TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Gotemba Premium Outlets, located in Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is one of Japan's largest outlet malls. Its greatest feature is its location overlooking the majestic Mount Fuji, and its open-air grounds are home to a wide selection of popular domestic and international brands, casual brands, sports brands, lifestyle goods, and restaurants. With around 200 stores, it's not just a place for shopping, but also offers a wide range of dining options, cafes, and facilities for children and families, making it a popular spot for both tourists and locals.
Highlights
- View of Mt. Fuji: On clear days, you can get a close-up view of Mt. Fuji while shopping, making it a popular photo spot.
- A diverse lineup of brands: Featuring famous domestic and international brands, outdoor brands, select shops, and more, it caters to a wide range of ages and purposes.
- Gourmet & Cafe: There are plenty of food courts, restaurants, and cafes, making it convenient for resting and eating. You can also enjoy seasonal menus and dishes made with local ingredients.
- Seasonal Events and Sales: Great deals are especially available during major sales such as the New Year holidays, Golden Week, summer sales, and Black Friday. In winter, there are often illuminations and light-up displays.
- Family-friendly: There are nursing rooms, stroller rentals, and facilities for kids, making it easy to get around with children.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Gotemba Station on the JR Gotemba Line - Approximately 15 to 25 minutes from the station by local bus, shuttle bus, or taxi.
- From Tokyo: Direct express buses (express tour buses/direct shuttles) are available from Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, Yokohama, etc. The journey time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic conditions.
- From Hakone: Accessible by local bus from Hakone-Yumoto and Gora. Easy to fit into your sightseeing plans.
- By car: About 10 minutes from Gotemba IC on the Tomei Expressway. The parking lot is large and free (or follow the facility's directions). Be aware that it may be crowded or full on weekends and during sales.
- From the airport: You can access the resort from Narita or Haneda by limousine bus or express bus (transfer), but it is recommended that you allow plenty of time for your trip.
* Bus operation status, times, and parking information may change depending on the season and events, so please check the official website in advance for the latest information.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quick visit: 1.5-2 hours (if you only visit certain shops)
- General shopping + dining: 3-5 hours
- Take your time and enjoy the sales: Half a day to a full day (5 to 8 hours)
- When combining with sightseeing in the surrounding area: 1 night or more (including sightseeing in Hakone and around Mt. Fuji)
Nearby spots
- Hakone (Lake Ashi, Hakone Shrine, hot springs) — Perfect for a day trip or combining it with a stay at a hot spring inn.
- Mount Fuji-related spots (Fuji Five Lakes, Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, etc.) - A base for sightseeing at Mount Fuji.
- Fuji Speedway — Visit when there are motorsports events or other events.
- Hot springs and day spas in Susono and Gotemba - convenient for soothing after shopping.
- Tokinosumika (illuminations and hot springs) - Enjoy seasonal illuminations and gourmet food.
- Gotemba Kogen Beer (nearby restaurants) — A spot to enjoy local cuisine.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded on weekends, national holidays, long weekends, and sales periods. Parking lots and bus seats tend to fill up, so we recommend visiting early in the morning or on a weekday.
- Business hours and regular holidays: Business hours and regular holidays may vary depending on the shop. If there is a specific store you want to visit, please check the official website in advance.
- Returns and Exchanges: Outlet items may have different return and exchange rules than regular department stores. Be sure to check the return policy before purchasing.
- Duty-free procedures: If there is a duty-free counter for foreign tourists, you will need to present your passport and make purchases above a certain amount. Don't forget your passport.
- Clothing and weather: As the site has many outdoor walkways, it is useful to bring warm clothing in winter and rain gear (umbrella or raincoat) in case of rain. Views of Mt. Fuji are affected by the weather (it is especially easy to see on clear winter days).
- Manners: Please be considerate of others when taking photos. There may be restrictions on bringing pets, so please check the official rules.
- Allow plenty of time for travel: If you are using the expressway from Tokyo, traffic congestion can significantly increase travel times, especially on weekends, so leave with plenty of time to spare.
Finally: Business hours, transportation access, and event information are subject to change. We recommend checking the official Gotemba Premium Outlets website and the latest information on transportation before your visit.
