From Mt. Fuji to Takayama: A Special “Little Kyoto” to Visit After That Spectacular View

2026-07-03

For travelers who have enjoyed sightseeing around Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko and are considering Hida Takayama as their next destination.

“How do I get from Kawaguchiko to Takayama?”
“How long does it take?”

Looking at a map, Kawaguchiko and Takayama may not seem that far apart in a straight line. However, when you actually check the routes, you may discover something unexpected.

“The smoothest route is to transfer between express buses via Shinjuku.”

You may wonder, “Do I really need to go back to Shinjuku?”
However, depending on the season, there are around 12 to 16 express buses per day between Shinjuku and Takayama. The bus runs directly from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Takayama Nohi Bus Center in about 5 hours and 45 minutes. All you need to do is return from Kawaguchiko to Shinjuku, then transfer at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to a direct express bus bound for Takayama. There is only one transfer.

Three Routes from Kawaguchiko to Takayama

Conclusion: The Shinjuku Route by Express Bus Looks Like a Detour, but Is Actually the Smoothest

There are three main routes from Kawaguchiko to Takayama. Looking only at a map, you may think, “Going via Matsumoto or Kofu looks closer.” However, after checking actual timetables, the route via Shinjuku, transferring between express buses, was the smoothest in terms of frequency, simplicity, and fewer transfers.

Route 1: Via Shinjuku
Smooth with Only One Transfer — Most Recommended

Kawaguchiko Station → Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal → Takayama Nohi Bus Center (in front of Takayama Station)

The estimated travel time, including transfer time, is about 7 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours 30 minutes.

First, take an express bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal. This takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Then transfer at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to an express bus bound for Takayama. The bus arrives at Takayama Nohi Bus Center, located in front of Takayama Station, in about 5 hours and 45 minutes. Depending on the bus, there may be rest stops at places such as Suwako Service Area or Hirayu Onsen. Rest stop locations may differ by service.

There is only one transfer, at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal. Large luggage can be stored in the trunk compartment, so this route is convenient even if you have a suitcase. Transfers at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal are easy because it is directly connected to the South Exit area and has plenty of signs.

Basic Information About the Shinjuku–Takayama Express Bus

Depending on the season, there are around 12 to 16 express buses per day between Shinjuku and Takayama, giving travelers many options. From Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, it takes about 4 hours 40 minutes to 5 hours to Hirayu Onsen, and about 5 hours and 45 minutes to Takayama Nohi Bus Center. Buses are generally equipped with four-row seats and a restroom, although this may change due to vehicle inspections or other operational reasons.

Fares vary depending on the route and season. Please check the latest fares and seat availability on highwaybus.com.

Features of this route

Only one transfer at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal
Many express buses between Shinjuku and Takayama, making it easier to choose a convenient time
Easy travel because luggage can be stored in the bus trunk
Jointly operated by Keio Bus, and reservations and payments can be made on highwaybus.com

Reservations for the Shinjuku–Takayama express bus are available on highwaybus.com.

Insider Route: Transfer at Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop

When traveling from Kawaguchiko to Takayama, the easiest-to-understand route is to return once to Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal and transfer to the express bus bound for Takayama. This is recommended for first-time visitors.

On the other hand, for travelers who are used to traveling in Japan or transferring between express buses, there is also a way to transfer at Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop. This route can save around one hour.

Route Overview

Kawaguchiko Station
↓
Express bus bound for Shinjuku
Timetable and reservations: highwaybus.com
↓
Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop
Walk to the bus stop on the opposite side
Google Map
Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop
↓
Express bus bound for Takayama
Timetable and reservations: highwaybus.com
↓
Takayama Nohi Bus Center

By using this method, you can transfer to the express bus bound for Takayama at Chuo Expressway Hino without going all the way back to Shinjuku.

The travel time from Kawaguchiko Station to Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, the Chuo Expressway can be affected by traffic congestion, accidents, and weather, so be sure to allow plenty of time for your transfer.

Express Buses from Chuo Expressway Hino Toward Takayama

There are several daytime express buses from Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop toward Takayama.

Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop
Departure times for Takayama:

7:38
　8:48
　9:48
　11:38
　16:38

Checked in July 2026

Times may change. Before boarding, always check the latest timetable on highwaybus.com and make a reservation in advance.

Google Map: Kawaguchiko Station to Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop

Important Notes About This Route

This route is convenient, but it is not suitable for beginners.

First, the express bus from Kawaguchiko toward Shinjuku and the express bus from Shinjuku or Chuo Expressway Hino toward Takayama are not connected transfer services.If your bus from Kawaguchiko is delayed and you miss the Takayama-bound bus, it is generally your own responsibility.

Also, Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop is located on the expressway. The bus from Kawaguchiko toward Shinjuku arrives at the upbound side of Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop. The bus toward Takayama departs from the downbound side on the opposite side.

In other words, you cannot simply board the Takayama-bound bus from the place where you get off. You need to exit the expressway area once and move to the bus stop on the opposite side.

How to Transfer at Chuo Expressway Hino

After getting off the bus from Kawaguchiko at Chuo Expressway Hino, use the stairs to exit the expressway area.

Then go under the expressway, cross to the opposite side, and head to the Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop for buses bound for Takayama.

Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop is also within walking distance of Koshukaido Station on the Tama Monorail. If you are unsure about the bus stop locations, it is a good idea to check both the upbound and downbound bus stops on Google Map in advance.

Google Map: Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop

If You Are Likely to Miss the Connection

If the bus from Kawaguchiko to Chuo Expressway Hino is delayed, another possible option is to transfer at Chuo Expressway Hachioji Bus Stop, one stop before Hino.

Chuo Expressway Hachioji is located before Chuo Expressway Hino when coming from the Kawaguchiko direction, so you will arrive there slightly earlier.
Also, the Takayama-bound bus stops at Chuo Expressway Hachioji after Chuo Expressway Hino.

Therefore, if the delay is around 15 minutes, you may still be able to make the connection by transferring at Chuo Expressway Hachioji.

Google Map: Chuo Expressway Hachioji

However, there is no railway station close to Chuo Expressway Hachioji Bus Stop. If you miss the Takayama-bound bus there, recovery options are limited. For this reason, it is generally recommended to plan a transfer at Chuo Expressway Hino with plenty of extra time.

If You Miss the Bus Bound for Takayama

If you miss the bus bound for Takayama, the following options may be considered.

First, you can make a new reservation for the next express bus bound for Takayama. However, seats may not always be available. During busy seasons, buses may be fully booked.

Second, you can walk from Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop to Koshukaido Station on the Tama Monorail and head toward Tachikawa. From Koshukaido Station, go to Tachikawa-Minami Station, then walk to Tachikawa Station and take the JR Chuo Line limited express “Azusa” to Matsumoto. From Matsumoto, you may be able to transfer to a bus bound for Takayama.

Third, you can stay overnight around Tachikawa Station and take the express bus bound for Takayama from Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop the next day.

Google Map: Chuo Expressway Hino Bus Stop to Tachikawa Station

Who This Route Is Suitable For

This Chuo Expressway Hino transfer route is suitable for the following travelers:

People who are used to transferring between express buses
People who can walk while checking Google Map
People with light luggage
People who can allow plenty of time for transfers
People who want to reduce the time spent returning all the way to Shinjuku

On the other hand, if you have a large suitcase, are using Japanese express buses for the first time, are traveling with small children, or are traveling on a rainy day or at night, transferring at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal is the safer choice.

In conclusion, transferring at Chuo Expressway Hino is a useful “insider route” if you know how to use it, but it is not a route that can be recommended to everyone. For first-time travelers, the Shinjuku route is best. For experienced travelers, the Chuo Expressway Hino transfer can also be considered.

Route 2: Via Matsumoto
Train and Bus Transfers

Kawaguchiko Station → Otsuki → Matsumoto → Takayama

The estimated travel time is about 7 hours or more.

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyuko Line to Otsuki Station. This takes about 55 minutes and costs 1,161 yen. From Otsuki Station, take the JR Chuo Main Line limited express “Azusa” to Matsumoto, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Matsumoto Station to Takayama, use the Matsumoto–Takayama express bus operated by Nohi Bus. The travel time is about 2 hours and 20 minutes, and the fare varies depending on the season and section, so please check in advance.

