Is Disneyland too kiddie for you? Does it not have enough thrillng rides? If you answered “yes” to either of those questions, Fuji-Q Highland is the theme park to visit. It has 2 of the world’s 10 fastest roller coasters, and the world’s second largest—and reputedly scariest—haunted attraction. But Yamanashi Prefecture where the park is located isn’t exactly close to Tokyo, so here are some ways to get to Fuji-Q. Just don’t forget to book your tickets first!
The best ways of getting to Fuji-Q Highland
Getting to Fuji-Q doesn’t have to be a hassle, even if it is a bit out of the way. We’d recommend taking a highway bus from within Tokyo. They’re direct, comfortable, and relatively cheap. Alternatively, you can catch a train to the park as well. This is a pricier option, and you’ll have to change trains at least once, but it might be easier if you’re looking to do more around the area.
And of course, you can always drive to the park if you have a car or want to rent one. This option will give you the most privacy and convenience, but don’t forget to factor in tolls and gas!
Highway bus: Quick and easy
1 hour 40 minutesAround ¥2,200 one-way depending on where you start
Direct
Getting to this rollercoaster wonderland by highway bus is pretty straightforward. You can take the Chuo Highway Bus from Shinjuku Highway Bus Terminal for around ¥2,200 one-way. The trip takes about an hour and forty minutes.
You can also catch a highway bus from Shibuya Mark City for ¥2,100, Tokyo Station for around ¥2,200, and Akihabara for ¥2,000. With four major transport hubs to choose from, you should have no trouble hopping on.
Travel Times
The buses from Shinjuku run frequently throughout the day from 6:05am, with the shortest journey time being about one hour and 40 minutes. The ones departing from Tokyo Station and Shibuya run a little less frequently with the trip taking approximately one hour and 50 minutes from Tokyo and two and a half hours from Shibuya. Finally, the Akihabara bus only runs twice daily in each direction with a travel time of one hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours.
Cheapo Tip: Check out the QPack! It’s package that includes a round-trip bus ride from Shinjuku Highway Bus Terminal and a ticket to Fuji-Q.
Limited Express Trains: For last-minute plans
1 hour 50 minutes¥3,460 one-way
Change at Otsuki
The trains are another option for getting to Fuji-Q Highland. The route is pricier and, at about 1 hour 50 minutes (not including transfer times), slightly longer than a bus ride from Shinjuku Station. Trains are most useful for groups with young children, especially if you can’t get seating together on a bus, or for last minute escapes. Don’t let fully-booked buses keep you from the King of Rollercoasters!
To get to Fuji-Q, you’ll need to start at Shinjuku Station. There, you take a limited express from Shinjuku to Otsuki, which has a base fare of ¥1,340 one-way. Since it’s a limited express though, you’ll have to pay an additional fare for seating, which costs ¥1,020. Afterwards, you’ll transfer to the Fujikyuko line from Otsuki to Fujikyu Highland Station for ¥1,100. This puts a one way trip at about ¥3,460 one-way.
Local Trains: the last-minute Cheapo way
2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours¥2,160 to ¥2,440
Multiple changes
If you still want take the train but winced at that price, there is an alternative through the local trains. You can take either the Keio or Jr Chuo Special Rapid line to Takao, before continuing on the Chuo line to Otsuki. This will be ¥960 or ¥1,340 respectively. Add the ¥1,100 to Fujikyu Highland Station, and that comes to either ¥2,160 or ¥2,440, giving the highway buses a run for their money.
The main drawback of the local trains is, of course, their speed. You’re looking at a 2 and a half hour trip minimum from Shinjuku, so that’s at least 5 hours of travelling return. Also, since none of these lines have reserved seating, you’ll be trying your luck for how many of those hours you spend standing. But if you really need that adrenaline rush today without spending too much, go for it!
Cheapo tip: If you’re keen on seeing more than just the theme park, you might want to consider a Mt. Fuji Pass that covers your entry to Fuji-Q and gives you access to other attractions and transport in the area.
Drive: Go at your own pace
1 hour 30 minutes with the fastest route and no traffic¥3,760 each way in tolls, plus gas, rental and parking fees.
Direct
If you’re really looking to go at your own pace and in your own space, our final option is driving to Fuji-Q. Like most theme parks, a good amount of parking is available but it may fill up on busy holidays or when events are held.
Your main costs here will be gas, car rental (if you don’t have your own), and tolls. The fastest route to the area from within Tokyo is an hour and 30 minutes, with a toll charge of around ¥3,760 each way. If you’re up to the drive (don’t forget you’ll have to drive back after all those rollercoasters!), it can save you some money and give you the convenience of your own schedule.
High School students: ¥5,900
Middle School students: ¥5,900
Elementary School students: ¥4,600
Seniors: ¥2,200
For other things to do nearby, check out our guide to Kawaguchiko!
