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

Just about two hours by train from Tokyo, Yamanashi Prefecture is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. One of its biggest attractions is, of course, the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, Japan’s iconic symbol.

Among the sightseeing trains that run at the foot of Mt. Fuji, one that particularly stands out is the Fujisan Express.

This charming train runs from Otsuki Sta. (358 m) ～ Kawaguchiko Sta. (857 m). Along the way, the scenery outside the window constantly changes, making the ride enjoyable for both children and adults alike. Not only will you experience magnificent views of Mt. Fuji, but the train’s unique interior design and facilities also add to the excitement.

Make your Mt. Fuji sightseeing even more fun and comfortable—hop aboard the Fujisan Express and enjoy the stunning landscapes and local charm of Yamanashi.

What is the “Fujisan Express” ?

The Fujisan Express is a charming limited express train decorated with playful Mt. Fuji character illustrations, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.

While there are no onboard sales, Wi-Fi, or power outlets, the train features spacious and comfortable seating, ensuring a relaxing journey.

Both the headrest covers and curtains are original Fujisan Express designs. The headrest covers are particularly special—they are made from organically grown cotton and carefully woven using Fujiyama-ori, a traditional textile craft from Fujiyoshida City.

What is Fujiyama-ori?
Fujiyoshida City, located at the northern foot of Mt. Fuji, has been known as a “town of textiles” for over a thousand years.
The unique Fujiyama-ori technique is characterized by the use of fine threads woven at a very high density. As a result, the fabric is heavier and sturdier than ordinary cloth, giving it a refined, durable quality.
This cultural touch adds to the Fujisan Express’s charm, allowing passengers to not only enjoy the scenery of Mt. Fuji but also appreciate the artistry of Yamanashi’s traditional craftsmanship.

What Are the Fujisan Characters?

Inside the Fujisan Express, you’ll find colorful illustrations of playful characters known as the Fujisan Characters. These designs were chosen through the “Fujisan Express Character Election”, which drew an incredible 14.47 million votes.

Out of all submissions, 44 characters were selected for the train’s design, along with 14 additional characters chosen through a public contest.

Among them, the Top 5 characters from the election are especially popular and worth looking out for:

No.01 Eco Fuji

• Winner with 826,120 votes.
• Known for a personality that “does anything eco-friendly,” passionately devoted to protecting the environment.
• While sometimes criticized as self-promoting, Eco Fuji’s true motivation is a genuine love for preserving Mt. Fuji’s natural beauty.

No.02 Fujisan-kun

• Secured 656,562 votes and placed second.
• An idol-like character, always smiling and full of energy.
• Although Mt. Fuji is Japan’s No. 1 symbol, Fujisan-kun proudly accepts his runner-up position and keeps working hard every day.

No.03 Monsieur Fuji

• Earned 496,843 votes and came in third.
• His golden appearance is reminiscent of the dazzling Diamond Fuji, the sight of the sun rising or setting atop Mt. Fuji.
• Despite his brilliance, he is known for a humble and modest personality, which adds to his charm.

No.04 Fuji-Bobo

• Ranked fourth with 361,353 votes.
• A mysterious character distinguished by unusually long hair of unknown origin.
• Portrayed as an elementary school student, still figuring out the world—and himself.
• His “slightly lost” expression is considered his cutest feature.

No.05 Ogawa

• Came in fifth with 360,514 votes.
• Recognizable by his distinctively large nose, making him unforgettable at first glance.
• Popular for wandering around in tight T-shirts during summer.
• Despite being part of the Fujisan Express cast, his name has nothing to do with Mt. Fuji, which makes him quirky and unique.

Seat Types & How to Ride

A unique feature of the Fujisan Express is that each seat cover is decorated with a different Fujisan Character. Finding your favorite character as you choose a seat is part of the fun, especially for children.

Cars 1 & 2: Reserved Cars

Cars 1 and 2 are reserved seating only, meaning you will always have the seat you booked in advance.

• Near the deck, there are two glass-partitioned sections with a total of 8 seats arranged face-to-face—perfect for families or groups traveling together.
• In the center of these seats, a large wooden table is provided, making it convenient to enjoy snacks or light meals during the journey.
• Car 1 also features a panoramic lounge open to all passengers, as well as a children’s play attraction with a mock driver’s cab, where kids can pretend to operate the train.

Car 3: Non-Reserved Car

Car 3 is a non-reserved seating car, so you do not need a reserved seat ticket to ride.

• Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• During busy travel times, standing may be required if all seats are occupied.

Fares

Cars 1 & 2 (Reserved Cars)

• Require: Base Fare Ticket + Limited Express Ticket + Reserved Seat Ticket (¥200)
• Sales end once seats are fully booked.

Car 3 (Non-Reserved Car)

• Require: Base Fare Ticket + Limited Express Ticket
• No sales limit. If all seats are taken, passengers must stand, but the Limited Express fee still applies.

[2025] Timetable

Outbound (Otsuki Sta. ～ Kawaguchiko Sta.)

Inbound (Kawaguchiko Sta. ～ Otsuki Sta.)

How to Purchase Tickets

Cars 1 & 2 (Reserved Cars)

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

• Online (recommended)
• At station ticket counters at the following stations:
  • Otsuki Sta.
  • Tsuru-Bunkadaigaku-mae Sta.
  • Shimoyoshida Sta.
  • Fujisan Sta.
  • Fuji-Q Highland Sta.
  • Kawaguchiko Sta.

If seats are still available, same-day purchases are possible at the station, but to guarantee your seat, advance online booking is highly recommended.

Car 3 (Non-Reserved Car)

Tickets for Car 3 (Non-Reserved Car) are not available online.
They must be purchased directly at station ticket counters on the day of travel.

How to Book Online (Cars 1 & 2)

Search by Date

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

Select Train

Pick the departure time that best suits your schedule.

Enter Passenger Information & Seat Selection

Input passenger details and select your preferred seat.

Confirm Details

Review your booking details to ensure accuracy.

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

Payment

Enter your credit card details to complete payment. Once confirmed, your booking is complete.

Reserve online here !

Fujisan Express Original Goods

After enjoying the ride on the Fujisan Express, don’t forget to check out the original merchandise. New items are released regularly—for example, in July 2024, a brand-new pen case was added to the lineup!

These goods make perfect souvenirs and are a fun way to bring a piece of your journey home.

You can purchase Fujisan Express goods at:

• The official online shop “Fujikyu Norimono Hyakkaten”
• Shimoyoshida Sta. on the Fujikyu Railway Line
• Various special events

Be sure to find your favorite item and make your Fujisan Express trip even more memorable!

Summary

In this guide, we introduced the Fujisan Express, a sightseeing train especially popular with children.

Along with the Fujisan Characters highlighted in this article, you can also enjoy discovering your own personal favorites during the ride.

Want to explore more? Check out the other unique trains running on the Fujikyu Railway Line as well!

READ MORE

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