Enjoy the Nature of Mt. Fuji! Easy Trekking Course from “Ochudo – Oniwa – Okuniwa” at the 5th Station 【With Map】

2025-10-03

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When most people think of climbing Mt. Fuji, they imagine a tough ascent to the summit. However, there are also several trekking routes on the mountain’s mid-slopes where you can fully enjoy the breath of Mt. Fuji and its natural beauty.

Among them, the route around Ochudo – Oniwa – Okuniwa, located at an altitude of about 2,300 meters, is especially popular. It offers spectacular scenery, tranquil forests, and a sense of Mt. Fuji’s deep spiritual history.

The trail is easily accessible from the Mt. Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, where many restaurants and souvenir shops are located. It can be enjoyed from early May through early November, making it a great choice for those who want to experience Mt. Fuji without a demanding climb.

In this article, we will introduce the highlights and unique features of the Ochudo – Oniwa – Okuniwa trekking course in detail!

Course Overview & Access
・Starting Point: Mt. Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station
・Duration: Approx. 2–3 hours (round trip)
・Difficulty: Beginner-friendly (Note: The high altitude requires preparation for lower air pressure and colder temperatures)

Highlights of the Course
・Magnificent views of the sea of clouds and distant landscapes
・Forest bathing
・Lava formations
・Magnificent views of the sea of clouds and distant landscapes

Contents

“Onchu-do, Oniwa, Okuniwa” trekking map

【Google MAP】
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1aK5pObpiwjDKodXUaoQBgO_5ey3kPYk&usp=sharing
【GPX】
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1g0c9sKqZWkcGwtvxsNT6A9Pns8r_qgx5?usp=drive_link

The Sacred Ancient Trail of Ochudo (Route A): Where Nature and Faith Intertwine

Today, what is commonly referred to as Ochudo (Route A) mainly indicates the section from the Mt. Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station to Oniwa.

In the past, however, the original Ochudo was a far more demanding pilgrimage trail. It circled around Mt. Fuji’s mid-slopes, roughly between the 5th and 6th Stations, forming a long and harsh training route.

This path was not just an ordinary hiking trail. It was a place of spiritual training for the Fuji-ko faith groups, where pilgrims strengthened both body and mind. Walking the Ochudo carried even deeper spiritual meaning than climbing to the summit.

【Former Onchudo Route】

Traditionally, only those who had already climbed Mt. Fuji three times or more were allowed to attempt this route. The reason was that the old Ochudo required traversing rough, undeveloped terrain, as well as undergoing ascetic practices such as fasting. With a full circuit stretching about 25 km, it was a physically demanding journey that only the truly devoted could undertake.

Today, much of the original trail is closed due to landslides and the need to protect vegetation, so the full Ochudo route can no longer be walked. The modern version of Ochudo (Route A) refers to the more accessible section from the 5th Station to Oniwa.

Even so, this trail still carries deep historical and spiritual significance, and walking even a portion of it allows you to trace the footsteps of the ascetics who once trained here.

This path, covered in moss and surrounded by quiet woodland, offers the chance to encounter different plants and animals with every season. Each visit brings a new discovery. Here, away from the noise of everyday life, you can spend time in tranquility, letting your spirit settle.

The journey begins at the stairway built at the Mt. Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station. As you ascend, excitement builds for the “Ochudo journey” that lies ahead. At the top, you are immediately drawn into a deep forest, where on sunny days beams of sunlight filter through the trees, creating the perfect atmosphere for forest bathing.

Take a deep breath of the crisp mountain air and feel your daily fatigue melt away, leaving you refreshed in both body and spirit.

After a short while, the trail opens up, revealing expansive views of distant mountains and sky. The scenery will take your breath away. But be mindful of your steps—loose stones and slopes require careful footing even while admiring the view.

Soon after, the trail leads back into the woods, winding through the trees. Walking deeper into the forest feels like being embraced by nature itself, with a sacred atmosphere brushing against your skin. Listen to the birdsong echoing through the silence as you continue forward, until the first viewpoint finally appears.

It takes about 15 minutes from the 5th Station to reach this point. Here, the magnificent presence of Mt. Fuji rises before your eyes, a sight so overwhelming that it leaves you speechless.

At this spot, you can also try the traditional practice of “Mt. Fuji weather fortune-telling.” By observing the movement of the clouds around the mountain, people believed they could predict the weather. Why not look up at Mt. Fuji and let the clouds tell you what the day will bring?

