Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Private Car Tour — Guide Toshi

Title: What Is a Private Chartered-Car Day Tour of the Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Area Like? A Licensed Guide's Report

Originally the tour was planned to include a visit to Shiraito Falls, but the day before, we received notice that it was outside the designated area, so we changed it to a visit to Oshino Hakkai instead. We were told that any additional cost could be paid afterward, but to avoid complicating things, I did not mention that. At the start, I apologized for any inconvenience caused, and the guests said there was no problem. We did not touch on the matter again after that.

Because of the five-minute rotation system for the observation deck at the Chureito Pagoda, which began in April, we waited about 15 minutes before being able to go up to the viewing deck. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom, and although the very top of Mount Fuji was partly hidden, we were able to see it, and the guests were satisfied. At Oshino Hakkai, they were moved by the beauty of the spring water. At Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, they were impressed by the rows of cedar trees on both sides from the entrance of the approach. I explained various things about Shinto and about climbing Mount Fuji, and they listened enthusiastically. Afterward, at an udon restaurant introduced by the driver, they were surprised to learn that the meat udon used horse meat (so they ordered something else), but everyone said it was delicious as they ate. I believe they were also very interested in and enjoyed the ice cave, the Aokigahara forest trail, and Oishi Park.

In the Lake Kawaguchi area (and another area where I guide, Hakone), the bus network is well developed but service runs infrequently, so it is always a struggle; having a chartered vehicle arranged makes things vastly easier.

I would also like to add that the driver from the transportation company was very considerate in many ways, which I greatly appreciated as a guide.

Click here for more details: Mt. Fuji Five Lakes Private Car Tour with Licensed Guide

Tour Report by Toshi

I have worked as a diplomat for 48 years until last year(2024), so I think I am good at explaining anything about Japan in English. Though I’m a novice as tour guide, l promise that I will make detailed and thorough preparations for guiding you and to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. I myself like to experience various means of transportation and interested in local culture, history and food. You may be a bit concerned about my age(71 years old), but I am quite fit for work. Just to prove this I wish to say that I played 5 rounds of golf this summer month of August, 2025.