Mount Fuji: Top 10 Destinations at Japan’s Iconic Peak!

If you are looking for an adventurous location that delivers that adrenaline rush and offers scenic spots then Mount Fuji, Japan is the place to be! With the breathtaking tourist places and amazing restaurants to dine in; you will always enjoy what this place offers.

ToTravell takes you on an adventure of a lifetime. We bring you the experiences we have gone through our travel diary and help you visualize the life-like experiences of the whole tour. Join us as we uncover the marvels of the tourist places it holds and Mount Fuji restaurant for some amazing cuisine. Let’s get started!

Chureito Pagoda and Arakura Sengen Shrine

Your journey will begin at the iconic Chureito Pagoda! Here you can feel the panoramic view of Mount Fuji which is framed by the delicate blossoms of cherry trees. This picture-perfect scene is a bucket-list moment for photography enthusiasts. We did not forget to take our camera for this location and we advise you to do so too! 

The Arakura Sengen Shrine at the pagoda’s base provides a cultural immersion, especially for those who are visiting for the first time. You will be amazed as this is one of the places of interest that will blow your mind! It is an ideal spot for meditation and reflection, all with the majestic presence of Mount Fuji in the background.

Pro tip:

The Pagoda visit is free (Note: Consider a small donation at the Arakura Sengen Shrine). Also, photography enthusiasts may want to budget for camera-related expenses.

Lake Kawaguchi

A short drive from the pagoda leads us to Lake Kawaguchi. This is one of the Five Lakes graced by the shadow of Mount Fuji. Here you can go for boat rentals and lakeside promenades. Do you enjoy boat rides or paddle boating? We did! This is one of the tourist places that offers serene moments and adventurous activities such as paddle boating for an intimate experience with the lake’s tranquility. Or, you can sit at the side of the lake while enjoying the beauty of nature and the scenery that surrounds you. It should be one of the places to travel on your list!

Pro tip:

Boat rentals and paddle boating may incur additional charges. Budget around $20 for these activities. 

Additional tip: Do not forget to carry a waterproof case for your camera or your mobile phone.

Oshino Hakkai

On our way to Mount Fuji’s fifth station, we came across places to visit on our list known as Oshino Hakkai! This is a village surrounded by eight crystal-clear ponds. The water’s purity invites visitors to dip their hands and partake in a unique cultural experience. If you love to relax and have a great time while enjoying the tranquility of the water then you will love being here. 

Capture the essence of traditional Japan as you stroll through the village’s thatched-roof houses. Take some pictures and make sure to taste the traditional delicacies as you take your time to explore the village. You should take your time to get rest and enjoy your stay here as you have other amazing locations to visit ahead.

Expenses:

Entrance to the village is modest, but consider budgeting for traditional snacks or souvenirs, adding an extra $10 to your expenses.

Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine:

As we reached the fifth station, we got the chance to explore the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine. This is an essential stop for mountaineers preparing to ascend Mount Fuji. You would want to double-check your gear and the essentials you need for your journey ahead. 

Do you love connecting to spiritual places or diving deep into mental relaxation? We loved the spirituality that this place had to offer us. It was unlike any other location that we had visited before. Definitely among the unique tourist places around the world! The shrine’s architecture and surrounding environment make it a cultural and spiritual haven for enthusiasts. Feel the connection to the sacred mountain, a cornerstone of Japanese spirituality.

Expenses:

While entrance to the shrine is free, consider donating to support its maintenance.

Kachi Kachi Ropeway and Tenjoyama Park

Next, we ascended the Kachi Kachi Ropeway to reach Tenjoyama Park. This was one of the best places to get a bird’s-eye view of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and the surrounding landscapes. If you are a thrill-seeker then this will feel like a dream come true. The cable car ride itself offers breathtaking views. You can capture stunning photographs from the observation deck making it a memorable addition to your Mount Fuji overseas adventure travel (OAT).

Expenses:

The ropeway ride typically costs around $10. Consider budgeting for snacks or souvenirs at the park, bringing the total to approximately $20.

Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba

Explore the cultural richness of the region at Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba. This is a reconstructed village turned open-air museum. Here you can engage yourself in traditional crafts, sample local snacks, and enjoy hands-on activities that transport you to a bygone era. We enjoyed this immersive experience that helped us understand the cultural diversity and vastness found in Japan plus the local heritage kept us interested in the activities that came along. This was one of the coolest places to visit!

Expenses:

Entrance to the village and participation in activities may cost around $15.

Gotemba Premium Outlets

Later, we spent the afternoon shopping at the Gotemba Premium Outlets which gave us a modern outlook of Japan. The shopping district had international and Japanese brands, it was among the places of interest for those who love to explore the local brands and retail therapy. While prices may vary, savvy shoppers can find deals on high-quality goods, making it an ideal stop for souvenirs.

Expenses:

Variable depending on shopping preferences. Budget around $50 for a satisfying shopping experience.

Shiraito Falls

A short drive from Lake Kawaguchi, discover the ethereal beauty of Shiraito Falls. The cascading water, resembling silk threads, creates a mesmerizing spectacle. You can capture stunning photographs from the viewing platform. Also, make sure to explore nearby trails for an immersive nature experience — all with the ever-present backdrop of Mount Fuji. 

You may be thinking how long does it take to climb Mount Fuji? We were here for the surrounding places to visit so we never got the thrill of trekking on this behemoth! But, what we got to experience along the way was a never-ending joy ride!

Expenses:

Entrance to the falls is usually free. Budget around $10 for snacks or transportation to and from the falls.

Fuji-Q Highland

For the adrenaline junkies, Fuji-Q Highland is a must-visit destination. While the entrance fee is higher, the heart-pounding experiences, including the world-famous Fujiyama roller coaster, make it a worthwhile investment for thrill-seekers. This amusement park promises an adrenaline rush against the stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji.

Expenses:

Entrance fees vary. Budget around $70 for a day of thrilling rides.

Hiking Trails around Mount Fuji

No journey to Mount Fuji is complete without exploring its diverse hiking trails. Opt for the Yoshida Trail, starting from the fifth station, for a challenging yet rewarding ascent. Capture the breathtaking sunrise and panoramic views, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Proper gear and preparation are essential for a safe and enjoyable hiking experience.

Expenses:

Hiking expenses are minimal, but budget for proper gear and any guided tours, adding around $30 to your expenses.

What Expenses to Consider While Traveling to Mount Fuji?

Here are some of the expenses you need to budget before you plan your trip!

• Accommodation: A mix of traditional ryokans and budget-friendly hostels, averaging around $80 per night.
• Transportation: Public buses and trains were the primary modes of transportation, totaling approximately $150 for the entire trip.

• Meals: Indulging in street food, local eateries, and occasional fine dining, I spent an average of $30 per day.
• Attractions: Factoring in entrance fees, transportation costs, and optional activities, I allocated around $200 for the entire itinerary.

Ending Notes

Our journey to Mount Fuji was a truly epic adventure that helped us to dive into the natural wonders of Japan. The cultural richness, thrilling adventures, iconic views, and hospitality of the people made it worth it. From the beautiful views at Chureito Pagoda to the heart-pounding rides at Fuji-Q Highland; every moment was a remarkable discovery of something new.Totravell makes sure that whether you are a budget traveler or planning an overseas adventure travel (OAT); we bring you hands-on experience promising the unforgettable discovery we made at different places of interest that came along the way. Make sure to go through our other sections for more captivating content!