Mt. Fuji 5th St and Gotemba Outlets (Disband at Gotemba Outlets)

Exploring Japan’s Iconic Mt. Fuji and Gotemba Outlets: An Honest Review

This comprehensive review covers a popular day tour from Tokyo that combines Japan’s legendary mountain with a shopping spree at one of the country’s most famous outlets. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, dozens of travelers have shared their experiences, giving us insight into what makes this tour a standout for many.

We love the stunning views of Mt. Fuji from the 5th Station, the convenient shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets, and the well-organized transportation that makes the day stress-free. However, some might find the schedule tight, especially if they want more time at each stop. This tour is perfect for those who want a blend of nature, culture, and retail therapy—especially if they prefer a guided, hassle-free experience.

Key Points

• Breathtaking views from Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station offer a glimpse of the iconic mountain and surrounding Fuji Five Lakes.
• Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the vast selection of brands and discounts at Gotemba Outlets.
• Flexible transportation options make returning to central Tokyo or other destinations easy and safe.
• The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, comfortable air-conditioned vehicles, and a well-paced itinerary.
• Snow sledding at the 2nd station is included during winter months, adding a fun, wintery touch.
• Limited time at each stop means you’ll need to be prepared to prioritize what interests you most.

Discovering the Actual Experience: What to Expect

Mt. Fuji 5th Station: An Unmissable Photo Op and Cultural Spot

The journey begins early with a 7:15 am pickup from Shinjuku, where a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle takes us along the Fuji Subaru Line. The drive itself offers scenic views, building anticipation for the glimpse of the mountain’s majestic cone. Once at the 5th Station, situated approximately 2,300 meters above sea level, the real magic begins.

Travelers consistently praise this stop for the spectacular panoramic views. You can see the Fuji Five Lakes spread out below and sometimes even a sea of clouds that makes the scene surreal. The early morning or late afternoon light adds drama, perfect for photos. During the summer, you get a clear, crisp atmosphere, while winter months bring the chance for a snow-kissed landscape—though snow sledding at the 2nd Station replaces the 5th Station visit in late December to mid-March.

Within this area, Komitake Shrine offers a quiet moment amid nature, and many visitors enjoy trying Mount Fuji Melon Bread, a sweet, soft treat exclusive to this region. The shops here are small but packed with souvenirs, snacks, and local produce, giving a taste of authentic mountain culture.

The Guides and Overall Atmosphere

Reviews mention that the guides are knowledgeable and attentive, often sharing interesting facts about Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area. One traveler, Brian, highlighted that “the tour guide is a great help and everything went according to plan,” emphasizing the smooth flow of the trip. Guides also provide safety tips, especially for those venturing around the higher elevations or trying local foods.

Gotemba Premium Outlets: A Shopper’s Paradise

After about 40 minutes at Mt. Fuji, the tour continues to the Gotemba Premium Outlets, the largest outlet mall in Japan. Spanning an expansive area, it boasts around 210 brand shops, including international and Japanese labels, making it a shopper’s dream.

The outlet’s location offers a rare chance to shop with a direct view of Mount Fuji, creating a unique shopping environment. The tour includes a 5-15% discount coupon, which can make a noticeable difference on high-end brands. Many reviewers find the shopping time generous—about 6 hours—enabling a relaxed browse without feeling rushed.

Travelers are encouraged to explore at their own pace, taking advantage of the various restaurants, cafes, and rest areas. The outlet also provides an easy way to decompress after the mountain visit, especially if you’re after designer apparel, accessories, or just a leisurely stroll.

Transportation and Return Options

The tour concludes at Gotemba Outlets, where you are free to shop until you drop. From there, multiple express buses leave regularly for Tokyo (Shinjuku, Shibuya, Ikebukuro, Ueno, Shinagawa) and nearby cities like Yokohama, Hakone, and Mishima. These are considered safe and convenient, at your own expense, and the tour provider’s website offers additional details.

One of the most appreciated aspects, based on reviews, is the stress-free transport arrangement, allowing you to focus on enjoying your day rather than worrying about timing or navigation.

The Verdict: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers an excellent balance for those craving a taste of Japan’s natural beauty combined with premium shopping. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate well-organized group travel, want to avoid the hassle of planning transport, and are comfortable with a roughly 4 to 12-hour schedule.

It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want a snapshot of Mount Fuji’s majesty and a shopping adventure, without the need for extensive planning. The inclusion of snow sledding during winter adds an extra layer of fun, especially for families or winter sports fans.

However, if you’re looking for more time at each stop or a deeper exploration of Mt. Fuji or local culture, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Still, for its price point ($47.14 per person), the value is impressive given the logistics handled and the variety of experiences packed into one day.

Final Thoughts

This day tour from Tokyo manages to combine the awe of Mt. Fuji’s iconic presence with a shopping experience at Japan’s premier outlet mall. The seamless transportation, knowledgeable guides, and flexible shopping time make it a hassle-free way to tick off two major highlights in one go.

Travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and retail therapy will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Japan itinerary. The well-rated experience, praised for its organization and stunning views, proves that sometimes, a well-planned day can deliver memories that last long after you’ve left the mountain or the mall.

For those seeking a convenient, engaging, and value-packed day trip, this tour ticks all the boxes—just be sure to bring your camera and your shopping list.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:15 am from Shinjuku Center Building in Tokyo, making it suitable for early risers wanting to maximize the day.

How long are the stops at Mt. Fuji and Gotemba Outlets?
You’ll spend approximately 40 minutes at Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station and about 6 hours at Gotemba Premium Outlets, giving enough time to enjoy each site comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially with winter activities like snow sledding at the 2nd Station during the season. However, check the weather and physical demands for younger children.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. The high altitude at Mt. Fuji might be cooler, so layers are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food at the outlets or nearby restaurants.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions prevent access to Fuji Subaru Line or Mt. Fuji, the itinerary may be changed to Oshino Hakkai, a beautiful traditional village with ponds and scenic views.

Can I join this tour from outside Tokyo?
The meeting point is in Shinjuku, Tokyo. Travelers staying elsewhere will need to arrange their own transportation to the pickup location.

Is this a group tour?
Yes, it is shared with up to 45 travelers, offering a social and lively atmosphere, yet still manageable for individual comfort.

This tour offers a delightful blend of Japan’s natural wonder and world-class shopping, making it ideal for those wanting an efficient and memorable day from Tokyo.