"Fujisan Express" Timetable, Fares, and How to Buy Tickets

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Fujisan Express, a sightseeing limited express train on the Fujikyu Railway Line connecting Otsuki Station and Kawaguchiko Station. It includes timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. The train features a unique design with Mount Fuji characters, and this article summarizes key points to check before your trip.

*The timetable and fares are based on information as of March 14, 2026.

*The information in this article is current as of July 2026. Operating days, timetables, fares, sales conditions, and purchase methods may change. Please check the latest information on Ekitan or the railway company's official website before use.

The "Fujisan Express" is a sightseeing express train on the Fujikyu Railway Line, connecting Otsuki Station in Yamanashi Prefecture with Kawaguchiko Station, a base for sightseeing around Mt. Fuji. It operates with a three-car formation of 8000 series trains, and its distinctive feature is that the train's exterior is decorated with 101 different Mt. Fuji characters. Cars 1 and 2 are reserved seats, and Car 3 is unreserved seats. The nickname "Fujisan" embodies the image of a fun train journey along the line, alongside Mt. Fuji.

What is the "Fujisan Express"?

The Fujisan Express is a sightseeing express train connecting Otsuki Station and Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyu Railway Line. It uses 8000 series trains, which were acquired and modified from the former JR 253 series Narita Express (N'EX), and the train's exterior is decorated with 101 different unique Mount Fuji characters. Car 1 is a reserved-seat car with observation seats, Car 2 is also reserved seating, and Car 3 is unreserved seating. Each train has a different character design, making it a train that makes you feel the excitement of the journey even before you board.

Train Features and Popular Points

The biggest attraction of the Fujisan Express is the opportunity to enjoy the journey while experiencing the magnificent view of Mount Fuji up close from the observation seats in Car 1. Because the train cars were originally used as the Narita Express (N'EX) and have been converted, the seat pitch is a generous 1,000 mm, and passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride in spacious cross seats. The train's exterior and interior goods, which are designed with 101 different Mount Fuji characters, are also popular as souvenirs of the trip. In addition, a wheelchair-accessible space is provided near the deck of Car 2, demonstrating the train's consideration for a variety of passengers.

"Fujisan Express" Timetable

*This timetable is as of March 14, 2026. Some timetable differences apply between weekdays and weekends/holidays.

Southbound (Towards Kawaguchiko) Timetable

Northbound (Towards Otsuki) Timetable

The "Fujisan Express" operates several times a day between Otsuki Station and Kawaguchiko Station on both weekdays and weekends/holidays. On weekdays, some services overlap with the JR Chuo Line express "Fuji Excursion," in which case the train number may change.

Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions

The Fujisan Express may have alternative operating days due to scheduled vehicle maintenance. Vehicle schedules are especially prone to change during peak seasons, so it's advisable to check the service information the day before your trip.

Operating Sections of the "Fujisan Express"

Main Sections

• Otsuki Station to Kawaguchiko Station

Kawaguchiko Station is a key station for sightseeing around Mt. Fuji, providing access to sightseeing boats on Lake Kawaguchi and the Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway. Along the way, Fuji-Q Highland Station is the closest station to the popular theme park, and Fujisan Station is the central station of Fujiyoshida City, known for its spectacular views of the five-story pagoda of Arakurayama Sengen Park and Mt. Fuji.

"Fujisan Express" Stops

Main Stops

• Otsuki Station
• Tsuru Bunka University-mae Station
• Shimoyoshida Station
• Fujisan Station
• Fuji-Q Highland Station
• Kawaguchiko Station

*Please note that some train services may have different stops, such as departing from or arriving at Tsuru Bunka University-mae Station.

Fares for the "Fujisan Express"

Representative Section Fares

*The above fares are for passengers using Cars 1 and 2 (reserved seats). If you use Car 3 (unreserved seats), only the basic fare is required; the 200 yen reserved seat ticket is not necessary.

• Limited Express Price, Ticket and Timetable - ekitan

Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Fare

The fare for the "Fujisan Express" is the sum of the basic fare and the limited express fare. If you use Car 1 or Car 2 (reserved seats), you will need a reserved seat ticket of 200 yen in addition to the basic fare and limited express fare. If you use Car 3 (unreserved seats), you will only need the basic fare and limited express fare. Reserved seat tickets will no longer be sold once all seats are filled, so it is recommended to book early if you want to be sure to use a reserved seat.

If Using Only the Section Between Kawaguchiko Station and Fujisan Station

If you are traveling only between Kawaguchiko Station and Fujisan Station, you can use any available seats on the "Fujisan Express" with just a basic fare ticket. However, if you wish to use a reserved seat in Car 1 or Car 2, a separate reserved seat ticket of 200 yen is required. Outside of this special section, the limited express fare is required.

How to Buy Tickets for the "Fujisan Express"

Online Reservations (Fujikyu Railway)

Fujikyu Railway's online reservation service allows you to reserve and purchase reserved seats in Cars 1 and 2 online. Using online tickets is recommended as it eliminates the need for physical ticket issuance at stations. Please note that the basic fare is required separately and is not included in the online reservation. The online reservation service supports Japanese, English, Simplified Chinese, and Traditional Chinese, making it convenient for international travelers.

 

 

Station Ticket Windows and Automatic Ticket Machines

You can purchase basic fare tickets, limited express tickets, and reserved seat tickets at ticket windows and automatic ticket machines at each station along the Fujikyu Railway Line. If seats are available, you can also purchase tickets at the ticket office on the day of travel.

Travel Agencies

Some travel agencies also handle reserved seat tickets for the Fujisan Express. However, some agencies may not carry them, so please check in advance.

How to Buy for International Visitors

The "Fujisan Express" is operated by Fujikyu Railway (a private railway company), so the JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used. Fujikyu Railway offers special tickets such as the "Fujisan Marugoto Ticket" and the "Fujikyu Railway 2-Day Free Pass," but even when using these free passes, you will need to purchase a separate limited express ticket (and a reserved seat ticket if applicable) to ride the "Fujisan Express."

*The types of tickets eligible and purchase conditions may change.

Do I Need a Physical Ticket?

Reserved seat tickets purchased online may not require physical issuance at the station. However, if purchased at a station ticket office or automatic ticket machine, you will need to receive a paper limited express ticket/reserved seat ticket before boarding.

*Whether or not you need to receive a physical ticket depends on the booking method.

Can I Use Contactless Payment with an IC Card or Credit Card?

The Fujikyu Railway Line is included in the area where transportation IC cards can be used, and you can pass through the ticket gates using IC cards such as Suica for the basic fare portion. However, the limited express fare and reserved seat ticket portion cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card and must be purchased as a separate limited express ticket in advance.

On the Fujikyu Railway Line, contactless payment via credit card is not available at ticket gates. Limited express fares must be purchased in advance at station ticket offices, automatic ticket machines, or through online reservations.

Seating Information for the "Fujisan Express"

Seating Types

The Fujisan Express is a three-car train with reserved seats in Cars 1 and 2, and unreserved seats in Car 3. Car 1 has observation seats.

Distinctive Seating

The observation seats in Car 1 are popular seats where you can enjoy views of Mt. Fuji and the scenery along the route from the driver's cab. Because the train was originally a converted Narita Express (N'EX) train, the seat pitch is a generous 1,000 mm, giving you plenty of room to place your luggage at your feet. The box seats in Car 3 are arranged in a way that is convenient for families and groups traveling together. From the window seats, you can enjoy watching Mt. Fuji gradually appear larger as the train approaches Kawaguchiko.

Large Luggage Storage Area

There is a wheelchair-accessible space near the deck of Car 2, which can also be used to store large luggage. The overhead luggage racks above the seats are also available.

Barrier-Free Facilities

Wheelchair spaces are located in Car 2. Since there are no wheelchair spaces in Car 1, we recommend using Car 2 if you require wheelchair access. Contacting Fujikyu Railway in advance will ensure a smoother experience.

*Details of seating facilities may vary depending on the operation.

 

 

Enjoying Ekiben (Station Bento Boxes) and In-Train Gourmet Food on the "Fujisan Express"

There is no onboard sales service on the Fujisan Express. Around Otsuki Station, Kawaguchiko Station, and Fujisan Station, there are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy Yamanashi's local cuisine, including Hoto noodles, as well as bento box and souvenir shops. If you prepare a light meal before boarding, you can enjoy the scenery from the window. There are also many cafes and restaurants around Kawaguchiko Station where you can dine while viewing Mt. Fuji, making them convenient for taking a break during sightseeing.

*Onboard sales are not available. Operating hours for station shops and restaurants may change.

Points to Note When Riding the "Fujisan Express"

If you wish to use reserved seats (Car 1 and Car 2), we recommend making a reservation online or at the station ticket office in advance. Reservations are not required for Car 3 (unreserved seats), but you may not be able to find a seat during peak hours. Station staff may also restrict boarding in Car 3 depending on the level of congestion, so if you want to guarantee a seat, we recommend using reserved seats.

Due to scheduled vehicle maintenance, operating days and the vehicles used may change without notice. Since IC card or credit card contactless payment cannot process the limited express fare, please purchase a limited express ticket separately.

Summary

The Fujisan Express is a sightseeing express train on the Fujikyu Railway Line, connecting Otsuki Station and Kawaguchiko Station. It features a distinctive train car adorned with 101 different Mount Fuji characters. Cars 1 and 2 are reserved seats, while Car 3 is unreserved seating. A separate reserved seat ticket costing 200 yen is required for reserved seats. The JAPAN RAIL PASS cannot be used, and even if you have a Fujikyu Railway special ticket, you must purchase a limited express ticket separately. It is particularly popular with tourists on the Fujikyu Railway Line and is known for its photogenic design.

Enjoy the Fujisan Express, where you can enjoy your journey while gazing at Mount Fuji from the observation seats of Car 1.

Ekitan Travel Media Editorial Department

The Ekitan Travel Media editorial team provides information on transportation in Japan, including Shinkansen (bullet trains), regular trains, intercity travel, and access to tourist destinations. We also offer easy-to-understand travel information for international visitors.
This article is published by Ekitan Co., Ltd., the provider of the train transfer information service "Ekitan," and is based on Japanese railway and transportation information. Ekitan's website and app are used by over 10 million users per month.