Complete Guide to Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station and Mt. Fuji Skyline
Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station is one of the main climbing routes to Mt. Fuji from the Shizuoka Prefecture side, and is a spectacular viewpoint at an elevation of 2,400m accessible via the Mt. Fuji Skyline. This article provides detailed explanations of the charm, access methods, tourist information, and climbing routes of Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station and Mt. Fuji Skyline.
What is Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station?
Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station is located at approximately 2,400m elevation on the south side of Mt. Fuji in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture. As the highest elevation among Mt. Fuji’s 5th stations and offering the shortest distance to the summit, it is chosen by many climbers.
Characteristics of Fujinomiya 5th Station
- Elevation: Approximately 2,400m (highest point among Mt. Fuji’s 5th stations)
- Distance to summit: Approximately 4.2km (shortest route)
- Location: Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture
- Operating period: Normally early July to early September (climbing season)
- Facilities: Rest house, shops, toilets, first aid station
Compared to other climbing routes, Fujinomiya has high elevation, so attention to altitude sickness risk is necessary, but it has the advantage of less elevation gain to the summit.
About Mt. Fuji Skyline
Mt. Fuji Skyline is a scenic toll road approximately 29km long running along the south foothills of Mt. Fuji in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture. It plays an important role as the access road to Fujinomiya 5th Station.
Basic Information about Mt. Fuji Skyline
- Total length: Approximately 29km
- Starting point: Kitayama, Fujinomiya City (elevation approximately 500m)
- End point: Fujinomiya 5th Station (elevation approximately 2,400m)
- Toll: Free
- Road width: 2-lane paved road
- Number of curves: Over 100 locations
Traffic Regulations
Mt. Fuji Skyline has traffic restrictions depending on the season and time of day.
Private Vehicle Restriction Period
- Period: Normally mid-July to early September
- Time: Between 2nd Station Mizugashio Parking Area and 5th Station
- Target: General vehicles (buses and taxis excluded)
- Alternative: Shuttle bus service
Winter Closure
- Period: Normally late November to late April
- Section: 2nd Station and above
- Reason: Safety assurance due to snow and frost
Nighttime Traffic Restrictions
- Even outside the private vehicle restriction period, nighttime traffic may be stopped
- Time: 20:00 to 5:00 the next morning (varies by period)
Access Methods
By Private Vehicle
From Tokyo area
- Tomei Expressway → Shin-Tomei Expressway
- Exit at Shin-Fuji IC
- Head north on National Route 139
- Reach Mt. Fuji Skyline entrance (Approximately 2.5 hours)
From Nagoya area
- Tomei Expressway
- Exit at Fuji IC or Shin-Fuji IC
- Via National Route 139 to Mt. Fuji Skyline entrance (Approximately 3 hours)
During Private Vehicle Restriction Period
- Park at Mizugashio Parking Area (elevation approximately 1,450m)
- Take shuttle bus to 5th Station (Approximately 30 minutes)
- Parking fee: 1,000 yen/day for regular vehicles
- Shuttle bus fare: Approximately 2,000 yen round trip
By Public Transportation
Climbing Season (July to September)
- From JR Fujinomiya Station
- Fuji Kyuko Shizuoka Bus “Fujinomiya 5th Station bound”
- Travel time: Approximately 2 hours 10 minutes
- Fare: 2,380 yen one way, 4,400 yen round trip
- Service: Approximately 3-5 buses daily
- From JR Mishima Station
- Fuji Kyuko City Bus “Fujinomiya 5th Station bound”
- Travel time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
- Fare: 2,480 yen one way
- From Shinkansen Shin-Fuji Station
- Fuji Kyuko Shizuoka Bus (via Fujinomiya Station)
- Travel time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
Off-season
- Direct buses to 5th Station suspended
- Taxi charter (approximately 15,000-20,000 yen from Fujinomiya Station)
- Rental car use (except during winter closure period)
Taxi and Sightseeing Tours
Taxi
- From Fujinomiya Station to 5th Station: approximately 15,000-20,000 yen one way
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour
- Reservations recommended (especially early morning/late night)
Sightseeing Tours
- From Tokyo: Day trip tours 8,000-15,000 yen
- From Shizuoka: Day trip tours 5,000-10,000 yen
- Climbing tours: With guide 20,000 yen and up
Facilities and Services at Fujinomiya 5th Station
Rest Houses and Rest Facilities
Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station Rest House
- Operating hours: 7:00-18:00 approximately (during season)
- Equipment: Dining hall, shops, rest areas
- Capacity: Approximately 200 people
Main Facilities
- Dining hall/Restaurant
- Shops (climbing equipment, souvenirs)
- Rest areas (free)
- Toilets (paid 200 yen)
- First aid station
- Climbing information center
Cuisine and Dining
Recommended Menu Items
- Fujinomiya yakisoba: 800-1,000 yen
- Curry rice: 900-1,200 yen
- Udon/soba: 700-1,000 yen
- Pork soup: 500-700 yen
- Hot beverages: 300-500 yen
Due to the high elevation, warming meals are recommended. Also, don’t forget water intake for altitude sickness prevention.
Souvenirs and Shopping
Popular Souvenirs
- Mt. Fuji goods (keychains, T-shirts)
- Kongō staffs (for climbing commemorative branding): 1,000 yen and up
- Mt. Fuji spring water
- Shizuoka tea
- Fujinomiya yakisoba (souvenir version)
- Climbing badges: 500-800 yen
Climbing Equipment
- Work gloves, hand protection
- Headlights
- Rainwear
- Oxygen cans: 500-1,000 yen
- Snacks, water
Fujinomiya Route Climbing Information
Route Characteristics
Fujinomiya has the following characteristics among Mt. Fuji’s four main climbing routes:
Advantages
- Highest elevation 5th station (2,400m)
- Shortest distance to summit (approximately 4.2km)
- Same route for ascent and descent (less likely to get lost)
- Direct arrival at Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya summit
Disadvantages
- Less elevation gain increases altitude sickness risk
- Many steep slopes
- Same route for ascent and descent causes crowding
- Many rocky areas requiring foot care
Climbing Schedule
Day Hike (advanced climbers)
- 05:00 Depart 5th Station
- 09:00-10:00 Arrive at summit
- 10:00-11:00 Summit exploration
- 11:00 Begin descent
- 14:00-15:00 Return to 5th Station
One Night Two Days (recommended)
*Day 1*
- 12:00 Depart 5th Station
- 13:00 Pass new 6th Station
- 15:00 Pass original 7th Station
- 17:00-18:00 Arrive at 8th Station mountain lodge, stay overnight
*Day 2*
- 02:00 Depart mountain lodge (sunrise climbing)
- 05:00-06:00 Arrive at summit, watch sunrise
- 07:00 Begin descent
- 10:00-11:00 Return to 5th Station
Main Points and Mountain Lodges
6th Station (elevation 2,490m)
- Unzoukai
- Hougyoku-sanso
- Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes from 5th Station
New 7th Station (elevation 2,780m)
- Goraikou-sanso
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour from 6th Station
Original 7th Station (elevation 3,010m)
- Yamaguchi-sanso
- Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes from New 7th Station
8th Station (elevation 3,250m)
- Ikeda-kan
- Travel time: Approximately 1 hour from Original 7th Station
9th Station (elevation 3,460m)
- Mannen-yuki-sanso
- Travel time: Approximately 50 minutes from 8th Station
9.5th Station (elevation 3,590m)
- Mune-tsuki-sanso
- Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes from 9th Station
Summit (elevation 3,776m)
- Mt. Fuji Hongu Sengen Shrine Innermost Shrine
- Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes from 9.5th Station
Climbing Precautions
Altitude Sickness Prevention
- Rest for at least 1 hour at 5th Station for altitude acclimatization
- Climb at a slow pace
- Practice deep breathing
- Replenish water regularly (2-3 liters per day)
- If symptoms occur, descend without forcing
Equipment Checklist
- Climbing boots (trekking shoes)
- Rainwear top and bottom (doubles as cold weather wear)
- Cold weather gear (fleece, down)
- Hat, gloves
- Headlight (with spare batteries)
- Drinking water (2-3 liters)
- Trail snacks
- Sunscreen, sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Portable toilet
- Map, compass
- Mobile phone, mobile battery
Weather Conditions
- Average temperature at summit: 5-10°C even in summer
- Watch for sudden weather changes
- Lightning danger (especially in afternoon)
- Consider canceling in strong winds
Sightseeing Spots and Attractions
Around Fujinomiya 5th Station
Houei Crater
- Approximately 1 hour walk from 5th Station
- Crater formed by the 1707 Houei eruption
- Approximately 1km diameter, 200m depth, spectacular
- Popular as a hiking course
Futatsu-tsuka
- Scenic viewpoint along Mt. Fuji Skyline
- Elevation approximately 1,900m
- Full view of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay
Mizugashio Park
- Elevation approximately 1,450m
- Parking area during private vehicle restrictions
- Mt. Fuji view spot
- Walking paths, observation deck
Scenic Viewpoints
Sunrise (Goraikou)
- Sunrise from the summit is spectacular
- Season: July-August approximately 4:30-5:00am
- Stay at 8th Station or above, early morning ascent
Sea of Clouds
- Clouds viewed from 5th Station and above
- Particularly beautiful early morning or evening
- Appears on good weather days
Kage Fuji (Shadow of Fuji)
- Mt. Fuji’s shadow projected westward after sunrise
- Observable on clear summer days
- Best viewed from the summit
Suruga Bay View
- Southern view from 5th Station
- On clear days can see Izu Peninsula and Southern Alps
- Nightscape also beautiful
Nearby Tourist Facilities
Mt. Fuji Hongu Sengen Shrine
- Located in Fujinomiya city center
- Center of Mt. Fuji worship
