Yamanashi

How to get to Chureito Pagoda (Shimoyoshida)

The Chureito pagoda above Shimoyoshida station is the postcard shot of Japan. A short climb of around 400 steps puts you on the observation deck with Fuji directly behind the pagoda.

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Shimoyoshida is two stops before Kawaguchiko on the Fujikyu line. From Tokyo follow the same route as Kawaguchiko, get off at Shimoyoshida, then walk 10 minutes to the base of the staircase.

Option 1

JR + Fujikyu via Otsuki

About 2 h 10

From Tokyo (Shinjuku) via JR Chuo Line + Fujikyuko Line

JR Chuo Line Azusa or Kaiji to Otsuki
65 min· Covered· JR Pass
Fujikyuko Line to Shimoyoshida
45 min· ¥1,050· Not on JR Pass
Shimoyoshida Station to the pagoda steps
10 min

Total cost

¥1,050 with JR Pass, ~¥4,000 without

JR Pass

JR portion covered, Fujikyu portion paid in cash or IC card.

Best for

Half day photography trip from Tokyo.

Option 2

Highway bus to Kawaguchiko, then local train

About 2 h

From Tokyo (Shinjuku) via Highway bus + Fujikyuko Line

Highway bus to Kawaguchiko Station
105 min· ¥2,200· Not on JR Pass
Fujikyuko Line two stops back to Shimoyoshida
10 min· ¥300· Not on JR Pass

Total cost

~¥2,500

JR Pass

Not covered.

Best for

Combining the pagoda with Kawaguchiko in the same day.

Highlights at Chureito Pagoda (Shimoyoshida)

Cherry blossoms in mid April
Red maples in early November
Sunrise gives the cleanest Fuji light

FAQ

Is sunrise really worth it?

Yes. The pagoda faces east and the morning light is the only time Fuji is consistently free of haze.

Are the steps tough?

There are about 400 steps. Take 10 minutes and you are at the top.