- Overview: Yamanashi Prefecture is planning a new transportation system called the “Fuji Tram” to connect the base of Mount Fuji to the 5th station.
- Technology: The tram will use magnetic induction and rubber tires, aiming to protect the environment while improving tourist access.
- Cost and Connectivity: The project is estimated to cost approximately 618 billion yen and will connect to the Linear Chuo Shinkansen.
Project Overview
Yamanashi Prefecture has decided to introduce the Fuji Tram as a solution to the growing issue of overtourism at Mount Fuji. This tram will link the base of the mountain to the 5th station (at 2,300 meters elevation) and will prohibit general vehicle traffic to reduce environmental impact and streamline tourist flow. The tram will utilize magnetic induction technology, making it adaptable to steep curves and gradients while achieving zero emissions.
Background and Purpose
Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak at 3,776 meters and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has seen a sharp increase in tourists, leading to overtourism and environmental challenges. Access to the 5th station currently relies on the Fuji Subaru Line, a 30-kilometer toll road from Lake Kawaguchi, which has caused congestion and increased emissions.
To address these issues, Yamanashi Prefecture has opted for the Fuji Tram, a system designed to enhance tourist access while protecting the environment. Once operational, the tram will restrict general vehicle access on the Fuji Subaru Line, helping to manage tourist flow and reduce both congestion and environmental strain.
Technical Details
The Fuji Tram will be a rubber-tired tram guided by magnetic induction. This system uses sensors to follow magnetic markers embedded in the road. Key technical features include:
- Adaptability to Terrain: The tram can navigate the mountain’s steep curves and gradients without the need for traditional rail tracks, allowing it to use existing roads.
- No Overhead Wires: To preserve the landscape, the tram operates without overhead power lines, maintaining the natural beauty of the area.
- Zero Emissions: Powered by electricity or hydrogen fuel cells, the tram minimizes environmental impact. As of June 13, 2025, studies are exploring a combination of batteries and hydrogen fuel cells.
- Emergency Vehicle Access: The tram’s design ensures that emergency vehicles can still access the route.
Magnetic induction was chosen over optical guidance (which follows painted lines) due to its reliability in various weather conditions. It was also selected over other options like Light Rail Transit (LRT), Translohr, and regular buses for its balance of cost and environmental benefits.
Cost and Economic Considerations
The Fuji Tram is estimated to cost around 618 billion yen (approximately 430 million USD), which is about half the cost of a previously considered LRT system (1,340 billion yen). However, annual maintenance costs are higher at 49 billion yen compared to 33 billion yen for LRT, primarily due to the expense of hydrogen fuel cells. Despite this, the reduced initial investment is seen as a significant advantage.
Cost Comparison Table:
|
Item |
Magnetic Induction Tram |
LRT (Light Rail Transit) |
|
Initial Cost |
618 billion yen |
1,340 billion yen |
|
Annual Maintenance Cost |
49 billion yen |
33 billion yen |
|
Seating Capacity per Car |
120 seats |
Not specified |
Transportation Capacity and Impact on Tourism
Each Fuji Tram car will have 120 seats, offering higher capacity than standard buses (33–58 seats). This will allow the tram to transport up to 1,200 tourists per hour, helping to alleviate congestion. The project is also considering Level 3 autonomous driving (with a driver present), with the goal of full automation in the future.
Connection to the Linear Chuo Shinkansen
The Fuji Tram will connect to the Linear Chuo Shinkansen (a maglev high-speed rail line) at Kofu Station. This rail line, currently under construction and set to open in 2027, will enhance access to Mount Fuji and surrounding attractions like Lake Kawaguchi and Oshino Hakkai, making the region more accessible to both domestic and international tourists.
Future Outlook and Challenges
Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki is working to clarify the project’s management structure and accelerate its implementation. As of June 5, 2025, the prefecture has been holding public meetings to gain local support, while also studying the project’s profitability and required facilities.
However, several challenges remain:
- Environmental Impact: Concerns exist about the environmental effects of constructing the tram system.
- Technical Risks: The operational costs and reliability of hydrogen fuel cells are still under scrutiny.
- International Influence: The project draws inspiration from China’s CRRC-developed Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system, though there is a preference for Japanese companies to lead the project, as noted in November 2024 reports.
Related Information and International Influence
The Fuji Tram project is inspired by the ART system used in Sarawak, Malaysia. In December 2024, the Sarawak KUTS (Kuching Urban Transportation System) project team shared technical insights with Yamanashi’s inspection team, providing valuable perspectives for the Fuji Tram’s development.
Summary and Recommendations for Tourists
The Fuji Tram represents a significant upgrade to Mount Fuji’s tourist infrastructure, balancing environmental protection with improved accessibility. By adopting magnetic induction technology, the project achieves high transportation capacity at a lower cost. Its connection to the Linear Chuo Shinkansen will further enhance access to the region. As of June 21, 2025, the project is progressing steadily, and tourists are encouraged to follow its development.
Yamanashi Official HP
https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/fujisan/fujisan_railway/fujisan_railway_top.html
