By MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
Japan’s highest peak, Mt. Fuji, boasts a majestic conical form and stunning snowy landscapes in winter. To admire its beauty, travelers usually have to go through some effort and at least a two-hour journey to reach the foot of Mt. Fuji. However, recently JR East Japan announced that in March 2019, an express train will begin operating as a direct service from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station at the mountain’s base.
“Asakura Hill Asama Park” in Fujikawaguchiko City, Yamanashi Prefecture, offers beautiful views of Mt. Fuji. (Photo / Japan Tourism Agency)
Mt. Fuji is more dangerous during winter, so it is closed every year from winter until May of the following year. Entry for both people and vehicles is prohibited during this closure period. This year’s winter arrived early, and Mt. Fuji was officially closed on November 6. Although climbing is not possible for now, visitors can still admire the mountain’s beauty from new observation platforms built in Shizuoka Prefecture.
The best months for climbing Mt. Fuji are early July to early September. (Photo / Japan Tourism Agency)
In the past, traveling to Mt. Fuji required taking the JR Central Line to Otsuki Station, then transferring to the Fujikyuko Line to reach Kawaguchiko Station at the mountain’s base. Alternatively, travelers could take a bus to the fifth station, one of the climbing routes up the mountain — a rather time-consuming journey.But starting in 2019, there will be a faster and more comfortable way to reach Mt. Fuji. JR East Japan has launched a direct train service on the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo. Passengers can board the Chuo Line at Shinjuku Station, transfer to the Fujikyuko Line at Otsuki Station, and go directly to Mt. Fuji Station, significantly reducing the previous travel time.
Narita Express N’EX (Photo / Fujikyuko Line)
In addition, the Narita Airport express train “Narita Express N’EX” has also begun plans to extend its service on weekends and holidays to Kawaguchiko Station at the foot of Mt. Fuji, making it more convenient for tourists heading to the mountain. It is believed that traveling to Mt. Fuji will become increasingly easy in the future, and admiring its breathtaking scenery will be more accessible than ever.
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