Diaries of a Happy Feet :🚶 Exploring Kawaguchiko Train Station Terminal Mt Fuji 河口湖駅, Japan 🇯🇵🗾 [4K]

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Diaries of a Happy Feet, Don't forget to subscribe and hit the 🔔 to get notified with the latest Walking Tour Series! More Uploads to come. Happy Watching!! And don't forget to turn on [CC] Closed Caption for more information and best viewing experience.

[@tacoventure]

Really lucky to have seen the mount fuji without the cloud, when i've been to Kawaguchiko. I could see the fuji Waterfall instead, Very beautiful and very big !!!

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Yes indeed. We went to osaka via shinkansen and captured this kzbin.info/www/bejne/oouuYpmJrKmUZposi=JaupaUanVMmElGqB it was majestic... can't wait to return

[@nadianashra2362]

thank you so much for the video. Now i'm clear regarding the train services there. thank you for all the details

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @nadianashra2362. Glad to help. More uploads to come so stay tuned :)

[@katavutp.8386]

But, JR wide pass is cover in route from Shinjuku to Kawakuchoko 😊 by JR Fuji Excurion Ltd. Train 🚂

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @katavutp.8386 , thank you for watching. Yes , you are correct (As of recording time and mentioned here 04:40 - kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZTFiYdojMZridk JR Wide pass covers trip including Kawaguchiko) but not if you purchase the JR 7, 14, 21 day Rail passes . We believe they are different . Subject to change until further notice . We will try to update this over time . More videos to be uploaded . Happy watching :)

[@nonarosezubieto6998]

Interesting video. Thanks for sharing. Would you know if there are free tour buses in the area?

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi, yes there is a free loop shuttle bus for customers who use the facilities of the Fujikyu Group like if you are staying at Highland Resort Hotel & Spa. The shuttle runs between the designated facilities in addition to Fujikyu Railway Kawaguchiko station, Fujikyu-Highland station and Mt. Fuji station. This free loop shuttle bus service is for the following Fujikyu facility guests; Fujikyu-Highland, Fujiyama Onsen, Highland Resort Hotel & Spa, Fujisan Station Hotel, Highland Station Inn, FUJIYAMA MUSEUM, PICA Fujiyoshida, PICA Fujiyama and Fujisan World Heritage Center. You can check out this link www.highlandstation-inn.com/en/loop_bus/index_en.php for more information.

[@gratess04]

What is the bus going to and from Fuji Q highland? Is it something that I need to prebook?

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @gratess04 , technically every highway bus to the Fuji Five Lakes area stops at Fuji-Q Highland along the way. These include direct buses to/from Shinjuku, Tokyo Station and Yokohama Station to Kawaguchiko Station. But this needs reservation online or you can purchase ticket from ticket counters. There used to be a free bus called Free Fujikyu Loop Shuttle Bus - brown line but this is for customers who use the facilities of the Fujikyu Group - if you buy passes/tickets for Fuji Q Highland then you can ride this for free. These are the routes A.Highland Resort Hotel & SPA B.Fujiyama Onsen C.Fujisan Station Hotel D.Mt.Fuji Station E.Fujikyu Highland Station F.Kawaguchiko Station G.Fujisan World Heritage Center A.Highland Resort Hotel & SPA H.PICA Fujiyoshida 2 services/day I.PICA Fujiyama 2 services/day A.Highland Resort Hotel & SPA Entry to Fuji-Q is free! Rather than paying to get in, you buy tickets for individual rides. If you plan on staying the whole day, we recommend the Fuji-Q 1-Day Free Pass for unlimited fun at almost every attraction in the park. If you want to squeeze a lot of rides into a short time, there’s also an Afternoon Free Pass option. If you wish to visit Fuji Q Highland directly , a ticket to Fujikyu Highland Station on the Fujikyuko Line will be about ¥1,100 (if you come from Otsuki Station) or if you come from Kawaguchiko Station, train ticket to Fuji Q Highland takes only 2 minute ride which cost around ¥180 - departs every 20 minutes. Hope this helps... Enjoy watching! and stay tuned for more uploads :)

[@weibinglee5297]

What month was this video captured? The weather was perfect for capturing photos of Mt. Fuji.😍😍😍👍👍👍

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @weibinglee5297, thank you for watching. This was captured on January 1 New Year's Day early morning . The best time to visit and capture Mt Fuji is during winter because cloud formation is minimal and humidity is not that high. In general, you'll have the highest chance in during the winter season( November to February), lowest chance in summer (June to August), and early mornings are found to be the best for visibility. Spring and Autumn season are also good time to visit , you just need to check out weather forecast on your planned trip. You can checkout our other videos of Mt Fuji here kzbin.info/www/bejne/oouuYpmJrKmUZpo or check out our Explore Japan Playlist here kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXKycq17gK-kbJo . We have more videos to upload in the coming days so please stay tuned :)

[@pavelporscheguy8333]

this video is very useful for first timer. Question pls, just wondering what time do buses depart early in the morning? and what's the last trip? in addition, can i book tickets online for the kawaguchiko 2 day pass? or do i need to go straight to the ticket office?

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @pavelporscheguy8333. Depends which route you are heading to. Some buses start at 9am, some earlier like if you going to shinjuku shibuya. Same thing for last trip. For schedule you can refer to fujikyo website.

[@pavelporscheguy8333]

hi, thank you very much. we are planning to visit the 5 fuji lakes and can't wait to see Mt fuji. would you know if it snow in kawaguchiko area?

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @pavelporscheguy8333 , Yes snow do come in Kawaguchiko Area including the station. It usually snows during January to February. If you plan to visit Lake Kawaguchiko during this time, be sure to check the weather forecast in advance. If there is snow in the forecast, you will need snow boots and studded tires on your car. When you drive to Lake Kawaguchiko in winter, don't forget to take precautions against snowfall, such as wearing studded shoes! When you go to Lake Kawaguchiko in your private car or rental car in winter, be sure to check that it is equipped with studless tires. Even if it is not snowing, the minimum temperature in the morning and evening can drop below 0 degrees Celsius, and there is a risk of frozen roads. we don't think there will be any problem if you wear studless shoes when the weather is nice, but if rain or snow is forecast, we recommend having a chain on hand.

[@pavelporscheguy8333]

Hi, first of all thank you for this video. Is the 1700 ticket unlimited pass worth it? Like if we stay for 1 day roaming the area?

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @pavelporscheguy8333 , it really depends on your itinerary. If you are like visiting far places within Kawaguchiko area like Saito Nemba Traditional Houses or visiting Aokigahara-Jukai Forest and Lava Caves, we would say go and buy the ticket even if you are staying just for the day because one-way fare could go like around 850 yen already maybe more and so if you add up return route you pretty much get your money's worth not to mention it's a hop on hop off bus so you can go to anywhere you want. But because of logistics, the weather and the crowd, it can really get overwhelming and sometimes if it's peak season it's hard to manage time -- you know the queueing, the crowd, bus schedule etc. One day is really not enough if you want to immerse yourself with the culture but because there are lots of places to visit around the area - some even walking distance from Kawaguchiko Station, maybe you can save some costs and just use Suica Card or IC Cards if you have them - yes they do accept IC Cards on sightseeing buses. So be prepared, plan ahead, calculate and ENJOY. And by the way if you are roaming around- Start EARLY! There are better chances to view Mt Fuji in the morning than the afternoon. :) Hope this helps everyone. More uploads coming so stay tuned for more videos. Thank you.

[@Karina.w8]

Hello wanna ask for the locker , is it fit for medium luggage? And where to pay for the locker? . Also want to ask about the red/ blue/ green bus, can we get in/ out in every destination spot?? Or can only get in and get out at kawaguchiko station only?

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @Karina.w8 , thank you for watching. As for the lockers, prices vary depending on your luggage size. As you can see from the start of the video, there are quite a number of coin lockers at Kawaguchiko Station. This is located just at the far right end of the station building - there's a huge Bill Board sign on coin lockers. The availability of coin lockers really depends on a number of factors, day of week, and time of day especially if you are arriving during peak or non-peak season, all of which will affect how crowded it is at the time . You should be aware, though, that the number of coin lockers large enough for backpacks is usually quite limited also , and maybe all filled up during peak times. The chart below shows the sizes and costs for coin lockers typically found at train stations Size guide (unit: mm) sizes and cost per 1 day rental fee * small ~ Small(width 130 x height 320 x depth 575) 300 yen standard ~ Standard(width 360 x height 320 x depth 575) 400-500 yen During ~ Medium(width 360 x height 550 x depth 575) 500-600 yen Big ~ Large(width 360 x height 840 x depth 575) 800-900 yen extra large ~ Extra Large(width 360 x height 1132 x depth 575) 1,000 yen You can check the luggage sizes here: www.keiochika.co.jp/locker/assets/img/page/service/size_details.png When it comes to payment, most lockers accept coins, particularly 100-yen coins and 500-yen coins. But as Japan moves towards cashless payments, so many lockers have started accepting IC cards as well. There are still some lockers in Kawaguchiko station that still accept coins. While coins and IC card payments are common, credit card acceptance is less widespread when it comes to coin lockers in Japan. Some coin lockers, especially those in major cities and tourist spots, do accept credit cards. However, they are few and far in between, and not a guarantee. Each locker can only be used for a limited time, usually up to 24 hours, without additional fees. If you’re planning to use the locker for more than 24 hours, you’ll need to factor in the additional fees. Also, don’t forget to retrieve your items before leaving the area, as unclaimed items may be removed by the staff after 2-3 days, or up to 30 days, depending on the company. If you’re reliant on your credit card, it’s best to look for those located in major city train stations, as these are more likely to accept credit card payments. Here are some tips to make the most of Japan coin lockers : - Always have some 100-yen coins or a charged IC card handy (if you use one) - If you’re using a locker in a busy location, try to secure one early in the day before they’re all taken - Choose a locker that’s the right size for your belongings to avoid overpaying - Make a note of your locker number and its location in order to find it easily later - Don’t store perishable food in regular lockers. Use a refrigerated locker instead. - Consider using lockers located in well-lit, busy areas for added security. If you’re storing valuable items, you might want to opt for lockers that offer built-in security camera and insurance. - Remember to respect the locker usage rules to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone - It’s also worth checking the locker’s opening hours, as some may close overnight. - If you’re planning to leave your items overnight, make sure to use a 24-hour locker and check to make sure it is allowed. - Furthermore, don’t forget to check the locker’s maximum storage period to avoid paying extra storage fees and possibly having your items removed and disposed of by coin locker staff. As for the red/ blue/ green bus, yes, you can do hop on and hop off but this could be costly if you use suica or IC card alone. So, if this is your plan we recommend you to buy the unlimited 2-day pass which cost around 1700 yen to explore Kawaguchiko and the 5 Fuji lakes . You can visit the Information Desk just beside the station (open from 9am-5pm) and get the Bus Map. Day passes can be purchased at the ticketing booth inside the station. You can definitely maximize the use of this pass if you are staying more than a day in Kawaguchiko area because there are lots of places to visit. Travel between location and bus schedule can also eat your time so we recommend planning your itinerary and places to visit. You can check out our videos here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHesoIacmtepjJo (GREEN SIGHTSEEING BUS) and kzbin.info/www/bejne/moa0mnmtpN2Frtk (RED SIGHTSEEING BUS) We hope this video helped you plan your Japan Itinerary. Please let us know if you have questions :) We have more Japan videos to upload in the coming days so please stay tuned :)

[@Karina.w8]

@@Diariesofahappyfeet hello thank you for such a detailed reply. For the every bus (red or green ) , when we enter the bus we just need to tap our ic card and then can get off at any bus stop ( in the line) or we only can get off at kawaguchiko station? And can we get on the bus in any bus stop (like usual bus) or only can get on the bus from kawaguchiko station? On the day 1 , We plan to go to kawaguchiko using limited excursion train (because we travel with eldery , kid and 1 toddler, we think this transportation will be more comfortable than highway bus from shinjuku) and stay one night at highland resort , but we still confuse when we arrive we should drop off our luggages first at the hotel because it will not comfortable if we bring luggages while explore kawaguchiko,. Do you have any advice for our situation? Should we use locker or go to hotel first from kawaguchiko station or we should get off at fujikyu station.? Really confusing to choose 😄 Also wanna ask if we plan to go to oshino hakkai, which bus should we use? On the day 2, we plan to go to gotemba premium outlet directly from our hotel and then go back to tokyo (shinjuku), do you have any information that ,is there any transportation / bus that can take us directly from hotel to gotemba And from gotemba directly go back to tokyo (shinjuku)? In your opinion, which one is the best spot to take picture of mount fuji ? Since i think we only can go to maybe 1 spot on day 1, because i go with eldery and kids and toddler so cant be rush in schedule. Thank you

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @Karina.w8 , thank you for watching. Ok we'll try to answer them one-by-one : hope this helps. *For the every bus (red or green ) , when we enter the bus we just need to tap our ic card and then can get off at any bus stop ( in the line) or we only can get off at kawaguchiko station?* => yes, you can do this just like any other bus - thus hop on and hop off. you will be charged according to the distance you travelled if you use IC Card. There are bus stops along the way. There is a tv in front of the bus where you can monitor the next bus stop (both in Japanese and English words). You need to press the red button if you want to unload to next bus stop because sometimes if there aren't people dropping off, buses will skip that bus stop, then proceed to the next destination. When unloading /exiting the bus, you need to tap the ic card again , there's a card reader just beside the bus driver (as can be seen here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fHesoIacmtepjJo (GREEN SIGHTSEEING BUS) and kzbin.info/www/bejne/moa0mnmtpN2Frtk (RED SIGHTSEEING BUS). Or if you have the 2-day pass ticketss, you show these to the driver. We recommend you get one to save money and if you will be visiting multiple areas around the area. *And can we get on the bus in any bus stop (like usual bus) or only can get on the bus from kawaguchiko station?* => yes you can get on and off a bus in any bus stop just like a normal bus. you tap the ic card again when you load the bus ( at the rear side of the bus upon entrance ) and tap the card again in front to exit. Kawaguchiko station is also a bus stop (the first bus stop ). we suggest you get a map - hard copy in the Tourist Information Office or you can download the maps for free (Link in the description) and print them (as safeguard) or you can copy them on your mobile phone. Or better yet, if you haven't tried using google maps on your mobile phone, we suggest you use it as they are very useful/handy in navigation. For most of our trips, we simply rely on google maps alone including the time/schedule and destination if we are on the right track. Hard copies can be handy especially if we are on the road or when our mobile phones got emptied which needs recharging.

