1-Day Mount Fuji Adventure with Friends: Outdoor Activities Guide
Mount Fuji, Japan
1 days
About Mount Fuji, Japan
Experience the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain. This iconic symbol of Japan offers breathtaking views, serene nature trails, and a rich cultural history. Embark on a challenging climb to the summit during the official climbing season (July to early September) or enjoy the stunning landscapes of the five surrounding lakes. Visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, at the mountain's base. Don't miss the chance to soak in the nearby hot springs after a day of exploration. Whether you're an adventurer, a nature lover, or a culture enthusiast, Mount Fuji offers an unforgettable journey. Let us plan your perfect Mount Fuji experience.
1-Day Itinerary
Attractions in Itinerary (3)
1Lake Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the most popular spots to view Mount Fuji from a close distance and a good base for climbing the mountain. It is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping.
2Onsen
Onsen are Japanese hot springs, and the bathing facilities and inns frequently situated around them. As a volcanically active country, Japan has thousands of onsen scattered throughout all of its major islands.
3Mount Fuji 5th Station
The 5th Station is the most popular spot to start climbing Mount Fuji, offering a variety of amenities such as restaurants, shops, and the Komitake Shrine.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Yoshida Udon
A local specialty of the Fuji region, these thick, chewy noodles are served in a soy-based broth with various toppings. The dish is named after the Yoshida trail on Mount Fuji.
Yamanashi Wine
Yamanashi Prefecture, where Mount Fuji is located, is Japan's leading wine region. The wine is made from locally grown grapes, offering a unique taste of the region.
Houtou
A hearty noodle dish from the Yamanashi Prefecture. The noodles are thick and flat, served in a miso-based soup with vegetables and sometimes meat. It's a popular dish among hikers on Mount Fuji.
Koshu Miso
A type of miso paste unique to the Yamanashi Prefecture. It's often used in local dishes, adding a rich, savory flavor.
Fujiyama Cookie
A popular souvenir from the Mount Fuji area, these cookies are shaped like the iconic mountain and often filled with sweet red bean paste.
Yamanashi Fruit
Yamanashi Prefecture is known as the 'Kingdom of Fruit' in Japan. Visitors should try the locally grown peaches, grapes, and cherries.
Sakura Mochi
A traditional Japanese sweet often enjoyed during the cherry blossom season. It's made of sweet glutinous rice and filled with red bean paste, wrapped in a pickled cherry leaf.
Yamanashi Sake
Sake from Yamanashi Prefecture is renowned for its quality, thanks to the pure water from Mount Fuji used in its production.
Unagi
Grilled eel is a popular dish in the region surrounding Mount Fuji. It's often served over rice and is known for its rich, savory flavor.
Wasabi Zuke
A specialty of Shizuoka Prefecture, which is home to part of Mount Fuji. It's a pickled dish made from wasabi, sake lees, and soy sauce.
Shizuoka Green Tea
Shizuoka Prefecture is Japan's leading producer of green tea. The tea has a distinct, refreshing taste, thanks to the clean water from Mount Fuji.
Fuji-san Bread
A sweet bread shaped like Mount Fuji, often filled with cream or other sweet fillings. It's a popular souvenir from the region.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Mount Fuji, Japan as a tourist is during the climbing season which is from early July to early September. During this period, the weather is relatively mild, the mountain huts are open, and the public transportation to and from the mountain is operational. However, if you prefer to avoid crowds, midweek in July or September would be ideal. For those who are not interested in climbing but want to enjoy the scenic beauty, the months of October and November offer beautiful autumn colors, while late April to early June offers stunning views with cherry blossoms.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 8 | Mon | Coming of Age Day |
February 11 | Sun | National Foundation Day |
February 12 | Mon | National Foundation Day observed |
February 23 | Fri | Emperor's Birthday |
March 20 | Wed | Spring Equinox |
April 29 | Mon | Shōwa Day |
May 3 | Fri | Constitution Memorial Day |
May 4 | Sat | Greenery Day |
May 5 | Sun | Children's Day |
May 6 | Mon | Children's Day observed |
July 15 | Mon | Sea Day |
August 11 | Sun | Mountain Day |
August 12 | Mon | Day off for Mountain Day |
September 16 | Mon | Respect for the Aged Day |
September 22 | Sun | Autumn Equinox |
September 23 | Mon | Autumn Equinox observed |
October 14 | Mon | Sports Day |
November 3 | Sun | Culture Day |
November 4 | Mon | Culture Day observed |
November 23 | Sat | Labor Thanksgiving Day |
How to get around
Shinkansen (Bullet Train)
The fastest and most comfortable way to reach Mount Fuji from Tokyo is by Shinkansen, Japan's bullet train. You can take the Kodama or Hikari train from Tokyo to Shin-Fuji Station, which is the closest station to Mount Fuji.
