Tokyo to Mt. Fuji (Lake Kawaguchiko) by bus: fares, stops and booking (2026)
The highway bus is the cheapest direct way from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko, the most popular base for viewing Mt. Fuji. Tickets often sell out on weekends, so book early.
Data checked November 7, 2026. Fares change by date and season; confirm on the booking site before you buy.
Quick facts
| Fare | ¥2,200 adult one way, Shinjuku → Kawaguchiko (sometimes ¥2,000 online) |
|---|---|
| Travel time | About 1 hour 45 minutes, no rest stop |
| Departs from | Busta Shinjuku 4th floor (arrivals on 3rd floor); also buses from Tokyo Station |
| Sales open | One month ahead, on the same date of the previous month |
Compare the options
| Operator / route | From | To | Time | Fare (guide) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keio Bus Since 1 October 2026, booked on Highway Bus.com. | Busta Shinjuku 4th floor | Fuji-Q Highland, Kawaguchiko Station | About 1 hour 45 minutes | ¥2,200 |
| Fujikyu Since 1 October 2026, booked on Fujiyama Connect. Highway Bus.com still lists these buses but hands you over to that site. | Busta Shinjuku 4th floor | Fuji-Q Highland, Kawaguchiko Station, Fujisan Station | About 1 hour 45 minutes | ¥2,200 |
| From Tokyo Station Handy if you stay near Tokyo Station instead of Shinjuku. Book on Japan Bus Online. | Yaesu side bus terminal, Tokyo Station | Kawaguchiko Station, Fujisan Station | About 2 hours or more depending on traffic | See the booking site |
How to book
- Sales open one month ahead: to travel on 15 December, you can book from 15 November.
- Check which company runs your bus: Keio books on Highway Bus.com, Fujikyu on Fujiyama Connect.
- Book the return too: Sunday afternoon and autumn foliage season buses back to Tokyo often sell out.
- At Busta Shinjuku (opposite Shinjuku Station South Exit), go to the 4th floor and check the board for your gate. Boarding starts about 10 minutes before departure.
Common mistakes
- Wrong site: a Highway Bus.com booking cannot be moved onto a Fujikyu bus. Switching sites counts as cancelling and rebuying, with fees.
- Cancellation fees depend on the booking site: Highway Bus.com charges ¥100 up to two days before, then 50% from the day before. Fujiyama Connect has its own terms and may add fees for convenience-store payment. Read the cancellation terms before paying.
- No rest stop on the way: use the toilet before boarding (many buses have one on board).
- Leaving Tokyo, choose a seat on the left side for a chance to see Mt. Fuji through the window on clear days.
Compared with the train
The Fuji Excursion train runs directly from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko with more reliable timing, but costs about twice as much (around ¥4,000 or more).
You need data on the road
E-tickets, booking numbers and the map to your stop all live on your phone. Being online from the moment you land helps you find the right stop, track delays and change tickets when needed.
FAQ
How much is the bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko?
¥2,200 per adult one way; some online bookings show ¥2,000. It takes about 1 hour 45 minutes.
Where do I book the Kawaguchiko bus?
Since 1 October 2026, Keio buses are booked on Highway Bus.com and Fujikyu buses on Fujiyama Connect. Sales open one month ahead.
Can I buy a ticket at the terminal?
You can buy at the Busta Shinjuku counter if seats remain, but weekends and peak seasons often sell out. Book online in advance.