Take a Highway Bus from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji

Mount Fuji/Kawaguchiko

If you're visiting Japan, seeing Mount Fuji—the country's highest and most iconic peak—is a must. One of the most convenient and affordable ways to reach Mount Fuji is by taking a highway bus from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko or Fujisan Station, both located in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Unlike trains, which often require complicated transfers with no real time advantage, highway buses offer a direct and stress-free connection. The travel time is about two hours, just like the train, but with the added benefits of comfort, cost savings, and no need to change lines.
Highway buses to Mt. Fuji depart from various major locations in Tokyo, such as Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, and Ikebukuro. This makes it easy to find a convenient departure point no matter where you're staying in the city.
Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery from your window, making the journey part of your adventure. Buses are equipped with comfortable seats, ample legroom, and onboard facilities to ensure a relaxing ride.
Taking a highway bus from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko is a smart choice for travelers looking for a budget-friendly, comfortable, and direct route to Mt. Fuji. It’s perfect for both solo travelers and families who want to reach one of Japan’s most scenic destinations with ease.
Kawaguchiko itself offers plenty to enjoy—such as lakeside views, Mt. Fuji photo spots, hot springs, and nearby attractions like Fuji-Q Highland. Taking the bus helps make your Mt. Fuji trip smoother and more enjoyable from start to finish.

If the bus code starts with an X or a Z then you can make a booking from one month in advance. For all other buses, bookings can be made between 1 and 4 months before the intended departure date.
We suggest that you visit our website closer to your desired departure date and make a booking then.

Major Bus Stops

Bus Companies & Fares

Several bus companies operate on the Tokyo–Kawaguchiko / Mt. Fuji route. Here is a quick comparison to help you choose.

Operator Fare (one way) Daily trips Key features
Keio Bus / Fujikyu Bus From ¥1,800 Multiple daily Most departures · direct to Kawaguchiko · Fuji-Q Highland stop
WILLER EXPRESS From ¥1,500 Multiple daily Budget-friendly · USB charging · online booking
Fujikyu Yamanashi Bus From ¥2,000 Multiple daily Multiple Mt. Fuji area stops · Fujisan Station
Keio Bus / Fujikyu Bus (富士急行バス)
From ¥1,800
Multiple daily departures Direct to Kawaguchiko Fuji-Q Highland stop Fujisan Station stop

The most popular operator on this route, jointly operated by Keio Bus (Tokyo side) and Fujikyu Bus (Fuji area side). Direct service from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko, with stops at Fuji-Q Highland and Fujisan Station. Runs frequently throughout the day, making it easy to plan a day trip or overnight stay.

Tokyo stops: Shinjuku Station (Busta / Keio Highway Bus Terminal) · Shibuya · Tokyo Station
Mt. Fuji area stops: Fuji-Q Highland · Kawaguchiko Station · Fujisan Station

WILLER EXPRESS — Tokyo to Kawaguchiko
From ¥1,500
Multiple daily departures USB charging Online booking in English

A budget-friendly option with convenient online booking available in English. USB charging is available on most services. Early-bird fares from ¥1,500 make this one of the most affordable ways to reach Mt. Fuji area.

Tokyo stops: Shinjuku Busta · Ikebukuro
Mt. Fuji area stops: Kawaguchiko Station area

Fujikyu Yamanashi Bus (富士急山梨バス)
From ¥2,000
Multiple daily departures Multiple Mt. Fuji area stops Fujisan Station

Operated by Fujikyu Yamanashi Bus, this service covers multiple stops throughout the Mt. Fuji area including Fujisan Station (near Mt. Fuji 5th Station access), Kawaguchiko, and surrounding areas. A great choice if your destination is the Fujisan Station side of the lake.

Tokyo stops: Shinjuku · Tokyo Station
Mt. Fuji area stops: Fujisan Station · Kawaguchiko Station · surrounding resort areas

Bus Stop Guide

Bus stops vary by operator. Always check the boarding location map in your booking confirmation email before travel.

Tokyo Departure Stops

Shinjuku (Busta 4F / Keio Highway Bus Terminal)

The most popular and convenient departure point. Keio Bus departs from the Keio Highway Bus Terminal at Shinjuku Station West Gate. WILLER departs from Shinjuku Busta (4F, South Gate). Both are within a few minutes' walk of each other and close to major hotels.

