Last updated: October 16, 2025
Quick Answer
It takes about two hours from Tokyo to reach Mount Fuji’s onsen towns such as Kawaguchiko, where travelers can soak in natural hot springs with clear mountain views. The journey is easy by train or bus, and most day-use baths cost around ¥600–¥1,500.
Key Takeaways
- 🚆 Take the FUJI EXCURSION train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (~2 hours).
- 🏞️ Spend the first afternoon exploring Lake Kawaguchi and visiting Fuji Yurari Hot Spring (day-use baths with Fuji view).
- 🛏️ Stay overnight in a ryokan in Fujikawaguchiko for private open-air baths and kaiseki dinner.
- 🌸 On Day 2, visit the Fuji Shibazakura Festival (April 12–May 25, 2025) or stop at Gotemba for outlet shopping and a day spa.
- 💳 Use a Suica or Pasmo IC card for local trains and buses.
- 💰 Expect to spend around ¥25,000–¥35,000 per person for two days, including lodging and meals.
- ⏰ Reserve Fuji Excursion seats at least two weeks ahead on the JR East website.
Day-by-Day Plan
| Day | Area | Highlights | Transit time | Booking notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tokyo → Kawaguchiko | Ride the FUJI EXCURSION train; visit Fujisan World Heritage Center; stroll the lakeside | ~2 hr | Reserve train seat online or at Shinjuku Station |
| 1 PM | Fujikawaguchiko | Soak at Fuji Yurari Hot Spring (~¥1,300 day-use); lunch near the lake | 15 min bus from station | Bring towel or rent one on site |
| Night | Ryokan stay | Private bath with Fuji view; kaiseki dinner | – | Book 1 month ahead for weekends |
| 2 | Motosu / Shibazakura Festival (Apr 12–May 25, 2025) or Gotemba | Flower fields or shopping + hot spring detour | ~1.5–2 hr | Check last bus from Gotemba to Shinjuku (~19:00) |
When to Go
- Spring (April–May): If you visit in april, you can enjoy Fuji Shibazakura Festival which turns the hillsides pink with moss phlox along with mild days and cool evenings.
- Summer (August 26–27): The Yoshida Fire Festival is held around Fuji’s closing climbing season. Streets are packed, so book trains early.
- Winter (December–February): The best seaon for clear skies which make the Fuji views more amzing, though some onsen shorten hours due to cold nights.
Where to Stay
Fujikawaguchiko remains the easiest base, offering clear mountain views and a cluster of day-use baths.
- Ryokan (traditional inns) often include private open-air baths and seasonal dinners.
- Guesthouses and boutique hotels line the lakefront for smaller budgets.
Gotemba, on Fuji’s southeastern side, suits those who prefer outlet shopping and spa resorts.
For travelers looping through Hakone, the Fuji Hakone Pass covers most transport, making a two- or three-day circuit effortless.
How to Get There
Two main options link Tokyo and Kawaguchiko:
- FUJI EXCURSION Train (JR East + Fujikyu Railway)
- Departs from Shinjuku Station.
- Takes about 1 hr 50 min.
- Costs around ¥4,130 one way (JR Pass covers only up to Otsuki).
- Seat reservation required.
- Accessible cars available; staff can assist with wheelchairs.
- Highway Bus (Shinjuku Expressway Terminal)
- About 1 hr 45 min.
- Typically ¥2,200 one way (fares valid as of October 1, 2025, per JNTO partner pamphlet).
- Cheaper but subject to traffic.
💱 Currency note: USD shown at ≈ 1 USD = ¥150; check live rates.
Typical Cost Overview
| Item | Range (¥) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Train / bus round trip | 4,000–8,000 | Depends on route & seat class |
| Onsen day-use | 600–1,500 | Some include towel rental |
| Ryokan with dinner | 15,000–25,000 | Private bath rooms cost more |
| Meals & snacks | 3,000–5,000 | Soba, tempura, local beer |
| Festival tickets / extras | ~1,000 | Shibazakura Festival entry |
Getting Around the Fuji Area
- Fujikyu Railway runs local trains between Otsuki, Fujisan, and Kawaguchiko Stations.
- Local Buses circle the Five Lakes, stopping at most onsen and museums.
- IC Cards (Suica, Pasmo) work on most lines; recharge at convenience stores or ticket machines.
