A short, gentle horseback ride around Mount Fuji's Fifth Station plaza, offering non-climbers an easy way to experience the mountain's high-altitude terrain.
Seasonal horseback riding concessions operate near the Fuji Subaru Line Fifth Station, the highest point on Mount Fuji reachable by paved road, offering visitors who are not attempting the Yoshida Trail summit climb a low-effort way to experience the mountain's subalpine terrain up close. Guided rides follow a short loop around the station plaza and the lower approach to the trail, led by an operator on foot or alongside the horse, making the activity accessible to riders with little or no prior horseback experience. Because the Fifth Station sits above 2,300 meters, the air is noticeably thinner and cooler than at lake level, and riders should expect a shorter, more careful pace than a typical trail ride at lower elevation. Availability is seasonal and weather-dependent, generally coinciding with the same late spring through autumn window when the Fifth Station itself sees the heaviest visitor traffic, and rides are typically offered on a walk-up basis rather than requiring advance reservation.
Activity facts
- Where
- Fujiyoshida, Mount Fuji northern slope
- Duration
- 15–30 minutes per ride
- Age limit
- Typically suited to children over about 6 years old accompanied by an adult; confirm current policy with the operator
- Skill level
- Beginner-friendly; no riding experience required
Equipment
- Riding helmet (provided)
- Closed-toe shoes
- Warm layer, since the station sits at over 2,300 meters elevation
Location
Kitaguchihongu-Fujisengen-jinja Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011
35.3971, 138.7314 View on map
Highlights
- Short guided rides around Mount Fuji's highest road-accessible point
- Accessible to riders with little or no prior horseback experience
- A low-effort way to experience the mountain's subalpine terrain without climbing
- Combines easily with a Fifth Station visit and Yoshida Trailhead viewing
Tips for visiting
- Check availability on arrival at the Fifth Station, as the concession operates on a seasonal, weather-dependent basis
- Bring a warm layer even in summer, since temperatures at this elevation run far cooler than at lake level
- Combine the ride with browsing the Fifth Station's shops and Komitake Jinja shrine
- Expect a short, gentle pace suited to beginners rather than a fast trail ride
When to visit
July–September, when the Fifth Station and its seasonal concessions are most reliably open.
Accessibility
The activity requires mounting and sitting on a horse and is not accessible for visitors with significant mobility limitations; check weight and health restrictions with the operator.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
What fitness level is required?
Minimal fitness is required, as the ride is short, gentle, and led by an operator alongside the horse.
Is prior experience necessary?
No prior horseback riding experience is necessary for these short, guided plaza loops.
What should I bring?
Closed-toe shoes and a warm layer for the high-altitude temperature; riding helmets are provided.