Discover Mt. Fuji's Nightlife: A Complete Guide for International Visitors
I'll share the nighttime charms of the Mt. Fuji area based on my 10 years of frequent visits.
While Mt. Fuji, a World Heritage site, is famous for its daytime appearance, its nighttime expression holds a hidden allure. From the five-storied pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park to the lights reflected on Lake Kawaguchi's surface, there are numerous night view spots scattered around. Especially, the silhouette of Mt. Fuji illuminated by moonlight reveals a mystical appearance that can't be seen during the day.
It's true that most tourists concentrate during the daytime, and there are challenges with limited public transportation at night. However, that's precisely why the night offers a special time to encounter Mt. Fuji's true form in tranquility. In the Nishiura area, where locals gather, you can experience the charm of Fujiyoshida in its authentic state, untouched by tourism, in the backstreets that retain traces of old Japan.
In this article, I'll introduce every aspect of Mt. Fuji's nighttime appeal, from night view points to the hidden gem of the Nishiura district.
Table of Contents
・Night View Spots in the Fuji Five Lakes Area
・The Charm of Nightlife in the Nishiura Area
・Seasonal Night Events in the Mt. Fuji Area
・Frequently Asked Questions About Mt. Fuji Area's Nightlife
Night View Spots in the Fuji Five Lakes Area
Through my 10 years of photography experience, I've discovered that special night view spots are scattered throughout the Fuji Five Lakes area. Each spot has different expressions depending on the season and weather, offering new discoveries even after multiple visits.
Arakurayama Sengen Park
One of my most beloved night view spots is Arakurayama Sengen Park, selected as one of Japan's top 100 night views. I have countless memories here, but the most impressive was when I photographed the five-storied pagoda and Mt. Fuji on a full moon night.
The illumination, which continues until 10:00 PM, highlights the elegant figure of the five-storied pagoda, with the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji spreading in the background.
My favorite shooting point is the observation deck, from where you can also view the night scenery of the city. In spring, you can enjoy the luxurious composition of cherry blossoms, the five-storied pagoda, and Mt. Fuji. However, please note that tripod use may be prohibited on the observation deck depending on the season and time of day, so be sure to check the signs about photography on site.
I learned a photography tip from a local: visiting at dusk on a day with little wind provides the most beautiful view of the silhouettes of the five-storied pagoda and Mt. Fuji. I've also discovered that nights with thin clouds are better suited for illumination than perfectly clear nights.
How to get there at night:
- 10-minute walk from Shimoyoshida Station
- About 10 minutes by car from Fujiyoshida Nishikatsura Smart IC on the Chuo Expressway
Lake Kawaguchi Area
The Lake Kawaguchi area is where I've spent the most time shooting. Particularly impressive is the sight of the lights from the 500-meter-long bridge reflecting on the lake's surface. On cold winter nights, setting up a tripod by the lakeside reveals a fantastical landscape where a band of light seems to cross the lake surface.
The lights from hotels and inns lining the lakeside also enhance the charm of Lake Kawaguchi at night. My favorite is the view from Oishi Park. Here, Mt. Fuji illuminated by moonlight is easy to photograph, and I highly recommend it.
How to get there at night:
- Lake Kawaguchi itself is accessible within a 15-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station
- Oishi Park is about 20 minutes by car from Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway, or about 30 minutes by bus from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyu Line
Mt. Tenjo Park
Mt. Tenjo Park is a hidden gem for enjoying a panoramic night view of Fujiyoshida City. I discovered the charm of this place when a local photographer told me about it. From the summit observation deck, which has a maintained hiking course, you can see a magnificent view known as the setting for the old tale "Kachi Kachi Yama".
At night, there are few people, and you can have the contrast between Mt. Fuji and the cityscape all to yourself in the quiet observation deck. My recommendation is the "magic hour" right after sunset, when the city lights gradually increase in brightness, which is breathtaking. The night view in the clear winter air is particularly beautiful, and I can't help but point my camera at it.
How to get there at night:
- The ropeway ends operation in the 5:00 PM range (in the 6:00 PM range from late July to August)
- At night, only the hiking course from Kawaguchiko Station is available (about 40 minutes)
- The path to the summit observation deck is well-maintained
Nijumagari Pass
Nijumagari Pass, at an altitude of over 1,000 meters, is a special spot that I learned about from local photographer friends. The charm of this place lies in the combination of the city lights of Oshino Village seen from above and the silhouette of Mt. Fuji.
The best timing for photography is 30 minutes to an hour after sunset, when the contrast between the city lights and Mt. Fuji is most beautiful. You can access the observation deck directly by car, and toilets are available, making it comfortable for night photography.
I often come here alone on cold winter nights to photograph while watching the stars, and the silence and beauty are indescribable.
How to get there at night:
- About 35 minutes by car from Yamanakako IC
- Careful driving is necessary at night as the mountain road continues to be narrow
- In winter, check for possible freezing
The Charm of Nightlife in the Nishiura Area
The Nishiura area, which has developed along with the textile industry since the 1920s, is my hidden gem for Mt. Fuji tourism. By visiting this district, I encountered the true meaning of "local Fujiyoshida".
Streets with a Retro Atmosphere
Source: Nishiura Street Official Website
The Nishiura area, once known as one of the leading entertainment districts in the Kanto region with over 200 shops lined up, still retains traces of that bustle.
Eight unique streets run vertically and horizontally, each showing a different face. Since 10 years ago, there has been an increase in new stores opened by younger generations, creating a unique streetscape where retro architecture and modern shops coexist in perfect balance.
What I particularly like is the atmosphere from dusk to late night. The retro lights illuminating the alleys and the silhouettes of old buildings emerging create a scene like something out of an old movie.
Website: https://nishiura.info/
How to Enjoy at Night
Source: Nishiura Street Official Website
Spending the night in the Nishiura area is truly an "adult exploration". I make new discoveries every time I visit, and even after 10 years, the enjoyment never ends.
Bar hopping while exploring the back alleys is a unique way to enjoy this district. I recommend foreign tourists to interact with locals using translation apps or gestures. The locals are very kind to foreign tourists, and it's not uncommon for heartwarming interactions that transcend language barriers to occur.
The retro streetscape with Mt. Fuji in the background is an excellent spot for photography. Especially from dusk to night, you can capture the unique atmosphere created by the interplay of lights from old buildings and modern shops.
Characteristics of Each Street
Source: Nishiura Street Official Website
Through 10 years of coverage, I've come to know the individuality of each street deeply.
Nishiura Street, as the main street, is lined with many long-established restaurants where you can enjoy local flavors.
Nenokamidori Street is dotted with local shrines and old-fashioned snack bars, strongly retaining the atmosphere of old Japan.
Shinsekai Kampai Street has recently seen a concentration of new restaurants run by young entrepreneurs, attracting attention as a place where old and new cultures merge.
West King & Queen Street is lined with unique bars and clubs, bustling until late at night.
Million Street and Ipponsugi Street are the streets where the retro atmosphere remains most concentrated, and you can feel the prosperity of the past from old buildings and signs.
Access
The convenience of being just a 3-minute walk from Tsukigotera Station on the Fujikyu Line is also one of the charms of the Nishiura area. It's also easily accessible by taxi from Fujisan Station or Kawaguchiko Station, making it convenient to stop by during sightseeing. I especially recommend having a drink while interacting with locals in this district after getting tired from Mt. Fuji sightseeing.
Seasonal Night Events in the Mt. Fuji Area
The nighttime charm of the Mt. Fuji area shows different faces with each season. I'll introduce the seasonal limited events I've experienced over 10 years.
In winter, the Lake Saiko Ice Festival is held, where frozen trees are illuminated, creating a fantastic sight. The emotion I felt when I saw the breathtakingly beautiful ice art on a cold night in February is still unforgettable.
The Lake Kawaguchi Fireworks Festival in summer offers a spectacular contrast between fireworks launched from the lake surface and the silhouette of Mt. Fuji. The view from the night cruise is especially special, and the collaboration of Mt. Fuji and fireworks seen from the boat is etched in my memory as a summer night's memory.
In autumn, the maple corridor in the Lake Kawaguchi area is illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere with the scenery of autumn leaves and Mt. Fuji. Photographing the red-tinged leaves and Mt. Fuji illuminated by moonlight on a chilly November night has become my annual autumn ritual.
Also, not to be missed are the night view hot springs with a view of Mt. Fuji, which can be enjoyed throughout the year. You can spend a luxurious time relaxing both mind and body while gazing at the starry sky and the silhouette of Mt. Fuji from an open-air bath.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mt. Fuji Area's Nightlife
Based on my 10 years of reporting experience, I've compiled frequently asked questions and their answers. I'll explain in detail to help overseas travelers enjoy Mt. Fuji's nights with peace of mind.
Is It Safe to Sightsee at Night?
The Mt. Fuji area is well-maintained as a major tourist destination in Japan, and public safety is excellent. I myself have visited many times alone for night photography and have never felt uneasy. The main night view spots are equipped with street lights.
What's the Budget Guideline?
For dining in the Nishiura area, plan on about 5,000 to 10,000 yen per person. My recommendation is to start with a light drink at a local izakaya (about 3,000 yen), then have a proper meal at a local cuisine restaurant (about 5,000 yen).
Taxi fares between major spots range from 2,000 to 5,000 yen. Entrance fees for night view spots are relatively reasonable, ranging from free to about 500 yen. Hot spring facility fees are 1,500 to 2,000 yen, but staying at a hot spring inn will cost more.
Are Reservations Necessary?
Izakayas and bars in the Nishiura area generally don't require reservations. However, I recommend early reservations for private rooms with special night views and hot springs. From my experience, it's best to book 1 month to 2 weeks in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
The nights around Mt. Fuji are full of charms different from the daytime.
Looking up at Mt. Fuji in the moonlight from quiet night view spots, interacting with locals in the vibrant Nishiura area, experiencing nighttime events that change with the seasons - these experiences will surely add a special touch to your Japan trip memories.
I hope you'll experience the nighttime charms of Mt. Fuji that I've discovered over 10 years!
