If you think, "Traveling from Hakone to Lake Kawaguchiko is difficult and troublesome...", we recommend the "Mt. Fuji Area and Lake Kawaguchiko Bus Tour"! With just one bus and no transfers, you can enjoy the spectacular views of Mt. Fuji as you travel from Hakone to Lake Kawaguchi.
This time, the FUN! JAPAN editorial team actually joined the bus tour to see how you can efficiently enjoy Mt. Fuji from various angles at popular spots like FUJIYAMA Tower and Oishi Park—all while skipping the hassle of arranging transportation from Hakone to Lake Kawaguchiko!
*By purchasing or reserving products introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
Features & Benefits of the "Mt. Fuji Area and Lake Kawaguchi Bus Tour"
1. Direct Convenience between Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi
Hakone Town in Kanagawa Prefecture and Fujikawaguchiko Town in Yamanashi Prefecture are both areas where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, and are popular sightseeing destinations easily accessible from Tokyo for a day trip or an overnight stay. Since both are close to Mt. Fuji, you might think the distance between them is short. In reality, however, traveling from Hakone to Lake Kawaguchi by public transportation takes over three hours, requiring multiple transfers between buses and trains.
But with this tour, you can travel comfortably on a direct bus, enjoying the scenery of Hakone and Mt. Fuji along the way, making the travel time itself part of the sightseeing experience. The biggest advantage is that you can simply sit back, relax, and arrive at your destination without worrying about complicated transfers.
2. Perfect for Itineraries Like "While Sightseeing in Hakone, Also Visit Lake Kawaguchi"!
This bus tour, which can be booked as a round trip or one way, is ideal for those who want to use Hakone as a base and also enjoy Lake Kawaguchi. For example, after staying one night at a hot spring ryokan in Hakone, you can join the bus tour the next morning to explore the Lake Kawaguchi area, and then easily return to Hakone on the same bus without any transfers. You can choose to stay another night in Hakone or head back to Tokyo that day! This way, you can fully enjoy both Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi (Mt. Fuji) as sightseeing destinations. Plus, with a bus tour, your seat is guaranteed, you can relax during the ride, and you don’t have to worry about carrying your luggage around!
3. Comfort of Departing from Your Accommodation and English Support
Meeting points are located in hot spring areas such as Hakone Yumoto and Gora, including the Yumoto Fujiya Hotel, making it very convenient for those staying in the Hakone area. In addition, since the bus tour comes with an English-speaking guide, international tourists can join with peace of mind. The guide handles check-in on the bus and provides thorough support and explanations at each spot.
Tour Details & Schedule
This bus tour is designed so you can experience the charm of Mt. Fuji from various perspectives, and with an English-speaking guide accompanying you, you'll gain insights into the history and cultural background of each spot—much more than you would traveling on your own.
Itinerary
- 07:45–09:25 Board the bus at each stop
Pick-up available at four locations: Hakone-Yumoto, Kowakudani, Gora, and Sengokuhara
- FUJIYAMA Tower Panoramic Experience (approx. 30 minutes)
Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and the Aokigahara Forest from a height of 55 meters above ground
- Oishi Park Free Stroll (approx. 80 minutes)
Includes lunchtime. Enjoy stunning views of the Kochia plants and Mt. Fuji, as well as local gourmet dishes
- Lake Ashi Kojiri Port History & Scenery Tour (approx. 15 minutes)
Learn about the history of Lake Ashi while taking in the lakeside scenery
- 16:10–17:15 Drop-off at each location
From here, our editorial team, who actually joined the tour, will introduce the spots we found especially appealing.
FUJIYAMA Tower: Panoramic Views of Mt. Fuji and the Aokigahara Forest
Located inside Fuji-Q Highland, FUJIYAMA Tower offers sweeping views of the Aokigahara Forest and the majestic Mt. Fuji from a height of 55 meters.
