MOUNT FUJI & FIVE LAKES
Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes region is the spiritual heart of Japan, offering a spectacular natural tapestry woven around the nation’s most iconic volcano. It blends the majestic grandeur of Mount Fuji with the serene beauty of the five crater lakes at its northern base.
This area is where Japan’s natural, cultural, and spiritual sides converge. It’s a land of iconic views, from the tranquil lake reflections to historical villages and thrilling modern amusement parks.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Viewpoints & Cultural Sites:
Chureito Pagoda at Arakura Sengen Shrine: An iconic five-story pagoda offering the classic postcard view of Mount Fuji framed by the pagoda and, seasonally, cherry blossoms.
Oshino Hakkai: A collection of eight crystal-clear spring-fed ponds and a traditional village with thatched-roof houses, offering stunning views of Mount Fuji’s snowmelt waters.
Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway (Kachi Kachi Ropeway): A short scenic ropeway ride up Mount Tenjo, providing one of the most popular panoramic viewpoints over Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji.
Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station: The highest point accessible by paved road for non-climbers, serving as a base for climbing the Yoshida Trail and offering close-up views.
Oishi Park (Lake Kawaguchi): Famous for its “flower road” along the northern shore, providing excellent views of Mount Fuji reflected in the lake, especially known for lavender and seasonal flowers.
Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba: A meticulously restored traditional village of thatched-roof houses turned into open-air museum, shops, and craft workshops near Lake Sai.
Lake Motosu: The deepest and westernmost lake, famous for the view that appears on the Japanese 1,000-yen banknote (specifically from the north side).
Museums & Man-Made Attractions:
Fuji-Q Highland: A major amusement park featuring world-record-breaking roller coasters and anime-themed attractions, with Mount Fuji as a dramatic backdrop.
Kubota Itchiku Art Museum (Lake Kawaguchi): A beautiful museum dedicated to the art of kimono textile artist Itchiku Kubota, set in a traditional Japanese garden.
Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum: A European-style garden and museum showcasing antique musical boxes, mechanical organs, and automatic musical instruments.
Fujisan World Heritage Center: An information and museum facility dedicated to the history, culture, and nature of Mount Fuji as a World Heritage Site.
Yamanakako Hananomiyako Park (Lake Yamanaka): A large flower park with vast fields of seasonal blooms, including sunflowers and cosmos, set against the backdrop of the mountain.
Nature, Outdoors & Activity Spots:
Aokigahara Forest (Sea of Trees): A dense, beautiful forest growing on a lava flow, offering walking trails and access to lava caves.
Narusawa Ice Cave: A lava cave where ice remains year-round, featuring ice pillars and fascinating rock formations (near Lake Sai/Aokigahara).
Fugaku Wind Cave: A cave historically used as a natural refrigerator due to its low, consistent temperature (near Lake Sai/Aokigahara).
Mount Fuji Climbing (Yoshida Trail): The most popular of the four routes to climb the summit of Mount Fuji, typically open from July to early September.
Onsen (Hot Springs) with Fuji View: Numerous public and private hot spring resorts, such as Fuji Yurari Onsen, offering relaxing baths with direct views of Mount Fuji.
Lake Kawaguchi: The most easily accessible and developed lake, offering boat tours, fishing, and cycling paths around its shores.
Lake Yamanaka: The largest of the five lakes, popular for water sports like windsurfing, boating, and the sighting of swans in winter.
Lake Sai: A quiet lake popular for camping, fishing, and a base for exploring the nearby Aokigahara Forest and its caves.
Lake Shoji: The smallest of the lakes, offering a particularly stunning viewpoint of “Kodaki Fuji” (Fuji holding a smaller mountain).
Shoji Panoramadai: A popular hiking lookout above Lake Shoji that offers one of the best unobstructed, panoramic views of the mountain.
Activities & Experiences
Climb Mount Fuji (during climbing season): Hike to the summit of Japan’s most sacred and iconic peak. The official climbing season is typically early July to early September, with four trails to choose from (Yoshida being the most popular).
