25 Fun Things To Do In Kawaguchiko + Beyond (Mount Fuji Travel Guide) (2024)

Lake Kawaguchi (and the rest of Fuji Five Lakes) is a lush countryside area you just can’t miss if you’re in Japan. This region is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and the Mount Fuji-obsessed! (If you’re also in the Mount Fuji fan club, please stand up!)

Not only does nature take the floor here, but the area is chock-full of cultural attractions, and, of course, spectacular views of the famous mountain that dominates the landscape.

Chances are if you’ve done any research at all, you’ll have heard of Lake Kawaguchiko, a serene lake at the base of Mount Fuji surrounded by forests, glamping opportunities, ryokans, and natural hot springs. The eastern shore is the most developed, with bus and rail links to Tokyo as well as most of the area’s hotels, restaurants, and shops.

But if you thought Lake Kawaguchiko was the only draw here, you’d be very mistaken! Lake Kawaguchiko is just one of FIVE lakes that make up the Fuji Five Lakes region.

This travel guide will help you discover the best things to do in Kawaguchiko and beyond, from scenic hikes and lakeside bike rides to cultural museums and even thrilling amusement parks.

I’ll cover everything else you need to know to plan your trip here, such as when the best time to visit is, how long you should stay, where exactly to stay, how to get around by bus, annual/seasonal events not to be missed, and lots more.

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

Useful Resources For Your Trip Planning

Kawaguchiko Tourist Bus Info
Fuji Visibility Forecast
Live Mount Fuji Cameras (you can see Mount Fuji’s visibility from different parts of the Fuji Lakes area)
Useful guide to the best Mount Fuji viewing points (depending on the month of your visit)
Need help planning out your itinerary? Here’s our 2-day and 3-day Kawaguchiko / Fuji Lakes itinerary

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW OF THE FUJI FIVE LAKES

The Fuji Five Lakes area is made up of — you guessed it — five different lakes. Yep, Lake Kawaguchiko is just one of the five!

Here’s a quick breakdown of the five lakes:

Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko has the longest shoreline of the Fuji Five Lakes and is dotted with many of the area’s museums, accommodations, shops, and tourist facilities.

Highlights here include the Kawaguchiko Music and Forest Museum, which has a beautiful garden (plus European vibes) and offers concerts of rare organs and automatic musical instruments from around the world.

Oishi Park is also here, famous for its spectacular views of Mount Fuji surrounded by lavender in early summer and kochia in autumn. Other tourist attractions include the Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway and the sightseeing boat Appare.

Lake Yamanakako

Lake Yamanakako is the largest of the five lakes in the area (and the closest to Mount Fuji). This area has a more rural and less commercialized feel compared to Lake Kawaguchiko. Plus, it offers glorious lakeside views of Mount Fuji + white swans!

You’ll find several ryokans and onsens here. This area is a great base for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, windsurfing, birdwatching, and kayaking. Another must-see includes the Yamanakako Hana no Miyako Park.

Lake Saiko

Lake Saiko is located north of Mt. Fuji and is known as the wildest and most natural of the five lakes. Lake Saiko is surrounded by dense forests (including the Aokigahara Forest) and has fewer commercial developments.

This is a great lake to check out if you enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping. Lake Saiko is also where a lot of the notable caves are located.

There’s the Saiko Bat Cave, a natural monument that stands as the largest lava cave at the foot of Mt. Fuji. There’s also the Fugaku Wind Cave and the Narusawa Ice Cave.

You can also step back in time at Saiko Iyashi no sato Nenba, a reconstructed traditional Japanese village featuring a bunch of gassho-style buildings.

Lake Shojiko

Lake Shojiko is the smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes and was widely introduced overseas as Switzerland of the East in the Meiji era (1868-1912) because of its beautiful scenery.

Mount Fuji views from Lake Shojiko are some of the most spectacular and least obstructed. The lake is also close to the Saiko Wild Bird Forest Park, a popular spot for birdwatching.

It is less developed, making it a perfect spot for those looking to escape the crowds.

Lake Motosuko

Known for its deep blue water and clarity, Lake Motosuko is the deepest of the five lakes.

Lake Motosuko is famously depicted on the reverse side of the 1,000 yen bill and the old 5,000 yen bill with the stunning “Upside-down Fuji” reflection. Known for being the deepest and clearest of the Fuji Five Lakes, it’s a perfect spot for underwater sports like snorkeling and diving.

The iconic view of Mount Fuji depicted on the 1,000 yen note can be seen from the northern shore of Lake Motosuko. The Fuji Shibazakura Festival, which showcases thousands of pink moss flowers in full bloom with Mount Fuji in the background, also takes place nearby.

