About Place
- "A mesmerizing symphony of natural beauty and cultural significance."
- "An iconic symbol of Japan, revered by artists and poets."
- "A bucket-list destination for adventure seekers and spiritual travelers."
Reasons to Visit
- Cultural and Spiritual Significance : Mount Fuji, or "Fujisan," is not just Japan's highest mountain at 3,776 meters; it is a spiritual beacon that has inspired countless works of art and literature. Pilgrims have been ascending its slopes for centuries, believing it to be a sacred site. The mountain is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and is celebrated in festivals, folklore, and rituals.
- Natural Beauty and Biodiversity : Mount Fuji is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is surrounded by five beautiful lakes—Kawaguchi, Yamanaka, Sai, Shoji, and Motosu. The region is a biodiversity hotspot, home to unique flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain from various vantage points, especially during the cherry blossom season or when the autumn leaves paint the landscape in vibrant hues.
- Adventure and Outdoor Activities : For adventure enthusiasts, climbing Mount Fuji is a must-do experience. The official climbing season runs from early July to early September, when the weather is more favorable. Besides climbing, the surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails, hot springs (onsen), and opportunities for boating, fishing, and skiing in winter. The Fuji Five Lakes region is perfect for nature walks and photography.
Visa
- Japan : No visa required for citizens.
- United States, Canada, UK, EU : Visa-free entry for short stays (up to 90 days).
- Australia, New Zealand : Visa-free entry for short stays (up to 90 days).
- India : Visa required; apply in advance.
- China : Visa required; apply in advance.
- Russia : Visa required; apply in advance.
- Southeast Asian countries (e.g., Thailand, Malaysia) : Visa-free entry for short stays.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Flights (Tokyo Narita to Fujikawaguchiko) : $100 per person (round trip) = $200 for a couple
- Hotel cost :
- Ryokan stay : $200 per night x 4 nights = $800
- Food cost :
- Lunch : $15 per person x 5 days = $150
- Dinner : $30 per person x 5 days = $300
- Activity cost :
- Climbing Mount Fuji : $100 per person for hut stay and supplies = $200
- Local activities (museums, boat rides, etc.) : $50 per person = $100
- Near destination travel cost :
- Rented vehicle : $50 per day x 5 days = $250
Total Estimated Cost : $200 (flights) + $800 (hotel) + $450 (food) + $300 (activities) + $250 (transport) = $2000
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Exploration
Arrive at Tokyo Narita Airport and transfer to Fujikawaguchiko. Check into a traditional ryokan. Spend the afternoon exploring the Kawaguchiko area, visiting the beautiful Lake Kawaguchi and the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum. Enjoy lunch at Houtou Fudou, a restaurant famous for its hearty Houtou noodle soup. In the evening, take a relaxing dip in an onsen and enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at the ryokan.
Day 2: Climbing Mount Fuji
Start early and travel to the Subaru Fifth Station, the starting point for the Yoshida Trail. Begin your ascent of Mount Fuji, aiming to reach one of the mountain huts around the Seventh or Eighth Station by early afternoon. Take breaks to enjoy the stunning views and have lunch at one of the mountain huts. Rest and acclimatize, enjoying a simple dinner and getting some sleep before the final ascent.
Day 3 : Summit and Descent
Wake up early to complete the climb to the summit in time for the breathtaking sunrise. Spend some time at the summit, exploring the crater and taking in the panoramic views. Begin your descent mid-morning, returning to the Subaru Fifth Station by early afternoon. Travel back to Fujikawaguchiko, have a late lunch at a local restaurant, and spend the evening resting and exploring the town. Enjoy dinner at Kawaguchiko Herb Hall Restaurant.
Day 4 : Exploring Fuji Five Lakes
Spend the day exploring the Fuji Five Lakes region. Visit the Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village with eight crystal-clear ponds, and then head to Lake Yamanaka for a relaxing boat ride. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, such as Mori no Eki. In the afternoon, visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum to see exquisite kimono art. Return to your accommodation for a final onsen experience and dinner at the ryokan.
Day 5 : Return to Tokyo
After breakfast, check out of your ryokan and head back to Tokyo. Spend the afternoon exploring the city, visiting attractions such as the Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and the bustling Shibuya Crossing. Have lunch at a traditional sushi restaurant, such as Sushi Zanmai. Enjoy dinner at an izakaya in Shinjuku before heading to the airport for your departure.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a map and emergency contact information.
- Stay hydrated, especially when climbing Mount Fuji.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Keep an eye on weather conditions.
- Carry a portable charger for your phone.
- Use only marked trails when hiking.
- Be cautious of wildlife.
- Have travel insurance.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases for emergencies.
Flights
- ANA : Tokyo Narita to Fujikawaguchiko, $50 each way.
- Japan Airlines : Tokyo Narita to Fujikawaguchiko, $55 each way.
Hotels
- Kozantei Ubuya: $200 per night
- Fuji Onsenji Yumedono: $250 per night
- Shuhokaku Kogetsu: $180 per night
- Konansou: $220 per night
- Tominoko Hotel: $150 per night
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Tokyo : +81-3-3262-2391
- Police : 110
- Ambulance and Firefighters : 119
Country
Closet Airport
- Tokyo Narita Airport
Nearest City
- Tokyo
Heritage Sites
- Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Airlines
- ANA
- Japan Airlines
- Peach Aviation
Currency
- Japanese Yen (JPY)
Languages Spoken
- Japanese
Real Story
The 1707 Eruption of Mount Fuji In December 1707, Mount Fuji erupted in a cataclysmic event known as the Hoei Eruption, the most recent and the second-largest eruption in the mountain's history. The eruption began on December 16, following a series of earthquakes that had already created havoc in the region. The eruption produced vast amounts of ash, which fell as far as present-day Tokyo, over 100 kilometers away, disrupting daily life and agriculture.
The eruption created a new crater and three new volcanic peaks, collectively known as the Hoei Craters. These changes drastically altered Mount Fuji's appearance, leaving a lasting impact on the landscape. The event had significant cultural repercussions, as it reinforced the mountain's perception as a powerful and unpredictable force of nature.
Despite the devastation, the eruption also spurred scientific interest in volcanic activity and led to better preparedness for future eruptions. Today, the Hoei Craters remain a visible reminder of Mount Fuji's volcanic activity and a popular site for hikers and geologists alike.
Cuisine
The region around Mount Fuji is known for its unique cuisine, heavily influenced by its natural surroundings. One of the most famous dishes is Houtou, a hearty noodle soup made with flat udon noodles, vegetables, and miso broth. Another local specialty is Fujizakura Pork, renowned for its tender and flavorful meat, often served in hot pots or grilled. The area also boasts fresh Rainbow Trout, typically enjoyed grilled or sashimi-style, sourced from the clear waters of the Fuji Five Lakes. These dishes offer a delightful taste of the region's culinary heritage.
Culture and History
Mount Fuji, an emblem of Japan, has been a significant cultural and spiritual symbol for centuries. Revered in Shinto and Buddhist traditions, it has inspired artists, poets, and pilgrims. The mountain's symmetrical cone is a subject of countless artworks, notably Hokusai's "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji." Climbing Mount Fuji has been a ritual practice since the 7th century, symbolizing purification and rebirth. The mountain is also central to various festivals, such as the Yoshida Fire Festival, marking the end of the climbing season. The surrounding Fuji Five Lakes region, with its scenic beauty and hot springs, further enriches the cultural tapestry of this iconic destination.