There’s something almost mythical about Mt. Fuji travel. Japan’s highest mountain isn’t just a geographical landmark, it’s a cultural symbol, an artist’s muse, and a spiritual beacon. One crisp morning, I set out on a Mt. Fuji day trip from Tokyo, following a scenic and accessible route aboard the Fujikyu Railway. This journey not only brought me face to face with Japan’s iconic volcano but also introduced me to quiet towns, panoramic viewpoints, and moments of peaceful reflection. The best way to travel from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji, as I discovered, is by train, specifically from Shinjuku to Mt. Fuji via the Fujikyu Line.
Departure from Shinjuku Station
Even early in the day, Shinjuku Station was alive with energy. As one of Tokyo’s largest and busiest train terminals, it’s the launching pad for countless day trips, including the increasingly popular Tokyo to Mt. Fuji train route. After finding my platform and settling into my reserved seat, I watched the cityscape blur past, gradually giving way to suburban neighborhoods and then the lush countryside. I was officially on the Fujikyu Railway itinerary Mt. Fuji dreamers often imagine. [Check train tickets via Klook]
Shimoyoshida Station: A Quiet Gateway
My first stop was Shimoyoshida Station (下吉田駅), a peaceful and picturesque station with retro architecture and clear views of the mountain on clear days. It was a refreshing contrast to Tokyo’s urban intensity. This small town station is one of the best ways to get close to Mt. Fuji without climbing, and it serves as a perfect gateway to some of the most iconic Mt. Fuji view spots.
The Ascent to Arakurayama Sengen Park
From the station, I began the short hike up to Arakurayama Sengen Park (新倉山浅間公園), a destination known for its world famous vantage point. After climbing the stairs that wind through the park, I reached the viewing area and was rewarded with the sight I had long dreamed of: Chureito Pagoda in the foreground, with snow capped Mt. Fuji rising in the distance. This spot is perhaps the ultimate answer to the question: "Where to take photos of Mt. Fuji?"
The sky was brilliant blue, and the air was crisp. Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko trip planners often feature this spot because of its photogenic alignment of nature and history. I soak in the view while enjoying piping hot takoyaki from a food stall. The combination of good food and breathtaking scenery made for a peaceful and memorable moment.
Fujiyoshida Retro Shopping Street
After leaving the park, I made my way toward the Fujiyoshida Retro Shopping Street (富士吉田レトロ商店街). It’s a quiet, old fashioned street that has recently become a hotspot thanks to social media and its perfect alignment with Mt. Fuji in the background. Many tourists now flock here to get that Instagram worthy shot, standing in the middle of the street with the mountain looming behind.
Despite the increasing popularity, the street has retained its nostalgic charm. This is one of those hidden gems for Mt. Fuji sightseeing. After I took photos, I simply walked back to the train station. Klook has a Mt. Fuji one day tour that takes you here to Fujiyoshida Retro Shopping Street without the hassle. Check them here.
To Kawaguchiko Station
Eventually, I returned to Shimoyoshida Station and continued my journey by train toward Kawaguchiko Station (河口湖駅). This leg of the Fujikyu Railway is particularly scenic. With the mountain drawing closer, and the windows framing rice fields and forests, it felt like I was being slowly pulled into a storybook. If you're asking yourself "Is the Fujikyu Railway worth it?", the answer is a resounding yes, especially for photographers and nature lovers.
Kawaguchiko Station is one of the busiest transit points in the Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko area. From here, I planned to head toward the lakeshore to see Lake Kawaguchiko from one of the area’s most popular public gardens: Oishi Park (大石公園).
Oishi Park and Lake Kawaguchiko
From Kawaguchiko Station, I boarded the Red Line sightseeing bus, a convenient service for tourists hoping to visit the key attractions in the region. After a scenic ride, I arrived at Oishi Park, which sits on the northern shore of the lake.
Oishi Park Mt. Fuji views are among the best in the region. From its well kept walking paths lined with seasonal flowers, you get an unobstructed panoramic view of Mt. Fuji across Lake Kawaguchiko. The lake shimmered in the sunlight, and Mt. Fuji stood tall and silent, its reflection rippling gently in the water.
It was here that I truly appreciated how you don’t have to climb Mt. Fuji to feel its spiritual weight. Just standing at its base, looking up at it from across the water, is more than enough.
Returning to Tokyo
After spending time walking the paths and taking photos, I headed back to Kawaguchiko Station to catch the train to Tokyo. I had wisely booked a reserved train ticket to Mt. Fuji and back, so the return trip was smooth and direct. Without a reservation, one might need to take two or three local trains to get back to Shinjuku or Shibuya Stations. You can also reserve Klook's Mt. Fuji Instagram Tour from Tokyo.
As the train pulled away and the mountain began to fade behind hills and rooftops, I felt a sense of quiet fulfillment. The sunset painted the horizon in shades of pink and orange, and I watched it fade behind Mt. Fuji’s silhouette from the train window. The journey back was reflective and peaceful.
Final Thoughts
Looking back on this Mt. Fuji one day itinerary from Tokyo, I’m struck by how much variety and beauty can fit into a single day. The Fujikyu Railway served not just as a mode of transportation but as a connector of experiences, from the traditional views at Arakurayama Sengen Park, to the charm of Fujiyoshida Retro Shopping Street, to the tranquility of Oishi Park.
If you’re planning a trip to Japan and wondering how to see Mt. Fuji without climbing, this route offers the perfect answer. This trip wasn’t just about checking off a famous landmark, it was about experiencing the scenery the and quiet moments that define travel in Japan.
