🗻 [Tokyo Guide] Mt. Fuji & Hakone Access & Itinerary: The Fastest, Cheapest Routes, and Golden Tours

Mt. Fuji and Hakone are the two most popular destinations for tourists visiting Japan, offering a unique combination of World Heritage natural beauty, hot springs (Onsen), and majestic scenery—all easily accessible from Tokyo.

However, choosing between the various transport options—like the “Fuji Excursion” limited express or the “Romancecar”—can be confusing. You might wonder: “What is the fastest way?” “Which option is the cheapest?” or “How can I visit both efficiently?”

This article, written by an expert in Tokyo access, thoroughly compares the fastest and cheapest routes to Mt. Fuji (Kawaguchiko/5th Station) and Hakone (Yumoto/Lake Ashi). We also introduce the best-optimized itineraries for combining both stunning destinations.

[Important Note on Fares & Times]
All travel times and fares listed below are approximate (Approx.) and subject to change based on real-time traffic conditions, fare revisions, ticket type (IC vs. paper), and seasonality. Please confirm the latest information and exact prices on the respective official websites before traveling.

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🚄 Tokyo (Shinjuku) Main Access Comparison

Here is a quick comparison of the primary transit options to Kawaguchiko Station (Mt. Fuji base) and Hakone-Yumoto Station (Hakone gateway).

Transport Method	Destination	Duration (Approx.)	Fare (Adult 1-way)	Key Features & Recommendation
Limited Express Fuji Excursion	Kawaguchiko Station	1 hr 53 min	¥4,130	FASTEST to Fuji. Direct, comfortable, and reserved seating.
Highway Bus	Kawaguchiko Station	Approx. 2 hrs	Approx. ¥2,000	CHEAPEST to Fuji. Direct service with no transfers.
Odakyu Romancecar	Hakone-Yumoto Station	Shortest 75 min	¥2,330	FASTEST to Hakone. Comfortable, express train service.
JR + Local Train	Kawaguchiko Station	Approx. 2 hrs 40 min	¥2,510	Slower route with transfers (via Otsuki). Budget option without express surcharge.

Note: Fares and durations are based on standard routes departing from Shinjuku Station.

🗻 Mt. Fuji Area Access & Must-See Spots

The main sightseeing hub for Mt. Fuji is the Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchi) area. If you plan to hike, you will transfer from Kawaguchiko to a shuttle bus bound for the Mt. Fuji 5th Station.

1. Detailed Access to Mt. Fuji (Kawaguchiko/Fujiyoshida)

Method	Duration (from Shinjuku)	Fare (Approx.)	Reservation	Highlight
Limited Express “Fuji Excursion”	1 hr 53 min	¥4,130	Highly Recommended	Direct and fastest to Kawaguchiko. Essential for efficiency.
Highway Bus (Busta Shinjuku)	Approx. 2 hrs	Approx. ¥2,000	Required	Cheapest option. Booking in advance is necessary, especially during peak season. Some buses go directly to the 5th Station.
JR + Fujikyuko Line	Approx. 2 hrs 40 min	¥2,510	Not Required	Requires a transfer at Otsuki Station. Best if you have time to spare.

🚗 Caution on Renting a Car: Private Vehicle Restrictions (My-Car Kisei)

While driving offers flexibility, note that Private Vehicle Restrictions (My-Car Kisei) are enforced on the road to the 5th Station during the summer hiking season. Check restrictions in advance and be prepared to use remote parking lots and shuttles.

2. Top Sightseeing Spots around Mt. Fuji

・Mt. Fuji 5th Station (Yoshida Route)
　・Overview: The gateway to the summit and a major tourist spot. Located at a high altitude, you can enjoy magnificent views and often see a sea of clouds (Unkai). Restaurants and shops are available here.
　・Information Address: 〒403-0005 Yamanashi, Fujiyoshida, Kamiyoshida 5617 Website: https://fujiyoshida.net/spot/14

・Lake Kawaguchiko
　・Overview: The most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes. It’s famous for capturing “Reverse Fuji”—the reflection of the mountain on the lake’s surface. Also popular for water activities and the stunning Momiji Kairo (Maple Corridor) in autumn.
　・Information Address: 〒401-0304 Yamanashi, Minamitsuru District, Fujikawaguchiko Website: https://fujisan.ne.jp/

Oshino Hakkai (Oshino Eight Ponds)
　・Overview: A collection of clear, mysterious spring-fed ponds sourced by Mt. Fuji’s melted snow, which is filtered over decades through volcanic layers. Recognized as a component part of the World Heritage site.
　・Information Address: Yamanashi, Minamitsuru District, Oshino, Shibokusa
Website: https://lake-yamanakako.com/spot/10486

・Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway
　・Overview: A 3-minute ride from Kawaguchiko lakeside up to Tenjozan mountain. From the summit (1,075m), you get an expansive panorama of Mt. Fuji and the lake below.
　・Information Address: 〒401-0303 Yamanashi, Minamitsuru District, Fujikawaguchiko, Asakawa 1163-1 Hours: 8:30〜17:00, [7/20〜8/31] 8:30〜18:00
Website: https://www.mtfujiropeway.jp/

・Gotemba Premium Outlets
　・Overview: One of Japan’s largest outlet malls with around 290 domestic and international brands. Located with a view of Mt. Fuji, it’s a great spot for shopping, often combined with a stop at the adjacent hot spring facility.
　・Information Address: 〒412-0023 Shizuoka, Gotemba, Fukazawa 1312 Hours: 10:00～19:00
Website: https://www.premiumoutlets.co.jp/gotemba/

♨️ Hakone Area Access & Sightseeing

Hakone is famous for its Onsen, art museums, and historical sites. It’s a compact area best explored using a transport pass to circle the main sights efficiently.

1. Detailed Access to Hakone (Hakone-Yumoto)

Hakone’s gateway station is Hakone-Yumoto Station.

Method	Duration (from Shinjuku)	Fare (Approx.)	Reservation	Highlight
Odakyu Romancecar	Shortest 75 min	¥2,330	Recommended (Express Ticket)	FASTEST to Hakone. Start your trip comfortably.
Hakone Free Pass	–	¥6,100 (2-day)	Recommended	Most Cost-Effective. Includes round-trip from Shinjuku and unlimited rides on 8 types of transport in Hakone.
Odakyu Local/Rapid	Approx. 2 hrs	Approx. ¥1,200	Not Required	Requires a transfer at Odawara. Cheapest fare, but significantly slower.

Essential Ticket: The Hakone Free Pass
We highly recommend the Hakone Free Pass. It offers unlimited use of local trains, cable cars, ropeways, pirate ships, and buses within the Hakone area, plus discounts at many attractions.

2. Top Sightseeing Spots in Hakone (Golden Route)

Hakone is best explored by following the famous “Hakone Golden Route” loop using various modes of transportation.

・Owakudani (The Great Boiling Valley)
　・Overview: An active volcanic zone with white plumes rising from the ground. A must-do is eating a “Black Egg” (Kuro Tamago) cooked in the hot sulfur spring. Offers incredible views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day.
　・Information Address: Kanagawa, Ashigarashimo District, Hakone, Sengokuhara 1251 Access: Hakone Ropeway “Owakudani Station”

・Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) & Hakone Sightseeing Cruise
　・Overview: A caldera lake famous for the sight of the “Reverse Fuji” reflection. The Hakone Pirate Ship cruise connects major ports (Togendai, Hakone-machi, Moto-Hakone) and offers magnificent views of the lake and the mountains.
　・Information Address: Kanagawa, Ashigarashimo District, Hakone, Ashinoko Access: Hakone Tozan Bus to “Lake Ashi”

・Hakone Shrine
　・Overview: A major power spot in the Kanto region. Its most iconic feature is the red “Peace Torii” standing in the water of Lake Ashi. Known for blessings of good fortune and warding off evil.
　・Information Address: Kanagawa, Ashigarashimo District, Hakone, Moto-Hakone 80-1 Access: Izu Hakone Bus to “Moto-Hakone” stop (10 min walk)

・The Hakone Open-Air Museum
　・Overview: Japan’s first open-air museum, featuring works by world-famous sculptors (Rodin, Moore) set across vast grounds. It also includes the popular indoor Picasso Exhibition Hall.
　・Information Address: Kanagawa, Hakone, Ninotaira 1121 Access: Hakone Tozan Railway “Chokoku no Mori Station” (5 min walk)

🛣️ Itinerary Conclusion: Combined Mt. Fuji & Hakone Tours

While it is possible to visit both Mt. Fuji and Hakone, careful planning is necessary due to the travel time involved.

1. 1. The Bullet Tour (Day Trip Itinerary)
   　・Goal: To experience the highlights of both areas in a single, efficient day.
   　・Note: This is an extremely tight schedule and is best done using dedicated bus transfers between the areas.

Time	Activity	Transport	Notes
07:00	Depart Shinjuku	Highway Bus	Take the earliest bus to save time and money.
09:30	Arrive Kawaguchiko Station
09:45	Visit key Fuji viewpoint	Local Bus/Ropeway	Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway is the fastest option.
12:00	Lunch, then transfer to Gotemba	Fujikyu Bus	Shuttle between Kawaguchiko and Gotemba Outlet.
14:00	Transfer to Hakone Area	Hakone Tozan Bus	From Gotemba to Sengokuhara/Togendai.
15:00	Hakone sightseeing loop	Hakone Ropeway	Focus on Owakudani (Black Eggs) and the view.
17:00	Head to Hakone-Yumoto	Local Transport
19:00	Depart Hakone-Yumoto	Odakyu Romancecar
20:30	Arrive Shinjuku Station		End of the strenuous tour.

2. The Scenic Loop (2-Day/1-Night Itinerary)

　　・Goal: To fully enjoy the best of both regions, including an authentic Japanese Onsen stay.

Day	Activity	Transport	Notes
Day 1	Tokyo → Hakone Sightseeing	Romancecar + Free Pass	Complete the Hakone Golden Route (Owakudani, Lake Ashi, Museums).
	Stay overnight in Hakone		Enjoy a traditional ryokan (inn) or Onsen hotel.
Day 2	Hakone → Mt. Fuji Area	Local Bus	Transfer from Togendai (Hakone) via Gotemba to Kawaguchiko.
	Mt. Fuji (Kawaguchiko) Sightseeing	Local Bus/Loop Bus	Visit Reverse Fuji spots and Oshino Hakkai.
	Kawaguchiko → Tokyo	Fuji Excursion / Highway Bus	Return in the evening.

Traveling from Tokyo to both Mt. Fuji and Hakone is achievable with the right planning. Use this guide to choose the access and itinerary that best suits your travel style!