Yes, you can see Mount Fuji from the Shinkansen, but success depends on seating and weather. When traveling west from Tokyo (toward Kyoto/Osaka), you must sit on the right side of the train (Window Seat E). When traveling east toward Tokyo, sit on the left side (Window Seat A). The best viewing window occurs approximately 40 to 45 minutes after leaving Tokyo, specifically around the Shin-Fuji Station area. On a clear day, the 3,776-meter peak is visible for about 10 minutes. However, Mount Fuji is notoriously shy; it is often shrouded in clouds, particularly in the humid summer months. The highest probability of a clear view is during the winter (December–February) in the early morning. In 2026, travelers can check "Fuji visibility forecasts" online before boarding to see if it's worth prepping their cameras for the iconic high-speed photo op.
Whether the 2023 Haunted Mansion is a "good" movie depends on what you value in a Disney adaptation. Critically, the film received mixed reviews, often criticized for being "over-stuffed" with CGI and brand placement. However, from a fan perspective, it is widely considered a massive improvement over the 2003 Eddie Murphy version because it stays much closer to the actual lore and aesthetic of the Disneyland attraction. The film features a surprisingly emotional core, dealing with themes of grief and loss through Lakeith Stanfield's character, which gives it more weight than a typical family comedy. For 2026 viewers catching it on Disney+, the film is praised for its "Easter eggs" (like the Hatbox Ghost and the stretching room) and its stellar ensemble cast, including Danny DeVito and Jamie Lee Curtis. It’s a solid "spooky season" watch that balances mild scares with heart, making it an enjoyable experience for Disney enthusiasts even if it didn't reinvent the wheel of the horror-comedy genre at the box office.