Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station Lounge — Attraction in Narusawa

The Subaru 5th Station, located at an altitude of 2,300 meters, is the most popular starting point for climbing Mount Fuji. It’s not only a launchpad for the epic trek to Japan’s highest peak but also a destination in its own right, offering stunning views and a taste of mountain culture.

Scenic Views and Atmosphere From the moment you arrive, the breathtaking views immediately capture your attention. On clear days, you can see sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscapes, including the majestic Fuji Five Lakes. The thin air and cooler temperatures remind you that you’re already halfway up Japan’s most iconic mountain, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement.

Facilities and Services The Subaru 5th Station is well-equipped with facilities for both climbers and tourists. There are several shops selling everything from climbing gear and souvenirs to snacks and refreshments. A few restaurants offer hot meals, which can be a comforting start or end to your journey. For those who might need a last-minute check on their gear or weather conditions, the station provides information services and even rental equipment.

Cultural Experience Before beginning your ascent, take a moment to visit the Komitake Shrine, located near the station. This small, peaceful shrine adds a spiritual dimension to the experience and serves as a reminder of the cultural significance of Mount Fuji. Many climbers stop here to offer prayers for a safe journey ahead.

Climbing Mount Fuji The Subaru 5th Station marks the start of the Yoshida Trail, the most popular route up Mount Fuji. The trail from here is well-marked and maintained, making it accessible for climbers of various experience levels. However, the climb is still challenging, particularly due to the high altitude and steep ascent. If you’re not planning to summit, you can enjoy a short hike along the trail for beautiful views and a sense of accomplishment.

Crowds and Timing The station can get crowded, especially during the official climbing season (July to early September), so it’s advisable to arrive early. If you’re aiming to see the sunrise from the summit (Goraiko), you’ll likely start your climb in the early afternoon to reach one of the mountain huts by evening. Outside of the climbing season, the station still offers great views, but the facilities might be limited, and climbing is not recommended due to safety concerns.

Conclusion The Subaru 5th Station is more than just a starting point for the Mount Fuji climb; it’s a destination that offers stunning scenery, cultural insights, and the excitement of adventure. Whether you’re there to begin your ascent or simply to take in the views, it’s a memorable stop that captures the essence of Mount Fuji’s allure. Be sure to plan your visit carefully, especially if you’re climbing, to fully appreciate all that this unique location...

Mount Fuji: A Cloudy Adventure

Today, I set out to see the famous Mount Fuji, and it was both exciting and a bit tense. I had high hopes, but I remembered how shy the mountain can be. Last June 2023, I couldn’t see the top because it was hidden in clouds, which was disappointing.

This time, after a long six-hour drive from Tokyo—thanks to terrible traffic on a Saturday—I finally reached the 5th Station. As I got off the car, my heart raced. It was 2 PM, and to my surprise, the mountain’s peak was clear! It was shining under the sun, covered in snow, and looked absolutely stunning.

I felt the cold mountain air on my face, ears, and fingers, refreshing yet chilly. The sunlight made the snow sparkle, and I was in awe of its beauty. But deep down, I worried: Would the clouds come back? Would I lose this amazing view? It was a reminder of how unpredictable nature can be—a nudge to enjoy every moment.

If you plan to visit Mount Fuji, take my advice: avoid driving from Tokyo on Saturdays if possible. The traffic is a nightmare! But when I finally reached the mountain, it was worth every minute of waiting. I took plenty of photos of Fuji’s incredible sight, feeling a connection to the mountain and understanding its shy nature.

Ultimately, my trip to Mount Fuji was more than just a visit; it was a mix of patience, excitement, and the joy of seeing one of nature’s most beautiful sights. Looking back, every struggle was worth it for that breathtaking view of the mountain in...

Nice place. It is the base for starting the trek on the Yoshida trail. One cannot litter here, and there are no trash cans so you need to take your trash back. Toilets are clean. Reasonable food options. The Mt. Fuji shaped cake is a must try. Lots of souvenirs so bring your money. Rental of trekking gear is available (expensive but available) do buy a stick here that you can get stamped on the way to summit of my fuji at different stations. Each stamp will cast you between 200 - 500 yen. You can send a post card anywhere in the world from here. One of the souvenirs is a Mt Fuji coin that can be personalised (for 30 yen extra) with your or your loved ones name ....or any thing else that you may think of. Tickets are only required if you plan to go on the trek. The last bus out is at 6:45 pm somplan your return...