"Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Timetable, Fares, and Ticket Purchasing Information
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Odakyu (Mt. Fuji Romancecar), a direct train service between Shinjuku Station and Gotemba Station on the JR Gotemba Line. It covers timetables, fares for representative sections, stations served, seating information, ticket purchasing procedures, ticket issuance requirements, and IC card compatibility. This limited express train operates across both Odakyu Electric Railway and JR Central lines, and this article summarizes key points to check before your trip.
*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 (Mt. Fuji Romancecar) is a limited express Romancecar that operates directly from Odakyu Electric Railway's Shinjuku Station to JR Central's JR Gotemba Line's Gotemba Station. This historic connecting train began operation in 1955 and was formerly known as "Asagiri," but was renamed (Mt. Fuji Romancecar) in the March 2018 timetable revision. All seats are reserved, so advance seat reservations are required to board. During its "Asagiri" days, it also ran from JR Central's Gotemba Station to Numazu Station, playing an important role as a means of transportation in the Suntō region of Shizuoka Prefecture.
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Train Name | "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" |
| Operating Company | Odakyu Electric Railway (operated by JR Central on the JR Gotemba Line) |
| Main Operating Sections | Shinjuku Station to Gotemba Station (via Odakyu Odawara Line and JR Gotemba Line) |
| Main Starting and Ending Stations | Shinjuku Station / Gotemba Station |
| Number of Trains | 3 round trips per day (up to 5 round trips with extra services during the summer) |
| Travel Time | Shinjuku to Gotemba: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Seating | All seats are reserved |
Table of Contents
- "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Overview
- "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Timetable
- "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Operating Section
- "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Stops
- "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Fares
- How to Buy "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Tickets
- Is a Physical Ticket Required?
- Can I Use IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments?
- "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Seating Information
- Ekiben and Onboard Dining on the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar"
- Points to Note When Riding the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar"
- Summary
"Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Overview
The (Mt. Fuji Romancecar) is a limited express Romancecar that operates directly between Odakyu Electric Railway and JR Central's JR Gotemba Line. It began operation in 1955 as a special semi-express connecting Shinjuku Station and Gotemba Station, and since 1991, it has been operated as a limited express train with mutual through service between Odakyu and JR Central. With the timetable revision in March 2018, it was renamed (Mt. Fuji Romancecar) from its long-familiar nickname "Asagiri". The train uses the 60000 series MSE, known as the blue Romancecar. The JR Gotemba Line section is a historic line that was once built as part of the Tokaido Main Line, and is now an electrified line operated by JR Central.
Train Features and Popular Aspects
The appeal of the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" lies in its convenience, offering direct access from Shinjuku to the Gotemba area around Mount Fuji without transfers. Along the JR Gotemba Line, passengers can enjoy scenic views of Mount Fuji. Gotemba Station is also known as the closest station to Gotemba Premium Outlets, making it popular with shoppers and those visiting Mount Fuji. All seats are equipped with power outlets, ensuring a comfortable journey. Along the JR Gotemba Line, after passing Matsuda Station, tranquil views of the Tanzawa Mountains and the foothills of Mount Fuji unfold.
"Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Timetable
*During the summer season (late July to August), extra "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" No. 31 and No. 32 trains will be added.
Southbound (towards Gotemba) Timetable
| Stations | Train No. 1 | Train No. 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku Dep. | 10:40 | 14:40 |
| Machida Dep. | ― | ― |
| Matsuda Dep. | ― | ― |
| Gotemba Arr. | 12:24 (104 minutes) | 16:21 (101 minutes) |
*Only some trains stop at Suruga-Oyama Station.
Northbound (towards Shinjuku) Timetable
| Stations | Train No. 2 | Train No. 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Gotemba Dep. | morning | afternoon |
| Matsuda Dep. | ― | ― |
| Machida Dep. | ― | ― |
| Shinjuku Arr. | Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes later | Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes later |
*This is a representative example.
The "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" operates 3 round trips a day between Shinjuku Station and Gotemba Station. During summer holidays and weekends, extra trains, "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" No. 31 and "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" No. 32, may be added, bringing the total to a maximum of 5 round trips. These extra trains bypass Suruga-Oyama Station.
Important Information Regarding Operating Days and Service Suspensions
The "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" regular trains (Nos. 1-4, etc.) operate daily throughout the year. However, service may be suspended on the JR Gotemba Line due to severe weather, so please check the service information for the day.
"Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Operating Section
Main Sections
- Shinjuku Station to Matsuda Station (Odakyu Odawara Line)
- Matsuda Station to Gotemba Station (JR Gotemba Line)
Gotemba Station is the closest station to Gotemba Premium Outlets and is a popular shopping spot with views of Mount Fuji. From Matsuda Station, you can continue the journey on the JR Gotemba Line, enjoying the changing scenery as you travel along the foothills of Mount Fuji.
"Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Stops
Main Stops
- Shinjuku Station
- Machida Station
- Matsuda Station
- Suruga-Oyama Station (some trains only)
- Gotemba Station
*The number of stops varies depending on the train.
"Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Fares
Representative Section Fares
| Section | Total Fare (Adult, Regular Season) | Basic Fare | Limited Express Surcharge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku Station to Gotemba Station | 2,860 yen | 1,300 yen | 1,560 yen |
*Due to the JR fare system revision in April 2023, the limited express surcharge for the JR Gotemba Line section no longer fluctuates seasonally and is now the same fare year-round. The exact fare may vary depending on the section used and the purchase method. Please check the latest fares on Ekitan or the railway company's official website.
Breakdown of Basic Fare and Limited Express Surcharge
The fare for the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" is the sum of the basic fare for the Odakyu Line and JR Gotemba Line, and the limited express surcharge. The limited express surcharge includes both the Odakyu Line portion and the JR Line portion. Since all seats on the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" are reserved, there are no unreserved seats. Prior to the system revision in April 2023, there were high season and off-season rates for the limited express surcharge on the JR section, but now it is a fixed fare throughout the year.
If Using Only JR Sections
Even if you are only traveling on the JR Gotemba Line, such as between Matsuda Station and Gotemba Station, you will need a limited express ticket in addition to your basic fare ticket to ride the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar". If purchasing tickets at a JR Central station, please check the information provided by Odakyu Electric Railway or JR Central before use, as sales locations and conditions may be limited.
How to Buy "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Tickets
e-Romancecar (Online Reservation)
Odakyu Electric Railway's internet reservation service, "e-Romancecar," allows you to purchase ticketless limited express tickets without registering as a member. A benefit is that you can purchase them for 50 yen less than the regular fare by paying online as a ticketless limited express fare. Limited express tickets go on sale one month prior to the travel date at 10:00 AM. Using the membership-based "Romancecar@Club" allows you to register information such as your seat preferences in advance, making future reservations smoother.
Ticket Offices and Automatic Ticket Machines
You can purchase limited express tickets at major Odakyu Line ticket offices and dedicated automatic ticket vending machines. Please note that the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" service, which runs directly on the JR Gotemba Line, may have different sales locations and ticket collection methods than regular Romancecar trains, so please check the instructions when purchasing.
Travel Agencies
Tickets can also be purchased at some travel agencies that handle both Odakyu and JR Central train and limited express tickets. In areas outside the scope of through transport, tickets may be issued separately.
How to Buy for International Tourists
The "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" is a through train service between Odakyu Electric Railway (private railway) and JR Central. The section within the Odakyu Line is not covered by the JAPAN RAIL PASS. The JR Gotemba Line is a JR Central line, but the pass coverage section and purchase method for through travel vary depending on the conditions, so please check the information from JR Central and Odakyu Electric Railway before use. A limited express ticket must be purchased separately.
Is a Physical Ticket Required?
Limited express tickets purchased through online services such as e-Romancecar can sometimes be viewed electronically on a smartphone screen, allowing you to board without issuing a paper ticket. Because the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" runs directly on the JR Gotemba Line, the available reservation services and ticket collection methods may differ from those of regular Odakyu Line Romancecar trains. If purchasing at a ticket office or automatic ticket machine, you will receive a paper ticket before boarding.
Can I Use IC Cards or Credit Card Touch Payments?
When riding the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar", you will need separate tickets for the basic fare and the limited express surcharge. While there are stations on the Odakyu Line and JR Gotemba Line where you can use transportation IC cards, the handling of tickets differs depending on the purchase method when traveling directly between the Odakyu Line and the JR Gotemba Line. The limited express surcharge cannot be paid using the balance on your IC card, so please purchase a separate limited express ticket in advance.
Odakyu Electric Railway offers contactless payment services for train fares using credit cards and other payment methods. Supported brands include Visa, Mastercard, JCB, American Express, Diners Club, Discover, and UnionPay. However, this service is not available at JR transfer gates at Shinjuku, Atsugi, and Fujisawa stations.
"Mt. Fuji Romancecar" Seating Information
Seat Types (All Seats Reserved)
| Seat Type | Content |
|---|---|
| Standard Seats (Reserved) | Rotating reclining seats, power outlets at every seat |
| Unreserved Seats | None (All seats are reserved) |
| Large Luggage Area | Located at the end of the car |
Distinctive Seating Features
The MSE is a train that can also operate on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and features a wood-grain interior and high ceilings. Power outlets are installed at every seat, ensuring a comfortable journey even on long trips. Window seats offer views of Mount Fuji and the Tanzawa Mountains depending on the direction of travel. The MSE is also known as Japan's first subway-compatible, reserved-seat limited express train, and its exterior is characterized by a vibrant blue color known as Vermeer Blue.
Large Luggage Area
There is a space at the end of the train car where you can place large luggage. This is convenient when you have a lot of luggage, such as when returning from shopping at Gotemba Premium Outlets.
Barrier-Free Facilities
The MSE has barrier-free spaces. If you will be using a wheelchair, we recommend contacting the Odakyu Customer Center in advance.
Ekiben and Onboard Dining on the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar"
Since the timetable revision in March 2021, onboard sales service has been discontinued on all Romancecar trains. Some trains have drink vending machines. If you want to enjoy a meal, it is recommended to prepare in advance at shops and restaurants around Shinjuku Station or Gotemba Station. The area around Gotemba Station also has plenty of observation spots where you can see Mt. Fuji and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine.
*Onboard sales are not available. Operating hours for station shops and restaurants may change.
Points to Note When Riding the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar"
Since all seats on the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" are reserved, it is recommended to make a reservation early if you have decided on your travel date. Please note that a limited express ticket is required even if you are only traveling on the JR Gotemba Line, and that purchasing tickets can be complicated if you are traveling across Odakyu and JR lines. Also, if you are purchasing a limited express ticket at a JR Central station, the ticketing method varies depending on the station, so it is best to check with a station attendant in advance to ensure a smooth process.
Since there is no onboard sales service, please prepare any meals you plan to eat before boarding. While Romancecar trains usually offer refunds for delays of one hour or more, the "Mt. Fuji Romancecar" aligns with JR's policy and only offers refunds for delays of two hours or more.
Summary
The (Mt. Fuji Romancecar) is an Odakyu Romancecar that operates directly between Shinjuku Station and Gotemba Station on the JR Gotemba Line, with 3 round trips per day (up to 5 round trips in summer). All seats are reserved, so both a basic fare ticket and a limited express surcharge are required. The JAPAN RAIL PASS is not applicable on the Odakyu Line, and the terms of use, including on the JR Gotemba Line, vary depending on the purchase method, so prior confirmation is necessary. This historic connecting train has been running since 1955 and is popular as an access point to Gotemba Premium Outlets and Mt. Fuji sightseeing. It is one of the few direct express trains in Japan that operates across two railway companies, Odakyu and JR Central.
Enjoy the (Mt. Fuji Romancecar), which provides direct access from Shinjuku to the foot of Mt. Fuji without any transfers.
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