Mt. Fuji’s majestic slopes are easily reachable from both Tokyo and Nagoya thanks to Japan’s excellent public transport network. Whether you’re heading to the serene shores of Lake Kawaguchiko, the cultural heart of Fujinomiya City, the hot springs of Hakone, or the outlet shopping and natural beauty of Gotemba, there are several convenient options to suit your itinerary.
From Tokyo
Lake Kawaguchiko
Highway Bus: The most popular and affordable way is the direct highway bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station. The journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Train: Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyuko Line to reach Kawaguchiko Station. This option takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Fujinomiya City
Train: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Fuji Station (about 1 hour), then transfer to a local JR train on the Minobu Line to Fujinomiya Station (about 10 minutes).
Highway Bus: Direct buses also run from Tokyo Station to Fujinomiya and Shin-Fuji, offering a budget-friendly alternative.
Hakone
Train: Take the Odakyu Romancecar from Shinjuku Station to Hakone-Yumoto Station (about 1 hour 25 minutes). Alternatively, use the Odakyu Line with a transfer at Odawara Station for more frequent services.
Hakone Freepass: Consider purchasing the Hakone Freepass for convenient travel across buses, trains, cable cars, and boats in the Hakone area.
Gotemba
Train and Bus: Take the JR Tokaido Line from Tokyo Station to Kozu Station, transfer to the Gotemba Line, and get off at Gotemba Station (about 2 hours total).
Highway Bus: Direct highway buses also run from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Gotemba Station and the Gotemba Premium Outlets, taking about 1 hour 40 minutes.
From Nagoya
Lake Kawaguchiko
Train and Bus: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Nagoya Station to Shin-Yokohama Station (about 1 hour), then transfer to local trains or buses heading towards the Fujikyuko Line at Otsuki Station to reach Kawaguchiko. Total travel time is about 3 to 3.5 hours.
Bus: Though less common, seasonal or tour buses may operate directly from Nagoya to the Fuji Five Lakes area.
Fujinomiya City
Train: Ride the Tokaido Shinkansen from Nagoya Station to Shin-Fuji Station (about 1.5 hours), then transfer to the JR Minobu Line for Fujinomiya Station.
Hakone
Train: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Nagoya Station to Odawara Station (about 1 hour), then transfer to the Hakone Tozan Railway for Hakone-Yumoto Station.
Gotemba
Train: From Nagoya Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station (about 1 hour 10 minutes), then transfer to a local bus bound for Gotemba. Total travel time is approximately 2 hours.
Travel Tips
IC Cards like Suica, Pasmo, or ICOCA can be used on most trains and buses, though some long-distance buses require advance reservations.
JR Rail Passes and regional passes can offer big savings if you’re travelling extensively across areas like Fuji Five Lakes, Hakone, or Fujinomiya.
Plan Around Weather: Mt. Fuji visibility can change quickly, so check forecasts and webcams if you’re planning to visit specifically for views.
Why Take Public Transport?
Japan’s trains and buses are famous for being clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. Whether you’re chasing stunning lake reflections, hot spring relaxation, or cultural heritage sites, public transport offers a stress-free way to explore the Mt. Fuji region without the need for a rental car.
