Mt Fuji Loop – Fujiichi – フジイチ

The route has become one of the best-known long-distance cycling challenges in central Japan due to its accessibility, scenery, and physical difficulty. Depending on the exact course and starting point, Fujiichi typically covers around 120 to 140 kilometers with approximately 1,500 to 2,000 meters of climbing.

The Fujiichi Route

The official Route is marked along the road with blue arrows on the route below. It does a good job of keep off the main roads when possible (though the section of Route 139 around Motosu Lake is quite poor and inexperienced riders may want to avoid it if riding on the weekend)

Common locations along the route include:

• Gotemba
• Lake Yamanaka
• Lake Kawaguchi
• Lake Sai
• Lake Shoji
• Lake Motosu
• Oshino Hakkai
• Shiraito Falls

Many cyclists begin in Gotemba due to its convenient train access and its position on the southeastern side of the mountain. Riders often travel counterclockwise, although clockwise loops are also common.

The route passes through both Yamanashi Prefecture and Shizuoka Prefecture, crossing a wide variety of terrain and weather conditions during a single ride.

Terrain and Difficulty

Fujiichi is generally considered a physically demanding ride rather than a beginner-friendly day trip. While the route avoids the extreme gradients associated with climbing Mount Fuji itself, the accumulated elevation gain is substantial.

One of the major climbs is the ascent from Gotemba toward Kagosaka Pass near Lake Yamanaka. This section involves a long sustained climb with significant traffic in some areas.

The western side near the Asagiri Highlands is often regarded as one of the most scenic portions of the loop. Roads become more open, traffic may decrease, and riders gain expansive views of Mount Fuji across farmland and grasslands.

Weather can change rapidly due to the mountain’s elevation and size. Even during warmer months, temperatures around the lakes may differ considerably from lower elevations near Fuji City or Gotemba.

Strong winds are also common, particularly around open sections near the lakes and highland areas.

Scenery and Riding Experience

The primary attraction of Fujiichi is the constantly changing perspective of Mount Fuji itself. Because the route circles the mountain, cyclists experience different landscapes and viewing angles throughout the ride.

The northern side near the Fuji Five Lakes is heavily associated with tourism and classic postcard views of Fuji. Lakeside cycling paths, forests, and mountain roads dominate this region.

The western side offers more rural scenery, including dairy farms, forests, and broad open plains near the Asagiri Plateau. Many riders consider this section quieter and more relaxed than the lake districts.

Southern sections near Fuji City and Susono become more urbanized, with heavier traffic and longer transitional stretches between scenic areas.

Visibility is a major factor in the overall experience. On clear days, Mount Fuji dominates nearly the entire ride. During cloudy or rainy conditions, however, the mountain may disappear entirely for extended periods.

Seasonal Considerations

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for Fujiichi.

Spring offers cooler temperatures and occasional cherry blossoms around the lakes much later than in central Tokyo, while autumn provides clearer skies and lower humidity. Summer riding can become extremely hot, especially on lower southern roads, though higher elevations remain cooler and Fuji is much more likely to be hidden in cloud cover in the summer.

Through the winter the area around Mt. Fuji, especially the Yamanashi half, has permanent snow accumulation if one is going to attempt it during the winter, make sure you are prepared appropriately.

Getting there and away

Kawaguchi-ko

Gotenba

Gotenba station is on the Gotenba line and offers reasonable connections back to Tokyo (via Kozu station)

Shin-Fuji

Shin-Fuji station is on the Southwest corner of Mt. Fuji and is a station on the Tokaido Shinkansen. Kodama services stop every 30 minutes and give good access back to Toyko

Conclusion

Fujiichi has become one of Japan’s most recognizable cycling challenges because it combines endurance riding with some of the country’s most

iconic scenery. The route offers a unique opportunity to experience Mount Fuji from every direction while traversing lakes, forests, highlands, and rural roads around the volcano.

Although the ride is physically demanding, it remains accessible to a wide range of cyclists with appropriate preparation. For riders seeking a long-distance route that combines climbing, scenery, and cultural significance, cycling around Mount Fuji remains one of Japan’s defining touring experiences.