Exploring Lake Kawaguchiko: Your Ultimate Guide to Mt. Fuji's Scenic Gem
Due to Mount Fuji's massive size and the scattered tourist spots around its base, planning an efficient itinerary can be quite challenging for visitors. I remember when I first visited the Mount Fuji area, I wasn't able to efficiently visit the surrounding attractions, which left me feeling like I hadn't fully experienced what the region had to offer.
As a result, tours that offer an efficient and immersive way to experience the Mount Fuji area are gaining popularity. Private tours led by guides who know the Mount Fuji region inside and out are especially in demand, as they're known for allowing small groups to fully enjoy both the cultural and natural attractions around the mountain.
Magical Trip, which boasts having the #1 rated tour of 2024, launched a new tour 2024 called "Mt. Fuji Full-day Nature Guided Tour with a Private Chartered Car." On this tour, a driver and an expert local guide take you to carefully selected must-see spots around Mt. Fuji while explaining the local culture and traditions.
Since the tour starts and ends at your Tokyo hotel, you can explore the Mt. Fuji area hassle-free. If you're interested in Mt. Fuji but don't have time for an extended stay in the area, consider this efficient sightseeing tour.
Introduction
Mt. Fuji is Japan's highest mountain with an elevation of 3,776m, straddling Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is beloved as a symbol of Japan's natural beauty.
Mt. Fuji has well-maintained climbing routes, attracting many tourists who visit during summer to climb the mountain.
Lake Kawaguchiko, located on the northern side of Mt. Fuji, is also registered as part of the World Heritage site. Among the five lakes surrounding Mt. Fuji, it is especially famous for having various tourist attractions in its vicinity.
In this article, I will introduce the tourist spots and attractions of Lake Kawaguchiko.
Lake Kawaguchiko, One of Japan's Most Beautiful Lakes Classified as One of the Fuji Five Lakes
Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the Fuji Five Lakes, offering beautiful scenery and spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. It is the second largest among the Fuji Five Lakes, featuring the longest shoreline at 17.4km.
Situated at an elevation of 830m, Lake Kawaguchiko is surrounded by mountains, allowing visitors to enjoy different natural scenery throughout the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, lavender in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow landscapes in winter.
One of the most famous attractions unique to Lake Kawaguchiko is the view of Mt. Fuji from the lake's surface. The "Upside-down Fuji," where Mt. Fuji is reflected upside down on the lake, is a breathtaking sight that captivated me as well.
An Avid Traveler Explains Three Charms of Lake Kawaguchiko
First, let me explain three attractions of Lake Kawaguchiko, as an avid traveler who has visited Lake Kawaguchiko.
The Grand Panorama of Mt. Fuji Towering Before Your Eyes
The first charm of Lake Kawaguchiko is that it's a perfect viewpoint to see Mt. Fuji up close. From around Lake Kawaguchiko, you can enjoy the majestic appearance of Mt. Fuji from various angles.
For example, riding the Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway allows you to see a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko from an elevation of 1,075m. From the newly established observation deck, you can take in the view stretching all the way to the foot of Mt. Fuji.
Hiking courses are also well-maintained, allowing you to experience walking while viewing Mt. Fuji and the surrounding natural environment.
A Relaxing Atmosphere Where Time Seems to Flow Slowly
The second charm of Lake Kawaguchiko is the relaxing atmosphere where time seems to flow slowly.
While it's a popular spot that attracts many tourists who come to enjoy the beautiful view of Mt. Fuji, it's not a bustling tourist area but has a calm atmosphere surrounded by nature. You can relax away from everyday life and urban noise.
In particular, when strolling around the area while gazing at Mt. Fuji reflected on the lake's surface, you can experience a peaceful sensation as if time is flowing slowly. Activities that allow you to spend tranquil time, such as lake cruises, fishing, and the ropeway, are also available, so please enjoy them.
Diverse Spots Where You Can Experience Authentic Japanese Culture
The third charm of Lake Kawaguchiko is that there are many places where you can experience Japanese culture.
For instance, Lake Kawaguchiko has several hot spring facilities where you can bathe while viewing Mt. Fuji. You can experience Japanese onsen culture while relieving your travel fatigue in the hot springs.
At Japanese restaurants, you can eat dishes made with local ingredients and "Houtou," a local specialty of Yamanashi Prefecture, which is a regional dish seasoned with miso containing vegetables. There are also spots where you can enjoy Japanese sake and cuisine while interacting with locals.
The area around Lake Kawaguchiko is full of attractions where you can enjoy not only nature but also Japanese culture.
Seasonal Nature Events Are Held Around Lake Kawaguchiko
The area surrounding Lake Kawaguchiko, which is enveloped by abundant nature, hosts various seasonal nature-related events throughout the year.
Fuji-Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival
Source: Official website
The Fuji-Kawaguchiko Sakura Festival is a celebration of spring's arrival held annually. It takes place from early to mid-April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.
Visitors can simultaneously enjoy approximately 200 cherry trees planted along a 1km promenade by the lakeshore while taking in views of Mt. Fuji. After sunset, the Fuji-Kawaguchiko Sakura Festival features illuminated cherry blossoms, creating a magical nighttime viewing experience. My favorite scene is when the soft pink light of the cherry blossoms gently illuminates the quiet lakeside at night.
Food and beverage stalls are also set up within the venue, allowing visitors to enjoy meals while appreciating the cherry blossoms. This is highly recommended for those who wish to experience Japan's iconic spring cherry blossoms with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop.
- Dates: April 1-13, 2025
- Hours: 10:00-17:00 (Illumination: Sunset-21:00)
- Venue: Kawaguchiko North Shore Walking Trail
- Access: Take the Kawaguchiko Loop Bus from Kawaguchiko Station and get off at "Sarumawashi Gekijo Kinohana Museum-mae"
- Official website: https://fujisan.ne.jp/pages/375/
Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival
Source: Official website
The Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is an event celebrating autumn foliage. This seasonal event has been a Lake Kawaguchiko autumn tradition for over 20 years, offering visitors the chance to enjoy 400-500 autumn foliage trees spread along the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko.
In the main venue area called the "Autumn Leaves Corridor," the autumn foliage spreads in a tunnel-like formation with Mt. Fuji visible at the end of the tunnel. At night, illuminations bathe the autumn leaves in a warm orange glow, creating a magical scenery.
By mid-November, as the peak foliage season passes, the leaves fall along the riverbank, transforming the area into a world of orange. If you want to enjoy this quintessential Japanese autumn scene with Mt. Fuji, this is definitely worth visiting.
- Dates: October 26-November 20, 2024 (2024 information)
- Hours: 9:00-19:00
- Venue: Around Kawaguchiko Lakeside Kawaguchi Nashikawa area
- Access: Take the Fujikyuko Line from Otsuki Station (JR Chuo Line) and get off at Lake Kawaguchiko Station
- Official website: https://fujisan.ne.jp/pages/433/
5 Recommended Tourist Spots Around Lake Kawaguchiko to Enjoy Spectacular Views of Mt. Fuji
Here are five recommended tourist spots around Lake Kawaguchiko where you can enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji.
Fujiyama Twin Terrace
Source: Official website
FUJIYAMA Twin Terrace is a viewing spot located at Shindo Pass, designed for enjoying spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko.
FUJIYAMA Twin Terrace features two observation decks: "First Terrace" and "Second Terrace." The "First Terrace" is equipped with tables and chairs for rest, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery in a relaxed atmosphere. Meanwhile, the "Second Terrace" offers a more up-close view of Mt. Fuji compared to the First Terrace.
My favorite aspect is that with nothing obstructing the view, you can have the spectacular scenery of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko all to yourself. I recommend visiting early in the morning when clouds are less likely to obscure Mt. Fuji. This is a must-see spot for scenery enthusiasts.
- Address: Kamiashikawa, Ashikawa-cho, Fuefuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours (Shuttle bus operates late April-late November)
- Closed: None
- Phone: 055-262-4111
- Official website: https://www.fuefuki-kanko.jp/scontents/fujiyamatwinterrace/
Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway
Source: Official website
The Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway offers stunning panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. The ropeway takes about 3 minutes to travel from Kawaguchiko Station at an elevation of 856 meters to Fujimidai Station at the summit, which is 1,075 meters above sea level.
From the summit, visitors can enjoy the magnificent collaboration of Lake Kawaguchiko with the majestic Mt. Fuji spreading out behind it. Beyond the breathtaking scenery, the area is also attractive for its seasonal plants, including alpine vegetation, autumn leaves, and hydrangeas.
In autumn particularly, visitors can enjoy the contrast between the mountains with their vibrant fall colors, the clear blue waters of Lake Kawaguchiko, and Mt. Fuji capped with white snow.
The ropeway may be closed due to bad weather or maintenance, so it's advisable to check operating conditions before visiting. This attraction is especially recommended for those who want to casually enjoy spectacular views or for families with children.
- Address: 1163-1 Asakawa, Fuji-Kawaguchiko
- Opening Hours: 8:30-17:00 (Last descent at 17:20)
- Closed: None
- Phone: 0555-72-0363
- Official Website: https://www.mtfujiropeway.jp/
Oishi Park
Source: Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
Oishi Park is located on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko and offers spectacular views of flowers with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop.
The main attraction is "Hanakaido" (Flower Road), a lakeside promenade where more than 90 types of flowers bloom throughout the year. On clear days, visitors can take photos of Lake Kawaguchiko and flowers with Mt. Fuji in the background.
I especially recommend visiting during the Herb Festival held from late June to mid-July. The combination of purple lavender against the blue silhouette of Mt. Fuji creates a breathtaking view.
Within Oishi Park, there's also a café where you can enjoy light meals while gazing at Mt. Fuji. This spot is perfect for those who want to take photos of flowers and nature, or simply relax while enjoying the scenery near Lake Kawaguchiko.
- Address: 2585 Oishi, Fuji-Kawaguchiko
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: None
- Phone: 0555-76-8230
- Official Website: None
Arakurayama Sengen Park
Source: Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
Arakurayama Sengen Park is a famous park where visitors can enjoy views of both Mt. Fuji and a traditional Japanese five-storied pagoda at the same time.
The park is located on the hillside of Arakurayama, and visitors can enjoy the view from a deck reached after climbing 398 steps. For those wanting to enjoy views of Mt. Fuji, mornings when the air is clear are recommended. In the evening, the five-storied pagoda is illuminated, creating a mystical atmosphere, so you can choose based on your preference and schedule.
Arakurayama Sengen Park is also home to about 650 cherry trees, and a cherry blossom festival is held in spring. The contrast between pink cherry blossoms, the red pagoda, and the blue Mt. Fuji creates a breathtaking view that encapsulates the essence of Japan.
This park is recommended for those who want to see spectacular scenery combining Japanese nature and culture, with Lake Kawaguchiko visible in the distance.
- Address: 3353 Arakura 2-chome, Fujiyoshida
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Closed: None
- Phone: 0555-21-1000
- Official Website: None
Fuji Chobo no Yu Yurari
Source: Official website
Fuji Chobo no Yu Yurari Onsen is a facility where you can enjoy hot springs while gazing at Mt. Fuji. This day-use hot spring facility offers 16 different types of baths, including two open-air baths with views of Mt. Fuji, carbonated springs, and cave baths.
I especially recommend the "Reihou Open-air Bath," where you can bathe while admiring Mt. Fuji standing majestically right in front of you. There are also six types of private baths for families or couples, which are perfect for those seeking a more intimate experience.
Fuji Chobo no Yu Yurari has a relaxation room where you can soothe your travel fatigue and a restaurant serving Yamanashi's local cuisine, allowing for various experiences beyond just hot springs.
This is highly recommended for tourists who want to experience Japanese hot springs while enjoying the spectacular view of Mt. Fuji. The facility is located near Lake Kawaguchiko, making it a perfect addition to your sightseeing itinerary.
- Address: 8532-5 Narusawa Village, Minamitsuru District
- Opening Hours: Weekdays 10:00-21:00 (Last entry 20:00), Weekends/Holidays 10:00-22:00 (Last entry 21:00)
- Closed: Never (May close for maintenance in June and December)
- Phone: 0555-85-3126
- Official Website: https://www.fuji-yurari.jp/
3 Recommended Restaurants Around Lake Kawaguchiko With Delicious Cuisine
Here are three recommended restaurants around Lake Kawaguchiko where you can enjoy exquisite cuisine.
MIURA Restaurant
Source: Official website
MIURA Ryouriten is a small French restaurant surrounded by nature at the foot of Mt. Fuji. Located in a forest a little away from Lake Kawaguchiko, it has a distinctive hideaway atmosphere.
Only two groups are allowed for both lunch and dinner, and the menu consists of courses tailored to guests' preferences, making it reservation-only for both lunch and dinner. They offer exquisite cuisine that incorporates Japanese tastes into French cuisine while taking customers' preferences into account.
MIURA Ryouriten is also particular about wine, with about 120 varieties available in the restaurant. It's a delightful point that they recommend wines that pair well with your chosen dishes. You can also taste the exquisite wines that Yamanashi is proud of.
This restaurant is recommended for those looking for a special dinner or those who want to try uniquely Japanese French cuisine with Japanese elements.
- Address: 7822-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Opening Hours: [Lunch] 11:30-13:00 (Last Order) [Dinner] 18:00-20:00 (Last Order)
- Closed: Sunday and Monday
- Phone: 0555-73-2918
- Official Website: http://miuraryouriten.com/
Chef's Recipe
Source: Official website
Chef's Recipe is a buffet-style restaurant with views of Mt. Fuji located in Hotel MyStays Fuji Onsen Resort. It features dishes made with plenty of local ingredients and offers breakfast and dinner buffets.
The breakfast buffet includes standard Japanese and Western menu items typically served at hotels, plus salads and soups made with seasonally delicious ingredients. The dinner buffet offers "tempura" (fried vegetables and seafood), dishes made with carefully selected ingredients, and Yamanashi's local specialty "houtou" noodles.
My favorite point about Chef's Recipe is that you can enjoy various types of cuisine in small portions while appreciating the view of Mt. Fuji. It's perfect for visitors to Lake Kawaguchiko who want to try many Japanese dishes at once, or for groups and families with varying food preferences.
- Address: 1F Hotel MyStays Mt. Fuji Panoramic Onsen, 2654 Niikura, Fujiyoshida-shi, Yamanashi
- Opening Hours: Breakfast 07:00-10:00 (Last Order 09:30) Dinner 18:00-21:00 (Last Order 20:30)
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 0555-21-7510
- Official Website: https://fuji-chefs-recipe.com/
Kosaku
Source: Tabelog
Kosaku is a restaurant where you can enjoy "Houtou," a noodle dish from Yamanashi. With nine locations throughout Yamanashi Prefecture, they offer over ten varieties of Houtou and other regional specialties.
Among Kosaku's menu items, I particularly recommend the Houtou with plenty of pumpkin. The sweetness of the pumpkin spreads in your mouth, creating a delicious harmony with the chewy noodles and miso soup. They also offer substantial "Pork Houtou" and "Azuki Houtou" which can be enjoyed as a dessert.
The interior of Kosaku has the atmosphere of a large traditional Japanese house, giving visitors an authentic Japanese experience. It's recommended for those who want to taste cuisine unique to Yamanashi or enjoy a warming meal after a day of sightseeing around Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko.
- Address: 1638-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun
- Hours: 11:00-20:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 0555-72-1181
- Official Website: https://www.kosaku.co.jp/
Three Recommended Activities to Enjoy Around Lake Kawaguchiko
Finally, here are three activities you can enjoy around Lake Kawaguchiko with views of Mt. Fuji.
Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare"
Source: Official website
The Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare" is a pleasure boat that offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji from the lake.
The cruise tours around Lake Kawaguchiko and allows you to enjoy exclusive views of Mt. Fuji for about 20 minutes. The unique appeal of the sightseeing boat is that you can see Mt. Fuji from different angles than on land and enjoy the reflection of Mt. Fuji on the lake's surface.
The Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare" is a photogenic vessel modeled after boats used during the Warring States period about 500 years ago. Traditional costumes are available for rent on board, making for memorable photo opportunities.
This activity is perfect for those who want to leisurely appreciate Mt. Fuji while sailing on Lake Kawaguchiko or for photography enthusiasts.
- Address: 4034 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun
- Hours: Regular: 9:00-16:30, Summer (mid-July to end of August): 9:00-17:30, - Winter (early November to late March): 9:00-16:00
- Closed: Never
- Phone: 0555-72-0029
- Official Website: https://www.fujigokokisen.jp/
fujisanbike Kawaguchiko
fujisanbike Kawaguchiko is a rental bicycle shop where you can fully enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Lake Kawaguchiko near Mt. Fuji. They offer not only standard bicycles but also cross bikes and electric-assist bicycles, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs. They even provide electric-assist bicycles with child seats, making it possible for families with children to enjoy cycling safely together.
At fujisanbike Kawaguchiko, there is also a temporary baggage storage service, making it attractive for tourists who want to explore the area around Lake Kawaguchiko without being burdened by their luggage. If you find carrying your belongings inconvenient, it's recommended to leave them at the shop while you enjoy your ride.
This service is perfect for those who want to tour at their own pace or actively explore the scenic areas around Lake Kawaguchiko with magnificent views of Mt. Fuji in the background.
- Address: Inside Shiki no Yado Mt. Fuji, Front Desk, 6713-19 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Business Hours: 9:00 - 18:00
- Closed: Irregular holidays
- Phone Number: None
- Official Website: https://fujisanbike.com/
Fuji-Q Highland
Source: Google Map
Fuji-Q Highland is a popular theme park located at the foot of Mt. Fuji where you can enjoy thrilling attractions. The park is divided into multiple areas with different themes, offering various roller coasters and authentic haunted houses.
Particularly popular are the "FUJIYAMA" roller coaster with a top speed of 130km/h and the "Do-Dodonpa" roller coaster where you can experience weightlessness. The haunted house themed as an abandoned hospital, known as the scariest in Japan, is my personal favorite for those seeking thrills.
Fuji-Q Highland is located near spots where you can enjoy nature, so it's also recommended to combine a day of fun at the park with relaxation in hot springs or natural settings afterward, all while enjoying views of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji in the distance.
This is a perfect spot for thrill-seekers and families alike.
- Address: Shin-Nishihara, Fujiyoshida City
- Business Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00-17:00, Weekends 9:00-18:00
Closed: July 4
- Phone Number: 0555-23-2111
- Official Website: http://www.fujiq.jp/
Access to Kawaguchiko
- Address: Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Access: About 2 hours from Tokyo by "Fuji Kaiyū" limited express train
- Official Website: https://www.town.fujikawaguchiko.lg.jp/
