There are a few options for visiting Mt Fuji without climbing it! The Five Lakes or Fujigoko area is at the northern end, and a good place to start exploring. Lake Kawaguchiko is the easiest one to reach, being connected by bus and train to Shinjuku Station. Also Hakone to the south offers scenic ropeways, shrines and a boat trip on Lake Ashi. Nearby is the Mishima Skywalk, Japan's longest suspension bridge. Be prepared for the cold, ​even in spring and autumn.

Wind chill at -10C, bitterly cold on the lake. Only refuge on the col between ropeways was the warmth
​of the gift shop. Packed!