kawaguchiko travel guide

Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko (�͌��) is the most easily accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes with train and direct bus connections to Tokyo . A hot spring resort town with various tourist attractions and views of Mount Fuji is located around the lake's eastern end, while the northern and western shores are mostly undeveloped.

The best views of Mount Fuji can be enjoyed from the lake's northern shores and are particularly breathtaking during the cherry blossom season around mid April and the autumn colors around the first half of November. One of the nicest spots for cherry blossoms is the seaside promenade near the Kawaguchiko Music Forest , while photographers will enjoy the "Momiji Tunnel" for autumn colors, a maple tree-covered road section further west.

Be warned that even though Kawaguchiko is located right at the base of Mount Fuji , the mountain is not always visible because of clouds. Visibility tends to be best in the early mornings (usually before 9am) and in the late afternoons, while clouds often obstruct the view during daytime even on days with fair weather, and especially during the hazy summer.

Among the wide range of tourist attractions available around Lake Kawaguchiko are hot spring baths , museums , the Fuji Q amusement park , boat tours and a ropeway leading up a small mountain. Kawaguchiko is also a good base for climbing Mount Fuji , although most people start their ascent from Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station halfway up the mountain these days.

Below is a list of some of the tourist attractions around Lake Kawaguchiko:

Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Kubota Itchiku Museum

Kawaguchiko Museum of Art

Kawaguchiko Music Forest

Yamanashi Gem Museum

Hot spring baths

Hotel Mifujien

Kaiun no Yu

Getting there and around.

Kawaguchiko Station is the terminal station of the Fujikyu Railway from Otsuki. The bus terminal for local buses and highway buses to/from Tokyo , Kofu , Gotemba and other destinations is located just in front of the station.

From Kawaguchiko Station, the Omni Bus lines provide tourists with local transportation around Lake Kawaguchiko and neighboring Lake Saiko : the Red Line (or Kawaguchiko Line) operates along Lake Kawaguchi's eastern and northern shores, while the Green Line (or Saiko Line) operates along Lake Kawaguchiko's southern shore before continuing to Lake Saiko .

How to get to and around the Fuji Five Lakes

Questions? Ask in our forum .

Links and Resources

Kawaguchiko herb hall, hotels around fuji five lakes.

Experiences around Fuji Five Lakes

Kawaguchiko: Full Guide, Sample Itineraries & Things to Do

Our family frequents the surrounding areas of Mt. Fuji, especially Kawaguchiko — our favorite day trip with our daughter. I just can’t get over how lucky the locals in this area are… snow-capped Fuji-san, beautiful breathtaking views, great food ( houtou noodles is our absolute favorite!), and the people are always nice.

In fact, they’re so nice, I’ve actually lost count of how often the locals have given our daughter gifts just because they find her adorable. All of these things combine to make an ideal location, and one we hope to call home someday in the future. Because of how often we visit the areas around Mt. Fuji, we keep this as sort of a living article, which we update as we find something new and interesting in the area.

Understanding Mt. Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes

The main sightseeing attractions and in this itinerary guide are in the town of Fujikawaguchiko –the nearest town to Mt. Fuji that is easy to access on a day trip. The TOP tourist attraction here is Kawaguchiko or Lake Kawaguchi, the second-largest lake of the Fuji Five Lakes (or Fujigoko as the Japanese call it).

Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)

The lakes of the Fuji Five Lakes are as follows:

Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko)
Lake Sai (Saiko)
Lake Shoji (Shojiko)
Lake Motosu (read our Lake Motosu camping guide ) Lake Yamanaka (read our Lake Yamanaka itinerary and things to do)

‘ko’ means lake in Japanese.

Lake Motosu and Lake Yamanaka, however, are not part of Fujikawaguchiko town. The Fuji Five Lakes were formed when Mt. Fuji erupted during the ancient times. From the (literal) ashes of such an awesome destructive force, these lakes have all become fantastic tourist attractions, an inspiration for artists , poets, and philosophers alike, and some top-notch fishing spots.

Kawaguchiko and Saiko

Private Mt Fuji Kawaguchiko and Gotemba Tour

Of these lakes — Kawaguchi and Sai — are the most easily accessible by bus due to the bus frequency from Kawaguchiko Station.

Of the two lakes, Kawaguchiko is the most popular due to the area being better developed, as well as offering many experiences for tourists. Motosuko, Shojiko, and Yamanakako can also be accessed, but buses only run to each lake once every 1-3 hours!

