Things To Do
in Fuji

Fuji City sits at the foothills of Mount Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture, offering sweeping mountain views and easy access to the surrounding lakes and hot springs. The area blends traditional rural charm with modern comforts, from friendly onsen towns to contemporary cafés and shops. Visitors can explore the Fuji Five Lakes region, hike forest trails, and savor fresh seafood and green tea.

The transport network, including trains and buses, makes day trips to Mount Fuji and nearby attractions convenient for travelers of all ages.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Fuji
morning
:

Arrive at Shizuoka Airport and take a train to Fuji City. Freshen up at your hotel, enjoying your first glimpses of the majestic Mount Fuji. Dive into a delicious Japanese breakfast at a local café, fueling your adventure ahead.

afternoon
:

Explore the beautiful Azaleas and the Fuji Five Lakes area, soaking in stunning views of Mount Fuji. Visit the Fuji-Q Highland amusement park for thrilling rides and entertainment. Enjoy a café lunch with a view, surrounded by cherry blossoms when in season.

evening
:

Wind down with a relaxing soak in an onsen (Japanese hot spring) overlooking the mountains. Dine at an izakaya (Japanese pub), indulging in local specialties such as Fujiyama curry. End your day with a leisurely walk by the lakeside, experiencing the peaceful atmosphere.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Fujisan World Heritage Center to understand the significance of Mount Fuji. Participate in a traditional tea ceremony, experiencing Japanese culture firsthand. The peaceful ambiance and intricate rituals will leave a lasting impression on you.

afternoon
:

Head to the historic town of Fujiyoshida, where you can explore the ancient Asama Shrine. Take a guided walking tour that highlights the town's rich heritage and local stories. Stop by a local eatery to enjoy regional soba noodles for lunch.

evening
:

Attend a local festival if available, where you can witness traditional dances and arts. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a nearby restaurant with scenic views of the illuminated mountaintop. Capture the moment with stunning photos as the sun sets over the revered mountain.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-15
Coffee$2-5
🚆One-way public transport ticket$1-3
🍺Beer in local bar$4-7
🍽Three-course meal for two$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning Mount Fuji scenery and accessible lake towns
  • High-quality safety, cleanliness, and service
  • Strong day-trip connections to Tokyo and beyond
  • Rich seafood, tea culture, and outdoor activity options
  • Limited nightlife in smaller towns
  • Weather can be unpredictable and some sites are seasonal
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "英語を話せますか?" - Do you speak English?
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "これをください" - I would like this
  • "いくらですか?" - How much is this?
  • "お願いします" - Please

Places to Visit in Fuji

Visit one of these nice places.

Chureito Pagoda

Iconic red pagoda with Mount Fuji rising behind a stepped slope—an iconic postcard moment, especially during cherry blossom season.

Lake Kawaguchi North Shore

Wide, calm waters offering pristine reflections of Mt. Fuji at sunrise and during blue-hour photography.

Oshino Hakkai

Eight pristine ponds framed by traditional thatched roofs and Fuji views, perfect for tranquil landscape shots.

Shiraito Falls

Delicate waterfalls set against a rocky backdrop and lush greenery; ideal for long-exposure shots.

Fuji Five Lakes Panorama (around Lake Yamanaka or Saiko)

Broad panoramic viewpoints that capture the silhouette of Mt. Fuji across serene lake waters.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fuji

Fuji and the wider Shizuoka region are famed for fresh seafood, green tea, and mountain produce. Expect seafood bowls, soba and udon with regional twists, and comforting stews that pair well with local sake or tea.

Fuji Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shirasu-don

A bowl of warm rice topped with tiny, delicate whitebait (shirasu), often with green onions and a light soy glaze; pairs well with a cup of tea or miso soup, commonly found in coastal areas near Fuji.

Must-Try!

Fujinomiya Yakisoba

Stir-fried noodles with cabbage, pork, and a tangy-sweet sauce; a regional specialty best found in Fujinomiya-area eateries and street stalls.

Oden

Winter staple of simmered daikon, boiled eggs, tofu and other items; available at casual eateries and seasonal street stalls.

Fresh Wasabi and Greens

Sharp, fresh wasabi served with soy and local greens; often enjoyed with sushi or as a topping for simple dishes in mountain towns.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Coastal Fish Market (Fuji coast region)

Morning markets where you can sample fresh sashimi, grilled fish, and seasonal seafood while enjoying views of the bay.

Kawaguchiko Street Stalls

Lakeside stalls offering yakitori, sweet corn, dorayaki, and other quick bites perfect for fueling a day of sightseeing.

Local Produce Market in Fuji City

Markets selling wasabi products, pickles, green tea sweets, and regional snacks near downtown Fuji.

