Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station — Attraction in Narusawa

We, a group of 15 Malaysian hikers, rolled into Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station (2,305m) by bus from Kawaguchiko Station on 3 August 2025 at 9:15 am.

The ride took about an hour, smooth and scenic, with the mountains slowly revealing themselves as we got closer. I tucked my return ticket safely in my bag, already knowing it would feel very different holding it again after the climb.

This spot is the highest point on Mt. Fuji you can reach by car or bus, and stepping off the bus, I couldn’t help but feel thankful for that convenience. At the same time, I thought about the old pilgrims who used to start at the very base, walking for days before even reaching this altitude. Their journey was not just physical—it was spiritual. That thought instantly gave the place a sense of weight and meaning.

A Place with History and Spirit

In the past, climbers followed the “stations” (gōme) marked along the pilgrimage route. The 5th Station only became a major hub after the Subaru Line road opened in 1964, bringing thousands of modern hikers here every summer.

Yet, even with the convenience of buses and shops, the Komitake Shrine nearby still whispers of older times, when people came here to purify themselves and pray before heading into the clouds.

First Impressions – A Village in the Clouds

The atmosphere at Station 5 was unlike anywhere else—a small mountain village buzzing with energy. Shops sold everything from hiking gear to keychains, steaming bowls of curry rice, and hot noodles. Tourists were snapping photos against the sea of clouds, while serious hikers were sorting out their packs and lacing up their boots. Yes, it was crowded, even a bit too commercial at times, but the excitement in the air was contagious.

Like many others, I joined the tradition of picking up a wooden hiking stick, attaching a small flag, and stamping it for the first time. Holding it in my hands felt more than symbolic—it was as if I was carrying a piece of history with me, one that would collect the story of this climb, step by step.

Gearing Up for the Ascent

We spent about an hour at the station, partly to adjust to the thinner air and partly to take it all in. Our Ohana guides gathered us for a safety briefing, walking us through the Yoshida Trail and sharing tips for pacing, resting, and staying safe. I downloaded the official Fuji hiking app, which turned out to be surprisingly handy for tracking progress and checking our altitude.

Each of us also received a small wooden souvenir with a stamp and a green wristband—practical tokens that doubled as reminders of the journey we were about to begin. The wristband was especially important, as we had to show it at the main gate before stepping onto the trail.

Reflections at the Gateway

Standing at 5th Station felt like standing at a crossroads. Behind us was the comfort of shops, food, and the crowd’s noise. Ahead lay the silence of the mountain, the challenge of thin air, and the uncertainty of the path. The moment was both ordinary and profound—just another stop for some, but for us, it was the gateway to something greater.

After final checks, quick encouragements, and a few nervous smiles, we showed our wristbands and walked past the gate. The climb had officially begun.

Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station is more than a rest stop—it’s where adventure, history, and spirituality meet. A little touristy, yes, but also unforgettable. The perfect threshold before stepping onto Japan’s most...

We visited the fifth station as part of an organized tour. The tour included many uninteresting places - some nondescript lakes and tourist villages. But this place is truly impressive. Fuji is omnipresent - you see it from everywhere. Some Japanese worship Fuji as a deity, and now I understand where this veneration comes from. We visited Japan in the hot season, but at the fifth station it was cool - "ringing" and clean air. We were above the clouds. The observation deck offers an incredible view. I recommend everyone to repeat our trip to understand the...

Going to this place by bus actually amazing. You can see the top of the Mt. Fuji right along the way to this station. but not everyday Mt. Fuji is visible it depends on the weather and the season. It can covered by cotton candy that you can’t see anything.

Note: few restaurants available in the area. Restroom also available but you need to pay 100 yen. I saw some horses too but I’m not sure if they are for rent. There also a shrine at the back that you can visit. Souvenirs? Lot of souvenirs available from magnet to keychain, tee and food.

Lower your...