After Osaka, I went to Mount Fuji for 2 days. Stayed at Tokyo Inn Kawaguchiko, rented an electric bike, saw the best Mount Fuji photo spots, and went to an onsen at night.
This is one of those trips where the scenery is just insane. Like you see Mount Fuji everywhere you turn. Worth the 4-5 hour journey from Osaka.
Trip Summary
| Details | Info |
|---|---|
| Travel Dates | Dec 8-10, 2025 (2 nights) |
| From Osaka | Shinkansen + Local train (4-5 hours) |
| Transport Cost | ¥17,000-17,250 (~SGD $165-170) |
| Hotel | Tokyo Inn Kawaguchiko – ~$100 SGD/night |
| E-Bike Rental | ¥3,000/day (~SGD $30) |
| Onsen (Fujiyama) | ¥2,000 weekend (~SGD $20) |
| Best Photo Spot | North shore of Lake Kawaguchiko |
| Weather | Cold (2-10°C), clear views of Fuji |
| Total 2D Budget | ~SGD $400-450 (excluding Osaka hotel) |
Getting from Osaka to Mount Fuji (Kawaguchiko)
Ok so getting from Osaka to Kawaguchiko isn’t as straightforward as I thought. Google Maps says 2.5 hours but realistically it took me closer to 4-5 hours with all the transfers.
The Route I Took
Step 1: Osaka to Tokyo (Shinkansen) – Took Nozomi Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka to Tokyo Station – Duration: 2h 15min – Cost: ¥13,850 (~SGD $135)
Step 2: Tokyo to Otsuki (JR Chuo Line) – From Tokyo Station, took JR Chuo Line to Otsuki – Duration: About 1h 20min – Cost: Included in JR network
Step 3: Otsuki to Kawaguchiko (Fujikyu Railway) – Changed to Fujikyu Railway local train – Duration: 50 mins – Cost: ¥1,170 (~SGD $11.50)
Total: ¥17,000-17,250 (~SGD $165-170) | 4-5 hours door-to-door
Yeah it’s expensive and takes awhile. But once you see Mount Fuji appearing through the train window as you approach Kawaguchiko? Worth it.
Alternative Routes
| Route | Time | Cost | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highway Bus (Direct) | 10-11 hours overnight | ¥6,900-8,900 (~SGD $67-87) | Cheaper, but super long. Sleeper bus. |
| Shinkansen + Express Bus | 4-4.5 hours | ¥14,180 (~SGD $138) | Take Shinkansen to Mishima, then bus. Slightly cheaper. |
| My Route (Shinkansen + Train) | 4-5 hours | ¥17,000 (~SGD $165) | Most comfortable but pricier. |
If you’re on budget, take the overnight bus from Osaka. Leaves 9-10pm, arrives Kawaguchiko 8-9am. Sleep on bus, save a night’s hotel. Just not as comfortable.
Source: OsakaStation.com transport guide, JR Pass calculator Dec 2025
Where I Stayed – Tokyo Inn Kawaguchiko
Stayed at Tokyo Inn Kawaguchiko for 2 nights. Cost around SGD $100 per night which is decent for the area.
Why This Hotel Works
Free shuttle bus from Kawaguchiko Station. This is the game changer. Shuttle runs every 10 minutes, even late at night. I arrived around 9pm and shuttle was still running. No need taxi or walk with luggage.
Mount Fuji view from some rooms. Not all rooms, but if you’re lucky you get Fuji view from window. Worth asking when you check in.
Good location for exploring. Close to the lake shore (5-10 min walk). Easy access to bike rental shops and bus stops.
Room Quality
Standard Japanese business hotel style. Small but functional. Clean, good heating (needed in December), comfortable bed, private bathroom.
Breakfast wasn’t included in my rate but there’s convenience stores nearby for quick breakfast.
Other Hotel Options Near Kawaguchiko
| Hotel | Price/Night | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tokyo Inn Kawaguchiko | SGD $90-110 | Free shuttle, good location, reliable | Standard rooms, no luxury |
| Kawaguchiko Hotel | SGD $140-220 | Lake views, onsen inside, nicer rooms | More expensive |
| HOTEL MYSTAYS Fuji | SGD $100-180 | Onsen resort, comfortable | Bit further from station |
| Royal Hotel Kawaguchiko | SGD $80-100 | Budget option, basic clean rooms | Older facilities, no shuttle |
| Guesthouses/Hostels | SGD $30-60 | Cheapest option, meet travelers | Shared facilities, less privacy |
My take: Tokyo Inn hits the sweet spot. Not too expensive, free shuttle is huge convenience, location is good. If you want luxury with onsen, pay extra for Kawaguchiko Hotel. If you’re backpacking, hostels work.
Source: Agoda, Booking.com prices Dec 2025
Day 1 – Arrival & Best Beef Cutlet Ever
Arrived Kawaguchiko Station around 8pm. Took the free shuttle to Tokyo Inn, checked in, dropped bags.
Hungry as hell cause I only had convenience store snacks on the train. Walked around looking for food.
Dinner – Beef Cutlet (Tonkatsu) That Blew My Mind
Found this tonkatsu place near the hotel. Can’t remember exact name but it had pictures of katsu outside.
Ordered the biggest portion they had – premium beef cutlet set. Cost ¥3,550 (~SGD $35).
When it arrived? Massive portion. Thick cut of beef, perfectly fried, crispy outside, super tender inside. Came with rice, miso soup, cabbage, pickles.
This was one of the most delicious meals I had in Japan. Like I ate alot of good food in Osaka, but this beef cutlet was next level. The meat quality, the crispy coating, the special sauce – everything perfect.
Worth the ¥3,550. Would pay double for that quality honestly.
After dinner walked around a bit. Night time at Kawaguchiko is quiet. Not like Osaka’s busy streets. Very peaceful, cold air, can see stars clearly.
Day 2 – Early Morning Photo Mission
Best Mount Fuji Photo Spot – Lake Kawaguchiko North Shore
Woke up at 6am. Yeah I know, early. But sunrise at Mount Fuji is around 6:30am in December.
Walked from hotel to the opposite side of Lake Kawaguchiko – the north shore area. Took about 10-15 mins walking in the cold.
This spot is THE spot for Mount Fuji photos. You get: – Full view of Mount Fuji reflecting on the lake – No buildings blocking the view – Perfect sunrise lighting – Not crowded at 6am (gets busy by 9am)
The view was insane. Like you see Mount Fuji pictures online and think “probably edited.” But no, it really looks like that. The mountain is massive, snow-capped peak, perfect symmetry, reflection on the still water.
I stood there for like 30 mins just taking photos and videos. Temperature was around 2-3°C but worth freezing for those shots.
Pro tip: Go early morning (6-7am) or late afternoon (4-5pm) for best light. Midday the sun is harsh and Fuji looks less dramatic.
Chureito Pagoda – The Instagram Spot
After breakfast, took the local train to Shimoyoshida Station. From there, walked 15 mins to Arakurayama Sengen Park.
This is where the famous Chureito Pagoda photo spot is. You know that pic with the red pagoda and Mount Fuji in background? This is the place.
To get to the viewing platform, need climb 398 steps. Yeah, 398. My legs were burning but the view at top makes up for it.
The combo of pagoda + Mount Fuji is stunning. I can see why this is one of the most photographed spots in Japan.
Timing note: Train to Shimoyoshida runs every 30 mins. Miss it and you’re waiting. Check the schedule before going.
Source: Personal visit Dec 2025, Kawaguchiko.net photo spot guide
Electric Bike Rental – Best Decision
After Chureito Pagoda, I went back to Kawaguchiko Station and rented an electric bicycle.
Cost: ¥3,000 for the whole day (~SGD $30)
Where to Rent
Multiple shops right infront of Kawaguchiko Station. I went to one called Fujikanko Travel but there’s like 5-6 shops all competing. Prices are similar:
| Shop | Regular Bike | E-Bike | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fujikanko Travel | ¥2,500/day | ¥3,000/day | Good English, helpful staff |
| Q-BIKE (Station) | – | ¥4,400/day | App-based, newer bikes but pricier |
| Fujisan Bike | ¥2,500/day | ¥3,000/day | Standard option |
| Soranoshita | ¥2,500/day | ¥3,500/day | Deluxe e-bikes available |
Get the electric bike. Extra ¥500 is worth it. Lake Kawaguchiko loop has some hills and bridges. E-bike makes it effortless.
Battery Life
I cycled the whole day – probably 6-7 hours total including stops. Only used about 50% of battery.
These e-bikes have good range. Even if you ride all day, battery should last. Just dont leave it on highest assist mode the whole time.
Lake Kawaguchiko Loop Route
The full loop around Lake Kawaguchiko is about 20-23km. On e-bike, takes around 2 hours pure cycling. But with photo stops, lunch breaks, exploring – I spent like 5-6 hours.
Route highlights: – North shore (best Fuji views) – Oishi Park (flowers in season, cafe) – Music Forest Museum area – Kawaguchiko Herb Museum – South shore (closer to Fuji-Q Highland)
Just follow the lakeside path. Can’t really get lost cause you’re going in circle around the lake.
The e-bike made everything so easy. Stop whenever I wanted for photos, cycle to next spot, repeat. Way better than taking bus which has fixed schedule.
Source: Personal bike experience Dec 2025, Magical Trip cycling guide
Fujiyama Onsen – Night Time Relaxation
After full day of cycling, my legs needed recovery. Went to Fujiyama Onsen at night.
About Fujiyama Onsen
Located right next to Fuji-Q Highland amusement park. About 10 mins walk from Kawaguchiko Station or 3 mins by bus.
Entry price (Dec 2025): – Weekend rate: ¥2,000 adult (~SGD $20) – Weekday rate: ¥1,600 adult (~SGD $16) – Kids (3-12): ¥1,000 weekend, ¥800 weekday – Price includes bath towel + face towel
I went on weekend so paid ¥2,000. Worth it though.
What Makes It Special
Indoor and outdoor baths. Multiple pools with different temperatures. The outdoor rotenburo (open-air bath) is the best – you can see Mount Fuji while soaking if weather is clear. At night you see stars above the steaming water.
Hot spring water quality. This is real natural onsen water, not just heated tap water. The minerals make your skin feel smooth after.
Relaxation areas. After bathing, there’s lounge area where you can chill. They have massage chairs (extra cost), rest rooms, restaurant.
How It Works (For First-Timers)
If you never been to Japanese onsen:
- Buy ticket from vending machine at entrance
- Go to changing room (men and women separate)
- Strip completely naked – this is onsen rule, no swimming clothes
- Wash your body at shower stations BEFORE entering bath
- Bring small towel into bath area (can put on head or nearby, dont put in water)
- Soak in different baths, enjoy the heat
- After soaking, dry off and go to locker room
First time might feel awkward being naked around strangers. But everyone’s doing same thing, nobody cares. After 5 mins you forget about it.
Fujiyama Onsen vs Other Options
| Onsen | Weekday | Weekend | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fujiyama Onsen | ¥1,600 | ¥2,000 | Large facility, Fuji view, near station | Can get crowded |
| Yurari | ¥1,300-1,400 | ¥1,500-1,700 | Cheaper, multiple bath types | Need bus to get there, towels extra |
| Benifuji-no-Yu | ¥900 | ¥900 | Budget option, local vibe | Smaller, no Fuji view, towels extra |
| Ishiwari-no-Yu | ¥900 | ¥900 | Cheap, nice outdoor bath | Basic facilities, towels extra |
My take: Fujiyama Onsen is best for first-timers. It’s big, clean, includes towels, close to station, has English signs. Bit more expensive but worth the convenience.
If you going multiple times or on budget, Yurari or the smaller onsens save you ¥500-1,000. But bring your own towel.
Source: Personal visit Dec 2025, KS House onsen comparison, Fujiyama Onsen official rates
Day 3 – Morning Before Heading to Shinjuku
Last morning at Kawaguchiko. Woke up, had quick breakfast from 7-Eleven (onigiri + coffee as usual).
Did final walk around the lake shore for more photos. The morning light on Mount Fuji is different from afternoon – more soft and golden.
Then checked out of Tokyo Inn around 11am.
Getting to Shinjuku (Tokyo)
Instead of taking train back (which requires multiple transfers), I took direct highway bus to Shinjuku.
Bus cost: ¥2,000 (~SGD $20) Duration: 2 hours direct
Way easier than train. Bus goes straight from Kawaguchiko Station to Shinjuku Station. No transfers, no hassle with luggage.
Multiple bus companies run this route throughout the day. Buses leave every 30-60 mins. Buy ticket at the bus terminal next to Kawaguchiko Station.
The bus route goes along the highway with Mount Fuji view on the way. Nice last look at Fuji before heading back to Tokyo city chaos.
Total Cost Breakdown – 2 Days at Mount Fuji
Here’s what I spent for 2 days at Kawaguchiko:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transport (Osaka to Kawaguchiko) | ¥17,000 (~SGD $165) |
| Hotel (2 nights @ Tokyo Inn) | ~SGD $200 |
| E-Bike Rental (1 day) | ¥3,000 (~SGD $30) |
| Fujiyama Onsen | ¥2,000 (~SGD $20) |
| Food (Day 1 dinner – beef cutlet) | ¥3,550 (~SGD $35) |
| Food (Day 2-3 breakfast/lunch/dinner) | ~¥6,000 (~SGD $60) |
| Train to Chureito Pagoda (round trip) | ¥460 (~SGD $4.50) |
| Bus to Shinjuku | ¥2,000 (~SGD $20) |
| Total 2 Days | ~SGD $534 |
Could go cheaper if you:
– Take overnight bus from Osaka (save ~SGD $80 on transport + 1 night hotel)
– Stay at hostel instead of hotel (save ~SGD $60-80) – Skip onsen (save SGD $20)
– Rent regular bike instead of e-bike (save SGD $5) – Eat more convenience store food (save SGD $20-30)
Budget traveler could probably do it for ~SGD $300-350 for 2 days.
What I Learned – Tips for Your Trip
Weather in December
Kawaguchiko in December is COLD. Like 2-10°C during day, below 0°C some nights.
But December is one of best months for clear Mount Fuji views. Less clouds, less rain. I got clear view all 3 days which was lucky.
Pack: – Thick winter jacket – Gloves (hands freeze when cycling) – Warm hat – Layers underneath – Good walking shoes
Best Time to Visit
– Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms + Fuji. Beautiful but crowded.
– Summer (June-August): Can climb Mount Fuji (trails open July-August). But more clouds blocking view from Kawaguchiko.
– Autumn (September-November): Fall colors + clear views. Good time to visit.
– Winter (December-February): Best for clear Fuji views. Cold but less tourists. My favorite.
How Many Days You Need
1 day: Rushed. Can see main spots but won’t feel relaxed.
2 days: Perfect. What I did. Enough time to cycle around, visit photo spots, do onsen, not feel rushed.
3 days: If you want super chill pace or do activities like climbing nearby mountains, visiting Oshino Hakkai village, etc.
Must-Do Activities
- Early morning photo at lake north shore – Non-negotiable. Best view of Fuji.
- Rent e-bike and cycle around lake – Freedom to stop wherever you want.
- Chureito Pagoda – Classic photo spot, worth the climb.
- Onsen at night – Perfect way to end the day, relax sore muscles.
- Just sit by the lake and stare at Fuji – Sounds boring but it’s actually peaceful.
Is Mount Fuji Worth It from Osaka?
Yeah, 100%.
The transport from Osaka is expensive (¥17,000) and takes 4-5 hours. But Mount Fuji is one of those places you gotta see in person.
Photos don’t capture how massive and impressive the mountain is. Standing by Lake Kawaguchiko with Fuji right infront of you – that’s a moment you remember.
The whole area is beautiful, peaceful, good food, nice onsen. Perfect contrast to busy Osaka.
If you’re already in Kansai area (Osaka/Kyoto), worth adding 2 days for Mount Fuji. Makes your Japan trip complete.
Alternative – Stay in Tokyo and Day Trip
If 2 days too much, you can day trip from Tokyo/Shinjuku: – Morning bus to Kawaguchiko (2 hours, ¥2,000) – Quick walk to photo spots – Maybe onsen – Evening bus back to Tokyo
But personally I think staying overnight is better. Wake up for sunrise, cycling at your own pace, evening onsen – you can’t do all that on day trip.
Final Thoughts
Mount Fuji area exceeded expectations. Like I’ve seen so many Fuji pictures online that I thought maybe it’s overrated.
But no. It’s genuinely stunning. The mountain, the lake, the peaceful vibe, the good food, the onsen – everything comes together.
That beef cutlet dinner alone worth the trip (half joking but seriously it was that good).
If you going Japan and skip Mount Fuji area, you’re missing out. Yeah it costs money and takes time, but some things you just gotta do.
Now I need go back cause I wanna see it in spring with cherry blossoms. And summer when you can actually climb the mountain.
Mount Fuji got me hooked, you know?
