Gotemba Premium Outlets

Gotemba Premium Outlets is not just a shopping center; it is the largest and most popular outlet mall in all of Japan. It is located in a picturesque spot at the foot of the famous Mount Fuji, near the resort town of Hakone. Thanks to its scale and stunning views, this place attracts not only shopping enthusiasts but also tourists looking to combine retail therapy with the contemplation of Japanese nature.

The complex is designed like a real open-air shopping town, divided into several zones connected by bridges. Its grounds host more than 200 stores of world-famous brands in clothing, sportswear, electronics, and home goods. Here you can find both luxury labels and more affordable brands, with prices often significantly lower than in regular stores.

In addition to shops, Gotemba Premium Outlets offers many restaurants and food courts where you can relax and try local and international cuisine. One of the highlights of this location is the 50-meter Ferris wheel, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area and Mount Fuji. This makes the outlet a wonderful place to spend an entire day full of not only great deals but also vivid impressions.

To check for specific brands, opening hours, or special promotions, we recommend contacting the outlet directly. All current information can be found on the official website or by phone.

The main activity at Gotemba Premium Outlets is, undoubtedly, world-class shopping. Visitors can expect hundreds of stores representing both world-renowned high-street brands and luxury fashion houses, including Gap, Levi's, Adidas, Burberry, Prada, and Gucci. The main draw is that all items are sold at discounted prices. Furthermore, international tourists have the opportunity to shop tax-free—simply present your passport with the appropriate visa or short-term stay stamp.

When you want to take a break from hunting for discounts, the outlet offers excellent opportunities for relaxation and entertainment. There are many restaurants and food courts throughout the complex where you can enjoy both traditional Japanese and familiar European cuisine. However, the crown jewel for relaxation is the 50-meter Ferris wheel. Be sure to take a ride on it to see the breathtaking panorama of the surroundings and the magnificent view of Mount Fuji, which will be a perfect conclusion to your day.

Getting to Gotemba Premium Outlets is quite simple, especially from major tourist hubs like Tokyo and Hakone. The most convenient and popular method for tourists is to take the direct buses that depart from major Tokyo stations, such as Shinjuku and Tokyo Station. The journey on a comfortable bus takes approximately 90 minutes and allows you to enjoy the views along the way without any transfers. Buses run on a regular schedule, and you can take them back to Tokyo after your shopping spree.

For those staying in the Hakone resort area, there are also convenient routes available. Direct buses depart from Gora and Yunessun stations, as well as other points like Togendai on the shores of Lake Ashi. The trip from Hakone takes between 45 and 60 minutes. Additionally, you can take a bus to JR Gotemba Station, where a free shuttle runs to the outlet every 15 minutes. This option is also convenient for those traveling through Japan by train, as it makes it easy to combine a visit to the outlet with a trip to Hakone.

As an alternative to buses, you can use the rail network. Trains run to JR Gotemba Station, where you will need to transfer to the aforementioned free shuttle bus to reach the shopping complex. While this route may take more time and involve more transfers compared to a direct bus from Tokyo, it offers flexibility for travelers using passes like the Japan Rail Pass.

Gotemba Premium Outlets has a fascinating history that transformed it from a standard shopping center into an iconic landmark. Opening on July 13, 2000, it became the first outlet of its kind in Japan and the flagship of the Premium Outlets network in the country. Originally, the complex was designed as a "shopping town" inspired by the historic streets of North America, creating a unique atmosphere for visitors. The outlet is managed by a joint venture between Mitsubishi Estate and the American company Simon Property Group, which explains its international style and high level of service.

One of the key features established during the design phase was its unique location. The complex is built so that a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji can be seen from almost any point. This was not a coincidence, but a calculated architectural move that turns shopping into an aesthetic pleasure. The outlet has expanded several times to meet growing demand. The most significant expansion occurred in 2020 with the opening of the new "Hill Side" zone. This added 88 new shops and restaurants, making Gotemba Premium Outlets the largest in Japan by retail space.

The outlet's recent history is marked by its transformation into a full-fledged resort. Along with the latest expansion, the Hotel Clad and the Konohana no Yu hot spring spa complex were opened here. This is a unique case for a shopping center: now visitors can not only shop but also stay overnight in a hotel with a view of Fuji and relax in a traditional Japanese onsen. The presence of 19 private baths and large outdoor baths with panoramic views makes this place a true destination for both shopaholics and tourists seeking a relaxing getaway near Hakone.

When planning a trip to Gotemba Premium Outlets, it is worth setting aside a full day for the visit. Given the massive size of the complex and the wide variety of shops, a proper shopping session will take quite a bit of time. To this, you must add travel time: for example, a bus trip from Tokyo takes about 90 minutes one way. Thus, including the round trip, even a quick look at the shops will take up most of the day, leaving little time for leisurely browsing.

To get the most enjoyment out of your visit without rushing, it is recommended to allow at least 5–6 hours just for being at the outlet itself. This time will be enough to walk through your preferred shopping zones, have a relaxed lunch at one of the restaurants or the food court, and, of course, ride the Ferris wheel to enjoy the views of Mount Fuji. If your goal is to thoroughly update your wardrobe, even a whole day might not be enough.

The Gotemba Premium Outlets shopping complex is open to visitors year-round, making it convenient to visit in any season. Standard operating hours are from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. This provides plenty of time to leisurely browse the numerous shops and enjoy the atmosphere. No advance booking or ticket purchase is required for entry, as access to the grounds is free.

It is important to note that the outlet closes for one day a year—typically the third Thursday of February. However, the date may change, so before traveling to Hakone or other regions of Japan, it is highly recommended to check the current schedule on the official Gotemba Premium Outlets website. Information regarding potential changes in operating hours during holidays or major sales events is also published there.

A visit to Gotemba Premium Outlets is not just an opportunity for excellent shopping, but also a great reason to explore the picturesque surroundings. The complex's location at the foot of Mount Fuji, near the resort region of Hakone, makes it an ideal starting point for discovering the cultural and natural treasures of Japan. By combining your shopping with visits to nearby attractions, you can enjoy a much more complete and vibrant travel experience.

In the immediate vicinity of the outlet, there are many interesting sites that deserve your attention. From unique museums and racing tracks to natural wonders—there is something for everyone. Below is a list of some nearby attractions, including the distance to each.