Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji seen at sunset in Japan

The 15 Best Ryokans Near Mt Fuji

This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info

Looking for a ryokan stay near Mt Fuji? You’re in the right place!

The area around Mt Fuji is one of our favorite places for a ryokan stay. It just feels right to combine these two iconic experiences! Plus, ryokans are super peaceful, and many of the ones near Mt Fuji offer lovely views from their relaxing onsen baths. 

Whether you’re after a luxurious retreat or a cozy, budget-friendly inn, the Mt Fuji region has plenty of ryokans to choose from. We’ve rounded up the very best options to help you find your perfect stay, so let’s get into it! 

Don’t miss out!

Our Top Choice

This is the ryokan and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!

Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Lake Kawaguchi. It’s the perfect base for Mt. Fuji views, traditional ryokan stays, and relaxing lakeside scenery.

We recommend staying at Rakuyu for a comfortable, authentic ryokan experience without the luxury price tag, complete with peaceful lake and Mt. Fuji views

Kawaguchiko-Tenjoyama-Park-cable-car-with-views-of-Lake-Kawaguchi-Japan 1

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Where to Find the Best Ryokans Around Mt Fuji

Bailey looks at Mt Fuji from Oishi Park on Lake Kawaguchiko Japan
Oishi Park in Fujikawaguchiko
Bailey smiles at the Chureito Pagoda with Mt Fuji in the background Japan
You can easily reach the Chureito Pagoda from Fujiyoshida

For those who haven’t stayed in one before, a ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. Typically, ryokan rooms feature tatami floors and futon bedding, and guests can enjoy hot onsen soaks and kaiseki dinners on site. A kaiseki dinner is a beautifully presented, multi-course meal, and enjoying one is a quintessential part of any ryokan stay! 

Mt Fuji is Japan’s most famous peak, so it comes as no surprise that the surrounding region has a long history of catering to travelers looking for tranquility and mountain views. If you’re planning to stay overnight in the Fuji region, a ryokan stay is the clear choice as far as we’re concerned because ryokans offer so much more than just a bed for the night.

  • Lake Kawaguchi Best for first-time visitors – With incredible Mt. Fuji views and excellent transport links, this area is an ideal starting point for your first trip. Rakuyu is a sleek ryokan with gorgeous modern onsen baths that offer amazing Fuji views.
  • Lake Yamanaka Best for peace and space – This area is quieter and more spacious than Kawaguchi, but it’s still pretty close to a lot of attractions. Ryosha Tsukiakari is a peaceful and affordable ryokan-style hotel.
  • FujiyoshidaBest for sightseeing – Conveniently located between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka, this town is home to the iconic Chureito Pagoda and makes a great base for sightseeing. Kaneyamaen offers a 5-star stay with epic views and amazing kaiseki dinners.
  • FujikawaguchikoBest for a resort-style stay – This charming town sits at the base of Mt Fuji and offers lake access as well as plenty of hiking opportunities. Hotel Asafuji is a beautiful property with one of the best onsens in the entire Fuji area!

Important Tip

Multiple Mt Fuji trips have taught me that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.

The sweet spot for booking Mt Fuji accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.

The Best Ryokans Near Mt Fuji

Lake Kawaguchi

Kawaguchiko-Tenjoyama-Park-cable-car-with-views-of-Lake-Kawaguchi-Japan
The views from the ropeway
Mt Fuji seen on Lake Kawaguchi Japan
You get some of the best views of Mt. Fuji here!

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros

  • Stunning views of Mt Fuji 
  • Wide range of ryokans
  • Well-connected by bus and train
  • Plenty of outdoor activities on offer

Cons

  • Can get crowded, especially during peak seasons and weekends
  • Less of a remote feel compared with smaller lakes

Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko) is the most popular of the Fuji Five Lakes, and it’s easy to see why! The area is well-developed yet still surrounded by stunning natural scenery—in fact, it offers some of the best views of Mt. Fuji in the region, many of which we cover in our guide on the best viewpoints in Mt. Fuji here.

And of course, one of the highlights of staying here is the ryokans. Many properties sit right on the lakeshore or tucked into peaceful streets and offer the traditional ryokan experience, with tatami rooms, futons, and tranquil onsens. In my opinion, soaking in a hot spring bath is the ultimate way to view Mt. Fuji!

