mt. Fuji & Hakone from Tokyo — 5th Station, Chureito Pagoda & Lake Kawaguchiko
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You step out of the car and the air changes — thinner, cooler, the kind that sharpens sight and thought. Mount Fuji looms, its near-perfect cone pinned against a wide sky; from the Subaru Line 5th Station you’re already higher than most peaks in Japan at roughly 2,305 meters, with a sense of distance opening beneath you. The guide folds a map and points: Chureito Pagoda, Oshino Hakkai, the glasslike ponds, then the dark mirror of Lake Kawaguchi where Fuji practices its reflection.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Layer for elevation
Temperatures at Fuji’s 5th Station are significantly cooler; pack a windproof layer and an insulating mid-layer.
Hydrate and pace
Drink water during the drive and before climbing Chureito’s 400 steps to avoid lightheadedness at altitude.
Cash for small purchases
Bring small yen for shrine offerings, snacks, local crafts and some ropeway or cruise tickets not included.
Protect your camera
Mountaintop winds and lakeside spray mean a weather-resistant camera bag or plastic cover is useful.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eurasian jay around shrine forests
- Japanese macaque sightings in higher, wooded slopes (occasional)
History
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja served as the historic gateway and spiritual base for Fuji pilgrims; the shrine’s cedar alleys date back centuries.
Conservation
The area manages foot traffic and waste around popular viewpoints; visitors are asked to stay on paths, carry out trash and respect shrine protocols to protect fragile alpine vegetation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Fujikawaguchiko
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windproof jacket
Blocks gusts at the 5th Station and keeps you comfortable during changing mountain weather.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good traction for temple steps, lake paths and uneven village trails.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during drives and short walks; refill at kiosks or convenience stores.
summer specific
Compact travel umbrella or rain shell
Spring and autumn can bring quick showers; an umbrella keeps gear and camera dry.
spring specific