Mount Fuji is a must-visit destination when in Japan, but while many people choose to base themselves in Hakone for views of the mountain, this isn’t the only option. The Fuji Five Lakes region consists of five lakes surrounding Mount Fuji. Lake Kawaguchiko is the most accessible of the five because it has direct bus and train connections from Tokyo. The resort town of Fujikawaguchiko on Lake Kawaguchi is a fantastic spot to spend a couple of days, taking in the epic views of Mount Fuji in all seasons.
10 Rent Bicycles
Besides Mount Fuji, one of the main attractions in Fujikawaguchiko is Lake Kawaguchi. The best way to explore the area and get beautiful views of the town and the water is to rent a bicycle and ride around the streets, over the bridge, and the parks throughout the town. Fujisanbike and Rental Cycle Buu-san are two of the top reviewed shops for bicycle rental in the town.
9 See The Lake Via Pedal Boat
Another great way to see the lake while staying in Fujikawaguchiko is to rent a pedal boat from one of the vendors along the shore of Lake Kawaguchi. Many of the boats for rent are animal-themed, including whale-shaped and panda-shaped pedal boats. The boats can accommodate two people and cost roughly $20 for a half hour. The peaceful journey out onto the water and epic views of Mount Fuji are some of the best in Japan.
8 Lake Kawaguchiko Mt. Tenjō Ropeway
The Mt. Tenjo Panoramic Ropeway is an exhilarating experience that offers unforgettable views of Japan’s tallest peak. The ropeway line was built in 1959 and takes visitors over Mt. Tenjo from the shores of Lake Kawaguchi; as the cable car ascends, travelers can see Fuji in the distance.
7 See Mount Fuji From The Chureito Pagoda
Chureito Pagoda is perhaps the most iconic site to visit in Fujikawaguchiko. Most travelers have seen the photos of this five-storied pagoda on Instagram, with Mount Fuji in the background, the pagoda in the foreground, and cherry blossoms blooming. The pagoda was built in 1963, and visitors must climb nearly 400 steps to reach the pagoda from Fujiyoshida, a small town near Lake Kawaguchiko. Coming here for sunrise or sunset is sure to offer the best lighting for photos of this iconic location.
6 Stay At La Vista Fujikawaguchiko
If travelers are looking to splurge on accommodation in one destination while in Japan, Fujikawaguchiko is the place to do it. A beautiful hotel is La Vista which provides a view of the lake and Mount Fuji. The hotel is upscale, with beautifully decorated rooms, an all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, and free ramen noodles served in the dining hall each evening after 10:00 pm. The hotel also has private onsens for soaking and relaxation. Many of the rooms also have a private onsen on the balcony overlooking Mount Fuji.
5 Try The Local Cuisine
Each region of Japan has some unique dishes specific to that area, and Fuji Five Lakes is no exception. While in Fujikawaguchiko, travelers must make an effort to try some hoto noodles. This dish is local to Yamanashi Prefecture. It’s a miso-based noodle soup dish also containing vegetables and meat, typically sliced pork loin. The hearty flat udon noodles in hoto make for a filling, satisfying meal.
4 Climb Mount Fuji
Adventurous travelers visiting Fujikawaguchiko may choose to climb Mount Fuji if they are visiting during the summer months. The climbing season is exclusively from early July to early September annually; the rest of the year, the risk of snow on the mountain is too high, and climbing is strictly prohibited. Travelers can climb Fuji via the Yoshida trail, which is easily accessible from the JR Kawaguchiko train station.
3 Relax At Oishi Park
After a busy day of exploring Fujikawaguchiko by bicycle or climbing up to Chureito Pagoda, there’s nothing better than relaxing beside Lake Kawaguchi at Oishi Park. There is no admission fee to enjoy the park, so for travelers on a budget, this is a fun and free way to spend an afternoon or evening. The park features idyllic lavender fields, a kids' playground, and gorgeous views of the lake.
2 Tour Ide Sake Brewery
Ide Sake Brewery has been in business for 21 years and is unique because it uses spring water directly from Mount Fuji in its sake brewing practices. There are two tours of the brewery each day, one at 9:30 am and one at 3:00 pm. Tours cost approximately 500 Japanese Yen, and reservations can be made in advance to guarantee a tour slot is available.
1 Visit Fuji 5th Station
Climbing Mount Fuji isn’t feasible for all travelers, whether it’s due to time constraints, seasonal restrictions, or physical limitations. However, when climbing the mountain itself isn’t an option, it’s still possible to visit Fuji Subaru 5th Station partway up the mountain. The station is located at 2300 meters above sea level and offers scenic viewpoints of Lake Kawaguchi and the Fuji Five Lakes area below in all seasons.