The Shinkansen journey from Tokyo to the "Mount Fuji area" takes approximately 40 to 50 minutes, but there is a nuance to the location. The bullet train does not go directly to the mountain's base or the famous Five Lakes region. Instead, you take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station or Shin-Fuji Station. From these stops, you must transfer to a bus or a local train to reach the actual hiking trails or scenic viewpoints like Lake Kawaguchiko. For many tourists, the "Fuji Excursion" train is actually a more popular choice than the Shinkansen; it is a direct "limited express" train that goes from Shinjuku Station straight to Kawaguchiko in about 1 hour and 50 minutes without needing a transfer. However, if you are using a JR Pass and want the fastest speed, taking the Shinkansen to Mishima and then a 45-minute bus is a very efficient way to reach the south side of the mountain. Regardless of the route, the sight of the snow-capped peak appearing as you speed through the Shizuoka Prefecture is one of the most iconic experiences in Japanese travel.