Mt. Fuji 5th St and Gotemba Outlets (Disband at Gotemba Outlets)

Experience the Majestic Views of Mount Fuji and the Vibrant Shopping at Gotemba Outlets

If you’re visiting Tokyo and craving a day filled with breathtaking scenery and retail therapy, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of both. For just about $47, you’ll spend roughly 4 to 12 hours exploring Mount Fuji’s 5th Station, sitting at an impressive 2,300 meters above sea level, and then head to Gotemba Premium Outlets, Japan’s largest outlet mall. Led by friendly guides, the trip is designed for travelers who want a taste of natural beauty combined with a bit of shopping extravagance.

What we love most about this experience is the panoramic views of Fuji Five Lakes and the occasional sea of clouds from the 5th Station, along with the chance to sample exclusive local foods such as Mt. Fuji Melon Bread. The second highlight is the sprawling outlets, offering over 210 brand shops, where discounts of 5-15% are often available, making it a shopper’s paradise.

A potential consideration is the limited time at each stop, especially if you’re eager to explore every shop or take longer to soak in the views. Also, weather can influence your experience — if Mount Fuji’s weather isn’t cooperative, the itinerary shifts to Oshino Hakkai, which is still charming but different.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate spectacular natural scenery combined with retail adventures. It suits travelers who want a straightforward, guided experience without the hassle of planning transport or navigating large crowds on their own. Families, solo travelers, or groups looking for an efficient day trip will find this outing offers good value and memorable sights.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from Mount Fuji’s 5th Station include Fuji Five Lakes and sometimes a sea of clouds.
• Large-scale shopping at Gotemba Outlets, with over 210 brands and discounts, perfect for bargain hunters.
• Convenient transportation with air-conditioned vehicles, making the day comfortable and stress-free.
• Flexible itinerary that adapts to weather conditions, with alternatives like Oshino Hakkai.
• Affordable price point at just over $47, offering access to both natural and retail experiences.
• Guided tour with knowledgeable hosts who ensure your safety and share interesting facts, enriching your visit.

Exploring the Tour: A Deep Dive

Starting the Day in Tokyo

Your adventure begins early at the Shinjuku Center Building at 7:15 am. From here, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisks you away from the buzz of Tokyo into the natural splendor of Mount Fuji. The tour is shared with other participants, but the small group size (max 45 travelers) keeps things manageable and friendly.

The Journey to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station

Traveling along the Fuji Subaru Line, you’ll appreciate how smoothly the bus navigates the scenic route. As you ascend, the landscape shifts from Tokyo’s urban sprawl to lush forests and mountain views. Once at the Mount Fuji 5th Station, which sits at about 2,300 meters, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Fuji Five Lakes area and occasionally, a sea of clouds that feels almost surreal.

The 5th Station is more than just a viewpoint; it’s a hub of activity with shops selling snacks, souvenirs, and a small shrine — Komitake Shrine — which adds a spiritual element to the visit. Many travelers, including Brian in a glowing review, appreciated the well-organized nature of the stop and how safe and informative the guide was throughout. Expect about 40 minutes here — just enough time to take photos, grab a snack, or visit the shrine.

Sampling Unique Fuji Foods

One notable highlight is trying Mt. Fuji Melon Bread, a local delicacy only available here. This sweet, melon-flavored bread offers a taste unique to this area, giving you a mini culinary adventure. If you’re a foodie, this is a delightful bonus.

Transition to Shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets

After soaking in the mountain views, your journey continues to Gotemba Premium Outlets — Japan’s largest outlet mall, with over 210 brands. It’s a shopper’s haven with a spectacular backdrop of Mount Fuji providing an unforgettable shopping experience. You’ll have around six hours to explore at your leisure, making it ideal for those who love browsing designer labels or hunting for discounts.

The outlets frequently offer 5-15% off coupons, and the sheer variety of stores means you’ll likely find something that fits your tastes and budget. Grabbing a quick bite or a treat here is easy, and many visitors enjoy the relaxed, open-air shopping environment.

Final Considerations

From Gotemba Outlets, there are direct buses back to Tokyo, Shinjuku, and other major areas — a major convenience, though travelers must pay for their own tickets. The website details are helpful for planning your return.

Weather and Alternative Plans

If weather conditions obscure Mount Fuji or make the 5th Station inaccessible, the tour switches to Oshino Hakkai, a charming area famous for its clear spring-fed ponds and traditional rural scenery. While different from the mountain adventure, it still offers a peaceful, picturesque break.

Overall Value

At just over $47, this trip packs a lot into one day — stunning vistas, cultural sights, and shopping — making it a fantastic value for travelers wanting a straightforward, guided experience. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a set itinerary to avoid the hassle of organizing their own transport and visits.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Join?

This tour offers a great balance of sights and shopping, making it perfect for first-time visitors to Japan who want a snapshot of Mount Fuji without a strenuous hike. It also suits families or solo travelers eager to see iconic scenery and enjoy some retail therapy in one trip.

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll appreciate the views and photo opportunities, while shopaholics will love the extensive selection and discounts. However, if you’re after a full mountaineering experience or want to explore Fuji’s trails in depth, this tour might feel too brief.

Travelers on a budget will find the price reasonable given the inclusiveness of transport and access to top sights. Keep in mind that the experience is weather-dependent, so a clear day will maximize your enjoyment — but even if clouds obscure Fuji, the alternative stops are still charming and worthwhile.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions, with the main stops being 40 minutes at Mount Fuji’s 5th Station and around six hours for shopping at Gotemba Outlets.

What is included in the price?
The price covers an air-conditioned vehicle and the guided tour itself. It does not include lunch or transportation from Gotemba Outlets back to Tokyo or other destinations.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the tour is accessible for most travelers, but keep in mind the 40-minute stop at Mount Fuji’s 5th Station involves some walking and elevation. Elderly travelers should consider their comfort with altitude and walking.

Can I buy souvenirs at Mount Fuji 5th Station?
Yes, there are several shops selling snacks and souvenirs, including the unique Mt. Fuji Melon Bread.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. Don’t forget some cash or cards for shopping and snacks.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If Mount Fuji’s visibility is poor due to weather, the tour will be rerouted to Oshino Hakkai, which offers scenic ponds and traditional Japanese rural scenery.

Are there any discounts or coupons?
Yes, coupons of 5-15% are often provided at Gotemba Outlets, increasing the value of your shopping experience.

How do I get back to Tokyo after the tour?
From Gotemba Outlets, express buses depart regularly to Tokyo, Shinjuku, Shibuya, and other major areas. You need to purchase your ticket separately.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The group size is manageable, and guides ensure everyone is well taken care of, creating a friendly environment for solo adventurers.

In summary, this tour offers a compelling combination of natural beauty and shopping convenience, wrapped up in a well-organized package. Whether you’re after iconic views, a taste of local flavors, or some retail splurging, it’s a straightforward way to enrich your Japan trip without breaking the bank.