Mt. Fuji Summer Tour: 10-Hour Scenic Adventure for an Unforgettable Day

Your English-speaking driver will greet you at your hotel for a seamless start to the day. Settle into your private, air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy the scenic drive toward Yamanashi Prefecture. Along the way, your driver can offer local tips, photo suggestions, and itinerary flexibility based on your preferences. 

Enjoy sweeping views and crisp mountain air at one of Mt. Fuji’s most iconic viewpoints. Located about halfway up the mountain, the 5th Station is where climbers begin their ascent and where day-trippers can get as close as possible to the summit without hiking. On clear summer days, you’ll be treated to stunning views across the Fuji Five Lakes region and even spot the Southern Alps in the distance. Stroll through the cluster of local shops selling Mt. Fuji-shaped treats, traditional hiking sticks, and souvenirs.

You can also visit Komitake Shrine, a peaceful place of worship nestled at high elevation with unique spiritual charm. The cooler temperature at this altitude offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat below.

Climb the scenic hillside to one of Japan’s most photographed sites—Chureito Pagoda, framed perfectly against the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji. The shrine grounds are quiet and serene in summer, often surrounded by vibrant green foliage, and the five-story pagoda offers an unforgettable panoramic view. While cherry blossoms are the most famous backdrop in spring, summer provides crystal-clear skies that enhance the iconic scene.

The climb to the viewing platform includes around 400 steps, but the effort is well rewarded. Along the way, you can explore the smaller shrines and stone lanterns nestled in the forest, making this visit both spiritual and scenic.

Popular Pick: Houtou Fudou – Enjoy a steaming bowl of hōtō noodles in rich miso broth, served in a bold, architecturally striking building. Their quick service and generous portions make it ideal for travelers on a tight schedule.

Local Favorite: Kosaku Kawaguchiko – This welcoming, traditional eatery offers tempura made with seasonal vegetables and local ingredients. It’s a favorite among locals for its quality and nostalgic atmosphere.

Vegan-Friendly: Sanrokuen Vegan Café – This hidden gem near Lake Kawaguchi offers set menus full of beautifully plated, plant-based meals using tofu, seasonal vegetables, and yuba (tofu skin). The calm, rustic interior adds to the experience.

Glide smoothly to the top of Mt. Tenjo aboard the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway and experience a breathtaking vantage point above Lake Kawaguchi. In just three minutes, you’ll rise to an elevation of 1,075 meters, where an open-air terrace offers uninterrupted views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscapes.

Once at the top, take time to explore the small observation areas, shrines, and themed walking trails inspired by Japanese folk tales like “Kachi Kachi Yama.” On clear summer days, you might even spot para-gliders soaring overhead. It’s a peaceful and scenic escape that’s suitable for all ages—and a cool retreat during warmer months.

Step into a picture-perfect village scene at Oshino Hakkai, a beautifully preserved collection of spring-fed ponds, rustic wooden bridges, and traditional thatched-roof farmhouses. The water in the eight ponds is incredibly pure, filtered through Mt. Fuji’s lava over decades, and many visitors stop to sip the fresh spring water directly. Stroll through charming lanes lined with local craft shops, sweet stalls, and street food vendors offering unique treats like grilled mochi and handmade soba noodles.

The reflection of Mt. Fuji in the ponds on a sunny day adds an ethereal quality to the setting, while the cooler air and lush greenery provide a relaxing way to end your day. It’s also an excellent place for those interested in traditional crafts and regional culture, with several small museums and photo spots throughout.

Relax in your private car as your driver takes you back to the city via scenic mountain roads. You can use this time to browse your photos, chat with your driver about the region, or rest after a day of fresh air and exploration. Drop-off is available at your hotel or another central Tokyo location of your choice.