We'd like to take the train from Kawaguchiko to Shinjuku on a weekday in November. We want to leave in the morning, so the direct Fujikaiyu/Fuji Excursion isn't an option and we'll have to change at Otsuki. I know there are also highway buses, but we prefer the train. We will not have the JR pass.
I've tried to do my research but still have some specific questions:
a) Is this timetable I found via Google dated Mar 2024 up-to-date?
b) Fujikyu leg (Kawaguchiko to Otsuki): can I confirm that this is a turn-up-and-go service and IC cards can be used (other than the Fujisan/Fujisan View options which require an extra Limited Express ticket and reservations here)?
c) JR Chuo leg (Otsuki to Shinjuku): can I confirm that as Kaiji/Azusa are Limited Express and can be busy, a Reserved Seat ticket should be purchased in advance here but no reservations needed for Rapid service? For Kaiji/Azusa, can I use an IC card for the basic fare and just reserve a "Super (Limited) Express Train" ticket?
d) Transfer at Otsuki: one of transfer options in the timetable only allows 5 minutes – is this enough time to transfer? Especially as this website says if using IC card for Fujikyu leg and then ticket for JR Chuo leg, we'd have to "notify the staff at the gate" which may take longer (although if we can use IC card for both legs, seems like don't have to swipe at all at Otsuki)
by cwan77