Of course, there are more attractions and things to do around the area such as camping in Lake Motosu , fishing in Lake Shoji, kayaking, visiting the Shiraito Falls, Oshino Hakkai, the peaceful Kitaguchi-Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, and others.

But those merit separate posts as they are complicated to access. So in this guide, we will concentrate ONLY on the two popular and easy to access lakes– Kawaguchiko and Saiko .

Kawaguchiko or Hakone: Which is worth visiting?

Kawaguchiko is the BETTER option of the two because of the view of Mt. Fuji is EVERYWHERE in the area. And in terms of great Mt. Fuji views, Kawaguchiko is the very first place that should spring to mind, not Hakone, as the visibility of Mt. Fuji from Hakone is often poor because it’s a fog-prone area.

The food in Kawaguchiko is also much better (and cheaper), not to mention having the amazing hoto noodles ! Some of the best tempura I’ve ever had in my life is also in Kawaguchiko (more on that later), and there are many local restaurants and shops there that can only be found there.

This isn’t to say Hakone is bad, it’s actually a very nice town with many unique attractions and has many popular ryokans with private onsens. Hakone, as we’ve found, is loved by locals as an onsen getaway, but not really for sightseeing Mt. Fuji.

How to get to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo

The highway bus is the CHEAPEST and FASTEST option to get to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo. And if you have a JR Pass , the highway bus is still the cheapest and fastest option for you.

From Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station it costs around ¥2,000 per adult, with a travel time of about 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. I recommend that you take the earliest bus from Shinjuku, at 6:05 a.m., as the chances of seeing Mt. Fuji in the early morning light is highly likely.

Here are other options to get to Kawaguchiko Station from Tokyo .

Ways to get around Kawaguchiko

Biking is the best way to explore the entirety of Lake Kawaguchiko as the sightseeing buses always get caught in traffic.

In fact, biking is actually the faster approach if only have a day in Kawaguchiko, since you won’t need to wait at bus stops.

You can rent a bike for a whole day, with prices starting at ¥1,800-¥2,000, and there are many bike rental shops outside the Kawaguchiko Station.

2. By Sightseeing Bus

The Sightseeing Bus bound for Lake Kawaguchi and attractions nearby runs every 15 minutes, while the Sightseeing Bus bound for Lake Sai runs every 30 minutes.

These sightseeing buses are also known as Sightseeing Retro Buses because of their, you guessed it, retro design .

Be aware that during peak season (autumn and spring), you’ll experience MASSIVE delays in the bus schedule because of traffic, which can really SLOW DOWN your itinerary.

If you choose to do this option, I highly recommend that you make your trip overnight (2 days) and get the Unlimited 2-Day Ride Pass . You can get the Unlimited Ride Pass at the visitor’s center of Kawaguchiko Station. Check out our recommended accommodations in Kawaguchiko .

Which is better, join a day tour or on your own?

I get this question a lot from my friends who visit me in Japan and want to see Mt Fuji up-close. This is my answer to them:

Join a charter day trip tour if you want to save time and money, and aren’t looking to stay overnight.

It is also the perfect option for solo travelers, families, or large groups. Another advantage of joining a day trip tour is that you also get to visit other areas near Mt. Fuji but are outside of the Kawaguchiko and other Fuji Five Lakes.

Heck, you might not even need to read this article since you are accompanied by a professional tour guide! If you’re in a large group, say, 6-8 people, it’ll definitely be cheaper to just → book a Private Mt. Fuji tour and divide the costs among you.

Some private tour guides can also act as your personal photographer! You can also customize your tour and even go to tucked-away destinations around Mt. Fuji that are not easily accessible by public transport.

LOOKING FOR AN ORGANIZED MT.FUJI TOUR? → Click for best bus tours to Mt. Fuji → Click for private chartered tours to Mt. Fuji (recommended for groups of 6-8 people!)

What about self-driving?

If you can, driving around the areas of Mt. Fuji is the best way to explore as you can explore at your own pace. In fact, this is what we do every time we visit.

If you’re looking to rent a vehicle, then we recommend → Web-Rentacar by White Bear Family Co., Ltd . (Japan-based). We’ve used them a number of times before, and their prices are pretty hard to beat!

If you do decide to drive, we’ll have suggested itineraries for you later. It should go without saying, but there’s no need to buy the Unlimited Ride Pass with this option.