Bus
There are direct buses from Tokyo to the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji, which is the starting point for most climbers. The bus ride takes about 2.5 hours. There are also local buses that run around the base of the mountain, connecting different tourist spots.
Car
Renting a car is a good option if you want more flexibility. There are several car rental companies in Tokyo and other major cities. You can drive to the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji, but note that the road is closed from late autumn to early spring.
Taxi
Taxis are available, but they can be quite expensive due to the distance from major cities to Mount Fuji. They can be a good option if you're traveling in a group or if you have a lot of luggage.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are not widely available in the Mount Fuji area. However, you can use local ridesharing apps like JapanTaxi for short trips around the base of the mountain.
Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle and ride around the base of Mount Fuji. There are several bicycle rental shops in the area. Note that this is not recommended for inexperienced cyclists due to the hilly terrain.
Hiking
Hiking is the most popular way to explore Mount Fuji. There are several trails leading up to the summit, with the Yoshida Trail being the most popular. The climbing season is from early July to early September.
Important information
Currency¥ JPY
Time zoneUTC+9
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 119; Fire: 119; Police: 110
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage100 V
Things to know about Mount Fuji, Japan as a first time visitor
1
Mount Fuji is Japan's highest mountain, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet).
2
The official climbing season is from early July to early September. Outside of these months, the mountain huts and facilities are usually closed.
3
There are four routes to climb Mount Fuji: Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya. Each has its own characteristics and difficulty levels.
4
The weather on Mount Fuji can be unpredictable and change rapidly. Always check the forecast before your climb.
5
Temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing, even in summer. In Fahrenheit, it can drop below 32°F and in Celsius, it can drop below 0°C.
6
Altitude sickness is a common issue for climbers. It's recommended to acclimatize yourself by spending a night at one of the mountain huts around the 5th station.
7
Ensure you have the right gear. This includes warm clothing, rain gear, good hiking boots, a headlamp for night climbing, and enough food and water.
8
There are no trash cans on Mount Fuji. You are expected to carry all your trash back down with you.
9
There are mountain huts available for overnight stays, but they require advance booking. They also provide meals and have toilet facilities.
10
Toilets on the mountain are not free. You'll need to pay a small fee each time you use them.
11
There is a small post office at the summit where you can send postcards.
12
The sunrise from the summit, known as 'Goraiko', is one of the highlights of the climb. Plan your climb to reach the summit before sunrise.
13
Climbing Mount Fuji is physically demanding. Ensure you are in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness before attempting the climb.
14
There are no trees or much vegetation on Mount Fuji. The terrain is mostly volcanic rock and can be slippery when wet.
15
There is a saying in Japan: 'He who climbs Mount Fuji once is a wise man, he who climbs it twice is a fool.' This is due to the difficulty of the climb.
16
There are buses from Tokyo to the 5th station of Mount Fuji. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
17
The mountain is considered a sacred place in Shinto belief. Be respectful of the environment and the cultural significance of the mountain.
18
There is a small shrine at the summit, and many climbers buy a wooden walking stick at the 5th station, which can be branded with stamps at each station as a souvenir.
19
Cell phone service can be spotty on the mountain. Don't rely on it for communication or navigation.
20
It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers hiking or climbing activities, in case of any accidents or health issues.