Visit the Chureito Pagoda: Climb the 400 steps at Arakurayama Sengen Park for the iconic, postcard-perfect view of the five-story pagoda framing Mount Fuji, especially beautiful with cherry blossoms in spring or autumn leaves.
Take the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway: Ride the Kachi Kachi Ropeway from the eastern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko up Mount Tenjo for stunning, panoramic aerial views of the lake and the entire mountain.
Explore the Oshino Hakkai Ponds: Wander through this traditional village area to see the eight clear, spring-fed ponds formed from Mount Fuji’s snowmelt, offering incredible photo opportunities of the mountain reflected in the water.
Wander through the Aokigahara Forest and Lava Caves: Explore the dense “Sea of Trees” and venture into the Narusawa Ice Cave and Fugaku Wind Cave, natural formations created by ancient lava flows, where ice remains year-round.
Seek out “Reverse Fuji” at Lake Kawaguchiko: Visit the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko (or Oishi Park) on a calm morning to photograph the perfect reflection of Mount Fuji on the water’s surface.
Unwind in an Onsen (Hot Spring): Relax in a traditional Japanese hot spring, with many local ryokans (traditional inns) and resorts offering baths with incredible, direct views of Mount Fuji.
Visit the Mt. Fuji 5th Station: Take a bus or drive up the Fuji Subaru Line to the 5th Station (2,000 meters above sea level) to experience the mountain up close, shop, eat, and see views from the halfway point.
Experience the Thrills of Fuji-Q Highland: Spend a day at this popular amusement park known for its record-breaking roller coasters and attractions themed around anime and Mount Fuji.
Cycle or Kayak on the Lakes: Rent a bicycle to ride around the perimeter of Lake Kawaguchiko or Lake Yamanakako, or rent a kayak or SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard) on the clear waters of Lake Motosu or Lake Shoji.
Tour a Traditional Village: Explore Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, a restored village of thatched-roof houses (like an open-air museum) where you can experience traditional crafts and see Mount Fuji in a historical setting.
Local Tips & Transport
Public Transport is Tourist-Friendly: The main hub is Kawaguchiko Station. From here, the Omni Bus (Red, Green, and Blue lines) is the easiest way for visitors to access the main lakes and sights. Look for the Kawaguchiko/Saiko/Motosuko Bus Pass for unlimited rides over 1 or 2 days.
Regional Train Access: The Fujikyu Railway Line connects Kawaguchiko Station to Otsuki Station (where you can transfer to the JR line toward Tokyo). The Fujisan View Express train is a scenic option along this route.
Highway Bus from Tokyo: Direct highway buses from Tokyo (Shinjuku and Tokyo Stations) to Kawaguchiko Station are often the most convenient and cheapest option to reach the area. The journey is roughly two hours.
Renting a Car: A rental car offers the greatest flexibility to visit all five lakes and more remote spots like Lake Shoji and Lake Motosu, and to explore the smaller shrines. Be aware that private vehicle restrictions may be in place for the Fuji Subaru Line to the 5th Station during the summer climbing season.
Best Time for Viewing: Mount Fuji is famously shy. The best visibility is typically during the cold, dry months from November to February, when the air is clearest. Early morning is also generally better before clouds roll in.
Fuji-san’s Cultural Significance: Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is one of Japan’s Three Holy Mountains and has been an object of pilgrimage and worship for centuries. It’s considered a sacred home for kami (Shinto gods). Be respectful of the mountain and its environment.
Local Cuisine to Try: The region’s specialty is Hōtō Noodles, a thick wheat flour noodle stew with vegetables cooked in a miso-based soup, similar to a heavy, hearty udon. It’s perfect for a cool evening.
Climbing Season Caveats: If you plan to climb, the official season (early July to early September) is when mountain huts are open, trails are accessible, and rescue services are available. Climbing outside this window requires significant experience and preparation.
Hidden Gems & Photo Spots:
Lawson Convenience Store View: The Lawson store near Kawaguchiko Station has become famous for a picturesque view of Mt. Fuji looming directly behind it—a unique modern cultural photo spot.
