In April 2016, the company Fujikyu commissioned the new Fujisan View Express with panoramic views. It replaces the old 2000 series Fujisan View, retired in February 2016. The train design was created by Eiji Mitoka, the new Fujisan View Express has a wooden interior and is a panorama train. It is composed of 3 cars, 2 with non-reserved seats and one with reserved seat, the first car. This is the most original car of the 3, so you have to pay an extra charge of 400 yen for a reserved seat in this car. This train runs between the Otsuki and Kawaguchiko stations in 45 minutes. There are several spots where it is possible to see Mount Fuji, when the sky is clear.
The ticket for the Fujisan View Express costs 1140 yen and 400 yen of extra charge to be in the first car. Which is not much when you see the service they provide in this car. You have a bar where all drinks are free (except alcohol) and at will. You have tables as in restaurant or individual seats with a 180 degree panoramic view and a view of the front of the train and the driver's cab of the train. Snacks and cake are paid and costs 300 to 400 yen. We tried their butter cookie for 350 yen and it was very good. The hostess are very nice and we were able to film the rest of the train on arrival at the terminus Kawaguchiko before the train is closed for the night.
When you go to Mount Fuji, do not forget to try the new train Fujisan View Express and if you have the budget, take the first class, it's so nice to enjoy the view and Jappane service :)