![[Two hours from Tokyo ] Chasing the spectacular views of Mount Fuji in Hokuto City | An autumn trip by local train and on foot](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/21-269335.webp)
Located at the southern foot of the Yatsugatake mountains, Hokuto City enjoys high altitudes and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji from various locations. This autumn trip offers a unique perspective of Mount Fuji, exploring it by local train and on foot. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, autumn delicacies, and relaxing hot springs.
Written by
It is located in the northwest of Yamanashi Prefecture, on the border with Nagano Prefecture. It is a vast area surrounded by 3,000m-class mountains such as the Yatsugatake Mountains, the Southern Alps, and Mt. Kinpu, and overlooking Mt. Fuji to the south. It is about a two-hour drive from Tokyo, about an hour from Mt. Fuji, and about an hour from Matsumoto, and is easily accessible, so many tourists visit throughout the year. It is also known as a "village of famous water," and three places have been selected as one of Japan's 100 famous water sources. This bounty of water is loved as natural water, and the area boasts one of the largest production volumes of mineral water in Japan. Sake is also produced from the pure water, and you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery and rich food.
Chasing Mount Fuji from a different perspective on a local train line.
Hokuto City , located at the southern foot of the Yatsugatake mountains, has many high-altitude areas, offering numerous views of Mount Fuji .
One of the unique charms of Hokuto is that you can encounter slightly different views of Mount Fuji each time you change locations.
Instead of making Mount Fuji your travel destination, try following it along the way.
A one-day autumn trip exploring by local train and on foot , offering that kind of enjoyable experience.
As you walk through the rural landscape and experience the autumn scenery of the Takaharu , Mount Fuji gradually grows larger in the distance.
What kind of view of Mount Fuji will we encounter next? With that expectation in mind, why not take a walk through Hokuto this autumn ?
Before you begin your journey
![[Two hours from Tokyo ] Chasing the spectacular views of Mount Fuji in Hokuto City | An autumn trip by local train and on foot](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/26-269643.webp)
Clothing: You will be walking in areas above 1,000m altitude. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and don't forget to take precautions against the cold.
• Drinks: There are some long walking sections. Be sure to bring drinks with you.
・Best time to see autumn leaves: The best time to see autumn leaves varies depending on the weather each year. Check the latest information before you go.
Train schedules: Local lines have limited train service. Check the timetable and allow plenty of time for your journey.
• Sunset time: In autumn, the sun sets earlier. It's recommended to allow ample time for walking and plan a relaxed schedule.
Weather and Temperature: Weather and temperature can change quickly in areas near mountains. Check the forecast before you go out.
・Transportation and facilities: It's a good idea to check in advance the operating status of trains and buses, as well as the opening hours and closing days of facilities.
Mount Fuji : Whether you can see Mount Fuji depends on the weather. Just enjoy the scenery on the day, with the mindset that it's a bonus if you can see it!
-
Table of Contents
- A itinerary for following Mount Fuji by local train and on foot.
- The journey begins. Kobuchizawa Station, the gateway to JR Koumi Line (Yatsugatake Kogen Line)
- 10:07 Boarded the local Koumi Line. Heading to Kai Koizumi.
- 10:30 AM - Sanbuichi Yusui Park. Enjoy the park and Mount Fuji, bathed in autumn colors.
- Lunch starts at 11:00. Enjoy exquisite soba noodles made with locally sourced buckwheat flour and pure spring water.
- 14:00 - Walking along an autumn path. Encountering a particularly magnificent view of Mount Fuji.
- 15:20 - A reward for walking. A relaxing café time.
- 16:15 - To conclude the trip, enjoy Mount Fuji and a hot spring.
- There's more than one way to travel!
A itinerary for following Mount Fuji by local train and on foot.
