There are more things to do in Gotemba than just Mt. Fuji – get outdoors and enjoy golf, glamping and even horse riding.
THINGS TO DO IN GOTEMBA
Table of Contents
HIKING MT. FUJI
Gotemba is one of the popular destinations at the base of Mt. Fuji and located just 2 hours from Tokyo.
Every year Gotemba see thousands of visitors arriving to climb Mt. Fuji via the Gotemba Trail.
The Gotemba trail is the longest of the trails up Mt. Fuji as it starts at 1400 meters above sea level.
Recently The Prince Route has gained in popularity as a new way to climb Mt. Fuji offering hikers a chance to not only avoid the Summer crowds but also hike at Hoei Crater.
The Prince Route typically involves climbing to the crater of Mt. Fuji via the Hoei Crater from the Fujinomiya 5th Station and the descending on the Gotemba trail and enjoying the “great sand run” down the mountain.
Once you are down in Gotemba, there are a number of great Onsen available to soak your weary bones, and maybe enjoy a cold beer.
HORSEBACK RIDING
If you are looking for a unique Japanese experience, something to keep the kids happy or need a stunning social media photo to impress your friends then horseback riding with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop could be for you.
Okamoto Riding Club Japan offers experiences for English speakers.
This club caters for beginners and advanced riders with friendly well-trained horses and experienced trainers that will help you feel comfortable on the horse and master the basics.
Horse riding through a field and forest with stunning views of Mt. Fuji is a great way to make long lasting memories of your trip to Japan – don’t forget your cowboy hat!
KOMAKADO KAZA-ANA CAVES
The Komakado Kaza-Ana Caves is the largest lava tube near Mt. Fuji and has been designated as a natural national treasure.
Located near Fujioka Station (20 minute walk) which is 2 stations from Gotemba Station on the JR Gotemba Train Line.
A small fee is charged at the entrance and you are free to wander through the caves formed by lava from a Mt. Fuji eruption over 10,000 years ago.
The temperature in the caves is steadily 13 degrees so it is a great place to escape the heat of a Japanese Summer.
FUJINOKIRAMEKI GLAMPING
Glamping (Glamourous Camping) is another overseas trend that Japan has embraced and made its own.
Around the Mt. Fuji area there have been many glamping locations that offer visitors a chance to enjoy the concept of camping with all the comforts of home – and more.
If there is such a thing as 5 star camping then Fujinokirameki would be it – comfortable beds, heated rooms, outdoor jacuzzi and even a chef prepared BBQ.
Enjoying all this with magnificent views of Mt. Fuji.
In the morning wake up early, layout your yoga mat and start the day with a stretch before enjoying another breakfast feast.
Check the Fujinokirameki Website
PLAYING GOLF
Gotemba has about 10 golf courses in the area, many of which were designed by some of the most famous golfers.
Gotemba golf courses are famous for their outstanding views of Mt. Fuji.
Odakyu Railway operates a Romance Car from Shinjuku Station to Gotemba at 06:40am every morning.
Many of the clubs are conveniently located – short taxi ride from Gotemba station and provide rental clubs, shoes and gear – making it possible to be on the first tee by 9 am with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop for what may be the best round of your life.
In addition, if any in your group is not a golfer they may want to spend a day of shopping, onsen or some of the activities and meet up in the afternoon making Gotemba a great way to get away from Tokyo for a day or two.
