Enjoy a Day Trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi! A Travel Diary by the Japanese Editorial Team Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Reservation Guide-

Update-date: Jun 18 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Categories: Yamanashi

Enjoy a Day Trip from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi! A Travel Diary by the Japanese Editorial Team

Mount Fuji, a representative scenic spot of Japan. In fact, it can be easily visited as a day trip from Tokyo! This time, the editorial team of the inbound gourmet site "SAVOR JAPAN" shares their actual experience of a day trip to Mount Fuji.

See full listings of restaurants found in and around Yamanashi.

8:30 From Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station

This time, he took the limited express "Kaiji" from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station, then transferred to the Fujikyu Line to reach Kawaguchiko Station. For those who want to get there without spending much time, the limited express "Fuji Excursion," which goes directly to Kawaguchiko Station without transfers, is recommended. In either case, it is better to make a reservation in advance!

11:00 From Kawaguchiko Station to "Houtou Honari Kawaguchiko Restaurant"

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After arriving at Kawaguchiko Station, they head to "Houtou Funari Kawaguchiko restaurant." "Houtou Funari" is a famous restaurant that won the Yamanashi Prefecture local cuisine "houtou" taste competition three years in a row and was inducted into the hall of fame. It takes about 20 minutes on foot, but the time spent walking along a peaceful path while enjoying the view of Mount Fuji was very healing.

They arrived at the restaurant around 11:30. Since it was a popular restaurant, the waiting time was about 60 minutes. After completing the registration, they decided to take a walk nearby to pass the time.

Enjoy the waiting time at Nakai Coffee from 11:30

While walking around the area, he discovered a coffee stand called "Nakai Coffee" just a 2 to 3-minute walk away. Since there was an outdoor terrace seating, he decided to take a break there.

He ordered a hot "Salted Caramel Latte." Although it takes a little time because each cup is carefully prepared, the taste is exceptional. It was by far the most delicious latte he had ever had.

12:30 Tried the specialty "Golden Houtou" at Houtou Honari!

He ordered the specialty "Golden Houtou ".

The "Golden Houtou" uses a "golden miso" kneaded with pumpkin and abalone liver, featuring a beautiful golden-colored soup as its name suggests. The soup is lightly seasoned yet packed with umami, allowing him to enjoy it deliciously until the last drop. The ingredients include large chunks of vegetables, providing a satisfying texture. The flat, thick noodles are soft and have a subtle wheat flavor. It is also recommended to add the homemade spicy miso placed on the table to enjoy a change in taste.

Around Lake Kawaguchi, there are many attractive restaurants in addition to those introduced this time. For those who want to avoid crowds and enjoy their meals smoothly, advance reservations are recommended. Please be sure to check out the recommended restaurants from this article↓

14:00 Motorboat at Lake Kawaguchi

After enjoying houtou, they took a taxi to the area around Lake Kawaguchi. Since Mount Fuji was not visible from the arrival point, they decided to take advantage of the opportunity to ride a motorboat and cruise around the lake.

It was faster and more exhilarating than expected! When they proceeded to the center of the lake, the magnificent view of Mount Fuji spread out before them, allowing them to fully enjoy the spectacular scenery.

15:30 Stroll around Oshino Hakkai

They walked back to Kawaguchiko Station and then boarded the sightseeing bus "Fujikko-go." After about 20 minutes, they arrived at Oshino Hakkai. Oshino Hakkai is a collective name for eight spring water ponds formed over several decades as snowmelt water passed through lava following the eruption of Mount Fuji. These ponds are registered as part of the World Heritage Site "Mount Fuji," attracting many tourists seeking its beautiful scenic views.

When entering "Hannokibayashi" located on the premises (admission fee: 300 yen for adults / 150 yen for children), the crowd eases, allowing visitors to comfortably enjoy a stroll. The scenery, which offers a panoramic view of traditional Japanese houses and the majestic Mount Fuji, is truly a memorable spectacular sight.

By following the directions, one can enjoy various landscapes such as traditional buildings and mystical nature.

There are food stalls scattered throughout the premises, allowing visitors to enjoy eating while walking around. He tried the Sanpuku Dango with walnut miso at "Kurinosato." The savory aroma of the grilled dango and the sweet and salty miso sauce matched perfectly, making it very delicious.

18:30 From Otsuki Station to Shinjuku Station

On the way back, he took a bus from Oshino Hakkai to Fujisan Station, then headed to Otsuki Station via the Fujikyu Line. At Otsuki Station, he purchased an ice crepe made with Yamanashi's famous confectionery "Kikyo Shingen Mochi" and enjoyed it as a perfect sweet treat to conclude the trip. He arrived at Shinjuku Station before 8 PM, ending a fulfilling day trip.

On this day trip to Mount Fuji, they were able to leisurely enjoy breathtaking scenic spots that are easily accessible from Tokyo. For those who have not yet decided on their Tokyo sightseeing plans, it is recommended to consider including Mount Fuji sightseeing. Additionally, there are many attractions around Mount Fuji besides the ones introduced this time, so for those who want to fully enjoy everything, staying overnight is also recommended!

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.