| time | Travel route and destination | Duration | Travel tips |
| 10:07 - 10:15 | Kobuchizawa Station → Kai Koizumi Station | Approximately 8 minutes by train | Mount Fuji View 1 |
| 10:30 ~ | Sanbuichi Yusui Parl Soba Restaurant Sanbuichi | Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the station | Mount Fuji View 2 - Popular Restaurant: Check In Early |
| 13:20 - 13:30 | Sanbuichi Yusui → Kai Koizumi Station | Approximately 10 minutes on foot | |
| 13:45 - 13:53 | Kai Koizumi Station → Kai Oizumi Station | Approximately 8 minutes by train | Take a numbered ticket when you board. Pay your fare on board. |
| 14:00 - 14:30 | Kai Oizumi Station → Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge | Approximately 30 minutes on foot | Walk among the autumn foliage. |
| 14:30 ~ | Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge | Mount Fuji View 3 | |
| 15:00 - 15:20 | Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge → Natural diner Cocoro | Approximately 20 minutes on foot | |
| 15:20 ~ | Natural diner Cocoro | Cafe time | |
| 16:00 - 16:15 | Natural diner Cokoro → Panorama no Yu Hot Spring | Approximately 15 minutes on foot | |
| 16:15 - 17:00 | Panorama no Yu Hot Spring | Mount Fuji View 4 | |
| 17:00 - 17:05 | Panorama no Yu Hot Spring → Kai Oizumi Station | Approximately 5 minutes on foot | |
| 17:18 - 17:32 | Kai Oizumi Station → Kobuchizawa Station | Approximately 14 minutes by train. | Take a numbered ticket when you board. |
| *Final broadcast: 21:19 - 21:34 |
Train schedules are based on information as of August 2026. Please check the website for further details.
The journey begins. Kobuchizawa Station, the gateway to JR Koumi Line (Yatsugatake Kogen Line)
![[Two hours from Tokyo ] Chasing the spectacular views of Mount Fuji in Hokuto City | An autumn trip by local train and on foot](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/21-269336.webp)
It takes about two hours from Tokyo by the Limited Express Azusa train.
The journey begins at JR Kobuchizawa Station, the gateway to the Koumi Line , affectionately known as the " Yatsugatake Kogen Line(Highland Line)."
From the observation deck on the station's rooftop, you can see some of Japan's most iconic mountains, including Mount Fuji , the Yatsugatake mountains, and the Minami Alps.
First, say "hello" to Mount Fuji, which can be seen in the distance .
10:07 Boarded the local Koumi Line. Heading to Kai Koizumi.
![[Two hours from Tokyo ] Chasing the spectacular views of Mount Fuji in Hokuto City | An autumn trip by local train and on foot](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/20-269249.webp)
After passing through the ticket gate, head to platforms 4 and 5 where the Koumi Line depart and arrive.
When the train arrives, simply press the button next to the door.
Once you board the train, your autumn journey in pursuit of Mount Fuji finally begins.
Tips for riding the Koumi Line
The Koumi Line has limited service. Check the timetable in advance and plan your trip with plenty of time to spare.
• IC cards cannot be used at most stations. Please purchase a ticket to board the train. (As of August 2026) • The doors do not open automatically. Please press the "open" button to open the doors yourself when boarding and alighting.
• There are no ticket machines at unmanned stations. Remember to take a numbered ticket after boarding.
The fare payment system is similar to that of regular buses. Check the fare table for the amount, and put the fare plus your ticket into the fare box.
• The currency exchange machines on board the train cannot exchange large bills such as 5,000 yen notes. Please prepare smaller change in advance.
10:30 AM - Sanbuichi Yusui Park. Enjoy the park and Mount Fuji, bathed in autumn colors.
After a roughly 8-minute ride on a local train from Kobuchizawa Station, you'll arrive at Kai Koizumi Station .
It's about a 10-minute walk from the station, and you'll arrive at Sanbuichi Yusui Park(Sanbuichi Spring Park) , where the blessings of the Yatsugatake mountains spring forth.
Autumn is a beautiful season, with the flowing Yusui and the vibrant autumn foliage adorning the trees.
Let's take time enjoying the waterside scenery and experience the autumn atmosphere of Hokuto.
Best time to see autumn leaves: Typically mid-October to mid-November.
Types of trees: Larch, maple, etc.
The best time to see the autumn leaves varies depending on the weather each year.
From the observation floor on the top level of the museum at Sanbuichi Yusui Museum, adjacent to the park, you can enjoy views of Mount Fuji.
Does it look a little closer now than when you saw Mount Fuji from Kobuchizawa Station?
Lunch starts at 11:00. Enjoy exquisite soba noodles made with locally sourced buckwheat flour and pure spring water.
After enjoying the scenery there, head to Soba Restaurant Sanbuichi . Autumn is the season to look forward to freshly harvested soba noodle.
Take a break and savor soba nurtured by Hokuto’s pure water and rich natural surroundings.
*Reservations are not accepted at Soba Restaurant Sanbuichi.
Write your name at the reception desk in front of the restaurant, receive a pager, and wait.
*Depending on the level of congestion, there may be a waiting time of more than one hour. Also, we may close registration earlier than scheduled.
