From Tokyo to Kawaguchiko, there is only the Fuji Excursion train which goes directly. No change of trains en route. This leaves from Shinjuku. We used this train to visit Kawaguchiko. Comfortable journey. Time - 2 hours one way.

We bought the tickets in advance through the online website. On the website, this train can be navigated through selection of ' chou line '.

Please note, the total train fare has to include ' base ticket fare ' and additional ' express/ special train fare '. We selected to buy both online.

A QR code can be generated online to collect the paper tickets through a vending machine. We took the tickets from a vending machine at Tokyo station. You have to check online as to from which stations you can collect the tickets.

At Kawaguchiko station when you get down, it is checked if the total fare is paid or not. We saw a lot of tourists being guided to pay the ' base fare ' before exiting the gates at the station .