Lake Motosu: This is the lake featured on the back of the 1,000-yen bill. Find the vantage point on its northwestern shore for the exact view.
Fujisan World Heritage Center (Yamanashi): A modern, informative museum and visitor center that offers context on the mountain’s history, geology, and cultural significance.
Double Diamond Fuji: A rare phenomenon where the sunrise or sunset perfectly aligns with the peak, and its reflection on the water creates a second “diamond.” It is only visible from certain spots on the lakes during specific times of the year.
Language: While major tourist areas will have some English signage and staff, the region is less bilingual than Tokyo or Kyoto. Learning a few Japanese phrases will be greatly appreciated by the locals.
Top Restaurants
Hoto Fudou (Multiple locations) [$10-$25] – The definitive spot to try the region’s signature dish, Houtou, a hearty miso-based soup with thick, flat noodles and pumpkin/vegetables. The Funatsu location has a unique, cloud-like architectural design.
Sanrokuen (Robata-yaki) [$25-$50] – A rustic and atmospheric dining experience in a 150-year-old traditional kominka (thatched-roof farmhouse), where you grill local meats and vegetables on skewers over a charcoal hearth at your table.
Mizuno [$15-$30] – Located in Fujiyoshida, this local favorite specializes in the area’s other famous noodle dish, Yoshida Udon, known for its thick, chewy noodles and horse meat or pork toppings, served with a spicy paste called suridane.
Amanoya Yamanakako [$10-$25] – A restaurant and cafe on the shore of Lake Yamanaka, run by a vegetable farmer, known for its dishes using local venison, farmer’s egg over rice, and a view of the lake. Great for a hearty breakfast or lunch.
Gomihachi (Yoshida Udon) [$5-$15] – A small, no-frills, highly authentic Yoshida Udon shop in Fujiyoshida, often frequented by locals for its extremely firm noodles and simple, delicious broth.
Tetsuyaki Restaurant [$20-$40] – A cozy restaurant near Kawaguchiko that serves traditional Japanese cuisine, with a focus on yakiniku (grilled meat) and a welcoming local atmosphere.
Unagi Kappou RIKI [$30-$60] – A long-standing, specialized restaurant near Lake Kawaguchi known for its high-quality Unagi (freshwater eel), often served grilled over rice (Unaju), a local delicacy.
Washoku Mendokoro Sagami [$15-$30] – A popular, reliable Japanese cuisine restaurant in the wider area, specializing in freshly ground, made, and boiled soba (buckwheat noodles).
Restaurant New Akaike [$15-$30] – Located at the Road Station Katsuyama, this spot is known for using local ingredients like wakasagi (smelt) from Lake Shojiko in traditional Japanese set meals.
HAKUMAI [$30-$60] – A refined Japanese restaurant in Fujiyoshida highlighting local ingredients, famous for its A5-grade Koshu Wagyu Beef Sukiyaki and steak seared over Mt. Fuji lava rocks, set in a traditional Japanese home atmosphere.
Tabemonoya-Shakko [$15-$30] – A charming, small restaurant in the Kawaguchiko area offering local, seasonal cuisine and set meals, often featuring fish and vegetables from the region.
Shoubu [$20-$40] – A traditional-style Japanese restaurant popular for its varied menu of set meals, including tempura, grilled fish, and local dishes, away from the main tourist strip.
Konami [$20-$35] – Highly recommended by locals near Hotel Konami, this restaurant is known for its Tempura + Hoto set, offering a great combination of the area’s specialties.
Okonomiyaki zoo [$15-$30] – Offers high-quality, authentic Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savory pancake) near the lake, providing a delicious and affordable meal popular with locals.
Yakiniku Bar Hide [$30-$60] – Located near Gekkoji Station, this Yakiniku (BBQ Beef) restaurant is known for its high-quality Koshu Beef, including Chateaubriand, and is a local favorite.