One of Japan's Top 100 Famous Waters: Sanbuichi Yusui Museum 📍 292-1 Koarama , Nagasaka, Hokuto City
📅 Closed on Tuesdays (Open during Golden Week and summer holidays)
🕐 Business hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
📞Phone number: 0551-32-0058
🅿 Parking: 80 spaces for regular cars, 2 spaces for buses *Shared parking
Soba Restaurant Sanbuichi 📍 292-1 Koarama , Nagasaka Hokuto
📅 Closed on Tuesdays (Open during Golden Week and summer holidays)
🕐Opening hours: 11:00 - 15:00 (Last order 14:30)
📞Phone number: 0551-32-8318 *Reservations are not accepted.
🅿 Parking lot Same as above
*This information is current as of August 2026. Please check the official website or other sources for the latest information before you go.
Access
🚃Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Kai Koizumi Station on the Koumi Line
🚗Approximately 10 minutes by car from Nagasaka Interchange on the Chuo Expressway
14:00 - Walking along an autumn path. Encountering a particularly magnificent view of Mount Fuji.
Head for your next view of Mount Fuji, traveling from Kai-Koizumi Station to Kai-Oizumi Station.
Enjoy an approximately 8-minute ride on the local train.
After getting off the train, it’s time to explore Hokuto on foot, surrounded by the colors of autumn.
It takes about 30 minutes to walk to the Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge .
Rather than rushing to your destination, take your time and enjoy a leisurely walk through the autumn landscapes of the Yatsugatake Highlands.
Colorful autumn leaves, crisp mountain air, and a refreshing autumn breeze.
Walking while enjoying such autumn scenery, the 30-minute journey flies by in no time.
Standing on the Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge (100m high, 490m long), affectionately known as the "Yellow Bridge,"
To the south, Mount Fuji came into view, getting closer little by little as our journey progressed.
Look back, and you’ll see the Yatsugatake mountains dressed in autumn colors, while the Southern Alps rise in the direction you came from.
Everywhere you look, you'll be greeted by breathtakingly beautiful autumn scenery .
Best time to see autumn leaves: Late October to mid-November (typically)
Types of trees: Larch, maple, etc.
The best time to see the autumn leaves varies depending on the weather each year.
Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge
📍Takane, Hokuto City
🚗 Parking: Free observation deck parking available on the east side of the bridge (Kiyosato side). 15 spaces for regular cars, 0 spaces for medium/large vehicles.
Access
🚃Approximately 30 minutes on foot from Koumi Line Kai Oizumi Station
🚖Approximately 10 minutes from JR Koumi Line Kiyosato Station ・Approximately 5 minutes from JR Koumi Line Kai Oizumi Station
*Taxis are not always stationed at the station. If you plan to use one, it is recommended to make a reservation in advance.
🚌 Take the Kiyosato Picnic Bus (limited time only) from Koumi Line Kiyosato Station and get off at " Yatsugatake Kogen Ohashi/Nakamura Farm" bus stop, then it's a 2-minute walk.
🚗 Approximately 15 minutes from the Nagasaka Interchange on the Chuo Expressway.
15:20 - A reward for walking. A relaxing café time.
After enjoying the spectacular view, let's take a little break.
Why not enjoy some wholesome sweets at Natural diner Cocoro ?
Made without added sugar, this amazake ice cream draws its gentle sweetness from rice and rice koji. Enjoy a moment of relaxation while discovering the flavors of Japan’s fermentation culture.
The buckwheat crepe, made with 100% organic buckwheat flour, is another seasonal favorite. Enjoy its distinctive nutty aroma and rich, earthy flavor.
After a sweet moment of relaxation, it’s time to set off in search of your next view of Mount Fuji.
*Amazake is a traditional Japanese fermented beverage made from rice and rice koji.
It contains glucose and B vitamins, and is sometimes called "drinkable IV fluid."
Natural Restaurant Kokoro 📍 8240-8127 Nishiide , Oizumi Town, Hokuto City
📅 Open Fridays and Saturdays [Reservations preferred] *Winter hours(Dec. to Mar.): Reservations required at least 4 days in advance
🕐Opening Hours
Lunch 11:00 / 12:30 / 14:00 (3 sittings)
Cafe Time 15:00 - 16:00
📞Phone number: 050-1726-0770
🚗 Parking available for 10 cars
💋 Multilingual (English only, menu available in Japanese)
Average price: ¥2,400
🚭 Smoking: Not allowed
Free Wi-Fi: Available
🐶 Pets: Allowed
💳 Payment methods: Cash, credit card, electronic payment
*This information is current as of August 2026. Please check the official Instagram or other sources for the latest information before you go.
access
🚃Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Kai Oizumi Station on the JR Koumi Line
🚌 From Koumi Line Kiyosato Station, Kiyosato Picnic Bus (Oizumi Loop Route) (limited time only) and get off at "Yatsugatake Ohashi/Nakamura Farm" stop, then a 10-minute walk.