The view from the observation deck is truly breathtaking, with the beautiful silhouette of Mt. Fuji looming up close. The contrast between the lush green forest and Mt. Fuji is stunning, making it a perfect spot for photography. Plus, when the "FUJIYAMA" roller coaster passes right in front of the tower, you can wave to the riders for a fun and memorable moment. Enjoying such a unique experience while taking in the spectacular scenery is one of the special charms of this spot.
On clear days, you can enjoy the full view of Mt. Fuji, but in case of rain or bad weather, the experience will be switched to "Fuji Airways." Fuji Airways is a popular attraction at Fuji-Q Highland that lets you take a virtual aerial tour around Mt. Fuji using the latest video technology, so you can enjoy the beauty of Mt. Fuji regardless of the weather.
Oishi Park: Stunning Views of Kochia and Mt. Fuji & Gourmet Time
Oishi Park, located on the shore of Lake Kawaguchi, is a scenic spot where you can enjoy the reflection of Mt. Fuji on the lake and a collaboration of seasonal flowers throughout the year.
The Kochia in autumn is an absolute must-see. The combination of the bright red Kochia hills and Mt. Fuji is as beautiful as a painting. In spring, you can see baby blue eyes (Nemophila), in summer, lavender, and in winter, snowy landscapes—each season offers a different view. The park is also a popular photo spot, with many tourists striking poses and taking lots of Instagram-worthy photos! There are many photo spots in the park with Mt. Fuji in the background, so no matter where you take a picture, it will look great. The view of Mt. Fuji from the lakeside is especially beautiful, and I found myself so absorbed in taking photos that I lost track of time.
In addition, the area around Oishi Park is dotted with commercial facilities such as the free-entry "Fuji Oishi Hanaterrace" and various restaurants. While you’re here, be sure to try the local specialty, Hoto! Hoto is a regional dish of thick, flat wheat noodles stewed with local vegetables. The warm soup and the sweetness of the vegetables are sure to soothe your tired body.
For those who prefer light snacks, we recommend the Mt. Fuji-shaped soft serve ice cream. There are also unique local flavors such as blueberry and lavender, making it not only delicious but also cute and perfect for Instagram. Enjoying soft serve by the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko will make your trip even more memorable.
[Special Feature] Tourist Base Kawaguchiko: Peace of Mind for One-Way Plan Users!
For those using the one-way plan, the tour ends at Tourist Base Kawaguchiko. This facility serves as a hub for sightseeing around Lake Kawaguchi, and even after the tour ends, you can continue to enjoy your stay in the area.
Inside the facility, at the "Mt. Fuji Amazing View Cafe," you can enjoy drinks such as coffee, beer, and wine, as well as meals and snacks, all while taking in the breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. The view from the rooftop terrace is especially spectacular, offering a panoramic and open space overlooking both Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji. Relaxing with a coffee on the rooftop, feeling the pleasant breeze, and reflecting on your tour is truly one of the best ways to spend your time!
Here, you can also consult with staff about sightseeing plans to make the most of your day in the Lake Kawaguchi area, or sign up for local tours. You can efficiently plan your schedule for the following days as well. Not only can you get sightseeing advice, but you can also find gourmet tips and other local information unique to the area!
This bus tour efficiently connects two of the most popular destinations, Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi, allowing you to fully enjoy the charms of both. It is highly recommended for those who want to experience Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi in one trip.
Sunrise Tours "Mt. Fuji Area and Lake Kawaguchi Bus Tour with English Guide"
- Tour period: Thursday, October 2, 2025 – Thursday, December 25, 2025
- Operating days: Every Monday to Thursday from October to November / Every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday in December (excluding public holidays / some non-operating days)
- Boarding locations: 4 locations – Hakone-Yumoto, Kowakidani, Gora, and Sengokuhara
- Price (tax included): Round trip 17,000 yen / One way 9,000 yen
- Included: English-speaking guide, air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi, admission fees for facilities included in the itinerary
- Not included: Lunch
- Minimum number of participants: 2
- Minimum booking: 1 person
- Booking site: https://www.sunrise-tours.jp/en/plan/keyword/mtfujiconnections
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