Tokyo:Mt. Fuji 5th Station&Onsen Day Trip | Seasonal Special

A day trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji offers a chance to experience Japan’s most iconic mountain without the need for a strenuous hike. For just around $44 per person, this tour provides a well-rounded glimpse of Fuji’s striking landscape, charming villages, and soothing hot springs. The journey takes you up to the Fifth Station—where you’ll get panoramic views—stroll through the traditional village of Oshino Hakkai, and unwind at an onsen with incredible views of the mountain. It’s a package that balances sightseeing and relaxation, making it perfect for those who want a taste of Fuji without the physical challenge.

We particularly appreciate the scenic bus ride, which offers excellent photo opportunities and a comfortable way to enjoy the changing vistas from the city to the mountain’s foothills. The highlight for many travelers is the hot springs experience, especially given the spectacular views of Fuji while soaking in the warm waters. Plus, browsing the volcanic stone souvenirs at the Fifth Station adds a unique touch to your trip.

One thing to consider is the crowds—especially at the onsen and Oshino Hakkai on weekends or holidays, which can lead to longer wait times or crowded spaces. Also, the limited time at each stop means you might not get to linger as long as you’d like, especially at the Fifth Station or in the village. This tour is best suited for visitors who want an easy, scenic, and value-packed experience, and who are comfortable with a busy schedule and short stops.

Key Points

• Comfortable and accessible: No hiking required; bus transportation ensures ease of access to Fuji’s highlights.
• Stunning views: Panoramic vistas of Mt. Fuji from the 5th Station and the onsen make this tour visually rewarding.
• Authentic experiences: Explore Oshino Hakkai’s traditional village and crystal-clear ponds fed by snowmelt.
• Relaxing break: Two hours in an open-air onsen with mountain views provides a well-deserved rest.
• Value for money: At $44, the tour offers a lot of variety—viewpoints, villages, and hot springs.
• Crowd considerations: Expect busy spots, especially on weekends, and limited time at each destination.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour starts with a meet-up in Tokyo, from where a comfortable bus takes you on a scenic drive toward Mt. Fuji. The journey itself is an attraction, with changing landscapes and mountain views that set the tone for the day ahead. The first major stop is the Fifth Station—at about 2,300 meters altitude—where you can enjoy sweeping vistas of Fuji (weather permitting). You’ll find souvenir stalls here, offering volcanic-stone crafts that serve as a tangible memento of your day.

Many reviews mention how the bus ride itself is a highlight, offering a relaxed way to take in Fuji’s grandeur without the fatigue of a hike. As one traveler noted, “We loved the way the bus was comfortable and the views from the window were stunning.” The stop at Fuji’s Fifth Station provides ample photo ops, but keep in mind that weather conditions can obscure visibility. Some travelers, like Anja, mention that Fuji was not visible on their day, which can be disappointing but unavoidable due to weather.

Exploring Oshino Hakkai

Next, you’ll visit Oshino Hakkai, a charming village famous for its eight crystal-clear ponds fed solely by snowmelt from Mt. Fuji. The ponds provide a peaceful, almost timeless atmosphere, with traditional thatched roofs and wooden signs. Travelers often enjoy tasting local mochi, made with Fuji spring water, adding a tasty and authentic touch to the visit.

Reviewers appreciate this stop for its authenticity and tranquility, making it a good contrast to the busier Fifth Station. However, some note that the village can be crowded, especially on weekends. One visitor pointed out that a 30-minute stay felt too brief, suggesting a longer visit would be preferable for a more relaxed experience.

The Hot Springs (Onsen)

The highlight for many is the Konohananoyu Onsen with two hours of hot spring relaxation amid breathtaking mountain views. The outdoor baths (rotenburo) allow you to soak while gazing at Fuji, which is a deeply soothing experience. The long waits during busy times are a common complaint, but those who enjoy hot springs find the peace and scenery worth it.

Note: the tour mentions an additional fee of 1,700 yen for onsen entry, and nude bathing is required—so if you’re uncomfortable with that, it’s good to know in advance. Also, tattoos are not allowed at most Japanese hot springs, which is a point worth considering.

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Return and Overall Experience

After the onsen, the journey back to Tokyo is typically around three hours, potentially longer due to traffic, especially if traveling during busy weekends or holidays. This can make the day feel a bit long, but it’s a small trade-off for the diversity of sights and experiences packed into a single day.

Multiple reviews praise the professional guides, with some saying guides like Agnes and Sandy provided interesting commentary and made the trip engaging. Conversely, some travelers felt that explanations about Fuji and the stops could be more detailed.

Value and Practicalities

At $44, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the admission to the onsen and the transportation are included. Keep in mind, meals are not included, so bringing cash for snacks or lunch is smart.

The small group size (if there are fewer travelers on certain days) enhances the experience, making it more personalized. The comfort of the bus and the professional guidance are key benefits, especially for those who prefer to sit back and enjoy the scenery rather than hike or navigate unfamiliar transport.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip suits those looking for a relaxing, scenic day with minimal physical effort. It’s ideal for families, older travelers, or anyone wary of strenuous hikes. It’s also perfect if you’re interested in traditional villages, volcanic souvenirs, and natural hot springs.

However, if you’re craving a mountain-climbing adventure or longer exploration, this tour might feel too brief or superficial. Also, if you’re sensitive to crowds or want a more private, unrushed experience, you may want to consider other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transfers to and from the meet-up location in Tokyo, making it convenient to enjoy the day without worrying about logistics.

How long do we stay at each stop?
The Fifth Station is typically visited for around an hour—enough for photos and shopping. Oshino Hakkai allows for a brief walk-through, and the onsen provides two hours of relaxation.

Can I see Mt. Fuji clearly?
Visibility of Fuji depends heavily on the weather. Some travelers, like Anja, mention Fuji was not visible due to weather conditions. Ideally, clear days will reward you with stunning views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, water, and cash are recommended. Also, bring a light jacket, as it can be cooler at higher altitudes.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, tattoos are generally prohibited at the onsen, and smoking, food, and drinks are not allowed on the bus.

What happens if the Fifth Station is closed?
If the Fifth Station is inaccessible, the tour will be substituted with Asama Park.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, this tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the nature of stops and terrain involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this tour offered in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour guides serve international guests in multiple languages, including Chinese.

Wrapping It Up

This Mt. Fuji day trip strikes a nice balance between scenic views, cultural touches, and relaxation. For those who want a comfortable, well-organized outing that covers the highlights—without the physical strain of climbing or long hikes—this tour delivers. The chance to see Fuji from different angles, explore a traditional Japanese village, and soak in an onsen with mountain views makes it worth considering.

While the crowds can be a downside and the short stops may leave some hungry for more time, the value for money and the quality of the guide often shine through. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day with authentic touches, this tour could be just the right fit.

To sum it up, this trip is best suited for travelers who want a manageable, scenic escape from Tokyo that includes easy access to Fuji, cultural sights, and a relaxing hot spring. It’s a great choice for those looking for a balance of sightseeing and leisure—especially if they value good value, comfortable transportation, and a taste of traditional Japan.

You can check availability for your dates here: