Quick Answer
Getting from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji requires understanding that Mount Fuji has multiple access points. The most popular route is to the Fuji Five Lakes area (Kawaguchiko): Take Narita Express (N'EX) or Keisei Skyliner to Shinjuku, then a direct highway bus to Kawaguchiko. Total travel time is 3.5-4.5 hours, and cost is approximately 5,000-6,000 JPY. For Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station (climbing base), add 50-60 minutes from Kawaguchiko. For Gotemba area, take train to Mishima/Gotemba then local bus (4-5 hours, similar cost). There are no direct trains from Narita to Mount Fuji - all routes require at least 2 transfers.
Best Access Points to Mount Fuji from Narita Airport
Mount Fuji is accessible from several different areas, each with different transportation options from Narita Airport. Understanding these Mount Fuji access points will help you choose the best route for your itinerary.
| Access Point | Best For | Travel Time from Narita | Cost from Narita | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawaguchiko (Fuji Five Lakes) | First-time visitors, photography, Fuji-Q Highland | 3.5-4.5 hours | ~5,000-6,000 JPY | Classic Fuji views, lake activities, most tourist facilities |
| Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station | Climbers, hiking, close-up views | 4.5-5.5 hours | ~6,000-7,000 JPY | Climbing starting point, highest accessible by vehicle |
| Gotemba | Shopping (Premium Outlets), eastern views | 4-5 hours | ~5,500-6,500 JPY | Gotemba Premium Outlets, Fuji Speedway |
| Fujinomiya | Climbers (Yoshida trail), southwestern views | 4.5-5.5 hours | ~6,000-7,500 JPY | Fujinomiya 5th Station, Yoshida climbing trail |
| Lake Yamanaka | Alternative to Kawaguchiko, less crowded | 4-5 hours | ~5,500-6,500 JPY | Largest of Fuji Five Lakes, camping, water sports |
Kawaguchiko (Fuji Five Lakes Area) - Most Popular
Narita Airport to Kawaguchiko is the most common route for first-time visitors. Kawaguchiko offers the classic Mount Fuji views across the lake, numerous hotels and ryokan, Fuji-Q Highland amusement park, and good transportation connections. From Narita: Take train to Shinjuku, then direct bus or Fuji Excursion train to Kawaguchiko Station. This area serves as the base for visiting Fuji Five Lakes region.
Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station - For Climbers & Close Views
The 5th Station is the highest point accessible by vehicle on Mount Fuji and the starting point for most climbers. From Narita: Follow the Kawaguchiko route above, then take a local bus from Kawaguchiko Station to 5th Station (50-60 minutes, 1,540 JPY one-way, 2,100 JPY round-trip). Note: 5th Station is only accessible by road during the climbing season (typically early July to early September).
Gotemba Area - Shopping & Eastern Views
Narita Airport to Gotemba is best for visitors to Gotemba Premium Outlets or Fuji Speedway. From Narita: Take train to Tokyo or Shinagawa, then Shinkansen to Mishima (50 minutes), then local train to Gotemba (15 minutes). Alternative: Direct bus from Shinjuku to Gotemba Premium Outlets. Gotemba offers different Fuji views from the eastern side and is less touristy than Kawaguchiko.
How to Get from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji by Train
There are no direct trains from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji, but you can reach Fuji area stations via Tokyo/Shinjuku with 2-3 transfers. The two main train routes are via Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (Fuji Excursion train) or via Tokyo to Mishima/Gotemba (Shinkansen). Train travel offers scenic views of the Japanese countryside and Mount Fuji on clear days.
| Route to | Train Path | Travel Time | Cost | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawaguchiko | N'EX to Shinjuku → Fuji Excursion to Kawaguchiko | 3.5-4 hours | ~8,500-9,500 JPY | 2 |
| Kawaguchiko | Skyliner to Ueno → JR to Shinjuku → Fuji Excursion | 4-4.5 hours | ~7,500-8,500 JPY | 3 |
| Gotemba | N'EX to Tokyo → Shinkansen to Mishima → Local to Gotemba | 3.5-4 hours | ~9,000-10,000 JPY | 3 |
| Fuji 5th Station | To Kawaguchiko → Local bus to 5th Station | 4.5-5.5 hours | ~9,500-11,000 JPY | 3-4 |
Via Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko (Most Scenic Route)
This is the best train route from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji for most visitors: 1. Take Narita Express (N'EX) from Narita Airport to Shinjuku Station (about 90 minutes, 3,250 JPY). 2. At Shinjuku, transfer to the Fuji Excursion limited express train to Kawaguchiko Station (about 2 hours, 4,130 JPY). 3. From Kawaguchiko Station, take local bus to your hotel or to Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station. The Fuji Excursion offers reserved seating with large windows perfect for Mount Fuji viewing on clear days.
Via Tokyo to Gotemba (Shinkansen Route)
For the Gotemba area or eastern Fuji views: 1. Take Narita Express (N'EX) from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station (about 60 minutes, 3,070 JPY). 2. At Tokyo, transfer to Shinkansen (bullet train) to Mishima Station (about 50 minutes, 5,000-6,000 JPY). 3. At Mishima, transfer to local JR train to Gotemba Station (15 minutes, 320 JPY). This route is faster to the Gotemba area and fully covered by Japan Rail Pass (except N'EX requires activation first).
Fuji Excursion Limited Express Details
The Fuji Excursion train is a direct limited express service from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko operated by JR and Fujikyu Railway. It runs 1-3 times daily in each direction with reserved seating only. The journey takes approximately 2 hours from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko with possible Fuji views from about Otsuki onward. The Japan Rail Pass covers the JR portion but not the Fujikyu portion (additional fee required from Otsuki). Advance reservations are essential during peak seasons.
Japan Rail Pass Considerations
The Japan Rail Pass covers most but not all of the journey to Mount Fuji. It covers N'EX to Tokyo/Shinjuku and Shinkansen to Mishima, but only partially covers the Fuji Excursion (JR portion only, not Fujikyu portion from Otsuki). For the Gotemba route, JR Pass covers Tokyo to Mishima to Gotemba entirely. Consider the JR Tokyo Wide Pass (3 days, 10,180 JPY) which covers N'EX, JR trains to Otsuki, and Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko.
Narita Airport to Mount Fuji by Direct Bus
The most convenient way for many travelers to get to Mount Fuji from Narita Airport is combining airport transportation with a direct highway bus from Shinjuku to the Fuji area. While no direct bus runs from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji, the transfer at Shinjuku is straightforward. Total travel time is 3.5-4.5 hours (including transfer), and cost is approximately 5,000-6,000 JPY depending on your airport train choice.
Step-by-Step Bus Route to Kawaguchiko
1. Take Narita Express (N'EX) or Keisei Skyliner + JR Yamanote from Narita Airport to Shinjuku Station (90-120 minutes). 2. At Shinjuku, walk to the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku) located next to Shinjuku Station. 3. Board a direct highway bus to Kawaguchiko Station (about 2 hours, 2,000-2,500 JPY one-way). 4. From Kawaguchiko Station, take local bus to your accommodation or to Fuji 5th Station. This route involves only one main transfer and is excellent for travelers with luggage.
Direct Bus to Fuji 5th Station (Climbing Season Only)
During the climbing season (typically early July to early September), direct buses operate from Shinjuku to Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station: 1. Airport train to Shinjuku as above 2. Direct bus from Shinjuku to Fuji 5th Station (about 2.5 hours, 2,700-3,000 JPY one-way) This eliminates the Kawaguchiko transfer but only operates during climbing season. Check current schedules as they change yearly.
Bus Operators and Schedules
- Fujikyu Bus: Most frequent service to Kawaguchiko, departures every 30-60 minutes
- JR Bus Kanto: Regular service to Kawaguchiko and Fuji 5th Station (seasonal)
- Keio Bus: Alternative operator with similar schedules
- Frequency: Every 30-90 minutes from early morning to evening
- Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko, 2.5 hours to 5th Station
- Cost: 2,000-2,500 JPY to Kawaguchiko, 2,700-3,000 JPY to 5th Station (one-way)
- Advance Booking: Essential during peak seasons (July-August, autumn foliage, weekends)
Why Choose the Bus to Mount Fuji?
The direct bus from Shinjuku to Mount Fuji area is popular because it involves only one transfer (airport to Shinjuku), has ample luggage space, and offers comfortable seating with potential Fuji views on clear days. Buses drop you directly at Kawaguchiko Station or (seasonally) Fuji 5th Station. This option is particularly good for travelers with luggage who want to avoid multiple train transfers. Some buses even have English announcements and free Wi-Fi.
