How to Get from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko
Kawaguchiko
©Thanapat Pirmphol, pixabay
Many visitors to Japan dream of seeing the iconic Mount Fuji up close and exploring the scenic Kawaguchiko area at the base of the mountain. From Tokyo's bustling Shinjuku district, there are several convenient transportation options to reach this beautiful region and enjoy its natural wonders. Whether you prefer a quick direct route or a more leisurely journey, this guide will help you choose the best way to get from Shinjuku to Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko to suit your travel style and schedule.
Mount Fuji is the national symbol of Japan. With its dominating presence, iconic silhouette, and historical significance, it is well worth seeing in person for visitors to Japan. Mount Fuji is located at the border of two prefectures, Shizuoka and Yamanashi, and within Yamanashi, the modest town of Kawaguchiko is renowned for some of the best views!
A key destination within the Fuji Five Lakes region, the scenery of the area is some of the most breathtaking in Japan. Additionally, foodies will enjoy the unique delicacies and thrill seekers will appreciate the exciting rides and roller coasters of the beloved Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park, with views of Mount Fuji as the cherry on top!
To get out to Kawaguchiko, many travelers to Japan will depart from the world’s most populated metropolitan area, Tokyo. Within Tokyo, the most prominent train station in the world, Shinjuku, will be the place of departure! Be it the Fuji Excursion Limited Express Train, local trains, or highway buses, trading the skyscrapers of central Shinjuku for the natural scenery of Kawaguchiko is made easy!
Iconic view of Mount Fuji from the Chureito Pagoda in Kawaguchiko
@Pixabay/ oadtz
Greater Shinjuku area
@Pixabay/ Tuan Hung Nguyen
- Travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko via the Fuji Excursion Limited Express Train
- Travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko via local train lines
- Travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko via highway bus
- For those with access to a car in Japan, driving is also an option
Travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko by Train
Travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko by Fuji Excursion Limited Express Train
- ⏱ Travel time: Approximately 2 hours
- ⏲First and last departure: 7:30 a.m. / 10:30 p.m.
- 💶 Price: From ¥4,130
- 🚉 Departure/arrival station: Shinjuku Station/Kawaguchiko Station
- 🚅 Train type: Fuji Excursion Limited Express Train
For a comfortable and efficient trip, consider taking the Fuji Excursion limited express train, which provides a direct connection from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station in under 2 hours. This modern train features reserved seating, luggage racks, power outlets, and free Wi-Fi to ensure a pleasant ride. While the Japan Rail Pass does not fully cover the journey, you can still use it for the JR portion between Shinjuku and Otsuki, then pay the additional fare for the Fujikyuko Railway section at 1,770 yen. As there are a limited number of Fuji Excursion trains per day, advance seat reservations are highly recommended. A one-way journey from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station is 4,130 yen.
Travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko by JR Chuo Line and Fujikyuko Line
- ⏱ Travel time: Approximately 2h10m/2h30m
- ⏲First and last departure: 7:00 a.m. / 7:30 p.m.
- 💶 Price: ¥2,510-¥3,530
- 🚉 Departure/arrival station: Shinjuku Station/Kawaguchiko Station
- 🚃 Transfer station: Otsuki Station
- 🚅Train type: Kaiji/Azusa/JR Chuo Rapid/Fujikyuko Line
A cheaper but slower alternative to the Fuji Excursion limited express is taking the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station, then transferring to the Fujikyuko Line from there out to Kawaguchiko Station. From Shinjuku, you’ll have a couple of options. On the JR Chuo Line, there are the Kaiji and Azusa Limited Express trains that make the journey out to Otsuki Station in a bit over an hour. These trains will require reserved seats, however.
There are also local trains that go out to Otsuki Station in around 1 hour 40 minutes. These operate like standard, inner-city trains. From Otsuki Station, taking the Fujikyuko Line to Kawaguchiko takes around one more hour. This is a more affordable option; however, it takes more time and entails a transfer.
Go from Shinjuku to Otsuki with the limited express train!
Travel from Tokyo (Shinjuku) to Kawaguchiko by highway bus
Highway buses provide another convenient way to reach the Mount Fuji area, with direct services connecting Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko in approximately 2 hours. Several bus companies operate on this route, offering a good balance of affordability and efficiency. Keep in mind that buses may encounter delays due to heavy traffic conditions. A bonus for Fuji-Q Highland amusement park visitors: some bus operators sell discount ticket combos that include both the bus fare and park admission.
Travel from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko by car
If you are able to get access to a car when visiting Japan, driving out to Mount Fuji allows for scenic routes on the way along with optimal independence. There is also the option to get to more out-of-the-way locations. However, note that during the morning and late afternoon, traffic between the Kawaguchiko area and Tokyo gets heavy, causing delays. For those wishing to drive in Japan without a Japanese license; an international driver’s license applies for most travelers. However, for those with licenses issued by France, Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Monaco, and Taiwan, an official translation of your license will be needed.
More information on those services can be found here.
What to check out in and on the way to Kawaguchiko
- For a day trip, catch an early morning Fuji Excursion train or highway bus from Shinjuku, spend the day exploring Kawaguchiko's top attractions like the Kachi Kachi Ropeway, Oishi Park, and the Kubota Itchiku Art Museum, then return to Tokyo in the evening.
- If you have more time, stay overnight in Kawaguchiko to enjoy onsen hot springs, hikes around the Fuji Five Lakes, and stunning views of Mount Fuji at sunrise or sunset.
- En route to Kawaguchiko, consider stopping at Otsuki to visit the Maglev Exhibition Center featuring the world's fastest train or at Mount Fuji Station to see the iconic peak up close.
Kawaguchiko
©sunil-naik, unsplash
Practical tips for the journey
To ensure a smooth trip, keep these points in mind:
- If traveling on the Fuji Excursion or regular limited express trains, book your tickets and make seat reservations well in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
- Familiarize yourself with boarding procedures and train layouts by checking the information displays and signs at the station.
- Lockers and luggage storage facilities are available at major stations like Shinjuku and Otsuki, so you can store your bags safely while sightseeing.
- Use mobile apps like Navitime, Google Maps, and Hyperdia to check train timetables, plan routes, and get real-time updates on any delays or cancellations.
- Don't forget to bring your Japan Rail Pass or other rail passes, as they can save you money on transportation costs.
