Shizuoka's Tanuki Lake & Shiraito Falls: Bus Guide 2026
Planning a car-free trip to Shizuoka? Learn the best way to reach picturesque Tanuki Lake and the majestic Shiraito Falls, complete with bus routes and pass details.
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Planning a car-free trip to Shizuoka? Learn the best way to reach picturesque Tanuki Lake and the majestic Shiraito Falls, complete with bus routes and pass details.

SHIZUOKA
Your Guide to Tanuki Lake & Shiraito Falls
Bus Fares, Timetables, and Exploring Shizuoka on Foot


Shizuoka is an incredible gateway to Mount Fuji, offering breathtaking views, but public transportation isn't quite as developed as in a major city, so getting around without a car can be a bit of a challenge.
However, navigating Japanese roads and driving can be a bit daunting, which is why I ended up exploring Shizuoka entirely on foot! 🤣
Nevertheless, I successfully visited the famous Tanuki Lake, a renowned spot for Mount Fuji views, and Shiraito Falls, all on my own! '-'
1. How to Reach Tanuki Lake

The easiest way to reach Tanuki Lake is by taking a bus from Fujinomiya Station.
After exiting Fujinomiya Station, descend the pedestrian overpass stairs, and you'll spot a cluster of bus stops in the center. Head to stop K (number 2) to catch your bus.
While you can pay for the bus fare with cash or a card, using the Fujinomiya Pass is definitely your best bet.
· Round Trip Fujinomiya Station ↔ Tanuki Lake: approximately ¥2,000
· Fujinomiya Pass 2-day Ticket: approximately ¥1,850
What's more, the distance from Tanuki Lake to Shiraito Falls is only about 15 minutes by car, making it perfectly convenient to visit both stunning locations together. Since this route is also covered by the pass, using the Fujinomiya Pass is an absolute no-brainer for saving money and hassle!


✅ Fujinomiya Station Bus Ticket Office Operating Hours
Daily: 07:30 ~ 11:25 / 12:25 ~ 14:30
At the ticket booth located at the end of the bus stop area, simply ask for a 'Tanuki Lake Ticket,' and they'll provide you with the pass and the essential timetable.
2. Bus Timetable

You'll need to catch the bus heading towards Tanuki Lake, but be aware that the timetable for buses from Fujinomiya Station to Tanuki Lake only operates 7 times throughout the entire day.
7:35 / 9:20 / 10:20 / 11:20
13:20 / 15:20 / 16:40

Conversely, the bus timetable for your return journey from Tanuki Lake back to Fujinomiya Station is conveniently printed right on the back of the same timetable sheet.
9:55 / 10:25 / 11:25 / 12:25
14:25 / 16:25 / 17:35
Given that the last bus back departs at 17:35, for independent travelers exploring Shizuoka on foot who wish to experience both Tanuki Lake and Shiraito Falls, you'll need to catch the very first bus at 7 AM to truly have ample time for leisurely exploration.
* Recommended Itinerary
Departure → Tanuki Lake → Shiraito Falls → Return
3. Journey to Tanuki Lake
As you journey there, be sure to grab a seat on the right side of the bus – you'll be rewarded with stunning views of Mount Fuji!
Disembark at Kyukamura Fuji (休暇村富士) bus stop, clearly marked on your timetable, and a short 5-minute walk will lead you directly to the serene lake.

While Tanuki Lake is undeniably beautiful during the day, its true magic often unfolds around sunset, offering the most breathtaking scenery. However, for independent travelers exploring Shizuoka on foot, catching that stunning sunset view can be quite a challenge..🤣🤣
But here's a little secret: when I visited the lake, I noticed a hotel right on its doorstep! After a quick check, I found that the prices were quite reasonable, making it an excellent option for a peaceful overnight stay and perfectly timed to witness that unforgettable sunset view!




This hotel in Shizuoka boasts a direct, front-facing view of Mount Fuji,
so you can soak in the breathtaking scenery right from your room and the restaurant!
What's more, it even has a hot spring (onsen), making it perfect for a healing getaway.
So, if you're exploring Shizuoka on foot and contemplating a ryokan stay,
this spot looks like a fantastic option! :-)
> Tanuki Lake Hotel Kyukamura FUJI <



I spent about 4 hours exploring, enjoying the lake views and even checking out the nearby campsites.
The scenery was so incredibly beautiful, I was sad to leave even after all that time!
4. The Road to Shiraito Falls


It's about a 15-minute journey from the lake to Shiraito Falls, but I rushed through my visit to catch the 2 PM bus,
which meant I couldn't properly explore the falls.
I still regret not having more time there... Oh, the missed opportunities!
For anyone planning to visit Lake Tanuki and Shiraito Falls,
I highly recommend setting aside at least half a day to truly explore at your leisure! 🤣
If I get the chance, I'm definitely planning to revisit Shizuoka this year!

I explored Lake Tanuki and Shiraito Falls by bus on my car-free trip to Shizuoka, but it was a bit of a shame.
The bus schedule had long intervals and not many buses running, which meant I couldn't stay as late as I wanted.
I'd love to try staying a night at the hotel right by the lake,
and I really wish I could have explored Shiraito Falls more thoroughly next time!
If you have any questions about how to take the bus to Lake Tanuki, including fares and timetables,
please leave a comment below!
🛌 Accommodation 30 seconds from Fujinomiya Station Bus Terminal
✈️ Shizuoka 2-Night, 3-Day Car-Free Travel Itinerary
The round-trip bus fare from Fujinomiya Station to Lake Tanuki is approximately 2,000 JPY, but a 2-day Fujinomiya Pass costs 1,850 JPY. This pass can also be used for travel between Lake Tanuki and Shiraito Falls, making it more economical than purchasing individual tickets.
The ticket booth at the end of the Fujinomiya Station bus stop operates daily from 07:30 to 11:25 and from 12:25 to 14:30. You can get a pass and a timetable here by saying 'Tanuki Lake Ticket'.
The first bus from Fujinomiya Station to Lake Tanuki departs at 07:35. The last bus returning from Lake Tanuki to Fujinomiya Station is at 17:35, so it's recommended to take an early bus for a relaxed sightseeing experience.
To go to Lake Tanuki, you should get off at the "Kyukamura Fuji" (休暇村富士) stop and walk for about 5 minutes. To enjoy the view of Mount Fuji during the bus ride, it is recommended to sit on the right side of the bus.

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