Mt. Fuji in Early Winter
December is one of the best times of the year to visit Mt. Fuji. As the temperatures drop, the air becomes noticeably clearer, offering some of the sharpest mountain views you’ll see all year. Snow may have started dusting the peak, giving Fuji that iconic white-capped look travelers dream of. Crowds also thin out after the autumn rush, making early winter peaceful, scenic, and perfect for a day trip with a private car.
This 10-hour itinerary brings together Fuji viewpoints, lakeside strolls, a relaxing hot spring, and a magical evening illumination — all designed for comfort in the crisp winter season.
Mt. Fuji December Itinerary by Hire Taxi Japan
9:00 AM – Pick-Up from Your Tokyo Hotel
Your driver greets you at your hotel for a smooth winter getaway. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive out of Tokyo, where the landscape gradually transitions to mountain views and open skies.
11:00 AM – Arakurayama Sengen Park
Begin your Fuji adventure at one of the region’s most iconic viewpoints. The Chureito Pagoda overlooking Mt. Fuji is majestic in early winter — with crisp skies, cool air, and quiet paths.
The climb to the pagoda viewpoint is rewarded with one of the best panoramas of the entire region.
Estimated time: 1 hour
12:00 PM – Kawaguchi Craft Park or Lakeside Stroll
Next, visit a peaceful lakeside area where you can explore small craft shops, enjoy gentle winter scenery, or take photos of Fuji reflecting on the water. December often brings calm lakes and exceptional visibility.
Estimated time: 30 minutes
1:00 PM – Lunch Near Lake Kawaguchi
Popular Pick: Hōtō Noodle Hotpot
A regional specialty made with flat noodles simmered in miso broth — warm, hearty, and perfect for December.
Local Pick: Grilled Rainbow Trout or Yamanashi Teishoku
Enjoy trout from local rivers, simmered vegetables, and miso soup in a traditional countryside-style meal.
Vegan-Friendly Pick: Vegetable Hōtō or Plant-Based Teishoku
Restaurants offer vegan variations of Hōtō and vegetable-rich set meals ideal for winter comfort.
Estimated time: 1 hour
2:00 PM – Lake Kawaguchi Panoramic Drive
Sit back and enjoy a scenic drive around the lake, where the reflection of Mt. Fuji is often its clearest in early winter. Your driver will stop at photo spots, quiet shores, and viewpoints depending on conditions that day.
Estimated time: 1 hour
3:00 PM – Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
Take a cable car ride up Mt. Tenjo for sweeping views of Fuji and the stunning blue lake below. The winter air makes the visibility outstanding, and the mountaintop platform offers some of the clearest winter photography opportunities.
Estimated time: 1 hour
4:00 PM – Hot Spring Time (Onsen)
Warm up with a soothing bath while facing Mt. Fuji. Early winter is the perfect moment to enjoy an outdoor rotenburo overlooking the snow-capped peak. Your driver can recommend locations such as:
- Fuji Yurari Onsen
- Benifuji no Yu
- Hotel Konansou rooftop bath (for day-use visitors when available)
It’s one of the most unforgettable ways to experience Fuji in December.
Estimated time: 1.5 hour
5:30 PM – Winter Illumination at Lake Yamanakako (or Lake Kawaguchi Options)
End your day with a magical illumination event. December brings shimmering light displays around the Fuji Five Lakes region. Depending on dates, your driver may guide you to:
Lake Yamanakako “Fantaseum” Illumination
A gorgeous lakeside event with glowing installations and winter-themed light tunnels.
Lake Kawaguchi Winter Lights (if running)
Beautiful reflections of colorful light displays against the lake and mountains.
It’s the perfect festive finale before heading back to Tokyo.
Estimated time: 30–45 minutes
7:00 PM – Return to Your Hotel in Tokyo
Relax in comfort as your driver brings you back to your hotel after a refreshing winter escape.
A Peaceful & Festive Mt. Fuji Day Trip
From crystal-clear mountain views to soothing hot springs and magical holiday lights, this Mt. Fuji December Itinerary blends nature, culture, and seasonal sparkle. With a private tour by Hire Taxi Japan, you can explore comfortably without the cold, crowds, or transit challenges — the perfect way to enjoy Japan’s most iconic mountain, Mt. Fuji in Early Winter.
Book your Mt. Fuji Private Tour Today with Hire Taxi Japan.