- Passes: The Fuji Hakone Pass suits those traveling between Tokyo, Fuji, and Hakone.
- Accessibility: Stations like Kawaguchiko and Fujisan offer elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms.
A Closer Look at the Hot Springs
Fuji Yurari Hot Spring
Located a short ride from Kawaguchiko Station, Yurari offers panoramic Fuji views from several outdoor pools. Day-use entry is ¥1,300, with private family baths (kashikiri) available for rent. The facility is mostly accessible, though some outdoor pools have a few steps.
Benifuji no Yu
It is situated closer to Lake Yamanakako, Benifuji’s open-air pools face the peak directly. It’s quieter on weekdays and accepts visitors with small tattoos if covered.
Ryokan Baths
Many indoor and outdoor options for yo to enjoy hot bath. While private open-air baths require booking, public areas follow standard onsen etiquette: rinse thoroughly before entering and avoid bringing towels into the bath.
Seasonal Detours
Fuji Shibazakura Festival – April 12 to May 25, 2025
This mesmerizing festival is held every year near Lake Motosu, this spring event carpets 2.5 hectares in pink moss phlox. Shuttle buses run from Kawaguchiko Station. If you want to enjoy best lights and avoid crowds then go here at early morning (8:00–9:00) .
Yoshida Fire Festival – August 26–27, 2025
It is a centuries-old event which marks the end of Fuji’s climbing season.Please note that you may find road closures near Fujisan Station and fully booked accommodations.
Accessibility Notes
You can easily reach the springs by using Fujikyu and JR East trains which provide at least one wheelchair-accessible car. Stations at Otsuki, Fujisan, and Kawaguchiko include ramps or elevators as well. Day-use hot springs such as Fuji Yurari offer barrier-free changing areas and restrooms, though not all outdoor pools are step-free. Strollers are allowed on local buses but may need folding on busy routes.
Practical Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Reserve seats on the Fuji Excursion in advance—especially during festivals or holidays.
- Confirm last return trips: trains and buses to Tokyo typically end by 19:00–20:00.
- Keep expectations flexible: clouds often hide Fuji, so focus on the onsen experience itself.
- Understand onsen etiquette: rinse first, no swimwear, and cover tattoos if required.
- Pack lightly: station lockers hold medium suitcases (~¥400–¥600 per day).
- Check closures: some smaller baths close midweek or shorten hours in winter.
FAQs
How long is the trip from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko?
About two hours by direct train or slightly less by highway bus.
Does the Japan Rail Pass cover the full journey?
It covers the JR East section from Shinjuku to Otsuki only; travelers pay a small extra fare for the Fujikyu segment to Kawaguchiko.
Can I visit a hot spring without staying overnight?
Yes. Many facilities, such as Fuji Yurari and Benifuji no Yu, offer day-use options for ¥600–¥1,500.
What’s the best time for clear views of Mount Fuji?
Winter months (December–February) bring crisp air and fewer clouds, while April–May adds flowers and greenery.
Are tattoos allowed in hot springs?
Policies vary. Some public baths require cover stickers, while ryokan private baths generally allow them.
Is the area stroller- and wheelchair-friendly?
Main stations and buses have accessible routes; outdoor baths sometimes have steps or gravel paths.
How can I store luggage while exploring?
Lockers are available at Kawaguchiko and Fujisan Stations, and many ryokan offer short-term storage before check-in.
Key Takeaways
- Mount Fuji’s hot springs are a simple two-hour escape from Tokyo by train or bus.
- The FUJI EXCURSION offers the easiest direct connection, but JR Pass holders should note coverage ends at Otsuki.
- Spring (Apr–May) and winter (Dec–Feb) offer the best scenery; August’s Fire Festival brings crowds.
- Most onsen charge under ¥1,500 for day use; ryokan stays with meals start around ¥15,000 per night.
- Accessibility has improved, but check individual bath layouts before visiting.
Sources Used
- JR East – Mount Fuji Travel Guide
- Fujikyu Railway – Fujikyu Line Information
- FUJI EXCURSION – Official Timetable & Booking
- Fujikawaguchiko Town Tourism – Hot Spring Listings
- Fuji Motosuko Resort – Shibazakura Festival 2025
- JNTO Partners – Highway Bus Fares PDF (Oct 1, 2025)
- Odakyu Electric Railway – Hakone Freepass
- Fujiyoshida DMO – Yoshida Fire Festival
