Mount Fuji & Kamakura Day Trip: Big Buddha, Lake Ashi Cruise

Summary

Fuji’s quiet power, Kamakura’s Buddha, lakeside moments and local flavors

You’ll walk beneath Kamakura’s Great Buddha, cruise across Lake Ashi with glimpses of Mount Fuji if weather allows, and taste fresh mountain flavors in Oshino Hakkai village. Expect calm moments mixed with laughter from your group—and maybe a surprise or two along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the hush around the Big Buddha in Kamakura—like even the crows kept it down. Our guide, Emi, explained how this bronze giant has stood through centuries of storms and earthquakes. I’m not usually one for statues, but there’s something about seeing people bow their heads or just sit quietly on the steps. We ducked inside the statue (it’s hollow!), which felt a bit surreal—cool metal under my palms, muffled voices echoing around us. I tried to say “arigatou” properly when we left; Emi smiled politely but I probably got it wrong.

The drive towards Mount Fuji was longer than I expected—maybe an hour or so from Kamakura—but honestly, watching the landscape change was part of it. Rice paddies giving way to forested hills, then that first glimpse of Fuji itself through a gap in the clouds. Not as sharp as on postcards, but somehow more real. At Oshino Hakkai village, spring water runs so clear you can see every pebble. Lunch was trout grilled over charcoal (if you pick that option), with a miso soup that tasted smoky and earthy at once. There were schoolkids feeding koi and old women selling pickles—one offered me a sample with a grin and I nearly choked on how sour it was.

We made it to Lake Ashi just as the light started to shift—the pirate ship thing is kitschy but fun. The air smelled like pine needles and something sweet from a nearby food stall. If you’re lucky (we kind of were), Mount Fuji floats above the lake like it’s painted there. Emi pointed out the red torii gate half-hidden by mist; she said locals come here for good luck. It’s only a short cruise but I still think about that view sometimes—quiet water, cold wind on my face, Fuji just hanging out in the distance.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Mount Fuji and nearby attractions

• See Mount Fuji views
• Visit Great Buddha of Kamakura
• Explore Oshino Hakkai village
• Have lunch or free time
• Enjoy Lake Ashi cruise

Top questions

How long does the day trip from Tokyo to Mount Fuji & Kamakura take?

The tour lasts about a full day including travel time between stops; return times may vary due to traffic or weather.

Is lunch included on this Mount Fuji day trip?

Lunch is included if you select that option when booking; otherwise you’ll have free time to eat on your own in Oshino Hakkai.

Can you go inside the Big Buddha at Kamakura?

Yes, you can enter inside the Great Buddha statue at Kotoku-in temple if your tour includes this stop.

Will I definitely see Mount Fuji during this tour?

Mount Fuji’s visibility depends on weather conditions; sometimes clouds may cover it partially or completely.

Is transportation provided for this day trip?

Yes, transportation from the meeting point is included throughout the tour itinerary.

Are there English-speaking guides on this tour?

The guided tour is available in English or bilingual English/Spanish depending on your booking selection.

How much walking is involved during this day trip?

You should expect moderate walking at each site; travelers need at least moderate physical fitness.

Do shops in Oshino Hakkai accept credit cards?

Some local shops may not accept card payments; carrying some cash is recommended for small purchases.

What’s included

Your day includes transportation from a central meeting point, entry tickets for sites like Kamakura’s Big Buddha (if selected), an English or bilingual guide throughout, a cruise on Lake Ashi if booked as part of your option, plus lunch at Oshino Hakkai if you choose that extra—or free time to explore local food stalls instead.