- UNESCO World Heritage component asset
- Gyokutama Pond is a national special natural monument
Shiraito Falls
- Approximately 30 minutes by car from Fujinomiya city center
- Spectacular 20m high, 150m wide waterfall
- UNESCO World Heritage component asset
- Parking, walking paths available
Makai no Bokujo (Makai Farm)
- Sightseeing farm on Mt. Fuji foothills
- Animal interaction experience
- Cheese and butter making experience
- Popular with families
Lake Tanuki
- Located on Mt. Fuji’s west side
- Camping area, fishing grounds
- Upside-down Mt. Fuji photography spot
- “Diamond Fuji” in spring and fall
Seasonal Enjoyment Methods
Summer (July to September)
Climbing Season
- Fujinomiya 5th Station opening period
- Mountain lodges, first aid stations operate
- Sunrise climbing possible
- Alpine plant observation
Events
- Mt. Fuji Yamayake (July 10th)
- Mt. Fuji Climbing Race (late July)
Precautions
- Crowding peaks (Obon period)
- Watch for afternoon thunderstorms
- Sunscreen essential
Fall (October to November)
Autumn Foliage
- Foliage along Mt. Fuji Skyline
- Peak viewing: mid-October to early November
- Extended viewing period due to elevation differences
First Snow
- Late September to early October
- Snow-capped Mt. Fuji
- Perfect for photography
Precautions
- 5th Station access road passable (weather dependent)
- Cold temperatures, dress warmly
- Winter closure begins late November
Winter (December to March)
Winter Closure
- Mt. Fuji Skyline 2nd Station and above closed
- 5th Station access impossible
- Snow and frost conditions
Enjoyment Methods
- View snow-covered Mt. Fuji from foothills
- Sightseeing in Fujinomiya city center
- Hot spring tours
Spring (April to June)
Opening
- Mt. Fuji Skyline opens late April to early May
- Snow-covered Mt. Fuji
- Season of new greenery
Events
- Mt. Fuji Opening Eve Festival (late June)
- Safety prayer ceremony
Precautions
- Climbing routes still closed
- Tourism to 5th Station only
- Cold mornings and evenings
Photography Spots
Recommended Photography Points
In front of 5th Station Rest House
- Upward view of Mt. Fuji summit
- Climbers and Mt. Fuji
- Sunrise, sunset
Houei Crater
- Crater and summit combination
- Wide-angle lens recommended
- Morning direct light is best
Along Mt. Fuji Skyline
- Futatsu-tsuka observation deck
- Mt. Fuji from curves
- Sea of clouds and Mt. Fuji
Summit
- Sunrise
- Shadow of Fuji
- Crater and Kendake Peak
- 360-degree panorama
Photography Tips
Time of Day
- Early morning: Sunrise, shadow of Fuji, sea of clouds
- Morning: Clear Mt. Fuji in direct light
- Evening: Mt. Fuji tinted in sunset
- Night: Starry sky and Mt. Fuji (up to 5th Station)
Weather Conditions
- Clear: Blue sky and Mt. Fuji contrast
- Sea of clouds: Dreamlike atmosphere
- Snow: Pure white Mt. Fuji
Equipment
- Wide-angle lens: Magnificent scenery
- Telephoto lens: Summit details
- Tripod: Night views, sunrise
- ND filter: Daytime long exposure
Information for Safe Climbing
Climbing Registration
Submission Methods
- Online: Shizuoka Prefectural Police website
- Mail/FAX: Shizuoka Prefectural Police Mountain Rescue Team
- On-site: 5th Station climbing information center
- App: “Compass” and others
Information to Record
- Climber name, contact information
- Climbing dates, route
- Emergency contact
- Equipment details
Emergency Response
First Aid Station
- Fujinomiya 5th Station First Aid Station
- Operating period: Early July to early September
- Hours: 24 hours (during mountain lodge operating period)
Emergency Numbers
- 110: Police (rescue request)
- Fujinomiya Police Station: 0544-23-0110
- Shizuoka Prefectural Police Mountain Rescue Team: 054-251-0110
Accident Prevention
- Watch for sudden weather changes
- Stay on marked trails
- Avoid solo climbing
- Don’t attempt overly ambitious plans
- Complete descent before dark
Environmental Conservation and Etiquette
Trash Pack Out
- No trash bins at 5th Station
- Take all trash with you
- Portable toilet use recommended
Trail Maintenance
- Don’t leave marked trails
- Don’t cause rockfall
- Don’t harvest plants
Toilets
- 5th Station: 200 yen
- Mountain lodges: 200-300 yen
- Portable toilet recommended
Mt. Fuji Conservation Cooperation Fee
- Amount: 1,000 yen (voluntary)
- Use: Trail maintenance, environmental conservation, safety measures
- Commemoration: Wooden token, can badge
Accommodation Information
Mountain Lodges
Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya has numerous mountain lodges with advance reservations recommended.
Price Range
- Room only: 6,000-8,000 yen
- 1 night, 2 meals: 9,000-12,000 yen
- Rest: 1,000-2,000 yen (2-3 hours)
Reservation Methods
- Phone reservations (directly to each lodge)
- Internet reservations (some lodges)
- Reservation opening: April-May
Mountain Lodge Facilities
- Beds: Shared rooms (approximately 1 tatami per person)
- Meals: Curry, boxed meals, etc.
- Toilets: Paid (200-300 yen)
- Power: None (some paid)
Foothills Accommodations
Fujinomiya City Area
- Business hotels: 5,000-10,000 yen
- Traditional inns: 8,000-20,000 yen
- Guesthouses: 6,000-12,000 yen
Recommended Areas
- Near JR Fujinomiya Station: Convenient access
- Near Shiraito Falls: Natural setting
- Asagi Highland: Resort atmosphere
Fujinomiya Cuisine
Fujinomiya Yakisoba
Fujinomiya’s local specialty cuisine, famous nationwide.
Characteristics
- Chewy noodles
- Nikukasu (crispy fried pork fat)
- Sardine powder
- Uses lard
Recommended Restaurants
- Omiya Yokocho (near Mt. Fuji Hongu Sengen Shrine)
- Nijiya
- Sugimoto
- Koko-zura-yo
Other Cuisine
Char Cooking
- Rainbow trout raised in Mt. Fuji spring water
- Salt grilled, fried, sashimi
Fujinomiya Milk
- Fresh milk from Asagi Highland
- Soft serve ice cream, cheese
Mt. Fuji Spring Water
- Kakitagawa spring group
- Shiraito Falls
- Gyokutama Pond
Annual Events
Mt. Fuji Yamayake Opening (July 10th)
Traditional event celebrating Fujinomiya route opening.
- Religious ceremony at Mt. Fuji Hongu Sengen Shrine
- Opening festival at 5th Station
- Climbing safety prayer
Mt. Fuji Climbing Race (late July)
Overview
- Mountain race from Fujiyoshida City to Mt. Fuji summit
- Participants: Approximately 3,000 people
- Distance: 21km, elevation gain 3,000m
Mt. Fuji Closing (September 10th)
Event marking end of climbing season.
- Thanksgiving ceremony
- Trail safety prayer
- Mountain lodges close sequentially from next day
Summary
Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station and Mt. Fuji Skyline are the perfect base for enjoying Mt. Fuji from Shizuoka Prefecture’s side. From the 2,400m 5th Station, you can enjoy majestic Mt. Fuji views and spectacular Suruga Bay scenery, making it appealing as both a climbing starting point and tourist destination.
Benefits of Choosing Fujinomiya Route
- Shortest route to summit
- Comprehensive facilities and services
- Free Mt. Fuji Skyline
- Abundant nearby sightseeing spots
Visiting Tips
- Confirm private vehicle restrictions
- Prepare weather information and equipment
- Plan for altitude sickness
- Cooperate with environmental conservation
Whether planning Mt. Fuji climbs or enjoying 5th Station tourism, Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station provides unforgettable experiences. Please experience seasonal changes in Mt. Fuji from Shizuoka Prefecture’s side.
Planning Tips
- Check weather forecast in advance
- Verify traffic regulation information
- Create flexible schedule
- Remember to submit climbing registration
- Consider insurance
Enjoy wonderful times at Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station.