TRATTORIA LA MICHELINA [$30-$50] – A casual Italian restaurant in the Gotemba area where you can enjoy local ingredients crafted into delicious Italian dishes, often featuring local produce and wines.
Ristorante alanello [$40-$70] – Offers authentic Italian cuisine near Lake Kawaguchiko. Known for its warm dishes crafted from local ingredients and the chef’s skill, sometimes with a view of Mount Fuji.
La Luce [$30-$50] – A friendly Italian restaurant near Kawaguchiko Station, serving delicious pasta, pizza baked on lava stone plates, and dishes using locally-sourced, organic vegetables. Also known for its vegetarian/vegan options.
sumi [$40-$70] – A French restaurant nestled in the woods near Gotemba, featuring seasonal French cuisine made with local ingredients—perfect for a special occasion with a sophisticated flair.
Fenice [$50-$80] – A spacious Italian restaurant near Gotemba overlooking a garden, serving selected Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients from Shizuoka and Gotemba, paired with fine wines.
ENGAWA1441 [$25-$50] – An Izakaya and steak house near Kawaguchiko Station focusing on delicious meat, offering a modern atmosphere for a casual yet high-quality dinner or drink.
Wagyu Yakiniku Yoritomo [$35-$60] – A “hidden gem” Yakiniku restaurant in the corner of Lake Kawaguchi, valuing taste, quality, and a good atmosphere, focusing on high-quality Wagyu beef.
Sakigake Honten [$30-$50] – An atmospheric, traditional Kominka (old Japanese house) style Izakaya focused on seasonal, regional cuisine and over 50 selected local sake varieties from across Japan.
mieux restaurant [$40-$70] – A French restaurant in the Kawaguchiko area where you can fully enjoy Yamanashi ingredients in a cozy interior with a warm wooden atmosphere.
Ono [$30-$50] – A popular, modern-style Izakaya in the Kawaguchiko area offering a variety of creative small plates and local specialties, known for a lively but local crowd.
Kyo Kaiseki Ginmeisui [$70-$120] – Located in the Gotemba area, this restaurant offers exquisite kaiseki (traditional multi-course dinner) cuisine crafted with seasonal ingredients and expert techniques in a calming, high-quality space.
Azemichi [$80-$150] – A sophisticated Japanese restaurant in the wider region focusing on seasonal kaiseki, known for its delicate preparation and use of premium local and Japanese ingredients for a truly refined experience.
Shizu-Fugetsu [$60-$100] – A high-end Teppanyaki restaurant that often uses the famous local Koshu Beef and fresh seafood, providing an intimate dining experience with the chef cooking right in front of you.
Hana [$70-$120] – A specialized restaurant, possibly within a high-end ryokan (traditional inn), offering a meticulously prepared Kaiseki meal that celebrates the regional and seasonal flavors of Yamanashi and the Fuji area.
Wakamiya [$50-$90] – Known for premium Sukiyaki or Shabu-Shabu using local, high-quality beef (like Koshu Wagyu or Fuji Sakura Pork), served in a traditional and elegant setting.
Beef Cutlet Restaurant Kou Shu Ya [$15-$30] – Just a 4-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station, this unique specialty restaurant offers high-quality sirloin beef cutlets (Gyukatsu), deep-fried and served medium-rare, which you can grill further on a Fuji lava plate at your table.
Shaw’s Sushi Bar & Dining [$30-$60] – A stylish and modern sushi bar near Kawaguchiko Station, serving stunningly-presented sushi made with quality ingredients, including creative rolls and sets.
Fuji Tempura Idaten [$15-$30] – While popular, it is highly rated for its fresh, reasonably priced tempura, including sets with seasonal vegetables. Their Fujisan Tendon (tempura bowl shaped like Mt. Fuji) is a fun and worthwhile local specialty.
Nagomi Yamanakako [$15-$30] – Located near Lake Yamanaka, this restaurant is known for its Sukiyaki and Pork Shabu-Shabu, but its unique offering is the “Nagomi Original Mt. Fuji Phantom Pork Hōtō,” a creative spin on the local noodle dish.
