Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the view from the top of Mount Fuji has to be seen to be believed. While it can get very busy, this will probably be your most memorable experience in Japan. It’s not too pricy to get there and the route up is easy to understand but challenging.
It can be very very cold at the top, so bring a jumper/coat for the top. To the top and back takes between 8 to 11 hours.
Budget travel tips
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Don’t take the slower and more expensive train from Tokyo, take the bus.
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Bring plenty of food and water with you on the hike. It can get very hot and drinks cost as much as 500 yen on up the mountain!
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Get a bus that arrives in the evening. Then you can enjoy the sunrise and save on booking a room for the night.
How to get there
The cheapest and fastest way is to get a highway bus from near Shinjuku station, at the Shinjuku Bus Terminal. You must reserve in advance. The tickets cost 2600 yen (discounts may be given if you book more than a month ahead)
From the end of the line (Mt. Fuji Fifth Station), take the Yoshida trail to the top.
Information
Hiking season: July 1st to September 1st
Cost: Free
Map
Hostels and Cheap Hotels
K’s House Mt.Fuji
K’s House has a load of hostels all over Japan, so expect good service and reasonable rooms. Check prices at Booking.com
Mt. Fuji Hostel Michael’s
A friendly little guesthouse with dorms and traditional Japanese rooms. Check prices at Booking.com.
Compare prices at Booking.com
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Volunteer Guides
Yamanashi Systematized Goodwill Guide
Get more with my new budget travel book!
Perfect for backpackers, budget travelers, families on a tight budget, students and those who are new to Japan.
Links
Yamanashi – Home of Fujisan
Super Cheap Japan 
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