This route is suitable if you want to include sightseeing in Matsumoto, such as Matsumoto Castle or Nawate Street, in your itinerary. However, there are many transfers, and depending on connections, waiting times can be long.

Features of this route

You can stop by Matsumoto
There are many transfers, making it somewhat complicated
Depending on the connections, the total travel time may be longer than Route 1

Route 3: Via Mishima and Nagoya
For Travelers Who Want to Use the Japan Rail Pass

Kawaguchiko Station → Mishima Station → Nagoya Station → Takayama Station

The estimated travel time, including transfers, is about 6 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours.

This route is recommended for travelers who want to make as much use as possible of JR sections with the Japan Rail Pass, or for those who want to stop by Nagoya.

First, take the Mishima–Kawaguchiko Liner from Kawaguchiko Station to Mishima Station. From Mishima Station, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Nagoya Station, then transfer at Nagoya Station to the limited express “Hida” bound for Takayama Station.

When using the Japan Rail Pass on the Tokaido Shinkansen, you generally use “Hikari” or “Kodama” trains.
If you use “Nozomi,” you cannot ride with only the Japan Rail Pass and need a special additional ticket.
However, Shinkansen trains that stop at Mishima Station are only “Hikari” and “Kodama,” so these can all be used with the Japan Rail Pass.
Please note that the bus section between Kawaguchiko Station and Mishima Station is not operated by JR and is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass.

This route has more transfers than traveling entirely by express bus, and you need to check connections at Mishima Station and Nagoya Station in advance. On the other hand, because it combines the Shinkansen and limited express trains, it is a strong option for travelers with a Japan Rail Pass or those who enjoy traveling by train.

Features of this route

Easy to make use of JR sections with the Japan Rail Pass
The bus section between Kawaguchiko Station and Mishima Station is not covered by the Japan Rail Pass
You need to check transfer times at Mishima Station and Nagoya Station in advance
Also suitable for travelers who want to stop by Nagoya

Route Comparison Summary: In the End, the Shinjuku Route Is the Smoothest

After checking the routes again, the paradoxical reality became clear: the Shinjuku route may look like a detour, but it is actually smooth.

Route 1, the express bus route via Shinjuku, has only one transfer and many departures, making it the most recommended option for first-time travelers. It is also convenient that both the Kawaguchiko–Shinjuku bus and the Shinjuku–Takayama bus can be booked on highwaybus.com.

Route 2 via Matsumoto takes longer, but it is an attractive option for travelers who want to stop by Matsumoto Castle or Kamikochi.

Route 3 via Mishima and Nagoya has many transfers, but it is a useful option if you want to make use of the Japan Rail Pass for JR sections.

Recommended Sightseeing Spots in Hida Takayama

Here are some places we recommend for travelers choosing Takayama as their next destination after Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji.

Sanmachi Suji Old Town

This is one of Takayama’s most iconic sightseeing spots, preserving the atmosphere of a merchant district from the Edo period. Sake breweries, miso shops, Japanese sweet shops, and souvenir stores line the streets, making it a great place for food walking. Hida beef sushi, mitarashi dango, and Hida ramen are also popular among international travelers.

Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Takayama Station
Admission: Free

Shirakawago

Shirakawago is a village of thatched-roof gassho-style houses registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1995. Its snowy winter scenery is especially famous, but beautiful views can be enjoyed throughout the year. The panoramic view of the village from the Ogimachi Castle Ruins Observation Deck is a must-see.

From Takayama to Shirakawago, take the Nohi Bus from Takayama Nohi Bus Center. The ride takes about 50 minutes, and the one-way fare is around 2,800 yen. It is also possible to visit both Takayama and Shirakawago in one day.

Access: About 50 minutes by Nohi Bus from Takayama Nohi Bus Center in front of Takayama Station
Admission: Free
Some facilities may charge separate fees.

Hida Folk Village

Hida Folk Village is an open-air museum where more than 30 old houses from the Hida region have been relocated and restored. You can enter and see gassho-style houses, including four nationally designated Important Cultural Properties. Visitors can also enjoy hands-on experiences such as straw craft and sashiko stitching. If you do not have time to go all the way to Shirakawago, this is a good place to experience the atmosphere of gassho-style houses.

