Fujikyu Bus will begin operating a new amphibious bus, the “Open KABA (KABA No. 5),” on June 13.
This activity, which has been operating since 2011 on Lake Yamanaka—one of the Five Lakes of Mount Fuji—allows visitors to enjoy a cruise with a view of the majestic Mount Fuji while the bus dives into the lake. Although the service had been suspended since November 2025 due to declining water levels in Lake Yamanaka, it will resume operations with new vehicles and enhanced features now that a safe operating environment is expected to be established.
The new “Open KABA” train, the first of its kind in six years, is equipped with an electric retractable roof that opens, allowing passengers to experience the natural elements—such as a refreshing breeze, sunlight, and water spray—more directly depending on the weather.
In addition, a new photo booth where passengers can take pictures with the mascot character “Chibi Kaba-chan” has been set up at the Asahigaoka Bus Terminal “Mori no Eki,” the departure and arrival point. The three-screen video displayed in the pre-boarding showroom to build excitement has been revamped into an animated story titled “Let’s set off on an adventure with Chibi Kaba-chan to search for treasure at Lake Yamanaka!” .
We have also expanded the in-bus announcement videos and scripts from the previous two languages to five.
The Yamanakako Hippo operates 6 to 9 trips daily (subject to cancellation due to weather conditions), with each trip lasting approximately 30 minutes (including a video presentation).
Admission is 2,800 yen for adults and 1,400 yen for children (3,000 yen for adults and 1,500 yen for children during the summer), and reservations can be made through “Fujiyama Connect.”
© Source travel watch