From Tokyo: Mt.Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, Oshino Hakkai Day Tour

From Tokyo: Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, Oshino Hakkai Day Tour

This day-trip from Tokyo costs around $52 per person and takes you into the heart of Japan’s most iconic landscape—Mount Fuji. Led by knowledgeable guides in both English and Mandarin, you’ll visit the 5th Station of Mount Fuji in summer or Oishi Park during the cooler months, and enjoy a traditional matcha tea ceremony at Lake Kawaguchi. You’ll also explore the charming Oshino Hakkai, a collection of eight pure ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s snowmelt, and take in views of spots like the Fujisan Hikawa Watch Shop and Shinkura Fuji Asama Shrine.

What we love most is how this tour combines spectacular scenery with authentic cultural moments, like the matcha experience—an inviting taste of Japanese tradition—and the chance to see Mount Fuji from multiple angles. The scenic ponds at Oshino Hakkai, naturally filtered over decades, give visitors a peaceful, almost spiritual feel.

A possible consideration is the walking involved—from the shopping street to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, you’ll need about 25 minutes on foot, which might be tiring after a full day. Also, the itinerary can change depending on weather or traffic, so some stops might be skipped or altered, especially during off-season months.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, affordable introduction to Mount Fuji’s beauty and cultural sites, especially those happy to share a guided group experience with other visitors.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full day exploring iconic spots around Mount Fuji
• Includes cultural experiences like a traditional matcha tea ceremony
• Flexible itinerary depending on weather and season, with summer visits to the 5th Station or scenic Oishi Park in winter/early spring
• Authentic sights such as Oshino Hakkai’s natural ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s snowmelt
• Guided experience in both English and Mandarin, with helpful commentary throughout
• Walking involved may require some stamina, especially to reach the shrine or certain viewpoints

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Mt. Fuji Day Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural engagement, and convenient travel—all at a price that’s accessible for most travelers. We’ll walk through what you can expect, how to maximize your experience, and what some real travelers have shared about their day.

Meeting and Starting Out

You’ll meet your guide at Tokyo Mode Gakuen—look for the EASYGO flag—around 7:50 a.m. This early start is necessary to make the most of your day at Mount Fuji and avoid traffic. The meeting point is straightforward, with easy access from Shinjuku West Exit via the JR Line or from Nishi-Shinjuku on the Marunouchi Subway Line. The tour departs promptly at 8:10 a.m., so arriving early is advisable.

Transportation

Traveling by bus, you’ll settle into a comfortable ride. This is one of the key benefits—your guide takes care of the driving, so you can sit back and enjoy the changing scenery as you head toward the Fuji Five Lakes area. The group size isn’t specified precisely but given the reviews, it’s likely a sizable group, which makes it lively but can mean some waiting or less personalized attention.

The Itinerary: From Mount Fuji to Lake Kawaguchi and Oshino Hakkai

In summer, your first stop will be the 5th Station of Mount Fuji—a must-see for many visitors. Here, you can walk around, enjoy panoramic views, and soak in the mountain’s grandeur. Keep in mind, weather conditions heavily influence visibility and accessibility—sometimes the clouds obscure the summit, or snow might block certain areas.

From about mid-November to April, the 5th Station is replaced with a visit to Oishi Park, a vibrant space filled with seasonal blooms and stunning views of Mount Fuji reflected in Lake Kawaguchi. The park offers a different but equally scenic experience, perfect for photography and relaxing walks.

Next, you’ll visit Lake Kawaguchi, where a matcha tea ceremony awaits. Here, you’ll learn how to prepare Japanese matcha with the guidance of a tea master. Visitors generally find this experience charming and authentic. The guide will also serve traditional Japanese snacks, adding a tasty local touch.

Afterward, your journey takes you to Oshino Hakkai, a collection of eight spring-fed ponds—Deguchi, Okama, Botsu, Choshi, Okui, Turbid, Kagami, and Ayame. These ponds, naturally filtered over 80 years, offer tranquil water scenes and a chance to reflect on the mountain’s influence on the landscape. Many travelers describe Oshino Hakkai as a peaceful, almost sacred place, perfect for soaking in Japan’s natural beauty.

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Other Attractions and Views

On this tour, you’ll also visit spots like the Fujisan Hikawa Watch Shop and Shinkura Fuji Asama Shrine—lesser-known but interesting sites that add depth to your understanding of local culture. The shrine has a viewing platform that offers a surreal view of Mount Fuji, especially at sunset or in the early morning, making it an excellent photo stop if timing allows.

Authentic Experiences and Real Reviews

The matcha tea ceremony is one of the highlights praised by many, with travelers commenting on how engaging and delicious the experience was. One reviewer noted that it felt like being “traveling with a fun friend,” praising her guide Betty’s friendliness and storytelling.

However, some travelers have experienced disorganization or delays, especially with finding the guide or understanding the schedule. One mentioned that the guide was late, and another felt the flag wasn’t prominent enough to spot easily. These issues underscore the importance of arriving early and staying attentive during check-in.

The Walking and Physical Aspect

Remember, the tour involves some walking—about 25 minutes from the shopping street to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, plus exploring Oshino Hakkai and the park areas. While most find it manageable, those with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

Value and Cost

At $52, this tour offers excellent value—transportation, a knowledgeable guide, cultural experiences, and multiple scenic stops. It’s a cost-effective way to tick off major sights without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. Keep in mind, lunch, entrance fees, and personal expenses are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to try local food or buy souvenirs.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re eager to see Mount Fuji’s iconic views but don’t want to spend a fortune or navigate public transport alone, this tour is a good choice. It’s especially suitable for those interested in cultural experiences like tea ceremonies, those who enjoy a guided group setting, and travelers who appreciate authentic scenic spots away from overly commercialized attractions.

However, if you prefer more personalized, flexible touring or have mobility challenges, you might find the walking and group dynamics a bit limiting. Weather-dependent nature of some stops also means you should be flexible with expectations.

Final Thoughts

This day tour from Tokyo offers a solid balance of scenic beauty, culture, and affordability. It captures the essence of Japan’s most famous mountain with visits to lush parks, tranquil ponds, and historic sites. The guides’ knowledge and the authentic tea ceremony stand out as real highlights, making the day both visually and culturally rewarding.

While some travelers reported minor issues like guide visibility and timings, overall feedback remains positive, emphasizing the stunning views and delicious food experiences. If you’re looking to check Mount Fuji off your list without breaking the bank, this tour delivers a good mix of nature, culture, and memorable moments.

This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers, first-time visitors eager for a rundown, and those who enjoy a group atmosphere with helpful guides. It’s a way to experience Japan’s natural majesty while enjoying some culturally rich activities—an excellent choice for a one-day escape from Tokyo.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is by bus, with a comfortable ride from Tokyo to the scenic spots and back.

Is the 5th Station visit guaranteed?
Not exactly—it depends on the weather. During certain seasons, from mid-November to April, the visit may be replaced with a trip to Oishi Park instead.

What should I bring for the matcha experience?
The guide will lead the tea-making and serve Japanese snacks, so you just need to bring comfortable clothes and a sense of curiosity.

Are there any physical demands?
Yes, expect about 25 minutes of walking from the shopping street to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, and some walking in parks and around ponds.

What’s not included in the price?
Lunch, attraction entrance fees, and personal expenses are not included.

Can I find the guide easily in the meeting point?
Most travelers find the guide with the EasyGo flag, but some reviews suggest arriving early and being attentive helps avoid confusion.

In all, this tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Mount Fuji’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites, making it an excellent choice for those seeking value and memorable views.

You can check availability for your dates here: