Mt Tenjo ropeway
About this viewpoint
The Mt Tenjo cable car (also known as the Mt Kachi Kachi Yama Ropeway, after the folk tale) climbs from the lake shore to a 1075 m observation deck. The view is the postcard one, Fuji rising directly behind the lake, with Kawaguchi town below.
The folk tale
The mountain is named after a Japanese folk story where a rabbit punishes a wicked tanuki, hence the rabbit and tanuki statues on the deck. Kids tend to enjoy this stop more than they expect.
Sunset timing
From late autumn through winter the last cable car runs before sunset. Hike up via the trail to stay later, or shoot from the lake shore instead.
Photographer tips
- Last ride down is at 16:30, plan sunset shoots accordingly.
- Hike down via the rabbit and tanuki trail in 40 minutes for a different perspective.
- Bring a snack, the only food on top is a small shop with dango.
Getting there
Practical info
¥900 round trip, ¥500 one way
Paid lot at the base station, ¥500.
Cable car and main deck are step free. Upper bell platform requires steps.
24 to 105 mm covers the range from wide lake to compressed summit.
Where to eat nearby
- Hoto Fudo Kita
Architect designed white igloo near the station, perfect after the descent.
Best rail pass for Mt Tenjo ropeway
These are the rail passes that actually reach Mt Tenjo ropeway. Buy your pass before you fly, then collect it at any major Japanese airport or city station.
Mt Fuji Pass (1 to 3 days)Recommended
Unlimited Fujikyu Retro Bus and sightseeing bus rides around the Fuji Five Lakes plus discounts at viewpoints, ropeways and Fuji-Q Highland.
JR Tokyo Wide Pass (3 days)
Direct Fuji Excursion limited express from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko plus all JR East lines around Tokyo. The cheapest way to reach this viewpoint from Tokyo on rails.
Japan Rail Pass (7 days)
Use it if you are also visiting Kyoto. Covers the Fuji Excursion through the JR East section and the full Tokaido Shinkansen.
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