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

Hi @Karina.w8 , thank you for watching. *On the day 1 , We plan to go to kawaguchiko using limited excursion train (because we travel with eldery , kid and 1 toddler, we think this transportation will be more comfortable than highway bus from shinjuku) and stay one night at highland resort , but we still confuse when we arrive we should drop off our luggages first at the hotel because it will not comfortable if we bring luggages while explore kawaguchiko,. Do you have any advice for our situation?* => Your situation is quite special and understandable. There is a challenge there especially travelling with elders and children but we think it's doable - only if you have the budget and time to prepare. Not to mention if you are arriving during peak season - this is another challenge in itself. But we suggest you plan out your itinerary and your travel goal (an excel sheet would be helpful) . Are you amenable to changes in case your plan didn't push through successfully? Do you have extra budget/allowance ? There are actually quite a number of options for you. Have you tried arranging a land pickup like (1) rent a van/arrange or private car for transport for specific no. of days. In this way, you can lessen the burden of navigating or at least when and where to drop on and off between places and also worrying the time - because buses have also schedule which they need to follow. Catching up with bus schedule might prevent you of exploring more of the area. Or you can plan ahead and somewhat be cautious of the time to follow certain things you do with your itinerary. www.klook.com/activity/91857-customizable-mt-fuji-private-one-day-trip-tokyo/?spm=Activity.TopNavigation.Invite&clickId=736c34c3da (2) Join private tour groups, you can check out tour groups via Klook here www.klook.com/activity/22179-mt-fuji-oshino-hakkai-tour-tokyo/?spm=Activity.TopNavigation.Invite&clickId=736c34c3da Another option is - Since you are staying in Highland Resort, (thank you for sharing this), (3) why not avail of Fujikyu free services there is a free loop shuttle bus for customers who use the facilities of the Fujikyu Group like if you are staying at Highland Resort Hotel & Spa. The shuttle runs between the designated facilities in addition to Fujikyu Railway Kawaguchiko station, Fujikyu-Highland station and Mt. Fuji station. This free loop shuttle bus service is for the following Fujikyu facility guests; Fujikyu-Highland, Fujiyama Onsen, Highland Resort Hotel & Spa, Fujisan Station Hotel, Highland Station Inn, FUJIYAMA MUSEUM, PICA Fujiyoshida, PICA Fujiyama and Fujisan World Heritage Center. You can check out this link www.highlandstation-inn.com/en/loop_bus/index_en.php for more information You need to make reservation so you can avail these fere loop services. We think this could be a good option for you. For more information, you can check out the route of the free bus here en.kawaguchiko.net/free-shuttle-bus-brown-line/ Map here: www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1xar6qq17IxsQNg3ZlbvIYBlQxomxeciV&femb=1&ll=35.48870149336539%2C138.77059845000002&z=14

[@Diariesofahappyfeet]

*Also wanna ask if we plan to go to oshino hakkai, which bus should we use?* => Oshino Hakkai are the eight springs found in Oshino, Yamanashi, Japan. The aquifer water from Mount Fuji comes out to the ground to form these springs. They are a Natural monument of Japan, part of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Site, and one of Yamanashi Prefecture's important tourist attractions. By Car If coming by car, it is a 10-minute drive from Yamanakako Interchange. By Train If you prefer to travel by train, you can take the Fujikyu Railway to a railway close to Oshino Hakkai. The train runs from Kawaguchiko Station, and the journey takes approximately 20 minutes. From Oshino Hakkai Station, it is a short 5 minute walk to Oshino Hakkai. The train fare is around 400 yen one way, making it an affordable option. Additionally, the train journey provides stunning views of the countryside, making it a pleasant and memorable experience. However, it is worth noting that the train timetable may be less frequent than the bus timetable, so it is essential to plan your journey in advance. By Bus From Kawaguchiko Station Taking a bus is an affordable option to get to Oshino Hakkai. There are several bus routes available, including from Kawaguchiko Station and Mishima Station. The fare varies depending on the starting point, but it is generally around 1,000 yen per person one way. From Tokyo One of the easiest ways to get to Oshino Hakkai from Tokyo is by bus. Visitors can take the bus from Tokyo Station Yaesu North Exit Tekko Building to Oshino Hakkai. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes and costs between ¥1700 - ¥2500. More tips: Plan your transportation: There are several ways to get to Oshino Hakkai from Tokyo, including by bus, train, or rental car. Consider your budget, travel time, and preferred mode of transportation when planning your trip. Wear comfortable shoes: Oshino Hakkai is a natural park with several walking trails. To fully enjoy the park, wear comfortable shoes that can handle uneven terrain. Bring cash: While some shops and restaurants may accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to bring cash just in case. There are ATMs available in the park, but they may have limited hours or be out of service. Respect the environment: Oshino Hakkai is a natural park with delicate ecosystems. Be sure to follow all posted signs and stay on designated paths to avoid damaging the environment. Be prepared for crowds: Oshino Hakkai is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak travel seasons. Be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly to avoid long lines or wait times.