“Fujisan View Express” Complete Guide – Fares, Seating, and More

Located just about two hours by train from central Tokyo, Yamanashi is a popular destination thanks to its excellent accessibility and breathtaking scenery.

The most common route is traveling from Shinjuku to Otsuki Sta., then transferring to a train bound for Kawaguchiko.

Among the trains on this route, the one that deserves special attention is the Fujisan View Express, which runs between Otsuki Sta. (elevation 358 m) and Kawaguchiko Sta. (elevation 857 m).

From the large, open windows, passengers can enjoy stunning seasonal landscapes, including sweeping views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding countryside.

The biggest charm of this train lies in its design: it allows you to sit back, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the panoramic views as you climb toward Lake Kawaguchiko.

In this guide, we’ll explore all the highlights of the Fujisan View Express, including its unique features, seat types, and fare details.

What is the “Fujisan View Express”

The Fujisan View Express is a popular local train connecting Otsuki Sta., Tsuru-Bunkadaigaku-mae Sta., Shimoyoshida Sta., Fujisan Sta., Fuji-Q Highland Sta., and Kawaguchiko Sta.

The train consists of three cars:

• Car 1 (Reserved Seat Premium Car)
• Car 2 (Reserved Seat Car)
• Car 3 (Non-Reserved Car)

Each is designed to ensure a comfortable and scenic journey.

What makes this train especially eye-catching is its luxurious exterior: a deep reddish-brown body accented with elegant gold lettering.

The design was created by Eiji Mitooka, a renowned Japanese railway designer who has worked on numerous trains and station facilities. He is internationally acclaimed for his sophisticated railway designs.

Another standout feature is the train’s expansive windows, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the magnificent views of Mt. Fuji from any seat.

As the train glides through Yamanashi, you’ll pass by countless scenic landscapes—offering plenty of chances to discover your own favorite view of Mt. Fuji.

Note: Unlike other limited express trains, the Fujisan View Express does not provide power outlets or Wi-Fi onboard. Be sure to prepare your devices in advance before boarding.

Seat Types & How to Ride

Car 1: Premium Reserved Car

Car 1 is the most luxurious of the Fujisan View Express and offers exclusive services not found in other cars. Passengers can enjoy a welcome drink service and onboard sales of snacks and drinks, available only in this premium car.

The atmosphere resembles a hotel lounge or stylish café, providing an elegant setting for your journey. With just 26 spacious seats, it ensures a relaxing ride with plenty of room to unwind.

A variety of seat arrangements make it ideal for families, groups, or special occasions. Since Car 1 is fully reserved, your chosen seat is guaranteed at the time of booking.

If you’re seeking a truly special travel experience, Car 1 is the perfect choice.

Car 2: Reserved Car

Car 2 features 57 reserved seats with a more relaxed layout compared to standard trains. The most recommended spots are the window seats, offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji as you travel through the Yamanashi countryside.

Since Car 2 is also fully reserved, passengers can rest assured that their selected seat will be available. On certain days, you may even experience the switchback maneuver at Fujisan Sta., where the train changes direction—allowing both sides of the car to enjoy different perspectives of the mountain.

Combining comfort and convenience, Car 2 is one of the most popular cars on the Fujisan View Express.

Car 3: Non-Reserved Car

Car 3 offers 60 non-reserved seats in a spacious layout. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s best to board early if you want to secure a spot.

During peak travel times, all seats may be taken, meaning passengers could need to stand. However, overhead luggage racks are provided, making it convenient even for those carrying larger bags.

Although it’s the most casual seating option, Car 3 is still equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Premium Sweets Plan in the Fujisan View Express

If you ride the Fujisan View Express, one of the highlights not to be missed is the exclusive Premium Sweets Plan, a luxurious experience supervised by a professional pastry chef.

The concept behind this plan is to pair your scenic journey—ascending 500 meters in elevation and traveling along the foothills of Mt. Fuji—with elegant, seasonal desserts.

The sweets are supervised by Hidetsugu Miyamoto, an award-winning Japanese pastry chef from Highland Resort Hotel & Spa in Yamanashi. Miyamoto is known for creating world-class desserts, including winning the Silver Prize in the “Grand Gâteau” category at the 2016 Japan Cake Show Tokyo.

This exclusive sweets plan is available only on weekends and holidays, and the menu changes with the seasons. This means that each visit offers a fresh new flavor experience.

Enjoying sophisticated desserts while gazing at Mt. Fuji from the Premium Car is truly one of the train’s signature attractions.

Seasonal FUJIYAMA Chocolate – Autumn Edition

A rich dessert featuring smooth chestnut mousse with roasted hazelnut paste hidden inside. The deep, refined chestnut flavor is enhanced by the nutty aroma, perfectly capturing the tastes of autumn. Inspired by the brilliant autumn foliage surrounding Mt. Fuji, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Seasonal Grape Jelly (BUDOU)

Made with the juice of Yamanashi-grown grapes—one of Japan’s premier grape-producing regions. On top of the refreshing jelly is a layer of crushed jelly made with Koshu white wine, adding depth and sophistication.