Basic Japanese to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | こんにちは | Konnichiwa | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | さようなら | Sayonara | Leaving someone |
Thank you | ありがとう | Arigatou | Expressing gratitude |
Excuse me | すみません | Sumimasen | Getting someone's attention |
Yes | はい | Hai | Affirmative response |
No | いいえ | Iie | Negative response |
Please | お願いします | Onegaishimasu | Making a request |
I'm sorry | ごめんなさい | Gomennasai | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | 英語を話せますか？ | Eigo o hanasemasu ka? | Asking if someone speaks English |
Where is Mount Fuji? | 富士山はどこですか？ | Fujisan wa doko desu ka? | Asking for directions to Mount Fuji |
How much does it cost? | いくらですか？ | Ikura desu ka? | Asking the price of something |
I don't understand | わかりません | Wakarimasen | When you don't understand what's being said |
Bathroom | トイレ | Toire | Asking for the restroom |
Help | 助けて | Tasukete | When you need assistance |
Food | 食べ物 | Tabemono | When you're looking for something to eat |
Water | 水 | Mizu | When you're looking for water |
Train station | 駅 | Eki | Asking for directions to the train station |
Hotel | ホテル | Hoteru | Asking for directions to a hotel |
Beautiful | 美しい | Utsukushii | Complimenting something or someone |
I'm lost | 迷子です | Maigo desu | When you've lost your way |
Packing List
Clothing
Thermal underwear
Insulated pants
Waterproof jacket
Hiking boots
Thick socks
Gloves
Beanie
Sunglasses
Scarf
Toiletries
Travel-sized toothpaste
Toothbrush
Travel-sized shampoo
Travel-sized body wash
Deodorant
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Japanese Yen
Credit and Debit cards
Travel insurance documents
Hotel reservation confirmation
Emergency contact list
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Portable charger
Camera
Headphones
Adapters and converters
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Water bottle
First aid kit
Map of Mount Fuji
Backpack
Trekking poles
Headlamp
Weather Conditions
Mount Fuji, Japan's highest peak, offers a unique and breathtaking experience. However, weather conditions can greatly impact your visit, so it's important to plan accordingly. The mountain's weather is notoriously unpredictable and can change rapidly. It's common to experience all four seasons in a single day, so be prepared for sudden shifts in temperature and weather conditions. The climbing season for Mount Fuji is relatively short, typically from early July to early September. During this time, daytime temperatures at the summit can range from 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C), while nighttime temperatures can drop to below freezing, around 32°F (0°C). Outside of the climbing season, Mount Fuji is often covered in snow and the temperatures can drop significantly. It's not uncommon for the summit to experience temperatures as low as -22°F (-30°C) in the winter months. Regardless of when you visit, it's crucial to dress in layers. This allows you to adjust your clothing to the changing conditions. A waterproof and windproof outer layer is highly recommended, as sudden rain showers and strong winds are common. Also, don't forget to protect yourself from the sun. The UV rays at high altitudes can be much stronger than at sea level, so sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential. Lastly, always check the weather forecast before your trip. Conditions can change rapidly and it's important to be prepared for any situation. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when visiting Mount Fuji. Enjoy your trip and the stunning views this iconic mountain has to offer!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 3° / -8° | January is the coldest month in Mount Fuji, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time for winter sports, but be prepared for heavy snowfall. |
February | 4° / -7° | February is still very cold, with a high chance of snow. It's a good month for skiing and snowboarding, but make sure to dress warmly. |
March | 7° / -3° | March sees the start of the spring thaw, but temperatures can still be quite chilly. The snow begins to melt, revealing the beautiful landscapes beneath. |
April | 15° / 1° | April is when spring truly arrives in Mount Fuji. The weather is generally pleasant, with the cherry blossoms in full bloom. |
May | 20° / 6° | May is a great time to visit Mount Fuji, with mild temperatures and clear skies. The lush greenery and blooming flowers make for stunning views. |
June | 23° / 11° | June is the start of the rainy season in Mount Fuji. While the temperatures are warm, be prepared for frequent showers. |
July | 25° / 15° | July is the warmest month in Mount Fuji, but also the wettest. It's a good time for hiking, but make sure to bring waterproof gear. |
August | 26° / 16° | August is still quite warm, but the rainfall starts to decrease. The clear days offer breathtaking views from the summit. |
September | 22° / 12° | September marks the end of the rainy season in Mount Fuji. The weather is generally pleasant, with cooler temperatures and less rainfall. |
October | 17° / 7° | October is a great time to visit Mount Fuji, with mild temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. The clear skies offer great opportunities for photography. |
November | 11° / 1° | November is when the temperatures start to drop, and the autumn leaves start to fall. It's a good time for hiking, but make sure to dress warmly. |
December | 5° / -4° | December marks the start of the winter season in Mount Fuji. The temperatures drop significantly, and the mountain is often covered in snow. |
Did you know?
Places near by Mount Fuji, Japan
Hakone
Famous for hot springs, natural beauty and the view of nearby Mt. Fuji.
Yamanashi Wine
Yamanashi is known for its wine production and beautiful vineyards.
Gotemba Premium Outlets
One of Japan's largest outlet shopping malls.
Kawaguchiko Music Forest
A small theme park and museum dedicated to automatic musical instruments.
Matsumoto Castle
One of Japan's premier historic castles.
Nagoya
Japan's fourth-largest city, known for its modern architecture, nightlife and hearty street food.
Tokyo Disneyland
A 115-acre theme park at the Tokyo Disney Resort in Urayasu, near Tokyo.
Karuizawa
A resort town known for skiing, hot springs, outdoor recreational activities, and shopping outlets.
Kamakura
A coastal town known for its giant Buddha statue and historical monuments.
Yokohama
Japan's second largest city with a stunning skyline, beautiful parks and a vibrant nightlife.