What is Mt. Fuji Weather Fortune-Telling?
For centuries, local people living around Mt. Fuji have looked up at the mountain and read the clouds floating above it to predict the next day’s weather. This practice reflects a uniquely Japanese way of living in harmony with nature and “conversing” with it.
Here are some of the traditional cloud formations associated with Mt. Fuji’s weather fortune:

①Lens Cap Cloud (Lenticular Cloud)
A swollen, lens-shaped cloud that looks like Mt. Fuji is wearing a thick woolen hat. It often appears during mild winters and is a distinctive formation. Since it forms when strong winds blow at high altitudes, it is also seen as a sign of approaching strong winds.

②ingle Cap Cloud
Also called a “rain cloud,” this formation usually appears around May to June, bringing rainfall. Considered the harbinger of Japan’s rainy season, its arrival was traditionally seen as a blessing for crops in local farming communities.

③Apron Cloud
A rare, donut-shaped cloud that seems to wrap around Mt. Fuji. Often appearing during brief clear skies between rainy periods, it was regarded as nature’s whisper, foretelling that the weather would soon break down again.

quote：https://www.v-frontier.com/wordpress/?p=10270

After a while, you will arrive at a spot with simple benches. Taking off your backpack and sitting down here, you may feel time itself begin to slow. Even just taking a deep breath brings a sense of cleansing and renewal.

Along the Ochudo trail, you may notice red, platform-like structures from time to time. These are called check dams (doryu-tei), built to control the flow of debris and landslides. Please note: do not step off the path to climb on them for photos—safety and preservation come first, even if you are tempted to capture an “Instagram-worthy” shot.

Soon, the scenery changes dramatically. The greenery fades, giving way to reddish-brown terrain that feels almost like stepping onto the surface of Mars. This barren, volcanic beauty, shaped by Mt. Fuji’s ancient eruptions, speaks in its own quiet way.

One of the highlights here is spotting the unusual flag-shaped trees. These trees grow branches only on the downwind side, sculpted by powerful westerly winds carrying snow crystals and volcanic particles. Their one-sided growth is a living testament to both the force of nature and the resilience of life adapting to it.

Before long, the trail leads you back into the forest. Here, look closely—you may encounter the tiny lives of the woods, such as clusters of small mushrooms. These delicate details can easily go unnoticed unless you pause to observe carefully, adding to the quiet wonder of the journey.

After about 25 minutes from the previous stop, you will arrive at the second viewpoint. Once again, Mt. Fuji reveals its majestic form before your eyes—an overwhelming sight that leaves everyone silent in awe.

Take a seat on the bench here, breathe slowly, and let your body and mind unwind. If you come in the right season, you may also notice delicate alpine plants blooming along the trail. In July, pale pink Hakusan rhododendrons brighten the path, while from August to September, red-berried lingonberries quietly cheer on hikers with their subtle beauty.

Beyond this point, the forest gives way once again to a reddish volcanic terrain, a stark contrast that feels like setting foot on the surface of Mars. The vibrant color of the soil comes from iron in volcanic ash that has oxidized, painting the ground in a striking palette.

Each shift in scenery feels like traveling between different worlds. Here, you are reminded of the overwhelming power of Mt. Fuji as an active volcano, with the land itself whispering its long history.

Stone-paved paths guide your steps, ensuring you can walk with confidence. Even in this wild volcanic landscape, the gentle touch of human care in the trail’s design can be felt.

Soon, the roof of a small pavilion (azumaya) comes into sight, marking the arrival at the third viewpoint. The journey here takes about 25 minutes from the second viewpoint.

Take a well-earned rest and soak in the mountain views with your whole being. From this spot, you can also see the townscapes spread out far below, a quiet reminder of the connection between human life and the great natural world of Mt. Fuji.

From around this area, you can observe one of Mt. Fuji’s geological secrets: parasite volcanoes.

Scattered along the mountain’s slopes and foothills are numerous small cone-shaped mounds. These were formed when magma broke through weak points in Mt. Fuji’s flanks and erupted at the surface, creating entirely new volcanic cones. These dramatic events, where the hidden power of the great volcano forced its way upward to create new life on the earth’s surface, are still visible in their form today.

Near the pavilion (close to the Oniwa and Okuniwa areas), you can even spot funnel-shaped depressions—the craters of these parasite volcanoes revealed on the ground. Their silent presence speaks volumes about the immense geological history of Mt. Fuji and the living breath of the Earth.

Finally, after just a short 5-minute walk, you reach the junction of the Oniwa area, where the trail branches into two different paths. Each offers its own story, waiting for you to discover.

Oniwa: A Surreal Garden Shaped by Nature

The Oniwa area unfolds like a mystical garden of Mt. Fuji. Here, lava flows hardened into land, then centuries of wind and rain carved its surface, creating a one-of-a-kind landscape crafted by nature itself—the ultimate artist.

One of the highlights is the unique alpine vegetation found here. Oniwa lies at Mt. Fuji’s tree line—the upper limit where tall forests can no longer form. Yet, even in these harsh conditions, resilient species such as Japanese larch (karamatsu) and hemlock spruce (kometsuga) cling to the ground, refusing to give way.

In city parks, these trees normally grow straight toward the sky, reaching 25–30 meters in height. But here, they adapt to the relentless snow and winds by growing low, subdued, and quietly enduring.

Their humble forms embody the spirit of life itself—accepting the harshness of nature yet continuing to live with quiet resilience. Surrounded by Oniwa’s profound silence, you can feel both the fragility and strength of life directly through the landscape.

Route B

Let’s begin with the B Route, which branches off to the right-hand side from the Oniwa junction. The path includes some moderately steep descents and stone steps, but beyond them awaits a journey filled with spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and diverse natural scenery.

The greatest charm of this route lies in its ever-changing landscapes. With each set of stone steps you descend, the scenery shifts—taking you from the depths of the forest to wide-open skies, offering a full embrace of Mt. Fuji’s natural wonders. Walking this path feels almost guided by nature itself, carrying a subtle sense of sacredness.

After about 15 minutes from the junction (20 minutes on the way back up), you will reach a small pavilion. On clear days, the magnificent silhouette of Mt. Fuji rises straight into the pristine blue sky—a breathtaking sight that instantly sweeps away your fatigue.

From the pavilion, it is another 5 minutes (10 minutes uphill) to reach the Mt. Fuji Subaru Line roadway. As the sound of cars gradually approaches, it feels like a signal that you are returning to reality, filling you with a bittersweet mix of reluctance and accomplishment.

Take a moment to stop and look back—you will be rewarded with a grand panorama of Mt. Fuji framed by the very trail you just walked. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful views reveal themselves only when you pause and look behind you.

Route C

The C Route is perfect for experiencing the serene atmosphere of Oniwa’s natural garden-like landscape. With its gentle undulations and ever-changing scenery, the path feels like a quiet nature walk designed for connecting with your surroundings.

足元に目をやると、小さな発見がたくさん隠れています。

松ぼっくりやどんぐり、風に運ばれてきた小さな葉や実……そんな自然の贈り物を探しながら歩くと、旅の歩幅も自然とゆっくりに！

Look down at your feet and you’ll find countless small treasures: pinecones, acorns, tiny leaves, and seeds carried by the wind. Searching for these little gifts of nature naturally slows your pace, allowing you to savor the journey more deeply.

The greatest highlight of Route C, however, is the chance to witness the sea of clouds (unkai). If you are lucky, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking view of the clouds spreading endlessly below—a true heavenly scene that can only be experienced by those who walk the trail.

As you continue, the trail leads once more into a deep forest. Here, the trees seem to whisper to one another, and when mist drifts in, the surroundings transform into a dreamlike world. It is an enchanting space created entirely by nature, perfect for forest bathing.

Eventually, the Mt. Fuji Subaru Line roadway comes into view, marking the end of Route C. The distance takes about 30 minutes downhill or 40 minutes uphill from the Oniwa junction.

But more than the minutes that pass, what you carry from Route C are experiences of priceless value—conversations with nature, encounters with ever-changing landscapes, and quiet dialogue with yourself.

Okuniwa: A Sacred Space Where Nature and Faith Intertwine

The Okuniwa area is a place where Mt. Fuji’s harsh yet beautiful natural environment meets the spiritual traditions that have been passed down for centuries. It offers visitors a unique sense of stillness and solemnity.

Located here is the Okuniwa Nature Park, a well-maintained area with walking trails that make it easy even for beginners to explore. Stepping inside feels like entering Mt. Fuji’s inner sanctum, where profound quiet and dignity fill the air.

One of Okuniwa’s highlights is Tengu Rock (Tengu-iwa), a large boulder said in folklore to be the dwelling place of tengu, mythical mountain spirits. Encountering it, you may feel a mysterious sense of sacredness that fills your heart.

At the park entrance, you will find parking, restrooms, and other visitor facilities, making it a safe and accessible destination for first-time travelers as well. Once you step inside, the quiet forest stretches out before you.

The trees twist and intertwine their branches, forming what feels like a green labyrinth. Walking quietly through this mysterious forest for about 10–15 minutes, you will come across Okuniwa-so, a cozy mountain lodge that feels like a welcoming retreat deep in the mountains.

