Are you thinking about visiting Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Japan? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.
Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park worth visiting?
Yes, it's worth visiting this national park for two to four days because of the many great activities. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is the most visited national park in Japan. It is home to the world famous Mount Fuji, but there are three other areas to this vast park. The four main sections include the Mount Fuji area, Hakone, the Izu Peninsula, and the Izu Islands. It's often mentioned as one of the best places to visit in major publications, such as in U.S. News Best Places to Visit in Japan.
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Japan (©MOEJ)
Reasons to Visit Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Hiking
There are hikes within each of the sections of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, but the most famous section is the area around the iconic Mount Fuji. The climbing season is between July and mid September and there are four main trails that lead to the summit. You can take a bus to the Fifth Station and pick up any of the trails at that point. There are also mountain huts where you may take a rest or spend the night.
In the Hakone area, you'll find hot springs and several popular trails such as the Hakone Ropeway and the Mount Kamiyama and Mount Komagatake Trail.
The Izu Peninsula is known for its dramatic coastline, rugged cliffs, and beautiful waterfalls.
Finally, the Izu Islands are a string of islands that can be reached by ferry.
Museums
Due to its spiritual nature, there have been many shrines built at the base of Mount Fuji. You can visit the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, which is one of the most significant. Hakone also has many art museums as well as the fascinating Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park worth visiting in the Summer?
Summer is the high season for travel in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, so expect more visitors and higher prices. This destination is quite touristy, so in the high season it's busier than usual. You'll see larger crowds and longer lines, as well as higher prices. On the other hand, there's plenty to see and do at this time of year because everything is open. The climbing season for Mount Fuji is between July and mid September.
The weather in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 26°C (78°F). But it can get as warm as 29°C (84°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.
The gorgeous scenery this time of year is the main attraction. This is the perfect time to hike around the area and take in the amazing scenery. You'll find plenty to do during summer, as you'll be able to take a hike and browse through museums.
Summer Weather in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 26°C (78°F) | 202 mm (8 in) |
| August | 27°C (80°F) | 222 mm (8.7 in) |
| September | 23°C (74°F) | 209 mm (8.2 in) |
Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park worth visiting in the Autumn?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during autumn, and temperatures hover around 18°C (64°F).
Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. During this season it's fun to experience the gorgeous scenery, the famous sights and museums, and the hiking.
Autumn Weather in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 18°C (64°F) | 154 mm (6.1 in) |
| November | 13°C (55°F) | 108 mm (4.2 in) |
| December | 8°C (46°F) | 62 mm (2.4 in) |
Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park worth visiting in the Winter?
The weather in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (42°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
The low season for travel in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is during the winter. This destination is quite touristy, but in the low season you'll see fewer crowds and much better prices.
This is a great time of year to browse the museums.
Winter Weather in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 5°C (42°F) | 73 mm (2.9 in) |
| February | 6°C (42°F) | 83 mm (3.3 in) |
| March | 9°C (48°F) | 153 mm (6 in) |
Is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park worth visiting in the Spring?
Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. This destination is quite touristy, so in the shoulder season you'll still come across plenty of touriss. However, the prices tend to be a little cheaper.
Keep in mind that it can be fairly rainy during spring, and temperatures hover around 14°C (57°F).
A visit this time of year should definitely be on your list, as the natural scenery is just breathtaking. Get out into the wilderness to take in the views, admire nature up close, and enjoy the fresh air. You'll find plenty to do during spring, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums and take in the beautiful scenery.
Spring Weather in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 14°C (57°F) | 163 mm (6.4 in) |
| May | 18°C (65°F) | 164 mm (6.4 in) |
| June | 22°C (71°F) | 254 mm (10 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Food: Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park doesn't top the list for most foodies. If you're planning to climb Mount Fuji, you'll want to make reservations for meals at the mountain huts. Dinner is typically a curry rice and a take away breakfast is usually available that has simple ingredients.
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park here or see if Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is expensive here.
Related
What is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park most famous for?
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is most famous for its iconic peak, pristine lakes, rugged coastline, and timeless forests. People visit this impressive national park for its great hiking. Also, it's known for museums. It is often described as iconic, world renowned, majestic, and dramatic.
What is the most famous sight in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?
The most popular sight in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is Mount Fuji. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Mount Fuji and other attractions here.
How touristy is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? Is it a popular national park to visit?
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a popular national park for tourists and travelers. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
- Tour around Mount Fuji group from 2 people ¥32,000: $211
- Traverse Outer Rim of Hakone Caldera and Enjoy Onsen Hiking Tour: $145
- Easygoing Nature Walk in Hakone Tour: $26
- Supreme Sencha: Tea Ceremony & Making Experience in Hakone: $132
- Hakone for Children to Enjoy! Japanese Crafts Experience: $179
- Custom Private Tour in Hakone with Optional Hot Springs Experience: $300
- Hakone 6 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $159
- Hakone 8 hour Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide: $185
How long should I spend in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is two to four days. Since Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park has a variety of activities such as hiking, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park?.
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