Mt.Fuji & Hakone Cycling
Umino Kyoto E-BikesMount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776m above sea level, and is the soul of the Japanese people. The bicycle race up to the 2,300m point of Mount Fuji is the most popular race in Japan.
Fuji Hill Climb Race
And the road race for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics was also held here.
If you are a high-level cyclist, it is natural that you want to conquer the highest mountain in Japan if you come to Japan.
Even if you're not a cyclist, touring Fuji by bike is a wonderful experience. Bike paths are laid out around the beautiful lakes around Fuji, allowing you to enjoy a flat, safe ride while stopping off at cafes and hot springs.
If you're interested in history and culture, explore the shrines of Fujiyoshida or the hot springs of Hakone.
Mount Fuji has been worshipped by the Japanese for over 2000 years, and as an important road hazard, Japan's largest post town was built around it.
Course
① Fuji Yoshida & Lake Kawaguchi Loop
Time / Distance
4h / 20km (+2.5h by train from Tokyo)
Shimo Yoshida Station
You can get to Fuji from Tokyo by taking the Fujikyuko train, which is exactly what it sounds like.
It's best to get off at Shimoyoshida Station, just before the end of the line, and then cycle from there.
Arakurayama Sengen Shrine
This is a famous shrine where you can see Mt. Fuji, a torii gate, and a five-story pagoda all at once. There is also a bicycle parking lot.
Be careful, as it can get very crowded during cherry blossom season.
Fujiyoshida cityscape
Fujiyoshida is a small rural town, but there are many photogenic spots with Mt. Fuji here and there. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the town.
Lake Kawaguchi
This is the most famous lake in the Mount Fuji resort area, with a circumference of 20km. You can see Mount Fuji reflected upside down.
There are many cafes, restaurants and hot springs along the lakeshore where you can relax and enjoy the view of Mount Fuji.
② Fuji Subaru Line
Time / Distance
6h / 60km△1500m
Kawaguchi ko Station
This is the last stop on the Fujikyuko Line. It is also a famous resort area, with plenty of convenience stores and hotels.
Fuji Subaru Line
The annual hill climb race climbs 1200m up here. Private cars are restricted, but bicycles are allowed. On weekends, you will see many Japanese cyclists and climbers.
5th Station of Mt. Fuji
This is the end of the Fuji Subaru Line, at an altitude of 2,300m. There is a restaurant and a horse riding station (for climbing on horseback).
From here on, the road becomes gravel and the air gets thinner, so we won't recommend it in this article.
Go downhill slowly
I understand the desire to go downhill as fast as you can like a GoPro, but it is very dangerous, so take your time and enjoy the scenery.
③ Hakone
Time / Distance
6h / 60km△1200m
Shinkansen Odawara Station
There are various trains that can take you from Tokyo to Hakone, but this time we will be introducing how to travel by Shinkansen.
Ancient Highway
Hakone was the most difficult part of the Tokaido road that connected Tokyo and Kyoto 1,500 years ago. Therefore, Japan's largest post town and checkpoint were built there.
A road bike hill climb event is held in Hakone, but it is very tough as it involves climbing over 1,000 meters.
Historical Tea shop
People have found the climb up Hakone difficult since 1500 years ago, so there are many historic teahouses and chairs to rest at along the way.
Lake Ashinoko & Hakone Shrine
Once you reach the top of Hakone, you will come to Lake Ashi. Hakone Shrine, from which you can see Mt. Fuji, is famous.
Hakone Checkpoint
The old checkpoint has been preserved as a museum, where you can learn about history, such as the places where the daimyo (the kings of the various kingdoms of Japan before Westernization) stayed and the samurai who guarded them.
Owakudani
Mount Hakone is an active volcano that still emits steam. You can enjoy the spectacular scenery, including the mountain turned blue by the gas. Eggs boiled in this gas are also delicious.
Hakone Onsen
Hakone is a long-established hot spring town, so why not take a dip in a hot spring to refresh yourself after cycling?