THINGS TO DO IN LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Lake Kawaguchiko Itinerary - Mount Fuji Ropeway

Start your Kawaguchiko itinerary off with the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, which offers worthwhile aerial views of Lake Kawaguchiko and the majestic Mount Fuji.

The ropeway takes you up to Mount Tenjo (Mt. Kachikachi), where you can enjoy a panoramic vista that’s perfect for photography lovers.

The ropeway will get you from the base to the summit of Mt. Kachikachi in about 3 minutes. At an altitude of 1,075 meters, you can see unobstructed views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, and on a sunny day, you can even see the Southern Alps (Mt. Akaishi, Mt. Arakawa) in the distance.

At the top, you can walk around the small observation area, which includes the Usagi Shrine and several walking paths with spectacular views.

Roundtrip fare for adults is 1,000 yen.

Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat Ride

If it happens to be a clear day, a sightseeing boat ride on Lake Kawaguchiko’s Appare boat offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the beauty of the lake views. The boat cruises gently across the lake, providing panoramic views of Mount Fuji’s majestic peak reflected in the pristine waters.

The sightseeing boat operates throughout the year, offering unique perspectives of Mount Fuji in each season—from snow-capped in winter to surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring.

On your 20-minute boat ride, be sure to take in the surrounding landscapes, including the lush green forested hills, charming lakeside villages, people riding little pedal boats in the lake, and seasonal flowers that adorn the shores.

👉 Pro Tip: If it happens to be extra cloudy or rainy, this activity is not worth it because there will be no mountain views to look at. Skip this one if that’s the case.

Oishi Park

Oishi Park is such a beautiful spot year-round! Situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, this park is renowned for its unobstructed views of Mount Fuji. No matter the season, you’ll find colorful plants/flowers decorating this park.

Oishi Park is so much more than a simple view of Mount Fuji. There’s a lot of other stuff to do here. You can start off by seeing all the pretty flowers and snapping some views of Mount Fuji.

Don’t forget to pop into the massive gift shop to buy some fresh fruits and random souvenirs of Mount Fuji because the Japanese people went crazy putting Mount Fuji on all sorts of products!

Lake Kawaguchiko Itinerary - Oishi Park Shops

Then, walk around the complex a bit more. You’ll find a really pretty flora-lined path alongside a meandering stream, a couple of cafes, a pizzeria, a stationery store, and other gift shops too.

If it’s a hot day, grab some soft-serve ice cream at the cafe overlooking the lake and Mount Fuji.

Explore Lake Kawaguchiko’s other viewpoints

Lake Kawaguchiko Itinerary - Sunset Views — Pretty sunset views from Yagizaki Park.

Aside from Oishi Park, there are many other viewpoints around Lake Kawaguchiko to check out. Lots of them are especially great at sunset too! Here are a few to get you started:

Kawaguchiko North Bank Walking Trail – Offers a serene path along the northern shore with beautiful vistas of Mount Fuji reflecting in the lake.

Nagasaki Park – Located on the eastern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, it provides picturesque views of the lake and Mount Fuji and is known for its lovely cherry blossoms in spring.

Yagizaki Park – Located on the southern shore of Kawaguchiko, this one is easy to get to on foot if you’re staying in the southern area. While you won’t be able to get the lake in the same photo as Mount Fuji, it’s still a nice park to stroll through after a meal.

Try houtou noodles

Lake Kawaguchiko Itinerary - Houtou noodles

You’re in the Yamanashi Prefecture, so do as the locals do and try the local specialty dish: houtou noodles. These thick, flat, and oh-so-chewy noodles are served in a hearty miso-based soup with a variety of vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food after a day of exploring.

I love soupy dishes, and I found this dish to be SO good that I had it two days in a row!

The best place to try this local specialty is at Hotou Fudo. They have multiple locations, including one across from Kawaguchiko Station as well as their main shop located in North Kawaguchiko.

Be careful not to order too many other dishes if you’re a light eater because the houtou noodle dish only comes in one size and it’s MASSIVE. I ate it twice during my stay at Lake Kawaguchi and I couldn’t finish it either times.

Shop for souvenirs around Kawaguchiko Station

Mount Fuji is a big deal around these parts. Naturally, you’ll find lots of Fuji-themed merch in the Fuji Five Lakes area.

One of the most convenient areas to shop for goodies is at the gift shops across from Kawaguchiko Station. You can stock up on things like regional sweets, Mount Fuji honey, sake glasses in the shape of Mount Fuji, and so much other Fuji-themed stuff.

Photograph Mount Fuji at Kawaguchiko Station

While you’re by Kawaguchiko Station, you can also stop to snap a few photos of Mount Fuji from the station (if the view is not covered by clouds yet).

