Fuji Five Lakes
Mirror Reflections of Japan's Sacred Mountain
The Fuji Five Lakes region was formed by volcanic activity from Mt. Fuji over thousands of years. The lakes - Kawaguchiko, Yamanakako, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko - were created when lava flows blocked river valleys and formed natural dams. The area has been celebrated in Japanese art and literature for centuries, with Lake Kawaguchi's iconic 'reverse Mt. Fuji' reflection appearing in numerous ukiyo-e woodblock prints by Hokusai and Hiroshige.
During the Edo period, the lakes became popular pilgrimage rest stops for those climbing Mt. Fuji. The region remained relatively remote until the early 20th century when railway connections transformed it into a resort destination for Tokyo residents seeking mountain air and natural beauty. The iconic Chureito Pagoda, built in 1963 as a peace memorial, has become one of Japan's most photographed viewpoints, combining Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms, and traditional architecture.
Today, the Fuji Five Lakes area serves as both a gateway to Mt. Fuji climbing and a year-round resort destination. Lake Kawaguchi is the most developed and accessible, offering museums, hot springs, and tourist facilities. The area provides some of the best and most reliable views of Mt. Fuji, particularly in winter when the mountain is frequently visible. The region was included in Mt. Fuji's 2013 UNESCO World Heritage designation as part of the cultural landscape.
Key Highlights
- Five scenic lakes with spectacular Mt. Fuji views
- Famous 'reverse Mt. Fuji' reflections in calm water
- Chureito Pagoda - iconic cherry blossom viewpoint
- Year-round outdoor activities: hiking, fishing, watersports
- Onsen resorts and luxury hotels with mountain views
- Part of Mt. Fuji UNESCO World Heritage area
Access Information
Location
Fuji Five Lakes, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Kawaguchiko Station (Fujikyuko Line - main hub)
- • Fujisan Station (Fujikyuko Line)
Opening Hours
Area: 24 hours | Individual attractions vary | Museums typically 9:00-17:00
Admission Fee
Area: Free | Individual attractions: ¥500-1,500 | Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway: ¥900 round trip
How to Get There
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
JR Limited Express Fuji Excursion directly to Kawaguchiko Station
2 hours
From Tokyo (Shinjuku)
Highway bus directly to Kawaguchiko Station (most convenient)
1 hour 50 minutes
From Tokyo
JR Chuo Line to Otsuki, transfer to Fujikyuko Line to Kawaguchiko
2.5 hours
From Kyoto/Osaka
Shinkansen to Mishima, then bus to Kawaguchiko
4-5 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Winter Offers Best Mt. Fuji Visibility
Mt. Fuji is visible most often from November to March, with December-February offering the clearest views (60-80% visibility). Summer months see Fuji frequently obscured by clouds. Check webcams before visiting. Early morning typically provides the clearest views before clouds develop.
Top Photography Spots
Chureito Pagoda (cherry blossoms + Mt. Fuji, 400 steps), Lake Kawaguchi north shore (mirror reflections), Oishi Park (lavender and flowers with Mt. Fuji), Lake Motosuko (featured on ¥1,000 bill), and Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway observatory (panoramic views).
Lake Kawaguchi is the Best Base
Lake Kawaguchi offers the most hotels, restaurants, tourist facilities, and transportation connections. It's the ideal base for exploring the area. Retro buses (Red Line, Green Line) connect major attractions around the lake. Consider a 2-day pass (¥1,500) for unlimited bus travel.
Seasonal Highlights
Cherry blossoms (mid-April at Chureito Pagoda), Shibazakura Festival (May - pink moss phlox fields), lavender (June-July at Oishi Park), autumn foliage (November), Winter Fireworks Festival (January-February). Each season offers unique photo opportunities with Mt. Fuji.
Relax at Onsen with Mt. Fuji Views
Many ryokan and hotels offer onsen baths with Mt. Fuji views. Day-use onsen available at hotels like Fuji Ryokan (¥1,000-2,000). Fujiyama Onsen has panoramic baths. The combination of hot springs and mountain vistas is unforgettable, especially at sunset.
Outdoor Activities Year-Round
Summer: hiking, cycling, fishing, paddleboarding, camping. Winter: ice fishing (Lake Yamanaka), snow activities, illuminations. The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway (¥900) offers easy access to Mt. Tenjo's observation deck with 360° views of the lakes and Mt. Fuji.
Try Hoto Noodles and Local Specialties
Hoto (thick wheat noodles in miso soup with vegetables) is the regional specialty - hearty and perfect after outdoor activities. Also try Yoshida udon and local lake fish. Many restaurants offer Mt. Fuji views. Budget ¥1,200-2,000 per meal.
Consider Staying Overnight
While possible as a day trip from Tokyo (2 hours each way), staying overnight allows you to catch sunrise over Mt. Fuji and avoid rushing. Many beautiful lakeside ryokan and hotels available (¥8,000-30,000 per person with meals). Book early for cherry blossom and autumn seasons.
FAQ
How long do I need to see all five lakes?
A full day minimum by car, two days for thorough exploration. By public transport, focus on 2-3 lakes per day. Lake Kawaguchi alone deserves half a day.
Which lake has the best Mt. Fuji views?
Lake Kawaguchi offers the most accessible views with many vantage points. Lake Motosu features the view on the ¥1000 note. Lake Yamanaka is largest with good sunrise views.
When is the best time to see Mt. Fuji?
Early morning has clearest views year-round. Winter offers best visibility but cold weather. Avoid July-August when Fuji often hides behind clouds. Check webcams before visiting.
Can I swim in the lakes?
Lake Yamanaka and Lake Motosu have designated swimming areas in summer. Water is cold even in summer. Most visitors prefer boating or lakeside activities to swimming.
Is it better to drive or use public transport?
Driving offers flexibility to visit all lakes efficiently. Public transport works but requires careful planning. The retro bus around Lake Kawaguchi is convenient for that area.
What activities are available?
Boating, cycling, fishing, camping, and hiking. Cable cars and ropeways offer panoramic views. Museums, hot springs, and amusement parks provide variety beyond nature viewing.
Where should I stay overnight?
Lake Kawaguchi has most accommodation options from luxury resorts to budget hotels. Lake Yamanaka is good for a quieter stay. Book early during peak seasons.
Are the lakes crowded?
Lake Kawaguchi is busiest, especially on weekends. Lakes Shoji and Motosu are quieter. Autumn foliage and summer holidays see peak crowds. Weekdays are more peaceful.
Can I see autumn colors here?
Yes, the Momiji Corridor near Lake Kawaguchi is spectacular in November. The maple tunnel creates stunning photos with Mt. Fuji backdrop. Expect significant crowds during peak colors.
What unique experiences shouldn't I miss?
Climb Mt. Fuji viewing platforms, visit ice caves, experience Fuji-Q Highland if you like roller coasters, and try local hoto noodles. Consider a lake cruise for different perspectives.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Mt. Fuji
Japan's highest and most iconic mountain, a sacred symbol of the nation and a UNESCO World Heritage site standing at 3,776 meters.
Oshino Hakkai
Eight crystal-clear spring-fed ponds formed by Mount Fuji's snowmelt, filtered through volcanic rock for decades. This picturesque village offers traditional thatched-roof houses and some of Japan's purest spring water with Mount Fuji as the backdrop.