🚖 Approximately 2 minutes from Koumi Line Kai Oizumi Station.
*Taxis are not always stationed at the station. It is recommended to book one in advance if you plan to use one.
🚗 Approximately 15 minutes from Nagasaka Interchange on the Chuo Expressway
![[2 hours from Tokyo ] 8 recommended trips to enjoy fermented and spiced cuisine in Hokuto City , Yamanashi Prefecture , a town known for its pristine water.](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/200x2000/2026/03/18-261299.webp)
16:15 - To conclude the trip, enjoy Mount Fuji and a hot spring.
The perfect way to end the trip is with a soak in a natural hot spring .
Soak in the open-air bath and take one last moment to gaze upon Mount Fuji.
If the weather is clear, you may even catch Mount Fuji glowing in the evening light.
Ease into the gently warm waters and let the day’s journey melt away.
Feel the crisp autumn breeze as you savor the memories of your day’s journey.
After your bath, stop by the on-site shop.
Browse local specialties, from Hokuto-produced natural honey to sweets, and find a souvenir to take home as a memento of your journey.
If you have some extra time , you can enjoy some nostalgic Japanese flavors like ramen or katsu curry at Izumi Restaurant .
Take your time and savor the last moments of your journey before your train arrives.
This is what makes a journey in Hokuto so special.
Now, all that's left is to head to Kai Oizumi Station. Let's ride the train home, savoring the lingering memories of our journey!
Panorama no Yu(Hot Spring)
📍 8240-1 Nishiide, Oizumi Town, Hokuto City
📅 Closed on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays *Open on public holidays
🕐 Business hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Last entry 9:30 PM)
📞Phone number: 0551-38-1341
🚗Parking: Approximately 100 cars
💋Multilingual: Not available
￥Fees Adults (Junior high school age and older): 830 yen Children (Elementary school age): 420 yen Children under elementary school age: Free *As of August 2026
🚭 Smoking allowed: No
💳 Payment method: Cash
Amenities: Body soap and shampoo/conditioner: Free. Hair dryer: Charged (100 yen/5 minutes) *Personal hair dryers are permitted.
*This information is current as of August 2026. Please check the latest information on the official Instagram or other sources before you go.
Access
🚃 Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Kai Oizumi Station on the Koumi Line
🚌 Hokuto City Community Bus Oizumi-Nagasaka Line: Get off at Kai Oizumi Station Entrance, approximately 1 minute walk. Kiyosato Picnic Bus (Oizumi Loop Route) (Limited Time Only): Get off at Panorama no Yu/ Oizumi Station Entrance, approximately 1 minute walk.
🚗 Approximately 10 minutes from Nagasaka Interchange on the Chuo Expressway ・ Approximately 15 minutes from Kobuchizawa Interchange
There's more than one way to travel!
![[Two hours from Tokyo ] Chasing the spectacular views of Mount Fuji in Hokuto City | An autumn trip by local train and on foot](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2026/08/21-269366.webp)
How did you enjoy this autumn journey chasing Mount Fuji, which began at Kobuchizawa Station?
Traveling by local train and on foot offers a different experience from visiting destinations by car, revealing scenery that can only be discovered through these means.
After encountering Mount Fuji time and again throughout the journey, it has somehow come to feel like a familiar presence.
Why not embark on an autumn journey at an unhurried pace, walking through Hokuto and taking in the atmosphere of the place?
It may just be the kind of journey that leaves you wanting to return to Hokuto and see Mount Fuji again.
![[2 hours from Tokyo ] 10 Quiet and Breathtaking Views of Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Hokuto City , Yamanashi - Part 1](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/200x2000/2025/12/12-252711.webp)
![[2 hours from Tokyo ] 10 Quiet and Breathtaking Views of Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Hokuto City , Yamanashi - Part 2](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/200x2000/2025/12/16-253037.webp)
![[Yamanashi, Hokuto City] If you want to see Mount Fuji, go here! 4 hidden spots carefully selected by a local writer](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/200x2000/2024/09/10-196531.webp)
![[Tokyo, Shinjuku] Buy Matcha Here! 2 Long-established Japanese Tea Shops Where You Can Get the Authentic Taste!](https://resources.matcha-jp.com/resize/720x2000/2025/09/24-245090.webp)