Here, you can buy local specialty products or enjoy a warm light meal, making it an ideal place to take a break and relax. Every moment of rest here seeps gently into your heart.
(For menu details, see Okuniwa-so.)

Right next to Okuniwa-so stands the imposing Tengu Rock. Its sheer presence is overwhelming—as if the very air tightens around it. This natural monument embodies the lingering spirit of Mt. Fuji’s mountain worship traditions, offering visitors a rare and memorable encounter.

The Legend of Tengu Rock
In the past, locals referred to the Okuniwa area as the “Garden of the Tengu.” According to legend, a tengu—the mythical mountain spirit said to dwell on Mt. Fuji—was so fond of this spot that he carried a boulder from the summit under his arm and placed it here.
This boulder became known as a sacred stone, believed to be used by the tengu when traveling between heaven and earth. Even today, it is said that the spirit of the tengu still resides within the rock, filling the area with a solemn and awe-inspiring presence.
For generations, those entering the mountains would stop to pray at Tengu Rock, seeking safety on their journey and protection from dangers such as wild animals, thick fog, and losing their way.
Over time, Tengu Rock also came to be associated with blessings for love and marital harmony. Visitors still leave their wishes here, drawn by the mysterious atmosphere of the rock—a presence that conveys both profound stillness and gentle warmth at the same time.

Leaving Okuniwa-so and walking a short distance, the path soon splits into two directions. Both trails form a circular loop, each offering its own distinct beauty.

For this guide, we follow the straightforward path to enjoy a leisurely walk around Okuniwa.

Beneath your feet stretches a stone-paved trail, while gentle shrubs sway on either side. On clear days, a wide expanse of deep blue sky unfolds above, making you feel as though you are walking in the space between heaven and earth.

After a while, the two paths converge again. Take a moment to stop and look back—the majestic figure of Mt. Fuji quietly awaits, as if watching over your journey.

A little further on, you’ll come across a secluded pavilion, a perfect viewpoint facing Mt. Fuji. Sit on the bench, feel the breeze, and spend a peaceful moment in this elegant setting.

With a relaxed pace, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the Okuniwa Observatory. By this point, a pleasant fatigue and sense of achievement embrace you.

From the observatory, a sweeping panorama opens before your eyes: Lake Motosuko, the Asagiri Highlands, and, in the distance, Suruga Bay and the Southern Alps. If you are lucky enough to see the sea of clouds (unkai), it feels like a heavenly gift—an unforgettable view that lifts your spirit.

Once you have fully enjoyed the scenery, return to the junction and continue along the path you haven’t yet walked. The view from this different angle feels refreshingly new.

If the air is clear, you may even see the summit of Mt. Fuji rising sharply overhead, appearing almost as if bidding you farewell.

Finally, when Okuniwa-so and Tengu Rock come back into sight, your loop around Okuniwa is complete. The moments of silence and mystery experienced here will remain deeply etched in your heart.

Wildlife and Plants Found Along Ochudo – Oniwa – Okuniwa

Around the Mt. Fuji 5th Station, you can encounter flora and fauna that are rarely seen at lower altitudes. Here are some of the species you might discover along the Ochudo – Oniwa – Okuniwa trekking routes.

⚠️ To protect Mt. Fuji’s fragile ecosystem, please remember:
・Do not pick plants or capture animals.
・Be careful not to step off the path or trample rare plants while taking photos.
・Respecting nature is the key to preserving its beauty for future generations.

Animals

Spotted Nutcracker (year-round)

About the size of a pigeon, with brown plumage covered in white spots. Its call is a hoarse “gaa-gaa.”

Eurasian Bullfinch (summer)

Stocky-bodied, slightly larger than a sparrow. Prefers cherry buds and berries, and sings with a soft, whistle-like “fee” sound.

Common Swift (summer)

A master of flight, catching insects while gliding through the sky with long wings. Nests on cliffs and calls with a sharp “juririri.”

Olive-backed Pipit (summer)

Slightly larger than a sparrow, with olive-colored upperparts. Known as the “mood-maker of the forest,” calling cheerfully with a rough “dzwee.”

Red-flanked Bluetail (summer)

A small bird with brilliant blue feathers on the males, while females show only a touch of blue on the tail. Feeds mainly on insects and sings softly, “hyo-ri, hyo-ri.”

Arctic Warbler (summer)

Small and olive-green, flitting between branches to catch insects. Recognizable by its rhythmic “jee-jee-cho-ri-cho-ri” call.

Japanese Serow (year-round)

With a grayish coat and short, sharp horns, this animal is actually related to goats and cattle rather than deer. Eats leaves and bark of beech trees.