Tokyo Station / Shibuya (select services)

Some Keio Bus / Fujikyu services also pick up passengers at Tokyo Station (Yaesu area) or Shibuya. Check the route details when booking if these locations are more convenient for you.

Ikebukuro (select services)

Some WILLER services depart from Ikebukuro Sunshine. Handy if you are staying in northern Tokyo.

Mt. Fuji Area Arrival Stops

Fuji-Q Highland

The first major stop on most Tokyo–Kawaguchiko routes. If you are visiting the famous Fuji-Q Highland amusement park, get off here. Located at the foot of Mt. Fuji with spectacular views of the mountain from inside the park.

Kawaguchiko Station (Lake Kawaguchi)

The main terminal for most services. Located directly at Kawaguchiko Station, which connects to the Fujikyu Railway. From here you can access lakeside hotels, onsen, sightseeing buses around the lake, and views of Mt. Fuji reflected on the water.

Fujisan Station (select services)

Fujisan Station (formerly Kawaguchiko Station on Fujikyu Railway) is the access point for the Mt. Fuji 5th Station bus during the climbing season (July–early September). Some services drop off here.

What to Do After Arrival

Buses from Tokyo typically arrive at Kawaguchiko in about 2 hours. Here are some highlights to help you plan your time in the Mt. Fuji area.

At Kawaguchiko / Mt. Fuji Area

① Store your luggage

Coin lockers are available at Kawaguchiko Station. If you are doing a day trip and don't need your bag during sightseeing, store it here before exploring. Some hotels and guesthouses near the station also offer luggage storage for guests.

② Sightseeing around Lake Kawaguchi

Kawaguchiko Retro Bus (Sightseeing Loop Bus)
A hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus that circles Lake Kawaguchi, stopping at key viewpoints and attractions. A 1-day pass (¥1,500) is the most convenient way to get around without a car.

Chureito Pagoda viewpoint
One of the most photographed spots in Japan — the five-storey pagoda framing Mt. Fuji. Reachable by Fujikyu Railway (Shimoyoshida Station) + a short climb.

Oshino Hakkai (Eight Sacred Ponds)
A UNESCO-registered area featuring eight crystal-clear spring ponds fed by Mt. Fuji snowmelt. About 15 minutes by bus from Kawaguchiko Station.

③ Onsen (hot spring baths)

Fuji Tominoko Hotel Onsen (lakeside · day-use available)
Lakeside onsen with Mt. Fuji views. Day-use bath available from the morning.

Fujiyama Onsen (near Fuji-Q Highland · open daily)
Large onsen facility adjacent to Fuji-Q Highland. Outdoor baths with views of Mt. Fuji. From ¥1,500.

Tenku no Yu (Kawaguchiko)
Rooftop open-air bath with panoramic Mt. Fuji views. Popular for sunrise and sunset soaks.

④ Fuji-Q Highland

Japan's famous amusement park at the foot of Mt. Fuji, home to some of the world's most extreme roller coasters. The bus stops directly at the park entrance. Entry from ¥6,000 (coaster passes available separately).

Returning to Tokyo

① Store your luggage in Tokyo first

If you're doing a day trip from Tokyo, consider using coin lockers at Shinjuku Station before departure so you can travel light to Mt. Fuji.

② Shower & freshen up in Tokyo

Shinjuku Natural Hot Spring Thermae-yu (~13 min walk from Shinjuku Busta · open 24 hrs)
Perfect for a late-evening soak after a day of sightseeing. From ¥2,364 on weekdays.

Kohikan Edinburgh (~10 min walk · open 24 hrs)
A classic 24-hour coffee shop ideal for unwinding after a long day at Fuji.

Highway Bus vs Train (Fujikyu Railway)

Wondering whether to take a bus or the train to Mt. Fuji? Here's a quick comparison.

🚌 Highway Bus 🚃 Train
(JR + Fujikyu Railway)
Fare From ¥1,500 ~¥2,600
(JR + Fujikyu)
Travel time ~2 hrs (direct) ~2 hrs
(transfer at Otsuki)
Transfer needed No — direct service Yes — change at Otsuki
Departure point Shinjuku / Tokyo Stn
(multiple pick-up points)		 Shinjuku Stn
(JR Chuo Line)
Luggage Trunk storage free Carry on board only
IC card / Rail Pass Not accepted JR Pass valid (JR section)
Best for Budget · luggage · direct JR Pass holders

* Fares and times are approximate. Train fare uses standard JR + Fujikyu Railway price. JR Pass covers the JR section (to Otsuki) but not the Fujikyu Railway section.

Other popular routes

See All Popular Routes

Sightseeing Guide: What to See & Do Near Mt. Fuji

The Mt. Fuji area offers far more than just a view of the mountain. Here are the top sights and how to get to each from Kawaguchiko Station.

🗻 Mt. Fuji 5th Station (Kawaguchiko Route)
Trekking base Panoramic views Altitude 2,305m

The most popular starting point for climbing Mt. Fuji and the highest point accessible by road. Even if you're not climbing, the views from the 5th Station are spectacular. Souvenir shops, restaurants and a small shrine are located here.

Open for road access: Typically early July to early September (Fuji Subaru Line). Check current conditions before visiting.

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyu Shuttle Bus (Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station direct, ~50 min, ¥1,500 one way). During climbing season only.
🌊 Lake Kawaguchi (河口湖)
Mt. Fuji reflection views Lakeside stroll Onsen

The most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes and famous for its stunning reflection of Mt. Fuji on calm mornings. The north shore of the lake offers the best reflection views. The area has onsen, cafés, and seasonal flower festivals (lavender in summer, autumn leaves in October–November).

Kawaguchiko Station is right at the lake. The Kawaguchiko Retro Bus (sightseeing loop bus, 1-day pass ¥1,500) circles the lake and stops at key viewpoints.
🎡 Fuji-Q Highland
Theme park World-record roller coasters Mt. Fuji backdrop

Japan's most thrilling amusement park, home to several world-record roller coasters including Fujiyama and Do-Dodonpa. The park sits right at the foot of Mt. Fuji, making for dramatic backdrop photos. Thomas Land and a haunted hospital attraction are also popular.

Entry: From ¥6,000. Individual ride tickets or all-day pass options available. Check the official website for seasonal hours.

The highway bus from Tokyo stops directly at the Fuji-Q Highland entrance — no transfer needed. From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyu Railway or local bus (~5 min).
⛩️ Chureito Pagoda (富士山と五重塔)
Iconic photo spot UNESCO World Heritage Cherry blossoms (April)

The famous five-storey pagoda with Mt. Fuji framed behind it — one of the most reproduced images of Japan. Part of the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha shrine complex. The pagoda requires a climb of about 400 steps from the base, but the view is well worth it. Especially stunning during cherry blossom season (early April).

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyu Railway to Shimoyoshida Station (~10 min), then walk ~10 min to the base, followed by the stair climb (~15 min).
💧 Oshino Hakkai (忍野八海)
UNESCO World Heritage Crystal-clear spring ponds Traditional village

Eight sacred ponds fed by snowmelt from Mt. Fuji, filtered through lava rock over 80 years. The water is incredibly clear and the ponds reflect Mt. Fuji on clear days. The surrounding village preserves traditional thatched farmhouses and has local food stalls and souvenir shops.

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyu Bus towards Oshino Hakkai (~15 min, ¥360). Alternatively, accessible by taxi (~10 min) or rental bicycle.
🌋 Aokigahara / Narusawa Ice Cave & Fugaku Wind Cave
Lava caves Natural monument Cool even in summer

Formed by lava flows from Mt. Fuji's last major eruption in 864 AD, these two caves at the edge of the Aokigahara forest are fascinating natural monuments. The ice cave (Narusawa Ice Cave) maintains sub-zero temperatures year-round and has ice pillars inside. A great spot to cool down in summer.

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Retro Bus Sightseeing Loop Bus (West course) and get off at Narusawa Ice Cave stop (~30 min). The two caves are a short walk apart.
♨️ Onsen (Hot Springs)
Day-use available Mt. Fuji views Open to non-guests

The Mt. Fuji area has several excellent onsen facilities, many with outdoor baths facing the mountain.