Admission: Adults 700 yen, elementary and junior high school students 200 yen
Access: About 10 minutes by Sarubobo Bus from Takayama Station

Takayama Jinya

Takayama Jinya is the only surviving local government office from the Edo shogunate in Japan. The building, which was used as a political center during the Edo period, has been preserved in its original form. In front of the Jinya, the Jinya-mae Morning Market is held every day, where visitors can buy local vegetables and pickles.

Admission: Adults 500 yen, high school students and younger free
Access: About 10 minutes on foot from Takayama Station

Okuhida Onsengou

Okuhida Onsengou is the collective name for five hot spring areas located in the mountains about one hour by car from Takayama: Hirayu, Shin-Hirayu, Tochio, Fukuji, and Shinhotaka. The area is known for wild and atmospheric open-air baths, with the surrounding Northern Alps creating dramatic scenery.

The express bus from Shinjuku stops at Hirayu Onsen on the way, so you can also get off directly in Okuhida Onsengou without going through Takayama.

Access: 40 minutes to 1 hour by Nohi Bus from Takayama Station to each hot spring area

Sample Itineraries: Mt. Fuji to Takayama

2 Nights, 3 Days Model Plan

Day 1: Take an express bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko. Enjoy sightseeing around Kawaguchiko, such as Oishi Park, a sightseeing boat, and Oshino Hakkai. Stay overnight in Kawaguchiko.

Day 2: Return from Kawaguchiko to Shinjuku by express bus, about 1 hour and 45 minutes, then transfer at Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to the express bus bound for Takayama. After arriving in Takayama, stroll around the old town and the Jinya-mae Morning Market area. Stay overnight in Takayama.

Day 3: Visit Shirakawago in the morning. In the afternoon, enjoy shopping and local food in Takayama city before heading to your next destination.

3 Nights, 4 Days Model Plan
Including Mt. Fuji Climbing

Day 1: During the Mt. Fuji climbing season, take the direct bus from Shinjuku to Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station. After acclimatizing at the 5th Station, stay overnight at a mountain hut.

Day 2: Watch the sunrise from the summit, then descend. Stay overnight around Kawaguchiko.

Day 3: Travel from Kawaguchiko to Takayama via Shinjuku. Stroll around Takayama’s old town. Stay overnight in Takayama.

Day 4: Enjoy Shirakawago or Okuhida Onsengou, then continue your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can I travel directly from Kawaguchiko to Takayama?
A direct bus has not currently been confirmed. The smoothest route is to take an express bus from Kawaguchiko to Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, then transfer to the Shinjuku–Takayama express bus. There is only one transfer, and the estimated travel time to Takayama, including transfer time, is about 7 hours 30 minutes to 8 hours 30 minutes.

Q. Can I visit both Takayama and Shirakawago in one day?
Yes, it is possible. Shirakawago is about 50 minutes from Takayama Nohi Bus Center, so you can visit both Takayama city and Shirakawago in one day. However, to fully enjoy Shirakawago, it is better to allow at least 2 to 3 hours, so avoid making your schedule too tight.

Q. Is English understood in Takayama?
At major sightseeing spots in Takayama, English signs are relatively well prepared, and English support can often be expected at tourist information centers. However, support varies depending on the shop and time of day, so it is reassuring to have a translation app ready.

Q. Where can I reserve an express bus bound for Takayama?
You can reserve it on highwaybus.com. The route is jointly operated by Keio Bus, and online payment by credit card is available. During busy periods such as Golden Week, Obon, the New Year holidays, and the Takayama Festival season, buses may fill up early, so advance reservations are recommended.

Q. When is the Takayama Festival?
The Takayama Festival is held twice a year. The Spring Takayama Festival, also called the Sanno Festival, is held on April 14 and 15. The Autumn Takayama Festival, also called the Hachiman Festival, is held on October 9 and 10. It is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and the magnificent festival floats are displayed and paraded.
Festival float displays and events may be changed or canceled due to weather or other conditions. Accommodation and buses are crowded during this period, so early arrangements are recommended.