Taxi & Private Transfer from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji
Narita Airport to Mount Fuji Taxi
Taking a taxi from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji offers door-to-door convenience but at a significant cost. The distance is approximately 160-180 km (100-112 miles) depending on your Fuji destination, with travel time of 3.5-4.5 hours depending on traffic. Taxi cost ranges from 45,000 to 70,000 JPY (approximately $300-460 USD) for regular taxis, plus highway tolls (around 6,000-8,000 JPY). This option is most cost-effective for groups of 3-4 people splitting the fare.
Private Transfer from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji
Private transfer services provide a pre-booked car with English-speaking driver. Prices are similar to taxis (50,000-80,000 JPY) but offer fixed rates, meet-and-greet service, and larger vehicles for groups or climbing equipment. You can book online in advance. This is the most convenient door-to-door option, especially for climbing groups, families, those with heavy luggage, or photographers with equipment heading for Mount Fuji photography trips.
Is a Taxi Worth It to Mount Fuji?
For solo travelers: Rarely (train/bus is 5,000-9,000 JPY vs taxi 45,000-70,000 JPY). For 2 people: Unlikely unless convenience is paramount. For 3-4 people: Possibly if splitting cost (11,250-17,500 JPY per person). For climbing groups with gear or very late arrivals when train/bus connections are impossible: Taxi/private transfer may be the only practical option. For photographers wanting to reach specific sunrise locations: Private transfer provides flexibility.
Narita Airport to Mount Fuji Route Map
The map below shows the travel routes from Narita International Airport to Mount Fuji and its surrounding areas. Most routes go via Tokyo or Shinjuku, then west toward Mount Fuji. The Fuji Five Lakes (Kawaguchiko) are north of Fuji, while Gotemba is east. Highway routes for buses/taxis use the Chuo Expressway toward the Fuji Five Lakes area.
The distance from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji is approximately 160-180 km (100-112 miles) by road to the Fuji Five Lakes area. The journey takes you from the coastal plain around Narita, through the Tokyo metropolitan area, and into the mountainous Fuji region with increasingly dramatic views of Mount Fuji on clear days.
Narita Airport to Mount Fuji: Ticketing & Costs
| Route to | Transport Method | Total Travel Time | Approximate Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawaguchiko | N'EX + Highway Bus | 3.5-4 hours | ~5,250-5,750 JPY | Most travelers, best balance |
| Kawaguchiko | N'EX + Fuji Excursion Train | 3.5-4 hours | ~8,500-9,500 JPY | Scenic train ride, comfort |
| Fuji 5th Station | N'EX + Bus to Kawaguchiko + Local bus | 4.5-5 hours | ~6,800-7,500 JPY | Climbers, close-up views |
| Gotemba | N'EX + Shinkansen + Local train | 3.5-4 hours | ~9,000-10,000 JPY | Shopping, eastern Fuji views |
| Any Fuji area | Taxi / Private Transfer | 3.5-4.5 hours | 45,000-80,000 JPY | Groups, late night, door-to-door |
Fuji Excursion Train Ticket
The Fuji Excursion limited express ticket can be purchased at JR East Travel Service Centers, major JR stations, or online in advance. From Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko: 4,130 JPY (reserved seat only). Combined with N'EX from Narita: Total ~8,500 JPY. The Japan Rail Pass covers the JR portion to Otsuki (approx 2,990 JPY) but not the Fujikyu portion from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko (1,140 JPY additional). Advance reservations are essential during peak seasons.
Highway Bus Tickets
Highway bus tickets from Shinjuku to Mount Fuji area can be purchased at Busta Shinjuku (Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal), online in advance, or sometimes at the bus departure area. Cost: 2,000-2,500 JPY to Kawaguchiko, 2,700-3,000 JPY to 5th Station (one-way). During peak seasons (climbing season July-August, autumn foliage October-November, weekends), buses sell out days in advance - book early. Some bus companies offer combined bus+train tickets from Narita Airport.
Combination Tickets and Discount Passes
JR Tokyo Wide Pass: Covers N'EX, JR trains to Otsuki, and Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko (3 consecutive days, 10,180 JPY). Good value if also visiting other areas like Nikko, Karuizawa, or Izu. Fujikyu Bus + Local Pass: Sometimes offered combining bus and local transport in Fuji area. N'EX Round-trip Discount Ticket: 4,000 JPY for round-trip N'EX (valid 14 days). Consider your full itinerary when choosing tickets.
Traveler Experience: Getting to Mount Fuji from Narita
Getting from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji is a 3.5-5 hour journey that transitions from airport to metropolis to iconic mountain scenery. First-time visitors should allow plenty of time and understand that Mount Fuji is often hidden by clouds - morning typically offers the clearest views. The direct bus from Shinjuku is popular for its simplicity - one transfer at Shinjuku Station then a comfortable bus ride with potential Fuji views. Traveling with climbing gear or luggage is manageable on buses (under-carriage storage) but can be challenging on trains with multiple transfers - consider luggage forwarding service or private transfer. Late afternoon arrivals at Narita may not reach Fuji area until evening - consider staying in Tokyo overnight if arriving after 2 PM. The journey itself offers glimpses of Japanese countryside and, on clear days, increasingly dramatic views of Mount Fuji as you approach.
Practical Tips & Advice for Narita to Mount Fuji
- With luggage/climbing gear: Buses have under-carriage storage. Trains have limited space. Consider luggage forwarding (takkyubin) from airport to Fuji area hotel (1-2 days delivery, 1,500-2,500 JPY per piece).
- First-time visitor tip: N'EX to Shinjuku + direct bus to Kawaguchiko is simplest. Kawaguchiko has best tourist infrastructure and classic Fuji views across the lake.
- Mt. Fuji viewing: Clear mornings offer best views. September-November and December-February typically have clearest skies. Check weather forecast and Fuji visibility cams before travel.
- Climbing season considerations: Fuji climbing season is early July to early September. Outside this period, 5th Station access is limited or closed. Check official websites for current conditions.
- Late afternoon arrivals: If arriving at Narita after 2 PM, you may not reach Fuji area until 7-8 PM. Consider staying in Tokyo/Shinjuku overnight and going to Fuji next morning for better views.
- With photography equipment: Private transfer may be worth it for gear security and direct transport to photo locations like Chureito Pagoda or Lake Kawaguchi north shore.
- Cost-saving tip: Keisei Skyliner to Ueno + JR to Shinjuku + bus to Kawaguchiko (~5,000 JPY) is cheapest comfortable option.
- Time-saving tip: N'EX to Shinjuku + Fuji Excursion train is fastest train option (3.5-4 hours). Direct bus is similar time but often cheaper.
- Peak season advice: Climbing season (July-August), autumn foliage (Oct-Nov), and weekends are extremely busy. Book all transport 1-2 months in advance.
- Weather considerations: Mount Fuji is often hidden by clouds, especially afternoon. Have backup plans. Check Kawaguchiko webcams before traveling if Fuji viewing is priority.
- Day trip possibility: From Narita to Mount Fuji and back in one day is not practical (7-9 hours round-trip travel). Stay at least one night in Fuji area.
- Mobile apps: Use "Japan Travel" app for train schedules, "Japan Bus Online" for bus booking, "Google Maps" for navigation, "Fuji Navi" or "Yamanashi Navi" for local info.
- Altitude considerations: Fuji area is at 800-1000m elevation. Can be significantly cooler than Tokyo, especially October-April. 5th Station is at 2,300m - prepare for temperature drop.
- Return journey: From Fuji area to Narita, reverse the route. Allow 4-6 hours total. Buses to Shinjuku can experience traffic delays, especially Sunday evenings.
Map showing routes from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji area, typically via Shinjuku Station then west toward Fuji Five Lakes or Gotemba.
Frequently Asked Questions: Narita Airport to Mount Fuji
What is the best way to get from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji?
For most visitors: N'EX to Shinjuku + direct highway bus to Kawaguchiko (3.5-4 hours, ~5,250-5,750 JPY). For train enthusiasts: N'EX to Shinjuku + Fuji Excursion train to Kawaguchiko (3.5-4 hours, ~8,500-9,500 JPY). For climbers to 5th Station: Above route + local bus from Kawaguchiko to 5th Station (add 1 hour, ~1,540 JPY). For minimal hassle: Private transfer (3.5-4.5 hours, ~50,000-80,000 JPY).
Is there a direct train from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji?
No direct train. Mount Fuji itself has no train station. The nearest major stations are Kawaguchiko (for Fuji Five Lakes) and Gotemba (for eastern side). You must take airport train to Tokyo/Shinjuku, then transfer to train/bus to Fuji area. Minimum 2 transfers required to reach Fuji region.
Is Mount Fuji closer to Tokyo or Narita?
Mount Fuji is significantly closer to Tokyo. From Tokyo Station to Kawaguchiko: 2-2.5 hours. From Narita Airport to Kawaguchiko: 3.5-4.5 hours. Narita is east of Tokyo, while Mount Fuji is west, so you must travel through/across the entire Tokyo metropolitan area to reach Fuji.
Which station is best for Mount Fuji?
For Fuji Five Lakes area (Kawaguchiko): Shinjuku Station for buses/Fuji Excursion train. For Gotemba area: Tokyo or Shinagawa Station for Shinkansen to Mishima. For Fuji-Q Highland: Shinjuku for direct bus or train to Kawaguchiko. Different Fuji areas have different optimal stations - decide your destination first.
Should I go to Kawaguchiko or Gotemba from Narita?
Kawaguchiko (Fuji Five Lakes) is better for: First-time visitors, photography (classic lake reflections), Fuji-Q Highland, most tourist facilities, lake activities. Gotemba is better for: Shopping at Premium Outlets, Fuji Speedway, eastern Fuji views, climbing from Gotemba trail. Most first-time visitors choose Kawaguchiko for its iconic views and infrastructure.
How long does it take from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji?
To Kawaguchiko (Fuji Five Lakes): 3.5-4.5 hours. To Fuji 5th Station (climbing base): 4.5-5.5 hours. To Gotemba area: 4-5 hours. These times include transfers and assume good connections. Add 30-60 minutes during peak traffic or if missing connections. Allow a full half-day for the journey.
What is the cheapest way from Narita Airport to Mount Fuji?
Keisei Skyliner to Ueno (2,470 JPY) + JR Yamanote to Shinjuku (200 JPY) + highway bus to Kawaguchiko (2,000-2,500 JPY) = ~4,700-5,200 JPY total. Takes 3.5-4.5 hours. Local trains instead of Skyliner save ~1,500 JPY but add 1+ hour travel time. This is the cheapest comfortable option.
Are taxis worth it from Narita to Mount Fuji?
For 3-4 people with luggage/climbing gear: Possibly (split cost 45,000-70,000 JPY = 11,250-17,500 JPY per person). For solo travelers: No (very expensive vs 5,000-9,000 JPY train/bus). For climbing groups with equipment or very late arrivals: Taxi/private transfer may be only practical option. For photographers wanting specific sunrise locations: Private transfer provides flexibility.
Does the Japan Rail Pass cover travel to Mount Fuji?
Partially. JR Pass covers N'EX to Tokyo/Shinjuku and JR trains to Otsuki, but does NOT cover Fujikyu Railway from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko (additional 1,140 JPY) or highway buses. For Fuji Excursion train: JR Pass covers Shinjuku to Otsuki portion only. For Gotemba route: JR Pass fully covers Tokyo to Mishima to Gotemba. Consider JR Tokyo Wide Pass if focusing on Tokyo/Fuji area.
What if I arrive at Narita Airport after 2 PM?
For afternoon/evening arrivals: Last direct bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko is around 7-8 PM. Last Fuji Excursion train is around 5-6 PM. If arriving after 2 PM, you may not make last connections. Options: 1) Stay in Tokyo/Shinjuku overnight, go to Fuji next morning (recommended for better Fuji views), 2) Take later train to Mishima, stay near Gotemba, 3) Private transfer (available anytime but expensive), 4) Stay at Narita/Tokyo airport hotel, go next day.
Can I do Mount Fuji as a day trip from Narita Airport?
Not recommended. Narita to Fuji area is 3.5-4.5 hours one way, so 7-9 hours round-trip travel. With 4-6 hours at Fuji, that's an 11-15 hour day with limited Fuji viewing time. Better to: 1) Stay in Fuji area overnight (highly recommended for morning Fuji views), 2) Stay in Tokyo, do Fuji as day trip next day, 3) If must do same day, take earliest possible transport and prioritize key sights only, understanding you'll have limited time.
Which side of bus/train has best Mt. Fuji views?
From Tokyo/Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko: Right side (facing direction of travel) generally offers better Mt. Fuji views. From Kawaguchiko to Tokyo/Shinjuku: Left side. On clear days, Fuji is visible for much of the journey from about Otsuki onward. Morning trips typically offer clearer views than afternoon. For buses, both sides can have views depending on route.
When is the best time to see Mount Fuji clearly?
Early morning typically offers clearest views before clouds form. September-November and December-February have statistically clearer skies. Summer (June-August) often has haze and clouds. Check weather forecasts and Fuji visibility webcams before your trip. Even on cloudy days, Fuji may clear for brief periods.