The famous Lawson that everyone talks about and (overly) posts about on social media is also steps away from Kawaguchiko Station, so you can stop by for a quick photo.

BUT you certainly don’t want to be that annoying tourist that gets in the way of cars or leaves their trash everywhere.

Lake Kawaguchiko Itinerary - Mount Fuji Lawson

Fujisan World Heritage Center

To learn more about the majestic world of Mount Fuji, head to the Fujisan World Heritage Center, an informative facility dedicated to teaching visitors all about the significance of Mount Fuji — naturally, culturally, and historically!

The center features interactive exhibits, photography, and detailed explanations about the mountain’s history, geology, and spiritual importance. On the top floor is the Observation Hall, a sleek area with an open-air deck where visitors are awarded with spectacular views of Mount Fuji.

The building also has an inverted conical shape that reflects in the pond outside to reveal the shape of the iconic mountain!

Soak in Mount Fuji views at Ubuyagasaki

Ubuyagasaki is one of the best spots to take in front-and-center views of Mount Fuji along Lake Kawaguchiko’s northern shore. The area is particularly pretty during cherry blossom season in spring and when the autumn leaves turn colors.

Within walking distance of Ubuyagasaki, you can explore several other attractions and activities. You can stroll along the picturesque lakeside path or opt to cross the Lake Kawaguchi Great Bridge (hands-down one of the best spots to enjoy a Fuji view with the lake in it).

Nearby, you’ll find the Kawaguchiko Herb Hall, where you can browse through a variety of herb-based products and enjoy a refreshing herbal tea. If you’re interested in art, the Kawaguchiko Muse Museum, featuring the works of doll artist Yuki Atae, is just a short walk away.

Fuji-Q Highland

If you’re in the mood for some true thrills, spend your day at Fuji-Q Highland, one of Japan’s most iconic amusement parks. Located a short trip from Lake Kawaguchiko, the park has some of the fastest and steepest roller coasters in the world!

Known for its world-record-breaking roller coasters like Eejanaika and Takabisha, the park offers a ton of memorable rides and experiences for thrill-seekers.

In addition to the coasters, Fuji-Q Highland features a variety of other attractions, including a 50-minute long haunted house walkthrough (totally not my vibe, but they scored another world record for this one) and other themed areas.

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

The Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum is a charming museum that showcases automated musical instruments. I honestly found this to be one of the most unique museums I’ve ever come across during my travels!

With a small admission fee, you can explore the super cool exhibits featuring antique music boxes, mechanical organs, automaton dolls, and other automated instruments, many of which are still in working condition and perform at scheduled times throughout the day.

The organ hall is not to be missed — it’s decorated with the most ornate decorations to make it feel like a ballroom. In fact, it’s a very popular venue that’s often used for filming movies and music videos!

The museum’s picturesque grounds will undoubtedly remind you of a European fairy tale, complete with ornate buildings, lush gardens, and charming bridges at every turn. You’ll also find the gardens adorned with European-inspired architecture, set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji.

If you’re looking for the ultimate afternoon tea garden vibes, don’t miss your chance to eat lunch here! They even have lunchtime concerts held at Mori Restaurant.

Fujiyama Onsen

Fujiyama Onsen is a traditional Japanese hot spring facility located near Fuji-Q Highland (southeast of Lake Kawaguchiko).

The hot springs facility features both indoor and outdoor baths. It’s even home to Japan’s largest wooden bath.

The water quality here is truly unique too, blended with all the good minerals such as magnesium, calcium, sodium-bicarbonate, sulfate, and chloride, which is extremely rare to find across the country.

You can also spend your time relaxing in the bedrock bath area with an indoor bedrock bath, an outdoor bedrock bath overlooking Mt. Fuji, a manga corner with popular manga, and a “hot room” equipped with heated floors.

They also have massages and light meals for sale (which you can enjoy while gazing out at Mount Fuji!).

Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

The Itchiku Kubota Art Museum is a kimono museum dedicated to the jaw-droppingly detailed works of textile artist Itchiku Kubota, who revived the lost art of Tsujigahana silk dyeing.

The museum showcases a gorgeous collection of kimonos that depict nature and the changing seasons in meticulous detail. The museum building itself is a work of art too, harmoniously blending with the surrounding gardens and offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji!

While you’re here, you can also explore the lush garden and tea room.

Kawaguchiko Kitahara Museum

The Kawaguchiko Kitahara Museum is a fun little museum perfect for fans of vintage toys and nostalgic memorabilia. This unique museum houses an extensive collection of toys, dolls, and pop culture items from Japan and around the world, curated by famous toy collector Teruhisa Kitahara.

