Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Lookout · Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

The ropeway from Kawaguchi shore to the top of Mount Tenjo, with a lookout over the lake and Fuji and the tale of the badger and the rabbit.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

A look at the place

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway in pictures

These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.

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Fujikawaguchiko
Fujikawaguchiko
Cabin of the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway next to the station.
Cabin of the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway next to the station.
Cabin entrance next to the boarding platform.
Cabin entrance next to the boarding platform.
Lake Kawaguchi seen from inside the ropeway cabin.
Lake Kawaguchi seen from inside the ropeway cabin.
Cables, roof and stairs at the ropeway’s upper station.
Cables, roof and stairs at the ropeway’s upper station.

Discover

About Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway rises from the east shore of Lake Kawaguchi to Mount Tenjo in a ride of about 3 minutes. The upper station, Fujimidai, sits at roughly 1,075 meters elevation, about 400 meters above the lake, a few minutes’ walk from Kawaguchiko Station.

From the summit viewpoint you see, on one side, Lake Kawaguchi and the town and, on the other, the cone of Fuji, without the lake in front, showing the entire north slope. On clear days the Southern Alps appear on the horizon. There are terraces, a small seating area and swings facing the mountain.

The ropeway is nicknamed Kachi Kachi Yama, after a popular folktale in which a rabbit takes revenge on a badger who tricked an old woman. The tale is said to have taken place on this mountain, and the viewpoint has statues of the characters and a small rabbit shrine where visitors make wishes.

From the top a trail follows the ridge of Mount Tenjo to Mitsutoge Pass, a multi-hour hike for those who want to walk through forest with Fuji views. Alternatively, you can walk down to the lake via a trail of about 40 minutes instead of taking the ropeway. The path passes a pine and maple wood and ends near the pleasure-boat pier, allowing you to combine the descent with a lake cruise.

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Before you go

Practical information

Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.

How much time to set aside

About 45 minutes to 1 hour, including ascent, the viewpoint and descent.

Best time

Early morning, when Fuji is usually most visible, especially from November to February. On weekends and holidays there can be lines for the ropeway. Operation may be suspended in strong wind: check before you go.

How to get there

The lower station is on the east shore of the lake, about a 15-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station. The circular tourist buses stop in front.

Tip

Ride up as soon as the ropeway opens, before clouds and queues form. If the day is overcast, save the ascent for another morning: the view is the reason to go.

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Get your questions answered

Frequently asked questions about Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

How long is the Kawaguchi ropeway ride?

About a 3-minute ascent to Fujimidai Station, at around 1,075 meters elevation.

What can you see from the Kachi-Kachi ropeway?

Lake Kawaguchi, the town and, across from them, the Fuji cone and the entire northern slope when there are no clouds.

Can you walk down Mount Tenjo?

Yes, by a trail of about 40 minutes down to the lake shore.

How to get to the Kawaguchi ropeway?

On foot, about 15 minutes from Kawaguchiko Station, or by the circular sightseeing buses.

Where does the name Kachi Kachi Yama come from?

From a Japanese folktale in which a rabbit punishes a badger. The tale is said to take place on Mount Tenjo, and the viewpoint has statues of the characters.

More to see in Fujikawaguchiko

Beyond the guide