Gotemba Premium Outlets is one of the largest outlet centres in Japan, built in an open-air village style on the edge of Gotemba with Mount Fuji as a backdrop on clear days. It brings together Japanese and international fashion, sports and homeware brands at outlet prices, plus food courts and restaurants, and its location between Tokyo and Hakone makes it a practical stop on many itineraries. Visitors often pair it with Fuji viewpoints, Hakone sightseeing or a day tour from Tokyo that includes a shopping break. The outlet is easy to reach by direct buses from Tokyo and Shinjuku and by shuttle from Gotemba station, and some Mount Fuji day tours build in an hour or two here. The shopping village is pleasant to walk, with shaded paths and cafes, though weekends and Japanese holidays can be very crowded. Many shops offer tax-free shopping for tourists, so bring your passport.
Planning: set a clear shopping list and head to your target brands first, because the best sizes go early. Arrive at opening time to beat the crowds and the queues, and allow at least three hours for a serious visit, more if you eat there. Tourist information counters inside can provide maps and coupon information, and food courts have both Japanese and international options.\n\nLogistics: direct highway buses run from Tokyo and Shinjuku, with travel times of roughly ninety minutes to two hours depending on traffic, and from Gotemba station there are frequent shuttle buses. If you are travelling with a Hakone itinerary, check onward bus times in advance. Luggage storage lockers are available, which helps if you are checking out of a hotel the same day.\n\nMaking the most: pair a morning at Gotemba with an afternoon in Hakone, or add it to a Fuji day trip as the shopping stop. Remember that Fuji can hide behind cloud, so do not count on a view. Families should note that stores close at fixed times, and the long walking routes can be tiring for small children, so pack a stroller or baby carrier. Check the official outlet calendar for any closure days before you plan a special trip.
What to expect
The experience
A large open-air outlet village with Japanese and international brands, restaurants and food courts.
Best time
Weekdays and opening hour for lighter crowds; weekends and holidays are crowded.
How long
Three to four hours for a focused visit.
Tips
Bring your passport for tax-free shopping, a shopping list and comfortable shoes.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Shoppers who want outlet prices on the way between Tokyo and Hakone.
- Families
- Kid-friendly dining and wide walkways, but long days can be tiring.
- Couples
- A relaxed couples shopping stop with Fuji views on clear days.
- Pair with
- Hakone Free Pass loop, Mount Fuji day tour and Chureito Pagoda.
- Time needed
- Three to four hours.
Good questions
How do I get to Gotemba Premium Outlets?+
Direct buses run from Tokyo and Shinjuku, and shuttle buses link the outlets with Gotemba station. Travel times vary with traffic.
Is tax-free shopping available?+
Many shops offer tax-free purchases for tourists, so bring your passport. Policies vary by shop.
Can I see Mount Fuji from the outlets?+
On clear days, yes, the mountain rises behind the village. Cloud often hides it by midday.
How long should I spend there?+
Plan three to four hours for a focused shopping trip. Longer if you also want a meal and cafe stop.
Is it included in Mount Fuji day tours?+
Some Fuji and Hakone day tours include a shopping stop here. Check the itinerary before you book.
