Mt.Fuji Climbing Tour with English Guide 2-days

Climbing Japan’s iconic mountain, Mt. Fuji, is a bucket list adventure for many travelers. This 2-day guided tour promises a hassle-free ascent with the comfort of an experienced English-speaking guide and a well-organized itinerary. While it may not be a cheap thrill, it offers a mix of authentic mountain experience, comfort, and cultural engagement that appeals to both first-timers and seasoned hikers alike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size (max 20 people) helps foster a more intimate and supportive environment. Second, the inclusion of meals, hot springs, and convenient accommodations at the 8th station mean you won’t spend extra time or money on essentials. Lastly, the clarity around female-only options and handily coordinated logistics demonstrate thoughtful planning.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviewers felt the facilities at the mountain huts could be better, and the price point is on the higher side relative to the experience. If you’re looking for a guided, comfortable, and well-organized Mt. Fuji climb, this tour is a great pick — especially if you’re okay with the cost to ease the challenge.

Good To Know

Small group support keeps the experience personal and manageable.
All-inclusive meals and hot springs help you relax and recover after the climb.
Guided support ensures safety and local insight, even if some facilities aren’t perfect.
Women-only options make it accessible and comfortable for solo female travelers.
Climb logistics are well-planned, with secure mountain hut reservations at the eighth station.
Timing and transport are coordinated to maximize your summit time and comfort.

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off early from Shinjuku, Tokyo, with a meet-up at 7:10 am and departure at 7:30 am by bus. This is ideal for those staying in Tokyo, as it minimizes travel hassle and allows you to arrive at Mt. Fuji by late morning. The round-trip transportation is included, saving you the stress of navigating public transit or booking separate transport.

The bus ride offers a chance to acclimate and enjoy the scenic journey to the Subaru Line 5th Station, the starting point for most climbers. You’ll find that most travelers appreciate the convenience of being picked up and dropped off directly at the meeting point, especially after a long day or early morning.

Day 1: Arrival at the 5th Station and Mountain Hut

Upon reaching the 5th Station around midday, you’ll have time to eat lunch (included in your tour), change into climbing gear, and stash any non-essential items in lockers. The inclusion of two lunches is a good value, giving you energy for the ascent. The 5th Station itself is a popular viewing spot, often crowded with fellow travelers gearing up for the climb.

Later, you’ll travel to the eighth station, where your mountain hut awaits. This is a crucial part of the experience, as it allows climbers to rest, recover, and prepare for the early morning summit attempt. The hut reservation is secured ahead of time, which is particularly advantageous for reaching the summit comfortably.

Evening at the Mountain Hut

Dinner is served at the mountain hut, providing a warm meal after a long day. The experience has received mixed reviews — some appreciated the convenience and the fact that meal vouchers are included, but others found the facilities less comfortable than desired. One reviewer mentioned that the hut had a plug for charging phones, which is a thoughtful touch. The option for a nap helps conserve energy for the early start, with departure scheduled between 1:30 am and 2:00 am.

Day 2: The Summit and Return

The highlight is the early-morning ascent, designed to catch the sunrise from Japan’s highest point. Departure around 2 am gives climbers a chance to reach the summit by dawn — a truly spectacular moment. Expect a challenging but rewarding climb, with the chance to enjoy breathtaking views and a sense of achievement.

Once at the summit, you’ll have about three hours to soak in the scenery, take photos, and revel in the accomplishment of reaching 3,776 meters. The review from a past participant described the moment as “the sense of achievement from climbing Japan’s highest peak.”

Descent and Hot Springs

After descending to the 5th Station, you’ll have time for some shopping, changing clothes, and relaxing. The tour includes a visit to Fuji-sensui, where you can unwind in open-air hot springs overlooking Mount Fuji — a perfect way to soothe sore muscles. The hot spring experience is highly valued, with one reviewer noting the panoramic view from the bath was a highlight of the trip.

A seafood bowl lunch at the hot springs area completes the recovery experience, making the day both restorative and satisfying.

End of the Tour

The journey wraps up with a return bus to Shinjuku, arriving around 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The smooth logistics and scenic ride back help bring closure to what is undoubtedly a full and memorable adventure.

What We Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable English Guide: Past participants praised guides like “keeping a good easy pace” and providing helpful insights along the way. Their presence makes a difference in navigating the mountain safely and comfortably.

All-Inclusive Meals: The tour includes two lunches, dinner, and breakfast — a rare convenience that means you won’t need to worry about finding food in remote mountain areas. As one reviewer mentioned, the meals were appreciated, though some noted the quality could vary.

Hot Springs and Relaxation: The hot springs offer a well-deserved break with stunning views, helping you unwind after the climb. The fact that face and bath towels are provided free of charge adds to the comfort.

Women-Only Options: For solo female travelers or women’s groups, the tour offers reserved bus seats and mountain hut space. A dedicated women-only rest area at the 5th Station helps make the experience safer and more comfortable for women.

Possible Drawbacks to Consider

Price Point: At $453.90 per person, it’s on the higher end, especially considering some logistical aspects. While the convenience, meals, and support add value, budget travelers might find cheaper alternatives without guides or meals.

Facilities at Mountain Huts: Some reviews suggest that the huts’ amenities could be better, with facilities feeling somewhat basic. If comfort is a priority, this could be a downside.

Location Clarity: One reviewer found the initial meeting point was not as clear as hoped, so arriving early and confirming details is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a guided, supportive ascent without the hassle of organizing transport and accommodations. It’s perfect for those who value comfort, meals, and safety, especially first-timers or solo travelers looking for reassurance. If you’re comfortable with the price and seeking a structured experience, this package offers a good balance of adventure and convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of climbing Mt. Fuji separately? The tour mentions a separate fee of 4,000 yen for the climb, which is not included in the tour price. Be prepared for this additional expense.

How many people are in each group? The tour supports small groups up to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Are there any age restrictions? Yes, for safety reasons, participants should be between 6 and 70 years old.

What’s included in the tour? The package provides meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), hot springs access, face and bath towels, work gloves, and a mineral water bottle. Luggage storage is also available for a fee.

Is there an option for rental mountaineering equipment? Yes, rental gear is offered as an add-on, but advance reservation is necessary.

What happens if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

Climbing Mt. Fuji with this guided tour offers a reliable, well-organized way to tick this iconic peak off your bucket list. The inclusive meals, support from knowledgeable guides, and relaxing hot springs make it ideal for newcomers and those seeking a balanced adventure.

While the facilities may not be luxurious, the convenience and safety features — especially for solo female travelers — make this a solid choice. It’s best suited for those who want a hassle-free experience, appreciate good support, and are willing to invest in comfort and guidance.

If you’re after an authentic climb with the security of expert assistance and extra comforts, this tour might just be your best bet for conquering Japan’s most famous mountain.