Mt. Fuji 5th Station & Gotemba Outlets Day Tour from Tokyo

A Practical Look at the Mt. Fuji 5th Station & Gotemba Outlets Day Tour from Tokyo

This 8-hour day tour from Tokyo takes you to two distinctly different but equally memorable spots: the Mt. Fuji 5th Station and the Gotemba Premium Outlets. Priced at $796.71 per group (up to 4 people), the tour offers a blend of iconic scenery and retail therapy, making it appealing for those seeking a balanced day of sightseeing and shopping. Your journey begins with a pickup from Tokyo, and with a small group size capped at nine travelers, you’ll enjoy a more intimate experience.

We particularly like how this tour combines the grandeur of Mount Fuji’s views with the practical convenience of an outlet shopping spree. The opportunity to take Instagram-worthy photos of Mt. Fuji from the outlets, and to explore over 200 stores, adds great value. Another highlight is the stopping at EXPASA Ebina, a large service area that’s perfect for snacks, souvenirs, and stretching your legs en route.

A consideration worth noting is that the cost might seem steep for a shopping trip, but the inclusion of transport, tolls, and some stops does help clarify the value. This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a bit of everything—scenery, shopping, and the chance to experience Japan’s famous outlets in a single day. If you’re after a relaxed, structured experience with some flexibility along the way, this tour could be perfect.

Key Points

• Convenience and Comfort: All transportation, tolls, and parking fees are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day.
• Stunning Views: The view of Mt. Fuji from Gotemba Premium Outlets is a major highlight, perfect for photos and awe.
• Shopping Galore: Over 200 brand-name stores at the outlets offer significant discounts, making it a worthwhile stop for shopaholics.
• Flexible Stops: The optional stop at EXPASA Ebina adds a chance to buy souvenirs or snacks and break up the journey.
• Small Group Experience: With a cap of 9 travelers, you get more personalized attention.
• Weather Dependency: The tour’s success hinges on good weather, especially for the views of Fuji.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Travel Time

Your day kicks off at 9:00 am with pickup in Tokyo. The drive to Gotemba takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenic ride. The comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle, along with free drinks, helps make the journey pleasant—especially if the weather is warm.

Gotemba Premium Outlets: Japan’s Shopping Haven

Once at the outlets, you’re greeted by a sprawling complex with over 200 stores managed by Mitsubishi Estate Simon Co., Ltd. Since it opened in 2000, Gotemba Premium Outlets has earned a reputation for offering discounted prices on famous brands. The mall’s open-air design means you can stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds, with Mount Fuji serving as a picturesque backdrop.

What we love about this stop is the chance to combine shopping with sightseeing. The views of Mount Fuji from various vantage points really make the experience memorable. Travelers frequently comment on the excellent value for money—discounts here often make designer labels more accessible. This stop is especially appealing if you want to pick up high-quality souvenirs, clothing, or accessories without paying full retail prices.

Optional Stop at EXPASA Ebina

On the way back or heading towards Gotemba, there’s the option to stop at EXPASA Ebina, one of Japan’s largest service areas. Here, you can buy souvenirs, local snacks, or simply stretch your legs. Many find it convenient to grab a quick meal or drink here, making it a flexible addition to the itinerary.

Expect about an hour at this stop, with plenty of space to explore, and the opportunity to take photos of the sprawling highway view or hunt for last-minute souvenirs.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers fuel surcharges, highway tolls, parking fees, and use of an air-conditioned vehicle. Free drinks (water and soda) are also part of the package, enhancing comfort during the journey. However, souvenirs and shopping expenses at Gotemba are not included, giving you the freedom to spend as much or as little as you like.

This structure allows you to focus on the experience rather than the logistics. The admission tickets to both the outlets and the Ebina service area are included, so there are no surprise costs.

Meeting and Timing

You’ll meet your guide in Tokyo at 9:00 am, with the tour returning to the original meeting point in the late afternoon. Since this experience operates with a maximum of 9 travelers, you can expect a more personal touch, with opportunities to ask questions or request stop-overs.

For those concerned about accessibility, the tour is near public transportation, making it fairly easy to reach the pickup point in Tokyo.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for shoppers who want a scenic experience combined with a convenient shopping trip. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see Mount Fuji and explore Japan’s premium outlet stores. If you’re someone who enjoys photo opportunities with iconic scenery, you’ll appreciate the views of Fuji from the outlets. It also suits travelers who prefer organized tours to maximize convenience and minimize planning.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for an efficient way to experience Mount Fuji’s vistas while enjoying discount shopping at one of Japan’s most renowned outlets, this tour ticks many boxes. The combination of stunning scenery, hassle-free transportation, and retail therapy makes it a compelling choice for those who want a balanced day without the stress of navigating public transport or driving themselves.

The inclusion of free drinks, a flexible stop at Ebina, and small group size adds to the overall appeal. Keep in mind that good weather is vital for the best views, so check the forecast before booking. Although the price might seem high, the convenience and quality of the experience can justify the expense, especially if you value comfort and personalized attention.

This tour offers value for those who enjoy both the visual spectacle of Mt. Fuji and the thrill of discovering great deals at a top outlet mall. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a full, enjoyable day with minimal hassle.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation from Tokyo?
Yes, the price covers pickup in Tokyo and transportation to and from Gotemba, including highway tolls and parking fees.

How long is the drive from Tokyo to Gotemba?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours each way, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing and comfort.

Can I request to stop at other attractions?
The itinerary mentions that stop-overs to other attractions can be requested, giving some flexibility for personal interests.

What’s included in the tour fee?
Fuel surcharge, highway tolls, parking fees, use of an air-conditioned vehicle, and free drinks (water and soda) are included. Admission tickets for the outlets and Ebina are also included.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are plenty of food options at the outlets and service area.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is manageable for a wide age range, provided they are comfortable with the driving time.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera or smartphone for photos, and optional cash for extras at the outlets or Ebina.

What happens if the weather is poor?
If weather conditions block the views of Mount Fuji, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring you aren’t stuck with a disappointing experience.

Final Word

This Mt. Fuji 5th Station & Gotemba Outlets Day Tour offers a well-rounded, convenient way to combine spectacular mountain views with a major shopping experience. It’s designed for those who want to enjoy Japan’s scenic highlights without the hassle of planning, while still having the flexibility to indulge in retail therapy. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour delivers a balance of breathtaking scenery and practical fun.