There’s also plenty to do in the Kawaguchi area. The lake’s north shore offers postcard-perfect reflections of Mt Fuji on calm days, and you can’t miss the chance to ride on the Mt Fuji Panoramic Ropeway and enjoy those jaw-dropping views. We also love the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum for a fun and quirky local activity!

If you don’t feel like hiring a car, it’s easy to use local buses to explore this area, and Kawaguchiko Station provides connections to the wider region. Staying in Lake Kawaguchi is also a smart choice if you plan to hike Mt Fuji during the climbing season from July to early September because it offers easy access to the trails.

Fuji Onsenji Yumedono ($$$)

Fuji Onsenji Yumedono near Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Fuji Onsenji Yumedono
Fuji Onsenji Yumedono near Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji Japan 1
Photo credit: Fuji Onsenji Yumedono

Fuji Onsenji Yumedono is a luxurious ryokan that offers a truly immersive Japanese experience. It’s nestled near Lake Kawaguchi, and we love its quiet, soothing vibe. It’s not super traditional, but its clean, modern design feels inviting and hard to resist!

Plus, there are still classic ryokan elements like tatami floors, and some rooms and suites even have their own private onsens — bliss. And as if all of that weren’t enough, this place also serves up the most exquisite kaiseki dinners. If you want to do a ryokan stay in style, this is an amazing choice!

We think it’s perfect for a romantic getaway. Prices typically start from ¥90,000 per night ($600 USD) and range up to ¥285,000 for one of the sumptuous villas ($1,900 USD).

Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso ($$$)

Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso near Mt Fuji Japan 1
Photo credit: Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso
Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso

Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso is a high-end ryokan that blends elegance with traditional charm. It definitely feels a bit more traditional than the option we mentioned above, but it still delivers a 5-star stay. It’s the perfect choice for purists who want a true ryokan stay located right near Lake Kawaguchi.

There’s a spacious onsen on site, and some rooms have their own private hot spring baths as well! We also love the peaceful gardens and the fact that you can enjoy a kaiseki dinner in your own tatami dining area. 

Rates typically range from ¥82,500 to ¥112,500 per night for this authentic and luxurious stay ($550 to $750 USD).

Rakuyu ($$)

Rakuyu near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Rakuyu

Rakuyu is a welcoming mid-range ryokan located right on the shore of Lake Kawaguchi. The property offers western-style bedrooms, but it still has traditional Japanese dining areas with tatami flooring. Plus, many rooms provide lovely views of the lake and Mt Fuji, and you won’t have to pay through the nose for it! 

We think that Rakuyu is ideal for couples looking for a comfortable and authentic stay without splurging on a luxury ryokan. It’s not an adults-only hotel, but guests have to be at least 13 years old to ensure a calm and peaceful atmosphere. 

Prices typically range from ¥30,000 to ¥78,750 per night ($200 to $525 USD), depending on your dates and room category.

Kasuitei Ooya ($$)

Kasuitei Ooya near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Kasuitei Ooya

Kasuitei Ooya is a charming mid-range ryokan located near Lake Kawaguchi with multiple onsens on site. The rooftop one is especially lovely for a relaxing soak, but there are lots of cozy indoor baths throughout the property as well, and the suites also come with private onsens that overlook the water.

The kaiseki-style dinners are another standout here, and a traditional Japanese breakfast is included with every stay. All in all, we think that this ryokan is a great option for travelers seeking a peaceful stay close to the lake while still having easy access to nearby attractions and restaurants.

Rates usually range from ¥37,500 to ¥75,000 per night ($250 to $500 USD), although premium suites can go up to ¥150,000 ($1,000 USD).

Lakeland Hotel Mizunosato ($$)

Lakeland Hotel Mizunosato near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Lakeland Hotel Mizunosato

Lakeland Hotel Mizunosato offers one of the most authentic ryokan stays in the Lake Kawaguchi area. With futon beds, tatami rooms, and a pretty onsen, it’s a great choice if you want to experience Japanese hospitality at its most traditional. And it won’t break the bank, either!

Here, you can enjoy lake and Fuji views at a reasonable price, and you can opt to include both breakfast and dinner with your stay for extra ease. Prices range from ¥33,750 to ¥67,500 per night ($225 to $450 USD).