Ganges Gawa Kawaguchiko Ten [$10-$25] – Offers authentic Indian and Nepalese cuisine with a focus on a variety of curries. A great, non-Japanese option that is highly-rated and budget-friendly.
Sankai Kyo (Fujiyoshida) [$20-$40] – A local dining spot in Fujiyoshida known for its varied menu, including local specialties and general Japanese cuisine, providing a great taste of everyday local dining.
Yakiniku Izakaya 871 [$20-$40] – A spacious Yakiniku restaurant located at an elevation of 871 meters, offering local Yamanashi ingredients like Koshu beef and Fuji Sakura Pork, with semi-private seating and lunch sets.
So Park Godere Beer Garden [$30-$50] – Located near Lake Yamanaka, this spot is perfect for enjoying BBQ with A5 Wagyu and local vegetables outdoors, with a view of Mt. Fuji at about 700m elevation.
Mt. Fuji Base’s Lava Dog [$5-$15] – Across from Kawaguchiko Station, this bar/mountain lodge during the day sells the unique “Lava Dog,” a hot dog in a black bun (colored with bamboo charcoal) to resemble hot lava. Great for a quick, unique snack.
Kawaguchiko Station Udon [$5-$15] – Located inside the station, a highly convenient and popular spot to try Yoshida Udon, including the local standard horse meat udon, known for its firm, chewy texture.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
BAR NORTH FUJI: Located in Fujiyoshida, this is a unique establishment known as the only bar in the Fuji Five Lakes area where you can enjoy shisha (hookah). It offers a relaxed atmosphere with various seating options and a selection of cocktails perfect for a chill evening.
Moon Dance: Nestled atop a hotel near Lake Kawaguchi, this bar is a must-visit for its breathtaking views of the lake, offering a refined spot to unwind after a day of exploring the picturesque surroundings of Fujikawaguchiko.
Shaw’s Sushi Bar & Dining: Found in Fujikawaguchiko, this spot offers a dual experience: authentic sushi dining paired with a selection of drinks. It’s known for its high quality and is one of the few restaurants open late at night in the area.
Dot Hostel & Bar: Located in the heart of Fujikawaguchiko, this bar provides a lively and welcoming atmosphere and is a popular social hub, especially for travelers staying at the hostel or nearby.
TOCORO. BAR＆DINING: Situated in Fujikawaguchiko, this establishment offers a cozy ambiance and a fusion of flavors, serving as a comfortable spot for food and drinks.
New York (Bar): An energetic spot in Fujikawaguchiko, this bar is known for its exceptional cocktails and a lively atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy the local nightlife.
Authors: Discover the charm of this bar in Fujikawaguchiko, where you can find local flavors and a cozy atmosphere, often coupled with stunning views of the surrounding nature depending on its specific location.
High Spirits: Known as a top-rated bar in Fujikawaguchiko-machi, it is a recommended place for those looking for quality drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
BROS BAR Kool: A unique bar in Fujinomiya with a distinctive retro vibe, conveniently located near the Sengen Taisha shrine. It offers a welcoming pub atmosphere and pleasant cocktails, along with local delicacies like Shizuoka oden.
Darts Cafe&Bar CIEL: Situated in Fujikawaguchiko, this bar offers a vibrant nightlife experience where patrons can enjoy darts and drinks, creating a fun and interactive night out.
ＢａｒＤｅｅｐ: Located in Fujinomiya, this spot is recommended for tourists to enjoy local drinks and great company in a lively bar setting.
BAR Lyric: Found in Fujinomiya, this is the ultimate spot for a lively karaoke experience, perfect for fun, music, and laughter with friends.
K-chup: A vibrant bar in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, offering unique cocktails and a lively atmosphere for unwinding after exploring the region.
JeWeL: A cozy pub in Fujinomiya where patrons can enjoy local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel & Bar: Though primarily a hostel, its bar often serves as a welcoming and social spot for guests and non-guests alike in the Fujikawaguchiko area.