Drinks to Match the Sweets

A carefully curated drink menu accompanies the desserts, including red and white wines, as well as fruit juices made from Yamanashi peaches and grapes. Selected drinks are available as part of a free-flow option—please check the onboard menu for details.

Treat yourself to a moment of luxury and relaxation, savoring elegant sweets while enjoying the one-of-a-kind journey aboard the Fujisan View Express.

How to Book the Fujisan View Express Sweets Plan

The Sweets Plan is only available through online reservations at least three days in advance. Please be sure to book early.

Select Car and Plan

From the reservation page, choose your car and plan. Car availability varies depending on the departure time.

Choose Your Date

Select the travel date you wish to book.

Enter Passenger Information

Fill in the required details, including the number of passengers. If you do not yet have a membership account, you will need to register at this stage.

Payment Method

Select your preferred payment method:

• Credit card
• Convenience store payment
• PayPay (mobile payment)

Confirm Reservation

Review all booking details. If everything is correct, proceed to the confirmation screen and finalize your reservation. Once completed, your Sweets Plan ticket is secured.

Fares

Car 1: Premium Reserved Car

Requires: Base fare ticket + Limited Express Ticket (¥400) + Premium Car Surcharge (¥900)

• Once fully booked, reservations and ticket sales will close.
• Same fare applies for children.

Car 2: Reserved Car

Requires: Base fare ticket + Limited Express Ticket (¥400) + Reserved Seat Ticket (¥200)

• Sales also end once seats are fully booked.
• Same fare applies for children.

Car 3: Non-Reserved Car

Requires: Base fare ticket + Limited Express Ticket (¥400)

• This is the most affordable option.
• No booking limit, but if all seats are occupied, you will need to stand, and the Limited Express fee still applies.

Fare Table

[2025] Timetable

Outbound (Otsuki Sta. ～ Kawaguchiko Sta.)

Inbound (Kawaguchiko Sta. ～ Otsuki Sta.)

How to Purchase Tickets

Car 1 (Premium Reserved) & Car 2 (Reserved)

Tickets for Car 1 (Premium Reserved Car) and Car 2 (Reserved Car) on the Fujisan View Express can be purchased:

• Online (recommended)
• At station ticket counters along the route

Stations where tickets can be purchased:

• Otsuki Sta.
• Tsuru-Bunkadaigaku-mae Sta.
• Shimoyoshida Sta.
• Fujisan Sta.
• Fuji-Q Highland Sta.
• Kawaguchiko Sta.

Tickets may be available for same-day purchase if seats are open, but to guarantee your seat, advance booking online is highly recommended.

Car 3 (Non-Reserved)

Tickets for Car 3 (Non-Reserved Car) can only be purchased at station ticket counters. They are not available for online booking.

How to Book Online (Car 1 & Car 2)

Search by Date

Select your travel date, train, departure station, and arrival station.

Select Train

Choose the departure time you wish to ride.

Enter Passenger Information & Seat Selection

Fill in passenger details and choose your preferred seat.

Confirm Details

Double-check the booking summary to ensure accuracy.

• Online booking will display the combined price of Limited Express Ticket (¥400) + Reserved Seat Ticket (¥200 or ¥900).
• The base fare ticket must be purchased separately at the station or paid with an IC card (Suica, PASMO, etc.).

Payment

Enter your card details on the payment page. Once confirmed, your reservation is complete.

Click here to make an online reservation for the Fuji View Express!

Onboard Sales

While Cars 2 and 3 of the Fujisan View Express do not provide sweets or drinks as part of the service, a trolley cart with onboard sales is available.

Items sold include:

• Drinks
• Souvenirs
• Exclusive Fujisan View Express original goods

The highlight is the Fujisan View Express Beer—a craft beer carefully brewed in Kiyosato, Yamanashi, at the foot of the Yatsugatake mountains.

This beer offers a rich, full-bodied flavor, made smoother by adding just the right amount of Yamanashi-grown rice. The result is a mild, mellow taste with a beautiful golden color, balanced hop bitterness, and a crisp, refreshing finish.

It’s the perfect companion for your scenic journey—a must-try drink aboard the Fujisan View Express.

Summary

In this guide, we introduced the Fujisan View Express, a train that offers many unique ways to enjoy your journey. Inside the cars, you’ll even find small art pieces on display, making it fun to stroll around and explore like you’re in a mini gallery.

Another highlight is the switchback at Fujisan Sta., a rare maneuver that adds excitement to the ride. In just about 45 minutes from Otsuki Sta. ～ Lake Kawaguchiko Sta., you can enjoy an experience that feels like combining a scenic journey with a visit to an art museum.

For a memorable trip blending panoramic views, design, and culture, be sure to ride the Fujisan View Express on your next visit.

READ MORE

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