Climate Guide

Weather

Fuji experiences a temperate climate with variation by elevation. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are cold, especially at higher elevations near Mount Fuji. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and scenic foliage; snowfall is common on the mountains in winter, with sheltered valleys remaining relatively milder.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Quiet on Public Transit

Keep voices low, avoid phone conversations on trains, and queue politely; always stand on the left on escalators and allow others to pass.

Shoes Off in Homes and Temples

Respect shoe etiquette in homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and certain temples or gardens.

Onsen Etiquette

Rinse thoroughly before entering, do not soak towels in the shared baths, and follow gender-segregated rules where applicable.

Respect for Locals and Language

A polite bow or nod is common; try basic Japanese phrases and patience with language barriers.

Safety Guide

Safety

Japan is generally very safe for travelers with low crime rates. Take standard precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas and protect belongings during peak seasons. When hiking, check weather and route conditions, carry water, and be prepared for altitude and sudden changes in weather. Always have travel insurance and emergency contact information handy.

Tipping in Fuji

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not a common or expected practice in Japan; most bills are paid as posted. If you wish to acknowledge exceptional service, a small amount or a round-up can be acceptable in some tourist settings, but it is not required.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, with credit cards increasingly common in larger shops, hotels, and tourist spots. IC cards and mobile payments are popular in cities; some rural shops may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms and fresh greenery; cooler mornings, mild days; great for gentle hikes and temple visits.

Summer

Warm to hot daytime temperatures with high humidity; late sunsets; ideal for Lake Kawaguchi and climbing Fuji via official routes during early morning hours.

Autumn

Crisp air and vibrant autumn foliage; excellent for photography and scenic drives around the lakes.

Winter

Cold, with occasional snow on higher elevations; tranquil landscapes and less crowded sights; be prepared for icy paths and short daylight hours.

Nightlife Guide

Fuji at Night

The Fuji region offers a relaxed nightlife scene centered on izakayas, cafés, and karaoke bars. In towns like Fujiyoshida and Gotemba, you’ll find casual bars with friendly vibes rather than large clubs. After-dinner hot springs (onsen) provide a soothing nighttime option, and seasonal festivals may feature live music and local performances.

Hiking in Fuji

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fujisan Fifth Station Trails

Access points along Yoshida, Subashiri, and Fujinomiya routes; trails vary in difficulty and elevation gain.

Oshino Hakkai Trails

Gentle loop trails around the village ponds with Mt. Fuji backdrop; suitable for families.

Aokigahara Forest Trails

Forest paths at the base of Mt. Fuji with interesting lava-tube formations; ensure proper gear and maps.

Airports

How to reach Fuji by plane.

Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport (FSZ)

Located close to the Fuji area; domestic flights and some international charters, with a straightforward drive to Fuji cities.

Tokyo Haneda Airport (HND)

Major gateway with frequent domestic and international flights; easy rail connections to Fuji via JR lines and express services.

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Large international hub; transfers to Fuji area are longer but well-connected by rail and bus networks.

Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO)

Nagoya area airport; useful for regional travel and adds alternative travel routes to the broader region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Town centers around Kawaguchiko and Fujiyoshida are walkable with well-developed pedestrian areas. Public transport covers major sights efficiently, though some rural spots require a bus or taxi. Parking is available at popular lakeside spots but can fill quickly during peak seasons.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Mostly Japanese locals with a traditional community vibe; aging population in rural parts and active family-oriented neighborhoods.

Tourists and domestic travelers

Seasonal influx from Tokyo and other parts of Japan; international visitors peak during select seasons and Mt. Fuji climbing windows.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Mount Fuji Climbing

Seasonal ascent from July to early September; often done with a guided group for safety and acclimatization.

Cycling around Fuji Five Lakes

Scenic routes circling Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanakako, and nearby lakes; popular with day-trippers and cyclists.

Kayaking on Lake Kawaguchi

Calm-water paddling with camera-friendly views of Mt. Fuji; suitable for beginners and families.

Transportation

Traffic

Japan’s rail network is efficient, with JR lines and local buses providing reliable access to Fuji-area sights. Car rentals are convenient for exploring rural pockets, but traffic can spike during long weekends and festival periods. In cities, plan parking in advance at popular spots to avoid crowds.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fuji.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in many places, but be mindful of dashi (fish stock) in soups and broths. Look for tofu dishes, vegetables, and rice bowls labeled as vegetarian, and ask servers to exclude fish-based ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Fuji City and surrounding towns have healthcare facilities, clinics, and hospitals with dependable services. English-speaking staff may be more common in larger facilities, so travel insurance and a translation app can help. For emergencies, major hospitals in the region provide quality care.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide