Mt. Fuji Tour Hours & Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit the Mount Fuji

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays: Visiting Mt. Fuji on weekdays offers a more peaceful experience, especially around popular trailheads and viewpoints like the 5th Station. The trails are less crowded, giving you space to take in the breathtaking scenery fully.
Weekends: Weekends, particularly during climbing season (July to September), are much busier, with locals and tourists eager to conquer the summit. Expect fuller parking lots, packed trails, and longer waits at rest stations. Weekdays are the clear choice if you’re aiming for a quieter climb or viewing experience.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Closed

Peak season vs low season

Peak season: The peak season for climbing Mt. Fuji is July and August when the official climbing routes are open, and the weather is most favorable. During these months, expect large crowds, especially at sunrise, and be prepared to book accommodations well in advance. The views are spectacular, but you'll share them with many others.
Low season: If you prefer quieter moments and don’t plan to climb, the low season (from September to June) offers stunning mountain views from surrounding areas, especially during cherry blossom season in spring or the colorful foliage in autumn. Just note that climbing is discouraged outside the official season due to harsh weather conditions.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

Mt. Fuji Tour Timings

Please note that the duration of your Mt. Fuji tour depends on the tour option you choose. While some tours can take 10 hours, others can be an hour or two longer.

Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi & Lake Yamanaka Guided Tour: 8am
Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, Owakudani Valley & Onsen Guided Day Tour: 8am
Private Tour of Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi & Oshino Hakkai with Hotel Transfers: 8am (An alternative option to start the tour anytime within the usual operating hours of 8am to 6pm is available.)
Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai, Onsen Hot Springs or Outlets Guided Day Tour: 8am
Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, Oshino Hakkai, Ice & Wind Caves Guided Tour with Lunch: 8am
Mt. Fuji Area, Oshino Hakkai, & Lake Kawaguchi Guided Day Tour: 8am

What’s the best time to take a Mt. Fuji Tour?

Osaka Castle and full cherry blossom, with Fuji mountain background, Japan.

Best time of the year

Spring (March to May): Cherry blossom season ushers in, making it ideal for those who love scenic hikes, historical explorations, and vibrant festivals. Prepare for crowds and higher costs during peak bloom.

Summer (June to September): Conquer the summit during the official climbing season. Expect clear skies, warm weather, and diverse trails, but prepare for crowds and potential accommodation shortages in August. It’s essential you book in advance.

Winter (October to January): Get unobstructed views of the mountain, and enjoy skiing opportunities. However, certain trails and routes may have restricted access owing to heavy snow.

Best time of the week

Weekdays, particularly Tuesday through Thursday, are optimal for visiting Mt. Fuji with fewer crowds, providing a more tranquil experience. Weekends, especially Saturday and Sunday, witness increased footfall, leading to longer queues and a busier atmosphere. Opting for a weekday visit allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty and attractions without the hustle and bustle. We recommend visiting in the early mornings during the weekdays for the clearest vistas.

How long do I need to tour Mt. Fuji?

To fully experience Mt. Fuji and its surrounding attractions, plan for a full-day visit. It will take you at least 10 hours to take in all the nearby sights. This allows ample time to explore iconic spots like Arakurayama Sengen Park, Owakudani Valley, Oshino Hakkai, and Lake Kawaguchi, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching encounter with Japan's tallest peak.

Frequently asked questions about Mt. Fuji tour timings

Is Mt. Fuji open every day?

Yes, Mt. Fuji is open every day. However, some attractions and facilities around Mt. Fuji may have varying operating hours.

What are the Mt. Fuji tour timings?

Mt. Fuji tours often start in the morning, ranging from 8am, with full-day itineraries lasting approximately 10-12 hours.

When is Mt. Fuji closed?

Mt. Fuji itself is not closed to visitors. However, certain facilities, trails, or attractions may have seasonal closures or specific operating hours. We suggest reviewing all related information carefully before booking your Mt. Fuji tour tickets.

How long should I spend at Mt. Fuji?

Plan a full-day visit to Mt. Fuji to thoroughly explore key attractions like Arakurayama Sengen Park, Lake Ashi, Hakono Shrine, Oshino Hakkai, and Lake Kawaguchi.

What is the best time to visit Mt. Fuji?

Peak season for scenery is Spring (March-May) for cherry blossoms, but expect crowds and higher costs. Summer (June-September) offers clear skies and warm weather for climbing, but it's also busy. Autumn (October-November) is less crowded and offers good views, but climbing is closed. Winter (December-February) is great for seeing the peak from afar but isn't ideal for climbing due to snow.

Is Mt. Fuji open on public holidays?

Yes, Mt. Fuji is generally open on public holidays. However, check specific tour details and attraction schedules for any holiday-related adjustments.

Should I visit Mt. Fuji on a public holiday?

Visiting Mt. Fuji on a public holiday is feasible, but consider potential increased crowds before planning your trip. Weekdays often offer a quieter experience compared to weekends and holidays.

Are Mt. Fuji Trails open all year round?

Mt. Fuji trails are typically open during the climbing season, from early July to early September. However, access may be limited during other times due to weather conditions or maintenance. Check the trail status before planning your visit.