Stoat (year-round)

A small weasel that changes coat color—brown in summer, pure white in winter, with a black-tipped tail that never changes. Hunts mice and birds. Spotting one is considered lucky!

Japanese Squirrel (year-round)

Known for its fluffy tail. Reddish-brown in summer, light brown in winter, with tufts of fur on its ears in colder months. Feeds on acorns and walnuts.

Japanese Hare (year-round)

Most active at dawn and dusk, feeding on grass and leaves. Around Mt. Fuji, they are brown-colored, blending well with the environment.

Plants

Hakusan Rhododendron (late July–early August)

Evergreen shrub that produces clusters of pink blossoms along the Ochudo trail in summer. The blooms in full glory are breathtaking.

Lingonberry (July–early October)

Small evergreen shrub with white or pink flowers in summer and bright red berries in autumn. The berries are tart-sweet and often used in jams or liqueurs. A close relative of the blueberry.

Japanese Bellflower (July–August)

Known as hotarubukuro in Japanese, these bell-shaped blossoms (4–5 cm long) hang in clusters of 2–5 on a single stem, standing out vividly among the grasses.

Saxifraga Fortunei (August–October)

A perennial with small flowers, named “daimonji-so” because its petals resemble the Japanese character for “大” (big). Traditionally used as a medicinal herb for insect bites and wounds.

Shinano Wintergreen (late June–July)

Produces beautiful pink flowers. The name “ichiyakusou” means “one-medicine plant,” as it was historically used for treating insect bites and cuts.

Alpine Mugwort (July–September)

A native Japanese plant familiar around the 5th Station. Its rounded clusters of subdued flowers give off a unique, understated beauty.

Japanese Knotweed (July–August)

Produces numerous small red blossoms. Known both as an edible and medicinal plant, it thrives even in dry soils with remarkable resilience.

Japanese White Birch (year-round)

Recognizable by its pale trunk. Strong against cold and avalanches, it roots firmly even on steep, rocky slopes.

Japanese Larch (year-round)

A conifer that turns brilliant golden-yellow in autumn. Since its foliage colors later than most, it is seen as a tree that heralds the coming of winter.

Veitch’s Fir (year-round)

A tall evergreen fir tree with a shape reminiscent of a Christmas tree, growing up to 20 meters high and creating a strong presence in the forest.

Vertical Distribution of Plants on Mt. Fuji
On high mountains like Mt. Fuji, the temperature drops steadily as you climb—approximately 0.6°C for every 100 meters of elevation gain.
This means plants commonly found at the base disappear as the altitude rises, replaced by species adapted to colder conditions. This phenomenon is known as “vertical distribution of plants.”
In general, mountains with similar climates show similar vertical patterns. However, since Mt. Fuji is a relatively young volcano, it displays a unique vegetation distribution not seen in other mountains of Japan’s Chubu region. Observing these plants is one of the great joys of nature trekking on Mt. Fuji.

Summary

In this guide, we introduced the Ochudo – Oniwa – Okuniwa trekking course, a trail that circles around Mt. Fuji at an altitude of about 2,300 meters.

With landscapes that change beautifully across the four seasons, every visit offers new discoveries and fresh perspectives.

Take this opportunity to spend a special time in nature—feeling Mt. Fuji up close and experiencing its deeper, spiritual charm.

We also feature other recommended model courses and highlights for enjoying the Mt. Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station.
Click here to check them out as well!

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U.S

Writer at JAPANOPIA Editorial Team

In my 30s, originally from Kyoto and now based in the Kanto region, I have been passionate about traveling both within Japan and abroad since my student days. I love discovering hidden local charms while strolling through cities and towns.

A true nature enthusiast, I’m especially drawn to the sea and mountains—and I’ve even climbed Mt. Fuji! I also enjoy joining local events and festivals, valuing every opportunity to connect with Japanese culture and traditions.

Through my writing, I aim to uncover the deeper appeal of Japan and share insights that make every journey more fulfilling—whether it’s sightseeing spots, gourmet experiences, or outdoor activities.

By highlighting the many attractions of Yamanashi Prefecture, I propose travel ideas where visitors can also experience Japan’s unique spirit of hospitality (“omotenashi”).

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Enjoy the Nature of Mt. Fuji! Easy Trekking Course from “Ochudo – Oniwa – Okuniwa” at the 5th Station 【With Map】

“Onchu-do, Oniwa, Okuniwa” trekking map

The Sacred Ancient Trail of Ochudo (Route A): Where Nature and Faith Intertwine