Top 11 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots Around Mt. Fuji: Best Places to See Sakura in 2025
Mount Fuji (Fujisan) is one of Japan's premier tourist destinations, surrounded by outlet malls, amusement parks, hotels, and restaurants. Its easy accessibility from Tokyo makes day tours increasingly popular.
As Japan's highest peak, Mt. Fuji can be viewed from various tourist spots, each offering unique perspectives. The mountain's appearance changes with Japan's four seasons, explaining why many visitors return multiple times.
Let me introduce scenic spots where you can enjoy the collaboration of cherry blossoms and Mt. Fuji.
Why Cherry Blossoms Are Treasured in Japan
In Japan, cherry blossoms symbolize spring and hope, as many begin new life chapters during this season. The blooming of cherry blossoms signals the arrival of spring.
The fleeting nature of cherry blossoms, which scatter within a week of full bloom, resonates with Japanese aesthetic sensibilities. This brief period of magnificent blooming draws crowds to famous viewing spots for "ohanami" (enjoying food and drinks while viewing cherry blossoms), a deeply rooted spring tradition.
Cherry blossom-themed items remain popular year-round among all demographics.
10 Spots Around Mt. Fuji to Enjoy Cherry Blossoms
From here, we will introduce 10 spots by region where you can enjoy the collaboration of cherry blossoms and Mt.
Fujiyoshida ~ Lake Kawaguchi Area
Arakurayama Sengen Park
Source:Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
The first area covers Fujiyoshida to Lake Kawaguchi.
Arakurayama Sengen Park, located on the slopes of Mt. Arakura, features approximately 650 Somei Yoshino cherry trees across its vast grounds. The observation deck offers a famous view combining the five-story pagoda (Chureito Pagoda), Mt. Fuji, and cherry blossoms in spring, creating an exceptional scenic vista.
For photography, position Mt. Fuji in the center, the pagoda on the right, and cherry blossoms on the left. This natural and architectural balance creates professional-quality photos effortlessly.
The highlight is the Arakurayama Sengen Park Cherry Blossom Festival (late March to mid-April), featuring food stalls with local cuisine and dynamic stage performances. During my visit, numerous tourists attended this vibrant festival.
Address: 3353-1 Arakura, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi
Access: 15-minute walk from Shimoyoshida Station
Hours: 8:30-17:15
Closed: Never
Phone: 0555-22-1111
Official website: https://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/kankou/spot/p1_4919.html
Lake Kawaguchi North Shore Walking Trail
This 3.5km walking path extends from Kawaguchiko Museum of Art to Oishi Park, offering Mt. Fuji views. The trail features cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage.
Around 200 Somei Yoshino cherry trees bloom along the 1km stretch near the Lake Kawaguchi Circular Hall.
For photos, frame Lake Kawaguchi from center to right, Mt. Fuji in the far right, and cherry blossoms on the left. The overhanging blossoms create dramatic shots combining mountains, water, and flowers.
The Fuji-Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival (late March to mid-April) includes a craft market near Kinohana Art Museum and illuminated cherry blossoms from sunset to 21:00.
Address: 2988 Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Access: 20 minutes from Kawaguchiko IC to North Shore area
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Phone: Not listed
Official website: https://www.town.fujikawaguchiko.lg.jp/relation/info.php?if_id=3616
Along Shinnasho River
Source:Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
The Shinnasho River runs near Oshino Hakkai (eight spring ponds formed by Mt. Fuji's snowmelt over decades). Nearly 600 Somei Yoshino cherry trees line a 400m stretch along the river.
For photography, the Omiya Bridge near Oshino Sengen Shrine offers the best angle. Frame your shot with Mt. Fuji in the background, the Shinnasho River in the center, and cherry blossoms on both sides. The bridge is famous for its spectacular Mt. Fuji views, enhanced by the cherry blossoms.
The nighttime illumination is a highlight. Arrive early as photographers often queue during peak season. When I visited, the daffodils along the embankment complemented the cherry blossoms beautifully, creating a peaceful contrast between yellow and soft pink.
Perfect for those seeking a relaxed hanami experience in a tranquil setting.
Address: 107 Oshino, Oshino Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Access: Immediate from Omiya Bridge Station (Oshino-bound bus)
Hours: 24/7
Closed: Never
Phone: Not listed
Kofu Area
Takeda Shrine and Takeda Street
Source:Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
In central Kofu, a 2km cherry blossom tunnel extends along both sides of Takeda Street from Kofu Station to Takeda Shrine. The shrine grounds feature about 20 Somei Yoshino trees.
For photos, capture Takeda Street in the center with the shrine in the background and cherry trees lining both sides. The straight avenue creates perfect composition opportunities.
You can enjoy the cherry blossoms by walking, bus, or rental bicycle. I chose cycling, enjoying the spring breeze under the blooms.
Best viewing is late March to early April, sometimes coinciding with canola flowers. Recommended for those who want to experience hanami while in transit.
Address: 2611 Furunakacho, Kofu City, Yamanashi
Access: Direct from Takeda Shrine Station (Takeda Shrine-bound bus)
Hours: 9:00-16:00
Closed: Never
Phone: 055-237-5702
Official website: http://www.takedajinja.or.jp/
Maizuru Castle Park
Source:Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
Maizuru Castle Park is located within the grounds of Kofu Castle, one of Japan's 100 Famous Castles. Maizuru Castle ("Dancing Crane Castle") is another name for Kofu Castle, referring to its shape resembling a crane spreading its wings. Known as one of the "100 Best Fuji Views in Kanto," it offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji and features about 160 cherry trees planted around its stone walls.
For photography, position the Kofu Castle slightly left of center, Mt. Fuji slightly right, and cherry blossoms overlapping Mt. Fuji. The pure white castle's stern appearance is softened by the gentle cherry blossoms.
The highlight is the 360-degree view from the castle tower base (tenshudai), where you can see Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, and downtown Kofu among the cherry blossoms. This collaboration of history and cherry blossoms creates a time-slip experience.
The blooming period extends from mid-March to early April, featuring various cherry varieties including Somei Yoshino, Higanzakura, and Yaezakura.
Perfect for those wanting to combine hanami with historical sightseeing.
Address: 1-5-4 Marunouchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi
Access: 5-minute walk from JR Kofu Station
Hours: 9:00-16:30
Closed: Mondays (next day if holiday), New Year's holidays
Phone: 055-227-6179
Official website: https://www.city.kofu.yamanashi.jp/welcome/rekishi/kofujyou.html
Wanizuka Cherry Tree
Source:Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
The Wanizuka Cherry Tree stands where the legendary hero Takeda no Kimi is said to be buried. This approximately 330-year-old Edo Higanzakura, with a trunk circumference of 3.6m and height of 17m, majestically spreads its branches across peaceful farmland.
For photography, frame the cherry tree in the foreground with Mt. Fuji in the background. The sight of the cherry blossoms blooming proudly against Japan's iconic Mt. Fuji is breathtaking!
The nighttime illumination is spectacular. As a filming location for dramas, the solitary cherry tree lit up in darkness is impressive from any angle.
Recommended for those seeking unique cherry blossom views.
Address: 624 Kitamiyaji, Kamiyamacho, Nirasaki City, Yamanashi
Access: 10 minutes by taxi or 15 minutes by bus from JR Nirasaki Station
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Phone: 0551-22-1991
Official website: https://www.nirasaki-kankou.jp/kankou_spot/shizen/shizen_dousyokubutsu/7609.html
Around Fujinomiya
Kotokuji Temple
Source:Fujinomiya Navi
Kotokuji Temple has over 700 years of history and is beloved by locals. The temple grounds feature 2 weeping cherry trees and 8 Somei Yoshino cherry trees.
For photography, position Mt. Fuji in the lower right with blooming cherry blossoms filling the gaps. Shooting from an angle where the cherry blossoms don't overlap with Mt. Fuji's snow-capped peak creates a striking composition.
The highlight is the Flower Festival held annually on the first Sunday of April. Various shows take place on a special stage, notably the "Calligraphy Performance" where famous Japanese calligrapher Kacho Kimura creates calligraphy on a 50m paper accompanied by shakuhachi (traditional bamboo flute) music. Kimura's dynamic brush strokes are truly powerful!
Cherry blossoms typically peak from late March to early April, coinciding with the festival. Locals recommend experiencing both the festival and cherry blossom viewing together.
Address: 431 Shimoyuzuno, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka
Access: 5-min walk from Yuzuno Kominkan Station on Fujikyu Shizuoka Bus
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Phone: 0544-66-0039
Official website: https://kotokuji.jp/
Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine
Source:Fujinomiya Navi
This shrine is the head shrine of approximately 1,300 Sengen shrines nationwide. Its main hall is a National Important Cultural Property, and the Wakutamaike spring pool, fed by Mt. Fuji's snowmelt, is a Special Natural Monument. The shrine's sacred trees include weeping cherry trees and about 500 Somei Yoshino cherry trees.
For photography, shoot the main hall from the diagonal right, positioning it in the center with cherry blossoms on the left. The red main hall harmonizes beautifully with the pink cherry blossoms, creating a quintessential spring scene.
The Cherry Blossom Festival on April 1st features traditional Japanese performances including gagaku (ancient court music) and taiko drums. Cherry trees are illuminated at night from late March to early April.
Address: 1-1 Miyacho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka
Access: 10-min walk from Fujinomiya Station on Minobu Line
Hours: 5:00-20:00 (varies by season)
Closed: Never
Phone: 0544-27-2002
Official website: http://fuji-hongu.or.jp/sengen/
Urui River Riverbank
Source:Fujinomiya Navi
The Urui River, a popular local walking spot, features about 350 Somei Yoshino cherry trees along a 250m stretch. This formerly secret viewing spot offering Mt. Fuji views across green spaces has gained popularity through social media.
For photography, compose with Mt. Fuji in front, Urui River in the lower left, and cherry trees extending toward the river in the center. Morning offers the clearest views of Mt. Fuji due to cool, crisp air.
The grassy area under the cherry trees is perfect for picnicking. The sound of flowing water creates a relaxing atmosphere for cherry blossom viewing.
Address: 462-2 Yodoshi, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka
Access: 15-min drive from JR Shin-Fuji Station or 10-min drive from JR Fuji Station
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Phone: None
Other Areas
Fuji Motosu Lake Resort (Around Lake Motosu)
Source:Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
Fuji Motosu Lake Resort is a botanical garden offering seasonal flowers and natural beauty. It's famous for hosting the Greater Tokyo Area's largest moss phlox field with approximately 500,000 plants, attracting both domestic and international tourists during blooming season.
The highlight is the Fuji Shibazakura Festival (mid-April to late May), where seven varieties of moss phlox, including McDaniel Cushion and Autumn Rose, bloom like a vast carpet beneath Mt. Fuji. The dynamic vista can't be captured in photos - it must be experienced in person.
For photographers, the best shot frames Mt. Fuji in the center background with vibrant moss phlox in the foreground. The contrast between the crisp blue sky, Mt. Fuji, and the eye-catching pink flowers creates stunning photos.
Recommended for visitors seeking a unique cherry blossom viewing experience featuring moss phlox.
Address: 212 Motosu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi
Access: 20-minute walk from Kenkyo Station (bus stops at garden during Fuji Shibazakura Festival and Rainbow Flower Festival)
Hours: 9:00-16:00
Closed: Irregular
Phone: 0555-89-3031
Fee: Free (paid admission during certain periods)
Official Website: https://www.fujimotosuko-resort.jp/
Mt. Iwadono (North of Fujiyoshida City)
Source:Home of Fujisan Yamanashi
Mt. Iwadono, recognized as one of Yamanashi's 100 Famous Mountains and Otsuki City's Twelve Views of Mt. Fuji, is a symbol of Otsuki City. The park features 300 cherry trees, including Somei Yoshino and Yae-zakura varieties, creating an extraordinary view when in full bloom.
For photography, frame Mt. Fuji's peak in the center, flanked by mountain ranges, with cherry blossoms in the foreground. The combination creates a powerful image showcasing nature's grandeur.
The Otsuki Cherry Blossom Festival (late March to early April) is a highlight, featuring viewing areas around the Iwadono Fureai Center, events, and evening illuminations. The city celebrates with food trucks and craft exhibitions near Otsuki Station.
Perfect for those wanting to combine hiking with cherry blossom viewing.
Address: Iwadono, Nigiwai-cho, Otsuki City, Yamanashi
Access: 20-minute walk from Otsuki Station
Hours: 24 hours
Closed: Never
Phone: 0554-20-1829
Official Website: None