Exhibits include classic tin toys, character goods, and other retro items that’ll bring back your sense of childhood wonder. The museum also features a gift shop and café.

Yamanashi Gem Museum

The Yamanashi Gem Museum is a great museum for those interested in the beauty and science of gemstones. The museum’s collection includes a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones from around the world, with detailed explanations about their formation, properties, and uses.

The museum also offers a hands-on experience where you can learn about gemstone polishing and even purchase unique pieces from the gift shop.

Kawaguchiko Konohana Museum

Kawaguchiko Konohana Museum is a very niche, fairytale-like museum dedicated to the works of Japanese artist Akiko Ikeda, known for her whimsical characters and stories.

Prior to my visit to Kawaguchiko, I didn’t know who or what this character was at all, but after learning about it, I could see why there’s a big fan base for Akiko Ikeda’s works. The story of Dayan and other unique characters has spread in the form of novels, picture books, and animations.

Essentially, Wachifield is a magical world where Dayan the cat lives. It is a magical land where fairies and witches are active and animals stand, walk, and talk. The main character, Dayan the cat, arrived at Wachifield from Earth through snow magic.

At this museum, enjoy art displays themed around Akiko Ikeda’s fictional land of Wachifield and characters like Dayan the cat.

The museum features a café (with live music from time to time) and a gift shop.

Tenku no Torii

Tenku no Torii, or “Torii of the Sky,” is a breathtaking viewpoint at the top of Mount Hahano. It’s a total dream for photographers!

The bright red torii gate frames a magnificent view of Mount Fuji, creating a perfect photo opportunity that many people miss because of the hike required to get to it.

The hike up to Tenku no Torii involves a moderately challenging hike, which can take about 30-45 minutes depending on your pace. The trail is well-marked and offers scenic views along the way, with lush greenery and occasional glimpses of Mount Fuji peeking through the trees.

Be sure to wear some sort of athletic shoe for this hike, as sandals are not gonna cut it! Don’t forget to bring snacks for this one (perhaps an onigiri or two from the konbini!).

THINGS TO DO IN THE SURROUNDING FUJI LAKES AREA

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba

Getting to explore Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba was one of my favorite activities in the Fuji area. Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba is a reconstructed traditional Japanese village located on the western shore of Lake Saiko.

This open-air museum features thatched-roof houses that have been turned into craft shops, museums, and restaurants, providing a glimpse into Japan’s rural past.

You can stroll through the different houses, enjoying whatever they offer inside. Some of them are sit-down restaurants, some are handicraft shops, some offer kimono rentals, and some simply exist to showcase what the structure would have looked like in the past.

Don’t forget to take in the period architecture here! These houses will give you a glimpse into life in Japan in the olden days.

There is a small admission fee you’ll have to pay at the entrance.

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba - Fuji Five Lakes Itinerary

Bike around Lake Yamanakako

If you’ve got the time to spend half a day (or even a full day) away from Kawaguchiko, I’d highly recommend heading to Lake Yamanakako. In my opinion, the cycling opportunities there are even better than those around Lake Kawaguchiko!

Biking around Lake Yamanakako is a delightful beginner-friendly experience, offering epic views of Mount Fuji at nearly every turn. As the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, with a circumference of approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles), Lake Yamanakako features a well-maintained, flat cycling path that traces around 80 percent of its border, making it friendly for cyclists of all levels.

This dedicated cycling road is free of cars too, meaning you can focus your attention on taking in the scenery as opposed to dodging cars. Rental bicycles are available at several locations along the northwestern shore, with options for one-hour, half-day, or full-day rentals.

Yamanakako Hana no Miyako Park

Yamanakako Flower Park — Courtesy of Visit Yamanakako

Also located around Lake Yamanakako is a vast 300,000-square-meter flower park called Yamanakako Hana no Miyako Park. When I say this place is astonishingly big, I mean it.

The park is a must-visit when you’re in the area. It’s well-known for its seasonal flower displays all set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji.

One of the most popular events in spring is the tulip festival, where ~150,000 tulips bloom in rotation across the field. In general, late April to mid-May is the best time to visit. Mid-August sees vivid yellow sunflowers for the summer, while autumn brings out cosmos flowers and warm, vibrant zinnias.

Admission to the flower field is free, but a small fee is required to enter areas like Seiryu no Sato, home to the Myojin Waterfall, a water park, and a well-curated greenhouse.

Oshino Hakkai

Oshino Hakkai (the Eight Seas of Oshino) is a set of eight ponds located in the Fuji Five Lakes area, on the site of a former sixth lake that dried out several centuries ago. Oshino Hakkai is now part of the Mt. Fuji UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site (since 2013), making it a worthwhile stop for your itinerary.

The eight ponds found here are fed by snowmelt from the slopes of Mount Fuji that filter down the mountain through porous layers of volcanic rock. This is precisely what makes the mineral-rich pond waters remarkably clear and pristine!

Within the UNESCO area, you’ll find a series of unique structures housing daytime shops, restaurants, and museum info to learn more about the area. You’ll also find lots of those clear ponds here!

The water in the Waku Pond is especially clear and clean, and visitors are encouraged to drink it and even take some home in a bottle.

Oshino Hakkai - Bottling water to take home

After enjoying the ponds and the nearby scenery, you can stroll through the shops in the area. Things for sale include Mount Fuji souvenirs, fruits, vegetables, sweets, pickles, crafts, fried fish, and other local products. Some businesses even have outdoor grills to attract shoppers with the alluring smells of roasted sweet potato and toasted rice crackers.

For more history about the area, check out the small open-air museum, Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan. It contains a traditional thatched roof farmhouse that can be entered and displays various farming tools, household items, and samurai weapons.

Visit the Fuji Shibazakura Festival (April – May)

Every year at the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, a beautiful pink carpet of flowers rolls out beneath Mt. Fuji.

If you’re visiting between April and May, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival is a must-do! I spent half a day at this festival on my last visit. All of the bright pink flowers were so, so pretty.

There are eight different types of “Shibazakura” (or “Moss Phlox” in English) ranging from pink to purple and blue to white.

The cool thing about it is that not all of the flower fields are decorated in the same way. Some are going to be massive pink fields of the same shade and the same style of color, while others are decorated in patterns using different colored flowers.

One of my favorites was this pink white and green checkered flower field overlooking some sort of a lagoon.

There’s also a mound of flowers decorated to look like Mount Fuji, which is situated in a way that you can actually get a picture of the real Mount Fuji with the flower version of Mount Fuji!

Unfortunately, on the day of my visit, it was relatively overcast in the morning (and it was forecasted to be that way all day) so there were no Mount Fuji views to pair along with all the great photos of the flower fields. It was a bummer, but the beauty of all the flowers was enough to keep me satisfied!

Chureito Pagoda

Part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine, this is one of the most iconic and photographed views of Mount Fuji! Located on a hillside, the five-story pagoda is surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

To reach this famous viewpoint, you’ll need to climb nearly 400 steps, but the effort is rewarded with panoramic vistas of Mount Fuji framed by the striking red pagoda.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and catch the best light for photography. Sunrise and sunset provide especially stunning lighting for capturing the beauty of the pagoda and Mount Fuji.

As Chureito Pagoda is part of a shrine, remember to be respectful of the religious significance of the area. Keep noise to a minimum and be mindful of other visitors who may be there for both the view and spiritual reasons.

Fugaku Wind Cave

Located around Lake Saiko, the Fugaku Wind Cave is a designated “Natural Monument of Japan” that was used as a natural refrigerator in the past. The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 3°C (37°F) throughout the year, making it a natural refrigerator historically used for storing silk and seeds.

Narusawa Ice Cave

Also located near Saiko Lake, this ice cave was formed by the eruption of Mt. Fuji more than 1,000 years ago. Known for its impressive ice pillars and frozen waterfalls that persist even in summer, the cave offers a cool retreat with temperatures that stay around freezing year-round.

WHERE TO STAY IN KAWAGUCHIKO

While all of the lakes have accommodation options, some are more rustic than others. For example, Lake Kawaguchiko is the most developed, meaning you’ll find no shortage of ryokan, glamping spots, hostels, and regular hotels here.

On the flip side, Lake Saiko is best known for its camping spots, so adventurers looking for a more rustic, secluded stay would enjoy this lake more.

For first-timers and people getting around by tourist bus, I’d recommend staying around Lake Kawaguchiko or Kawaguchiko Station given the fact that there are more amenities around here. Plus, catching the bus is a lot simpler in this area.

Lake Kawaguchiko Itinerary - Hotel Views — Lush, green views outside of Toyoko Inn’s windows!

I planned my trip pretty last minute but was able to snag a room at Toyoko Inn Fuji Kawaguchiko Ohashi ($), a simple and surprisingly affordable hotel in the Kawaguchiko area. Hotel guests get free breakfast, which was a major perk.

All in all, I really enjoyed my stay! Even though it was not directly on the lake or right next to the train station, they offered a free shuttle that went to/from Kawaguchiko Station quite often (multiple times per hour).

A few other fancier accommodations that caught my eye while I was there include:

Fuji View Hotel ($$) – This hotel offers exactly what you’d think… epic Fuji views! Overlooking Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, this hotel is surrounded by gorgeous Japanese gardens with lush greenery and cherry trees. You can unwind in the newly renovated indoor and outdoor hot spring baths.

Ryokan Kasuitei – Ohya ($$$) – a beautiful ryokan with onsen baths and suites with traditional tatami floors. Strategically situated in Fujikawaguchiko, allowing you easy access and proximity to local attractions and sights.

Mt.Fuji グランピングテラス ($$$$) – there are so many glamping spots in the Fuji area, but this one really stood out to me. You’ll be glamping in geo domes and waking up to epic Mount Fuji vibes! Breakfast and dinner are included too.

Glamping Resort Varie ($$) – Another geo-dome stay! The luxury tents come with air conditioning, free private parking, and free wifi. All units come with a patio, an oven, a microwave, fridge, and a kettle.

LOCAL EVENTS IN THE FUJI FIVE LAKES AREA

The Fuji Five Lakes region hosts a bunch of fun local/annual events throughout the year, celebrating its scenery, cultural heritage, and seasonal changes. Here are some notable can’t-miss events broken out by the season:

Spring

Fuji Shibazakura Festival (April – May)

Location: Near Lake Motosuko
Description: This festival showcases hundreds of thousands of moss phlox flowers in full bloom, creating a vibrant carpet of pink, purple, and white against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. The event also features food stalls and a Peter Rabbit garden area.

Cherry Blossom Festivals (Late March – Early April)

Locations: Various spots around the Fuji Five Lakes, including Kawaguchiko and Yamanakako
Description: Enjoy hanami (flower viewing) under the cherry blossoms with Mount Fuji as a backdrop.

Summer

Fujisan Ukai (June – September)

Location: Lake Kawaguchiko
Description: This traditional cormorant fishing event takes place on Lake Kawaguchiko. Visitors can watch skilled fishermen using trained cormorants to catch fish, a practice that dates back over 1,300 years.

Kawaguchiko Herb Festival (June – July)

Location: Yagizaki Park and Oishi Park, Lake Kawaguchiko
Description: Celebrating the blooming lavender fields, this festival offers a relaxing atmosphere with the scent of lavender in the air. Visitors can enjoy herb-themed products, local crafts, and live music.

Yoshida Fire Festival (August 26-27)

Location: Fujiyoshida City
Description: One of Japan’s most famous fire festivals, it marks the end of the climbing season for Mount Fuji. The festival features large torches and bonfires that light up the streets, accompanied by traditional performances.

Autumn

Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival (October – November)

Location: Lake Kawaguchiko
Description: This festival celebrates the colorful autumn foliage around the lake, particularly along the Maple Corridor. Enjoy nighttime illuminations, food stalls, and local craft markets.

Mount Fuji Marathon (Late November)

Location: Lake Kawaguchiko
Description: Runners from around the world participate in this picturesque marathon. The event also includes shorter races and family-friendly activities.

Winter

Lake Yamanakako Ice Candle Festival (February)

Location: Lake Yamanakako
Description: Thousands of ice candles are lit around the lake, creating a magical winter landscape. The festival includes fireworks, live performances, and local food stalls.

Kawaguchiko Winter Fireworks (January – February)

Location: Lake Kawaguchiko
Description: Every weekend during this period, spectacular fireworks light up the winter sky over Lake Kawaguchiko. Visitors can enjoy the show from various viewpoints around the lake, often accompanied by hot drinks and food.

HOW TO GET TO KAWAGUCHIKO

To get your adventure in the Fuji Five Lakes started, you’ll want to aim to get to Kawaguchiko Station (Lake Kawaguchiko).

Kawaguchiko Station is the main transportation hub for the region, making it the starting point for most visitors exploring the surrounding lakes and attractions.

Kawaguchiko Station is connected to Tokyo via the JR Chuo Line and the Fujikyu Railway Line, making it easily accessible for train travelers. The highway buses also drop bus passengers off at this station.

Need to get to another lake in the Fuji Lakes area? Head to Kawaguchiko Station first. This station is serviced by other bus lines that can take you to other key areas in the Fuji Five Lakes region.

From Tokyo – By Train

If you have some sort of a JR Pass that covers train travel to the Fuji area, you’ll likely opt for the train over the expressway bus (below).

From Tokyo, you’ll want to take the train from wherever you are to Kawaguchiko Station (Lake Kawaguchiko). Your train travel will have one transfer point at Otsuki Station.

The entire trip from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, including transfer time at Otsuki Station.

