Think of Japan, and Mt. Fuji probably comes to mind. The highest mountain in Japan, Mt. Fuji (or Fuji-san, as the locals know it) can even be seen in its all glory from Tokyo on a clear day. If you’d like to get up close and personal with the mountain — which is also an active volcano! —a day trip to Kawaguchiko might be just up your alley. Here’s what you can do:

Enjoy the view from Chureito Pagoda

For one of the most iconic views of Mt. Fuji, head to Chureito Pagoda. It’s best to visit in the morning, as Mt. Fuji often gets shrouded by cloud cover in the afternoon. 

Part of Arakura Sengen Shrine, the 5-storied Chureito Pagoda can be reached via a flight of almost 400 steps! Don’t let that put you off, however; the top offers glorious views of Mt. Fuji and Fujiyoshida city.

To get there, take a train to Shimo-Yoshida station, followed by a leisurely 10-minute walk. Feast your eyes on magnificent views of Mt. Fuji along the way too!

Ride record-breaking rollercoasters at Fuji Q Highland

Enjoy fabulous views of Mt. Fuji from Fuji Q Highland — all whilst you scream your lungs out on death-defying rollercoasters. There are all kinds of rides here, from the family-friendly carousel to Takabisha (the steepest rollercoaster in the world!), which dangles you at an angle of 121 degrees before dropping down 43 metres.

You can also ride on Fujiyama, the world’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster when it was built in 1996; as well as Dodonpa, the rollercoaster with the world’s fastest acceleration. There is no general admission ticket; Fuji Q Highland operates on a pay-per-ride system. Alternatively, snag a one-day pass for JPY6,300 (~SGD64).

To get there, ride the Fujikyu Railway to Fujikyu Highland Station.

Go up to Fuji 5th Station

Standing at 2,300 metres above sea level, Fuji 5th Station is where most climbers will start their Mt. Fuji ascent. For hardcore climbers, the station is at the halfway point of the Yoshida trail, which leads from the base to the summit.

There you’ll find shops, restaurants, coin lockers, and more. You'll find lots of Fuji-themed snacks, and even the local Fujiyama beer. For a panoramic view of the area, head to the Komitake Shrine. 

To get to the 5th station, take a 50-minute bus from Kawaguchiko station.

Don't forget to get a commemorative stamp!

Hike the Ochudo Trail

Did you know that even if you aren’t keen to climb Mt. Fuji, you can still have a great trek on the Ochudo Trail? Instead of going towards the summit, the Ochudo Trail circles Mt. Fuji. The trail is mostly flat without much incline, making it great for all fitness levels.

Enjoy beautiful mountain views along the way, views of Mt. Fuji’s summit, as well as of the lakes in the area. The starting point is located at the staircase to the right of the bus stop. The trail is around 3.7 kilometres long, and leads to Okuniwa Nature Park — where you can take a 60-minute bus back to Kawaguchiko station.

Try the local Hoto noodles

At the end of the day, fuel up with the local speciality: Hoto noodles. These noodles are thick and flat, submerged in a vegetable miso soup. 

Look out for restaurants that face Mt. Fuji to dine with a view.

How to get to Kawaguchiko: ride on the cute Fuji-themed train

The fastest way to Kawaguchiko is via bus from either Shinjuku, Tokyo, or Shibuya stations. Each journey takes around two hours, and costs approximately JPY2,000 (~SGD20). However, do be warned that the bus can be a little stuffy, especially during the winter.

We very much prefer taking the train, despite the journey taking a longer time (2.5 to 3 hours). From Shinjuku Station, take a train to Otsuki Station — this leg is covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

At Otsuki Station, change to the Fujikyuko line. You can take this line to Fujisan Station, Fujikyu-Highland Station, or Kawaguchiko Station. The fare will be around JPY400 (~SGD4). Even better, you’ll get to ride on a super cute Mt. Fuji-themed train, with lots of adorable characters adorning the train’s exterior!

At Kawaguchiko, you can also visit Lake Kawaguchiko, where you rent a pedal boat. Don’t miss out on Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway too, or shop till you drop at Gotemba Premium Outlets. If you can’t get enough, spend a night at one of the ryokans in the area. Bonus: some of them even have outdoor onsens that boast great views of Mt. Fuji!