Shosenkyo Ropeway
Ascend via scenic ropeway for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps, with hiking trails and unique local shops at the base.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear views & foliage
Shosenkyo Ropeway
Best Time
Best chance for clear views & foliage
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ascend via scenic ropeway for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps, with hiking trails and unique local shops at the base.
"The views are amazing up there and there is a lot to see."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails at the summit are natural rock & dirt. Good hiking shoes are a must for safety and exploring!
⏰ Go Early for Views
Beat the crowds and increase your chances of seeing Mt. Fuji clearly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Summit Views
Summit of Shosenkyo
Breathtaking vistas of Mt. Fuji, Southern Alps, and Kofu Basin. Best enjoyed on a clear day.
Autumn Foliage Spectacle
Shosenkyo Valley
Vibrant red and gold leaves transform the valley into a stunning natural canvas.
Yakumo Shrine
Summit area
A serene shrine at the top, offering a moment of reflection amidst the natural beauty.
Unique Noodle Shop Experience
Base of the ropeway
Enjoy fresh, river-cooled noodles served with a unique water feature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Views
Prepare for the Summit Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails at the summit are natural rock & dirt. Good hiking shoes are a must for safety and exploring!
⏰ Go Early for Views
Beat the crowds and increase your chances of seeing Mt. Fuji clearly.
🍂 Autumn is Peak Season
The fall foliage is spectacular, but can sometimes delay peak color. 
💰 Consider Round-Trip Tickets
The 5-minute ropeway ride is worth it. Round-trip tickets are recommended for flexibility.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails at the summit are natural rock & dirt. Good hiking shoes are a must for safety and exploring!
⏰ Go Early for Views
Beat the crowds and increase your chances of seeing Mt. Fuji clearly.
🍂 Autumn is Peak Season
The fall foliage is spectacular, but can sometimes delay peak color.
💰 Consider Round-Trip Tickets
The 5-minute ropeway ride is worth it. Round-trip tickets are recommended for flexibility.
💎 Browse Gemstone Shops
The street at the base has many shops selling gemstones, a unique local specialty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Shosenkyo Ropeway for its stunning summit views, especially during autumn, and the unique dining experience at the base. While the ropeway ride is short, the panoramic vistas and the opportunity to explore the gorge and its trails are highly valued. Some note the ticket price has increased, but most still find it worthwhile.
"Taking the ropeway wasn't much but it offered great views from the top. Just be prepared for lots of people unless you go early. Would have been more stunning if the autumn colors was not delayed. Nevertheless, a nice place to visit if you here"
C.H Lee
"The cable car ride that goes up to the mountain. Its 1500円 for an adult and well worth the journey. The views are amazing up there and there is a lot to see. Before going up the mountain in the cable, remember to wear good hiking and trail shoes because it isn't a normal walk on a man-made surface, it literally is a serious dirt and rock trail that can be dangerous if your ignorant. Its not advanced, just be prepared is all I say, if you want the best pictures and videos of the mountians and Mt. Fuji. Highly recommended visit for sure!"
Kay Pepper
"I loved the additional paths to explore after using the Gondola! The hike up to the Gondola was beautiful. I definitely recommend. Although the ticket price has gone up since when I first researched it. The round trip ticket price is now ¥1,500. Still worth it in my opinion."
Ms. Duchaine “The Nomad”
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take the JR Chuo Line to Kofu Station (approx. 2 hours). From Kofu Station, you can take a bus to the Shosenkyo Ropeway base (approx. 40 minutes).
Yes, there is free parking available at the base of the ropeway.
Yes, it's a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, offering stunning natural scenery and views.
The most direct way is to take the Shosenkyo Ropeway, which is a short 5-minute ride to the summit.
Yes, buses run from JR Kofu Station to the Shosenkyo Ropeway base, taking about 40 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The round-trip ticket for adults is ¥1,500. Prices may vary slightly, so it's good to check the official website.
Information on specific discounts for children or seniors is not widely available, but it's worth checking at the ticket counter.
Advance purchase options might be available, especially during peak seasons. Checking the official website or local tour operators is recommended.
Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 5:10 PM, but they can change based on the season. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit.
The Shosenkyo Gorge is a natural area, and there isn't a specific entrance fee to explore it. The ropeway is the primary paid attraction.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, visit Yakumo Shrine, explore hiking trails, and find cafes and souvenir shops.
The trails are natural dirt and rock paths, not paved walkways. While not advanced, sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.
Yes, on clear days, you can get stunning views of Mt. Fuji from the summit.
It's a beautiful gorge with a nice waterfall. Some compare it to Taiwan's Taroko Gorge, and hiking along the path is recommended.
Yes, families can enjoy the scenic ropeway ride and the accessible viewpoints. The unique noodle shop is also a hit with kids.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots. Look for viewpoints overlooking Mt. Fuji and the surrounding mountains.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain peaks like Mt. Fuji.
Generally, photography is allowed in most areas. Be mindful of any signage near shrines or specific viewpoints.
Focus on the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Look for compositions that include both the foliage and the mountain scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the summit trails are natural and require sturdy shoes, families can enjoy shorter, easier walks around the main viewing areas. The presence of souvenir shops and a cafe also makes it comfortable for families to spend a few hours. It's a good choice for a day trip that offers a taste of Japan's natural beauty without being overwhelming.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Remember to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes and a telephoto lens if you hope to zoom in on distant peaks. The natural trails at the summit mean sturdy footwear is essential for accessing various vantage points. The vibrant autumn foliage provides a spectacular backdrop, making it a must-visit for landscape photographers.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
From the summit, you can embark on further hiking routes to explore more of the surrounding mountains. The combination of the scenic ropeway ride and the natural trails makes Shosenkyo a rewarding destination for those who enjoy being outdoors and appreciating natural landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shosenkyo Ropeway Experience
Upon arrival at the summit, you're greeted with a panoramic vista that often includes Mt. Fuji and the majestic Southern Alps, weather permitting. This viewpoint is a major draw for photographers and nature lovers alike. The area at the top is more than just a viewing platform; it's a small hub with a souvenir shop, a cafe, and access to further exploration.
+1For those seeking a more active experience, the summit area provides access to hiking trails. These trails are natural and can be rugged, so wearing appropriate footwear is crucial. The Yakumo Shrine is also located at the summit, offering a peaceful spot for reflection.
Exploring the Shosenkyo Gorge
At the base of the ropeway, you'll find a street lined with gemstone shops, a unique local specialty that might appeal to collectors. Additionally, there's a notable noodle shop near the large carpark that offers a unique dining experience. This shop features a special water feature where noodles are served fresh from the river, flowing through pipes.
Whether you choose to hike the gorge, enjoy the views from the summit, or explore the local shops, the Shosenkyo area offers a well-rounded day trip experience. It's particularly popular during autumn when the foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant spectacle.
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