Fujiyama Onsen (next to Fuji-Q Highland · from ¥1,500) — Large outdoor baths with Mt. Fuji views.
Tenku no Yu (Kawaguchiko · from ¥1,300) — Rooftop open-air bath, spectacular sunrise views.
Fuji Tominoko Hotel (lakeside · day-use available) — Quiet lakeside onsen with garden.

Fujiyama Onsen: walk from Fuji-Q Highland bus stop (~3 min). Tenku no Yu: Retro Bus loop (Kawaguchiko Onsen stop). Fuji Tominoko Hotel: Retro Bus loop (Kawaguchiko Onsen area).
🏔️ Lake Motosuko & Shoji (本栖湖・精進湖)
¥1,000 bill view Quieter crowds Fuji Five Lakes

Lake Motosuko is the source of the famous Mt. Fuji silhouette printed on the Japanese ¥1,000 banknote. Much quieter than Kawaguchiko, it's ideal for travellers looking to escape the crowds. Lake Shoji, the smallest of the Five Lakes, also offers pristine views.

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyu Bus towards Motosuko (~40 min). The ¥1,000 bill viewpoint is a short walk from Motosuko bus stop.

FAQ

How long does the Tokyo to Kawaguchiko / Mt. Fuji highway bus take?
The journey from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko typically takes about 2 hours. Travel time may vary during peak seasons (especially Golden Week, summer holidays and autumn foliage season) due to traffic on the expressway.
How much is a bus ticket from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji / Kawaguchiko?
Fares start from around ¥1,500 to ¥2,000 one way depending on the operator and booking timing. Keio Bus / Fujikyu Bus starts from about ¥1,800, and WILLER EXPRESS offers early-bird fares from ¥1,500. Prices are significantly lower than the train (JR + Fujikyu Railway, around ¥2,600) with the added benefit of a direct service and free trunk storage.
Is the bus or train better for getting to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo?
For most travellers, the bus is the better option. It's cheaper, direct (no transfer needed), and includes free trunk storage — ideal if you have luggage. The train requires a transfer at Otsuki onto the Fujikyu Railway, and the total fare is higher. However, if you hold a JR Pass, the JR section (to Otsuki) is covered — making the train more economical in that case. See the comparison table above.
How far in advance can I book a ticket?
Most buses go on sale 1 to 3 months before the departure date. During peak seasons (Golden Week, summer, autumn foliage) buses sell out quickly — we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.
Where do buses depart from in Tokyo?
The main departure point is Shinjuku — either Shinjuku Busta (4F, South Gate) for WILLER, or the Keio Highway Bus Terminal (West Gate) for Keio Bus / Fujikyu Bus. Some services also depart from Tokyo Station, Shibuya or Ikebukuro. Check the boarding location map in your confirmation email.
Where do buses stop in the Mt. Fuji area?
Most services stop at Fuji-Q Highland, Kawaguchiko Station and / or Fujisan Station. Some services continue to other stops around Lake Kawaguchi and the Fuji Five Lakes area. Check the route details when booking for the exact stops.
Can I take a bus to Mt. Fuji 5th Station?
The highway buses on this route do not go directly to Mt. Fuji 5th Station. You need to get off at Kawaguchiko Station or Fujisan Station and then transfer to a local bus up to the 5th Station. The 5th Station bus operates during the official climbing season (typically early July to early September).
Do the buses have toilets and charging facilities?
Availability varies by service. Buses with onboard toilets or USB/AC charging ports are clearly marked with icons on the search results page. Most Keio / Fujikyu services on this route do not have onboard toilets, but rest stops are made at service areas during the journey.
How much luggage can I bring?
Each passenger may generally store one piece of luggage in the trunk (underfloor storage) and carry one small bag on board. Trunk size limits vary by operator — check the bus details page before booking. Suitcases are not permitted in the cabin. Pets, bicycles and musical instruments may not be accepted.

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What should I do if I leave something on the bus?
Please contact Kosokubus.com customer support as soon as possible with your booking number, a description of the lost item (colour, shape, brand), and the bus name. We will check with the bus company on your behalf.

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