Here’s an example from Shinjuku Station:

Get to Otsuki Station: Board the JR Chuo Line Rapid service from Shinjuku Station heading towards Otsuki. This train departs frequently, and the journey takes about 1 hour.
Transfer at Otsuki Station: Upon arrival at Otsuki Station, transfer to the Fujisan Limited Express, the Fuji Excursion train, or a local Fujikyu Railway train to Kawaguchiko Station. The journey from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko takes approximately 50 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the train service. You will need to purchase a separate ticket for this leg of the journey, as it is operated by a different company.

For the Fuji Excursion train, I’d recommend you reserve your seat in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Tickets can be purchased at JR ticket offices or online.

👉 Pro Tip: Sit on the left side of the train from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko for the best views of Mount Fuji.

From Tokyo – By Highway Coach Bus (Recommended!)

If you don’t have a JR Pass, you won’t be tied to the idea of taking the train to Kawaguchiko Station.

There are also highway/expressway buses that depart from major stations like Shinjuku Station, Tokyo Station, Akihabara Station, and more.

I actually preferred the expressway bus over the train because it’s actually about 30 minutes faster than taking the train (assuming you’re not traveling during rush hour).

Plus, there are no transfers involved and it’s slightly cheaper than taking the train, too.

With the coach bus, you’ll need to reserve seats which means everyone will have a seat (it’s not like a city bus where standing is allowed).

You can book highway bus tickets in advance here.

You can also book these rides at the bus station when you get there. Unless it’s a super busy time to visit (cherry blossom season, fall season, Golden Week, or other holidays), the buses don’t usually fill up.

You can also book highway bus tickets for weekend rides on Klook.

Driving Yourself There

This is hands-down the most convenient way to get to the Fuji Five Lakes area since it doesn’t require any transfers, any pre-booked tickets, or extra stops.

Had I been traveling with someone comfortable with driving in Japan, I would have totally opted for a car! Chances are, you won’t be either.

HOW TO GET AROUND THE FUJI FIVE LAKES AREA

By Tourist Bus

Fujikyu Tourist Bus Red Line - Kawaguchiko Travel Guide

Unless you’re driving your own car or rental car, you’ll likely be getting around by public transportation. The most convenient form of public transportation in the Lake Kawaguchiko area is the Fujikyu Tourist Bus.

With a three-day visit to the Fuji Five Lakes area, I’d recommend opting for the Kawaguchiko – Saiko – Motosuko Area Sightseeing Bus 2-day pass. This is the one that allows you to take the red, blue, and green buses.

This pass offers unlimited rides on Fujikyu buses in the Lake Kawaguchiko area as well as the lakes west of it (Saiko, Narusawa, Shojiko, and Motosuko areas) for 2 days. The three-colored bus lines (red, green, and blue) frequently depart from Kawaguchiko Station and are perfect for touring hotspots around the lakes.

You can buy the bus pass ahead of time here.

To explore the areas east of Lake Kawaguchiko (like Fuji-Q Highland, Lake Yamanakako, and Oshino Hakkai), you’ll need to take a different bus that isn’t covered with the 2-day pass. This is the Fujikko-go (F-Line). Depending on how many spots you plan on making, you can pay for these rides on the bus as you go or buy the 1-day unlimited rides bus pass.

Taking the bus from Kawaguchiko Station

Kawaguchiko Station is very well laid out and the signs for all the bus stops are very clear.

You just need to know which tourist bus line you’re trying to take because there are separate bus stop areas for the red line, blue line, green line, yellow/orange line, expressway buses that take you back to the Tokyo area, hotel shuttles, special event buses (like the Shibazakura Festival bus in April/May) and more.

If you’re ever lost, you can always take a random bus back to Kawaguchiko Station because many routes will lead back here!

To buy the two-day bus ticket ahead of time, you need to get the Japan Transit app. This is how you’ll board and off-board the bus.

To take the bus with the tourist pass: just hop on when the bus arrives (do not scan your IC card or take any ticket) and when you get off, show the bus driver your pass.

To take the tourist bus without a pass: tap your IC card or take a ticket upon boarding. When you’re ready to get off, tap your IC card again and the fare will be deducted from your card amount. Alternatively, if you’ve grabbed a paper ticket, you can pay with cash.

By Car

Other than having to drive on the right side of the car, the roads are not much different from roads in the Western world. Around the Fuji Lakes, the intersections are well-marked with signs in both Japanese and English noting how far popular destinations are from your current location along the road.

By Bike

If you’d like to explore the lakes on a deeper level, consider renting a bike for the duration of your stay! There are designated bike paths in certain areas like Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka that’ll allow you to enjoy the amazing beauty of the lakes backdropped by Mount Fuji throughout the entire ride.

You’ll find lots of bike rental shops in the Fuji Five Lakes area. Some hotels and glamping resorts even offer private bike rentals.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE FUJI FIVE LAKES?

Personally, I think the ideal time to visit the Fuji Five Lakes is during the periods when Mount Fuji is snowcapped, offering the most quintessential and iconic views of the mountain. Typically, this occurs in the following seasons:

Spring (April to Early June)

Fuji Five Lakes Japan - Mount Fuji from Yagizaki Park — Spring: you could get clear days or cloudy conditions where Fuji is hidden in clouds.

In spring, Mount Fuji’s peak remains snowcapped, providing a drop-dead gorgeous contrast against the cherry blossoms, flowers, and fresh greenery. Cherry blossoms bloom around late March to early April.

Weather: The weather is also amazing around this time! I visited in early May, and while there was a slight humidity in the air and some days of rain, the weather was super comfortable.

What else to look forward to: Various flower festivals, including the Shibazakura Festival near Lake Motosuko, occur during this season. It’s a must-visit!

Autumn (October to Early December)

As temperatures drop, the snow returns to Mount Fuji’s summit, typically by late October. The combination of snow on the peak and autumn foliage in the foreground = epic photos!

Weather: Autumn features cool and comfortable weather, ideal for hiking, photography, and exploring the lakes.

What else to look forward to: The fall foliage, particularly around mid to late November, adds a vibrant splash of red, orange, and yellow to the landscape. The scenic views get even MORE scenic around this time!

Lake Kawaguchiko Itinerary - Oishi Park In Autumn — Mount Fuji views in the fall season.

Other Seasons

Winter (December to March): Mount Fuji is fully snowcapped throughout the winter, offering clear and crisp views on sunny days. While winter can be cold, the skies are often clear, providing some of the best visibility for viewing and photographing Mount Fuji. Winter sports lovers can enjoy nearby ski resorts, and the lakes offer serene, less crowded experiences.

Summer (Late June to September): Although summer brings warm weather and lush greenery, Mount Fuji’s snowcap melts significantly, and the peak may not be as striking without the snowcap. Summer is also considered the rainy typhoon season (tsuyu), so June and July can see heavy rainfall and cloudy conditions, obstructing views of Mount Fuji.

KAWAGUCHIKO: DAY TRIP OR OVERNIGHT STAY?

My vote goes towards overnight stay. 100%.

Why? Because of two main reasons: 1) the Fuji Five Lakes area is massive and 2) Mt. Fuji isn’t always visible.

Let’s start with point #1: Lake Kawaguchiko isn’t the only lake near Mount Fuji. There are actually a collection of lakes in the surrounding area that makes up the Fuji Five Lakes area. And you know what that means? There’s A LOT to do in the area!

A few hours of exploration are just not going to cut it if you want to really get to know this scenic area. I personally opted for a stay of 3 full nights so I could attend the Shibazakura Flower Festival, go to Fuji Q Highland, and also spend some time sightseeing around the five lakes.

Now onto point #2: Mount Fuji’s visibility can be finicky depending on the day as well as the time of day! It might pop out of the clouds for an hour before sunrise, then be shrouded in cloud coverage for the rest of the day.

Having more time in the Kawaguchiko area means that you’ll have more chances of seeing Mount Fuji show itself. Plus, more time in the area means you’ll be able to visit more than one viewpoint to see the mountain (there are a lot of viewpoints)!

How many days I recommend for Kawaguchiko and Fuji Lakes area

As someone who enjoys slower travel, I think 3 to 4 days for your first visit is perfect.

That might sound too long for some of you bucketlist-checkers, but if you’re a nature lover, I’m telling you — you won’t run out of things to do even with a 4-day visit!

I see a lot of tour companies offering day trips to the Mount Fuji area, but in all honesty, one day is not enough.

There are five incredible lakes to explore. There’s no way you’ll be able to see everything in one day.

Even with 4 days / 3 nights, I was only able to scratch the surface there! There was so much other stuff on my list that I didn’t get to see or do! I’m already planning to go back on my next trip to Japan.

The ideal duration for your trip to the Fuji Five Lakes region depends on how much you want to explore, what activities you plan to do, and what other destinations you plan on visiting on your entire Japan itinerary.

If you want just a couple of photos of Mount Fuji in iconic locations, then fine, 1-2 days will be good enough for you.

But if you want to actually enjoy nature, spend time around the lakes, and relax a bit, I’d recommend no less than 3 days!

The business hours of a majority of the attractions, museums, and landmarks here run from 9am to 4:30pm (or 5pm). You can only fit so much in a day with such limited hours. Visiting for more days means you’ll be able to spread activities out and ultimately see more while allowing some time for relaxation and hanging out by the lakes.

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