Hotel Koryu ($)

Hotel Koryu near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Hotel Koryu

Hotel Koryu is a budget-friendly ryokan that provides a traditional Japanese stay – what’s not to love? Despite its affordable price tag, it has lovely indoor and outdoor onsens and pretty lake views. 

The rooms are traditional, although you can opt for western-style beds if you’d prefer that to sleeping on futon bedding. Located near Lake Kawaguchi, it’s easy to explore nearby hiking trails and sightseeing spots like the Mt Fuji Panoramic Ropeway.

You can also include breakfast and/or dinner for extra convenience. Rates typically range from ¥22,500 to ¥45,000 per night ($150 to $300 USD).

Related Read: Not sure which part of Lake Kawaguchi is right for you? Head over to our where to stay in Lake Kawaguchi guide for a deeper look at the best areas and accommodation options.

Japan Rail Pass!

The Easiest Way to Travel Japan By Train

If you’re planning to explore Japan, the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is hands down the easiest and most affordable way to get around. It’s a special 7, 14, or 21 day pass for foreign visitors that gives you unlimited rides on Japan’s famous JR trains, including the high-speed shinkansen (bullet trains)!

Why We Love the JR Pass

  • Unlimited travel on most JR trains across Japan (and even some buses and ferries).
  • Fast and flexible – reserve seats if you like, or simply hop aboard most trains without booking in advance.
  • Big savings if you plan to visit multiple cities (think Tokyo → Kyoto → Osaka and beyond).
  • Convenient – no need to buy separate tickets for every trip.

Pro Tip: If you’re only exploring one region of Japan, consider a Regional Pass instead (like the Kansai, Hokkaido, or Kyushu Pass). They’re cheaper and perfect for smaller trips!

Where to Get Your Pass

We personally recommend buying your pass online in advance through JRPass.com — they’re an official reseller with fast worldwide delivery and English support, making the whole process super simple. They even offer handy add-ons like pocket WIFI and meet & greet services! Still not sure if the JR Pass is right for you? Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Japan Rail Pass for a full breakdown of costs, inclusions, and when it’s worth it!

Lake Yamanaka 

Lake Yamanaka and Mt Fuji in the background near Mt Fuji Japan
Lake Yamanaka

BEST FOR PEACE AND SPACE

Pros

  • Peaceful and less crowded than Lake Kawaguchi
  • Stunning, unobstructed views of Mt Fuji
  • Plenty of outdoor activities

Cons

  • Limited nightlife and dining options compared to other areas
  • Fewer public transport connections

Lake Yamanaka is the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and a perfect choice for travelers who want peace and quiet. We love coming here to experience those unbeatable Mt Fuji views without the crowds! It’s less developed than Lake Kawaguchi, so there’s a slower pace that’s ideal for families and nature lovers.

The lake is surrounded by wide-open scenery and is popular for outdoor activities like paddle boating, cycling, and even taking a spin in one of the swan-shaped boats! And on a clear, still day, you can’t beat the reflection of Mt Fuji on the water. It’s just breathtaking!

We also recommend visiting Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park, which is famous for its flower fields that bloom beautifully against the mountain backdrop. It’s also worth heading to Hirano Beach for a scenic lakeside picnic.

While Lake Yamanaka doesn’t have as much nightlife or shopping as Kawaguchiko, that’s exactly why people love it. It feels more local and laid-back, but there’s still a good range of ryokans and small resorts here. Plus, it’s only about 30 minutes from Kawaguchiko by car or bus, so you’ll still have easy access to the region’s highlights. 

Mt Fuji View and Private Sauna Ryokan Shizuku

Shizuku Ryokan near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Shizuku Ryokan

Mt Fuji View and Private Sauna Ryokan Shizuku is a luxurious, boutique-style retreat designed for total relaxation. Each room comes with its own private open-air onsen and sauna, so you can soak while gazing straight at Mt Fuji. It doesn’t get more serene than that!

Inside, the rooms blend elegant modern design with traditional touches like tatami flooring and sliding shoji screens. The meals are beautifully prepared and served kaiseki-style, which means they showcase seasonal ingredients in true Japanese fashion.

The peaceful setting near Lake Yamanaka, the service is exceptional, and it’s the ultimate way to experience this area’s beauty and tranquility. Rates start around ¥67,500 per night ($450 USD) and can go up to ¥150,000+ for the larger suites ($1,000+ USD).

Ryosha Tsukiakari – $

Ryosha Tsukiakari near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Ryosha Tsukiakari
Ryosha Tsukiakari near Mt Fuji Japan 1
Photo credit: Ryosha Tsukiakari

Ryosha Tsukiakari is a cozy, budget-friendly ryokan near Lake Yamanaka that still gives you those incredible Mt Fuji views. It’s simple, but full of charm. The rooms are more western-style and modern, but you’ve still got those traditional ryokan elements like tatami areas and a lovely shared onsen to unwind in.

The friendly hosts also serve a delicious homemade breakfast, and the quiet location makes it ideal for a peaceful escape. Rates usually range from ¥16,500 to ¥37,500 per night ($110 to $250 USD).

Kujiranoonaka – $ 

Kujiranoonaka near Mt. Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Kujiranoonaka

Kujiranoonaka is a charming, family-run ryokan surrounded by lush greenery near Lake Yamanaka. It has traditional Japanese rooms but, as a fun twist, they’re actually decorated with colorful artwork, like murals of Mt Fuji and koyo (Japan’s famous red autumn leaves).

The on-site onsen allows tattoos, which is not always the case in Japan, particularly in more rural areas. The property is super close to the lake, and although it doesn’t offer the same lake views as other ryokans, we think it’s worth the trade-off for this gem of a stay. It’s top-rated for a reason!

Rates typically range between ¥13,500 and ¥22,500 per night ($90 to $150 USD).

Fujiyoshida

Bailey smiles on the street near the enterance to Chureito Pagoda Japan
Fujiyoshida is lovely
The Chureito Pagoda with Mt Fuji in the background Japan
It’s best known for the Chureito Pagoda

BEST FOR SIGHTSEEING

Pros

  • Home to the iconic Chureito Pagoda and other top Mt Fuji viewpoints
  • Great mix of culture, nature, and convenience 
  • Easy access to Tokyo

Cons

  • Fewer lakeside stays than neighboring areas
  • Limited nightlife and evening dining options

Fujiyoshida is a super charming town nestled between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka. Its location makes it a super convenient base for exploring the Mt. Fuji region, but it offers so much more than that! 

The town is best known for the iconic Chureito Pagoda, which is one of Japan’s most photographed spots. It’s breathtaking when you’ve got a clear view of Fuji in the background, especially during the cherry blossom season, or in autumn when the leaves turn red. The pagoda gets super crowded, but the great thing about staying in Fujiyoshida is that you’ll be able to get here early and get those epic shots before everyone else arrives. 

It’s also home to Fujiyama Shrine, which is a historic starting point for pilgrims climbing Mt. Fuji. And families will definitely want to pay a visit to Fuji-Q Highland, one of Japan’s most thrilling amusement parks!

Beyond that, Fujiyoshida has plenty to offer, and we enjoy its more local, less touristy feel. It has traditional shops and cozy restaurants, plus several beautiful ryokans with onsen baths and mountain views. If you want a genuine glimpse of small-town Japan while still being close to major sights, Fujiyoshida is ideal. 

Kaneyamaen – $$$

Kaneyamaen near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Kaneyamaen
Kaneyamaen near Mt Fuji Japan 1
Photo credit: Kaneyamaen

Kaneyamaen is one of the most luxurious ryokans in the Mt Fuji area. It’s famous for its breathtaking gardens, elegant rooms, and world-class service set at the base of the mountain in Fujiyoshida. I really can’t think of a more perfect way to relax!

This ryokan also offers multi-course kaiseki dinners, and guests can enjoy nightly traditional performances such as taiko drumming. The onsen facilities are exceptional, especially the gorgeous rooftop bath. In my eyes, this is a true bucket list stay.

Rates usually range from ¥75,000 to ¥150,000 per night ($500 to $1,000 USD), including breakfast and dinner. This is one of the region’s most sought-after ryokans.

Fujiyama Inn Conifer – $

Fujiyama Inn Conifer near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Fujiyama Inn Conifer

On the other end of the spectrum, Fujiyama Inn Conifer is a great budget option in Fujiyoshida. It’s a more modern stay with a homely vibe, and the rooms are simple but cozy. You’ve still got an onsen bath on site and tatami areas, but we wouldn’t say this hotel is a “true” ryokan.

It’s more of a no-frills stay, but it offers warm hospitality and great value for money, so it’s an excellent budget pick. Rooms range between ¥15,000 and ¥37,500 per night ($100 to $250 USD), including breakfast.

Related Read: Only have a day or two near Mount Fuji? Our guide to the best things to do in Mt. Fuji will help you prioritize the highlights if you’re limited on time.

Fujikawaguchiko 

View of Mt Fuji from Oishi Park on Lake Kawaguchiko Japan 2
View of Mt Fuji from Oishi Park
Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum near Mt Fuji Japan
Kawaguchiko Music Forest

BEST FOR A RESORT-STYLE STAY

Pros 

  • Stunning views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi
  • Lots of amenities and a resort-style feel
  • Excellent range of ryokans and onsen hotels

Cons 

  • Can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays
  • More expensive than other nearby towns

Fujikawaguchiko is one of the most scenic and popular towns at the base of Mt. Fuji. It sits right beside Lake Kawaguchi, and you can enjoy fantastic mountain views from multiple spots around town. Plus, you’ve got plenty of amenities to enjoy if you like to have a bit more hustle and bustle around you. 

This town has a very resort feel, and it’s perfect for families and first-time visitors. There are countless ryokans and onsen hotels here, and many of them boast outdoor baths that overlook Mt. Fuji. What more could you want?

The town is also home to several major attractions, including the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, Oishi Park, and the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. This offers some of the best views in the area, so be sure to enjoy a ride while you’re here! 

Fujikawaguchiko is also a great base for outdoor adventures. From here, you can easily access hiking trails, scenic boat rides, and even the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station during climbing season. It’s well-connected by public transport, with buses and trains linking directly to Tokyo and neighboring towns, so it’s super convenient for a short trip. This is really the heart of the Fuji reason!

Hotel Asafuji – $$

Hotel Asafuji near Mt Fuji Japan 1
Photo credit: Hotel Asafuji
Hotel Asafuji near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Hotel Asafuji

Hotel Asafuji is a beautiful ryokan-style property overlooking Lake Kawaguchi. The highlight here is undoubtedly the onsen baths, where you can soak while gazing directly at Mt. Fuji. Life doesn’t get much better than this! 

The rooms are spacious with lots of natural light, and they’re traditionally styled with tatami flooring and futon bedding. Dinner and breakfast are served kaiseki-style, using fresh, local ingredients, and the presentation is gorgeous.

The staff are incredibly warm and welcoming, so they’ll make you feel right at home. Prices typically range between ¥30,000 and ¥60,000 per night ($200 to $400 USD).

Fuji View Hotel – $$

Fuji View Hotel near Mt Fuji Japan 1
Photo credit: Fuji View Hotel

True to its name, Fuji View Hotel offers breathtaking panoramas of Mt. Fuji and the area’s lush greenery. Located in a peaceful area of Fujikawaguchiko, it’s a little more modern than a traditional ryokan, but it still offers onsen baths and Japanese-style rooms.

The hotel boasts a serene setting and elegant design, so it’s a nice place to retreat to after a day of sightseeing. There’s also a fantastic on-site restaurant and a cafe where you can enjoy coffee with spectacular Fuji views.

That’s the ultimate way to start a morning in Fujikawaguchiko in my book! Prices usually range from ¥30,000 to ¥60,000 per night ($200 to $400 USD).

Shiki-no-Yado Fujisan – $ 

Shiki-no-Yado Fujisan near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Shiki-no-Yado Fujisan

Shiki-no-Yado Fujisan is a cozy, budget-friendly ryokan that still delivers an authentic Japanese experience. The rooms are simple but comfortable with western bedding and separate tatami areas, and there’s a small onsen on site where guests can unwind after exploring the lake.

The location near Lake Kawaguchi puts you just a short distance from the Lake and close to shops and bus stops, so it’s easy to get around. No wonder this is such a popular choice! Just be sure to snap up your room nice and early.

Rates typically start around $75 USD per night, making it one of the best budget-friendly finds in Fujikawaguchiko.

Fuyo Sankyo Enka – $ 

Fuyo Sankyo Enka near Mt Fuji Japan
Photo credit: Fuyo Sankyo Enka

Fuyo Sankyo Enka is an affordable ryokan located a short drive from the center of Fujikawaguchiko. It offers a peaceful stay with authentic ryokan rooms that have futon beds, tatami floors, and shoji doors. So while it’s not luxurious, it does deliver the true ryokan experience.

You can opt to include breakfast, dinner, or both with your stay if you want to experience kaiseki meals. We recommend doing this as this ryokan is a little removed from the main town.

Prices range between ¥13,500 and ¥16,500 per night for a twin or double room ($90 to $110 USD). Triple and quadruple rooms are also available for around ¥21,000 per night ($140 USD), which is perfect for groups.

Related Read: Looking for even more great stays? Check out our guide to the best places to stay near Mt. Fuji, covering the top areas and hotels for every travel style.

Top Activities to do in Mt. Fuji

Daniel and Bailey take a photo at a tea ceremony and tea making experience Hakone Japan
At a traditional tea ceremony in Hakone
Mt Fuji seen from the 5th Station in Japan
Mt Fuji seen from the 5th Station on a tour to Mt Fuji and Hakone

Now that you’ve picked the perfect ryokan stay in Mt. Fuji, it’s time to plan out what to actually do while you’re here! Whether you’re chasing mountain views, craving a little adventure, or want a deeper cultural connection, there are so many unique ways to experience this region. Here are some of the top-rated tours that we think are 100% worth adding to your Mt. Fuji itinerary—just be sure to book ahead, as many of these fill up fast!

  • See Mt. Fuji and Hakone by bus and bullet trainThis full-day tour is ideal if you want to squeeze in both Mt. Fuji and Hakone in one go. We took in views of Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi, rode the Hakone Ropeway, and capped it off with a scenic Shinkansen ride back to Tokyo. This Mt. Fuji and Hakone day tour packs a lot in but runs super smoothly.
  • Paddle across Lake Kawaguchi at sunriseThis early morning kayaking tour gives you front-row seats to Mt. Fuji as it lights up with the first sun rays. We loved how peaceful the lake was at that hour—and our guide made this kayaking tour relaxing and easy, even for beginners.
  • Explore Mt. Fuji’s Ice Cave and Aokigahara Forest – For something totally different, this caving tour takes you into Mt. Fuji’s icy underworld. We climbed through lava tubes and learned all about the mysterious “Sea of Trees” forest. This Mt. Fuji cave tour is a bit adventurous but super fun with a helmet and guide.
  • Ride through Lake Kawaguchi on an e-bike tourThis easygoing e-bike tour is a fun way to explore the area without breaking a sweat. We cruised along quiet backroads, stopped for epic Mt. Fuji views, and even visited some hidden local spots we’d never have found on our own.
  • Try a hands-on tea ceremony in Hakone – If you’re into culture and traditions, this Hakone tea ceremony tour is a must. We didn’t just observe—we actually made our own cup of premium sencha! This tea-making experience was calm, beautiful, and a nice change of pace from all the sightseeing.

Related Read: Coming from Tokyo? Our guide to the best Mt. Fuji tours from Tokyo breaks down the top day trips and guided experiences worth booking.

Renting a Car in Japan

Mt Fuji in Japan and road at Lake Kawaguchiko

Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.

We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Japan

  • Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
  • Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
  • Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
  • Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
  • Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan

  • A valid driver’s license from your home country.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
  • A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
  • Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.

Ready to hit the road? Discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!

Airalo e-sim

Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL10”

What’s an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.

In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.

We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs in North America, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.

Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:

Thanks for reading!

Bailey and Daniel take a selfie at Chureito Pagoda
Thanks for reading!

The Mt. Fuji region is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression. With mountain views, peaceful lakes, and relaxing onsens, the Mt. Fuji region rewards slowing down—and staying at a ryokan adds a uniquely Japanese blend of nature, culture, and comfort. Just be sure to plan ahead, ryokans around Mt. Fuji book up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

If you’re still planning your trip, be sure to check out all of our Mt. Fuji travel guides here—we’ve put together everything you need to plan a smooth and memorable visit. Or take a look at some related posts below and start building your Mt. Fuji itinerary!

40 Best Ryokans in Japan

The 15 Best Ryokans in Hakone

The 15 Best Ryokans in Tokyo

The 20 Best Hotels in Hakone with Onsens

The Services We Recommend

From hotels to guided tours, we only recommend services we know and trust. Here are our recommended partners so you can explore Japan with confidence.

You may also like...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *