Mt. Fuji Fifth Station

There is a lot of information out there about how to get to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo. But if you actually live in the area around Mt. Fuji, you may not know that there are direct buses that go to the Fifth Station (Fujinomiya Trail), the starting point for most people who climb. You can catch the bus from Shin Fuji Station, Fuji Station or Fujinomiya Station. It costs 3000 yen for a return ticket (2310 yen one way).

It's pretty cool taking a bus up into the sky and looking out over the clouds. It's also a good option for those who aren't interested in climbing but just want to set foot on Mt. Fuji. There are a restaurant and gift shop at the Fifth Station so you can hang out for a while before heading back down. It's pretty chilly even in summer.

Information on the Fujinomiya trail can be found here, including bus schedules. Note that bus times vary depending on the time of the year, with more buses available in the peak climbing season in July and August.

View from bus

View from Fifth Station

Bus stop at the Fifth Station

Restaurant at the Fifth Station