Can you climb Mt. Fuji as a day trip from Tokyo?
Have you ever wondered if it's possible to embark on a day trip from Tokyo to climb Mt. Fuji? Well, the answer is yes. While it requires some endurance, if you've ever completed a half marathon, this adventure should be well within your grasp.
Dreaming of Sunrise at Mt. Fuji's Summit
Everyone dreams of witnessing the breathtaking sunrise from the top of Mt. Fuji. The idea of that golden glow bathing the sky is an allure that's hard to resist. However, planning such a feat during peak season can be challenging, as mountain huts are often fully booked weeks or months in advance. Ascending to the summit for a 4 am sunrise can also significantly eat into your travel plans. On my trip, time was scarce—I had one day to spare in a packed three-week family itinerary.
As it turned out, my journey wasn't a solitary one. On the bus ride, I met three others with the same goal in mind. One of them was a German pilot who had a flight to catch the next morning. We all managed to complete the climb comfortably within the 7-hour limit, returning back on the bus feeling accomplished but not exhausted.
Setting Out: From Shinjuku to Mt. Fuji
Location of Shinjuku bus terminal where the bus to Mt. Fuji leaves.
The most convenient way to get to Mt. Fuji is by bus from Shinjuku Station. Direct highway buses operate between the Busta Shinjuku bus terminal in Tokyo and Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station from spring to autumn. During the off-season, there are two round trips per day, while during the climbing season from July to September, buses run hourly. The one-way ride takes about 150 minutes and costs 2950 yen, with seat reservations required. The first bus at 6:45 am gets you to Mt. Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station just before 10 am, leaving you a generous 7 hours for the mountain climb.
The Climb: Ascending Mt. Fuji via Yoshida Trail
While most resources suggest a 7-10 hours round trip from Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, my journey took just over 5 hours. This included climbing, stopping to admire the stunning scenery, enjoying a quick lunch at the summit, and descending. Now, as an average 45-year-old endurance hobbyist, I can assure you that the climb is achievable for many.
If you encounter altitude sickness or need to slow down and risk missing the last bus, don't worry. A taxi back to town can get you on a bus or train back to Tokyo, although it might cost you around $100 (14,000 yen).
Taking in the Beauty: A Walk Around the Caldera
After reaching the summit, I was greeted with the mesmerizing sight of the caldera - a mile-wide crater loop that you can walk around. Despite feeling the effects of altitude during the small climbs, the dramatic vistas were completely worth it. It's an experience that's not to be missed when you climb Mt. Fuji.
Heading Down: The Descent from the Summit
While the journey to the top is exhilarating, the descent down Mt. Fuji provides its own set of challenges and rewards. The path back is a never-ending zigzag alongside the Yoshida trail, steep and tough on the knees. Thankfully, my knees managed to hold up through the demanding trek down. As I descended, I was treated to some of the most fantastic views of volcanic rock formations, scattered patches of snow, and a green oasis that brought to mind the landscapes of New Zealand's Rotorua walk and Maui's Haleakalā hike.
Reflecting on the Journey: A Day Trip Worth the Effort
I'd been yearning to climb Mt. Fuji since my first sighting from the Shinkansen in 1992. When our planned month-long tour in 2020 was disrupted by COVID, I felt an acute sense of disappointment. But in 2023, with COVID behind us, we were finally able to embark on our long-planned trip to Japan.
Despite a dearth of information online about making a day trip from Shinjuku by bus, I was confident in my plan. With the scorching 37C Tokyo weather, I came well-prepared for Mt. Fuji's variable climate—armed with rain gear, hiking poles, and a down jacket. The weather turned out to be splendid at the 2,300 meter high Mt. Fuji Subaru Station, settling at a comfortable 20C and dropping to 15C at the summit.
Once back at the Mt. Fuji Subaru Line Station, I treated myself to an early Soba dinner, topped off with a well-deserved Asahi Dry.
Looking back, it was one of my best solo hiking experiences ever. Listening to my favorite book, Musashi, during the hike added an authentic touch to the experience. It's rare to find a bucket-list hike or mountain that can be accomplished in a day from a major city. Sure, there are people who do Mt. Whitney in a day from LA, but that requires superhuman endurance. As for Mt. Fuji, it was an unforgettable day trip that I highly recommend for any travel and adventure enthusiast.
