Travel

Traveling to Mount Fuji in Japan

Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain and provides one of the most visually stunning sights in the world. It’s no wonder that this beautiful work of Mother Nature has been considered a sacred mountain and the subject of artists throughout the centuries. Visitors from all over the world travel to Japan which is only 60 miles from the island of Honshu where Mount Fuji proudly stands, just to get a glimpse of the volcano which is close enough to be seen from the city of Tokyo.

Besides the Japanese, over a third of the hikers that climb Mount Fuji are foreign tourists, most that come during peak climbing season starting around July 20th and lasting until the end of August, which is also during school vacations. Peak climbing season is also when Obon week is held, something you won’t want to miss if you’re planning on traveling to Mount Fuji. During Obon Week hundreds of fellow climbers ascend Mount Fuji together, creating a fun sense of camaraderie and the chance to meet new, like minded friends.

Mount Fuji is snow capped for a good part of the year and if you are plan to scaling it you are going to want to keep that in mind and try to avoid the rougher weather. Another advantage of making the climb in July or August is that there will multiple routes open, at different difficulties including the Gotemba trail, Fujinomiya trail, the Subashiri trail and several more.

For those seeking a more leisurely way to enjoy the Volcano you can head to Fuji Five Lake, which is one of the more peaceful regions located at one of the bottom tiers of the mountain, on the northern side. It’s a wonderful place to relax and the Hakone hot spring resort located here is exceptional and the volcanic hot springs themselves are invigorating. The Hokone area is know for its breathtaking natural environment including mountain views, lush greenery and beautiful lakes.

The easiest way to experience Mount Fuji is by taking a trip from Tokyo and Osaka along Japan’s Tokaido Line. The entire train ride will showcase gorgeous views of the countryside and once you reach the Shin Fuji station you’ll be privy to one of the best views of Mount Fuji in all of Japan.

Whether you’re looking for a laid back vacation at one of the local resorts in a scenic and iconic atmosphere with Mount Fuji as a spectacular backdrop, or are specifically coming to scale the famous volcano, you’ll have options. Japan is a magical place filled with amazing activities from state of the art shopping malls to world class outdoor adventures.

Traveling to Mount Fuji from Tokyo doesn’t take long and the city offers a number of day tours as well including taking the world famous Shinkansen bullet train. One of the most popular tours also includes lunch on Mount Fuji and enjoying a cruise on Lake Ashi. Another one of a kind tourist activity along the way is riding the aerial cable way located at Mount Komagatake and enjoying the panoramic views of Hakone National Park.