The Fifth Station is the closest most visitors ever get to the upper slopes of Mount Fuji, and it is the main starting point for climbers on the Yoshida Trail. Roughly halfway up in terms of effort rather than height, it sits at around 2,300 metres on a plateau reached by the Fuji Subaru Line toll road from Lake Kawaguchiko. The air is thinner and noticeably colder than at the lake, the vegetation thins to scrubby pine and volcanic scree, and on a clear day you can look down on a sea of clouds with the Fuji Five Lakes far below. The station itself is a small complex of shops, restaurants and rest areas, with souvenirs, hot drinks and a shrine, and it is busy with hikers in the climbing season and with sightseers the rest of the year. Standing there makes the scale of the volcano real in a way that views from the lakes never quite do.
Access and seasons
The road is the key constraint. The Subaru Line is normally closed in winter when snow and ice make it unsafe, and it can close at short notice for weather or road conditions at other times, so a Fifth Station stop is never guaranteed. In the busiest climbing weeks, access for private cars is often restricted and visitors are directed to shuttle buses, and the same is true of some autumn and spring periods when conditions are tricky.
That is why many people reach it on a day tour from Tokyo, such as the Mount Fuji 5th Station, Arakurayama and Oshino Hakkai itinerary linked here, which handles transport and checks road status on the day.
Always confirm with the operator which Fifth Station is included, as there are several on different trails.\n\nWhat to do there: most visitors spend an hour or so. Walk the short paths around the plateau for views of the cone above and the clouds below, try a hot drink or a bowl of noodles in the restaurants, visit the small shrine at the edge of the complex and browse the souvenir shops, which sell climbing-themed gifts and local sweets.
Some people walk a little way along the start of the Yoshida Trail simply to feel the volcanic ground underfoot, but do not attempt to climb beyond the start without proper equipment, because conditions above can change quickly and the summit is a serious mountain outside the regular climbing season.\n\nHealth and clothing: altitude catches some visitors out, so move slowly, drink water, and do not rush if you feel dizzy or breathless. Temperatures can be 10 to 15 degrees cooler than at the lake, and wind makes it feel colder still, so bring a warm jacket, a hat and gloves outside summer.
Sunscreen and sunglasses matter, since the light at altitude is strong. Families with young children and older travellers should be comfortable with the cold and the thin air, but the paved areas around the station are manageable. Because cloud often builds by midday, go as early as you can for the best chance of a view, and be flexible, as a misty Fifth Station can still be atmospheric.
If you are planning to climb later in the season, the visit makes a useful scouting trip for the trail, the huts and the first stretch of the path.
What to expect
The experience
A drive up the Fuji Subaru Line to a plateau of shops, restaurants and viewpoints at around 2,300 metres, usually as part of a guided day tour.
Best time
Clear mornings outside winter; the road is seasonal and can close for snow, ice or weather.
How long
About an hour or two at the station itself, plus the drive up and down.
Tips
Wear warm layers, go slowly at altitude and confirm that the road is open before you plan around it.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want to get as high on Mount Fuji as possible without climbing.
- Families
- Fine for children who cope with cold and thin air, with paved areas and cafes at the station.
- Couples
- A dramatic above-the-clouds viewpoint on a clear morning.
- Pair with
- Oshino Hakkai, Chureito Pagoda and Lake Kawaguchiko.
- Time needed
- A half day with the drive, or a full day on a tour.
Good questions
How high is the Fifth Station?+
The Kawaguchiko Fifth Station sits at roughly 2,300 metres, around the middle of the Yoshida Trail in effort terms. It is much colder than the lake below.
Is the Fifth Station always open?+
No. The road is usually closed in winter and can shut for snow, ice or poor weather at other times, so confirm access on the day. A tour operator normally checks this for you.
Can I climb Mount Fuji from here?+
Yes, the Yoshida Trail begins here, but climbing is only advised in the summer season when the trail and huts are open. Outside that period the upper slopes are dangerous.
How do I get there without a tour?+
Buses run from Kawaguchiko station in the open season, and private cars may be restricted at busy times. Check the current access rules before you travel.
What should I wear?+
Warm layers, a windproof jacket, a hat and sturdy shoes, even in summer. Temperatures are far lower than at lake level.
