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Getting to Kawaguchiko
- Shinjuku to Otsuki: JR Chuo line limited express Kaiji or Azusa, around 60 minutes, covered.
- Otsuki to Kawaguchiko: Fujikyu Railway, 50 minutes, not covered (around 1,170 yen).
- Total around 2 hours from Shinjuku.
Day trips
Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji with the JR Pass
Lake Kawaguchiko offers the postcard view of Mount Fuji. The JR Pass covers most of the journey from Tokyo, with only the short Fujikyu Railway leg requiring an extra ticket.
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Best Mount Fuji viewpoints
- Chureito Pagoda from Shimoyoshida station, the classic shot.
- Lake Kawaguchiko north shore for the reverse Fuji reflection.
- Mount Tenjo ropeway above Kawaguchiko station.
- Oishi Park, especially in lavender season (June to July).
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Tips
Best Fuji visibility is November to February with cold dry air. Summer is often cloudy. Check the live webcam before leaving Tokyo. If Fuji is hidden, consider a back-up of Hakone, which is also reachable via JR (limited express Odoriko to Odawara is covered).
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions.
Is the Fujikyu Railway covered by the JR Pass?
No. Fujikyu is a private railway. You will pay separately from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko.
Is there a direct JR train to Kawaguchiko?
Some seasonal JR limited expresses (Fuji Excursion) run direct from Shinjuku. The JR portion is covered, the Fujikyu portion is not.
Can I climb Mount Fuji from Kawaguchiko?
Yes, but only during the official climbing season in July and August. Buses to the 5th station are not covered by the JR Pass.
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