The main advantage of driving in these areas is that parking is free everywhere in the Fujikawaguchiko area, and you don’t need to worry about relying on the buses. We have prepared an itinerary for you below to make the most out of your Mt. Fuji experience!

If you plan to rent a car and you’re not comfortable driving from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko , we recommend that you take a bus and rent the car in Kawaguchiko. You have to make sure that you book in advance online. We have not experienced walking into rental car agencies in Japan, but we’ve never had any trouble reserving a car online.

Please note that unlike the American rental companies, the Japanese tend to be strict on the pick-up and drop off times, and will absolutely charge you.

Know before you go

1. Weather. Mt. Fuji is very dependent on the weather. Cloudy days, obviously, completely obscure your view. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned about climbing Fuji-san , it’s that the skies always seem to be clear and beautiful…on the days you’re not climbing. So the good news is, if you visit outside of the climbing season, you should have many splendid views of the mountain. Unless you visit during the rainy season.

2. Best time to see Mt. Fuji. After years of living in Japan and living in a house that actually had a view of Mt. Fuji, we’ve found that November to February offers the best visibility of Mt. Fuji (and its famous snow cap!) You can still definitely visit year-round, it’s just that you have to time your visit on the sunniest and clearest weather forecast possible.

3. Carry cash . Unlike the cities in Tokyo, most of the small shops and restaurants you’re likely to encounter around Kawaguchiko and Saiko don’t accept credit cards. So make sure you have enough yen before you go sightseeing.

Our Suggested Mount Fuji & Kawaguchiko Itineraries

So you want to do it on your own? Awesome! First off, remember to check the weather forecast for the days you’ll be visiting (if possible).

We admit that it’s a huge DOWNER when Mt. Fuji is not visible. But don’t let that discourage you from visiting! The chances it will be like that if you stay multiple days are slim. Make sure to BOOK your accommodation in Kawaguchiko well in advance.

→ Click to see our recommended accommodations in Kawaguchiko with great views of Mount Fuji .

Here are our Mt. Fuji & Kawaguchiko itineraries that you can copy from Tokyo:

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Saiko

Day 1: Take the early morning bus from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station . Upon arrival in Kawaguchiko Station, get the Unlimited 2-Day Ride Pass at the visitor’s center, then hop on the Red-Line (Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus).

Your first stop is the Natural Living Center . Explore the Natural Living Center, the Oishi Park is just outside and offers one of the best panoramic views of Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi.

Next, hop on the Red-Line bound for Kawaguchiko Station as your next stop will be the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum . Pay the entrance fee of ¥1,300 and explore the museum’s entirety!

Once done, why not have some lunch? Try houtou noodles , a popular delicious regional dish from Yamanashi! From Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, walk to Momiji-tei Restaurant and order their beef houtou . You’ll not be disappointed.

After the big lunch, you have the option of exploring this area. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum and Konohana Museum are just around the corner. Just choose one or just keep exploring.

Mt. Fuji is actually very visible from this area. The best spot to take photos here is the North Coast trail , which is just behind the Konohana Museum . Admire Mt. Fuji there, and why not have a cup of coffee?

After that, go to the nearest Red-Line bus stop and, if you still have time, go to the Sightseeing Boat/Ropeway Ent. bus stop for the Kachi Kachi Ropeway and ride the cable car going up to Tenjoyama Park , which offers not just another beautiful view of Mt. Fuji, but the town and surrounding mountains as well.

Afterward, depending on where you booked your hotel (which should be just around Kawaguchiko Station), check-in.

Day 2: Eat your breakfast and check out of your hotel. Take the Green-Line Saiko Sightseeing Bus. Your first stop should be the Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato .

Take your time exploring Iyashi-no-Sato, you could easily spend half the day here relaxing while viewing Mt. Fuji. They have samurai costumes to rent during your time here as well.

Next, go back to the bus stop and take the Green-Line again for Kawaguchiko Station. Your next stop is Yagisaki Park , which, depending on the time of year you visit, can be filled with flowers and herbs.

During peak season, you’ll find many food stalls here serving ice cream, dango, and other sweet Japanese street food. Small coffee shops are also scattered around the area. We personally love Milky Way and Cisco Coffee !

After relaxing, hop on the Green-Line bus and head back to Kawaguchiko Station, then back to Tokyo.

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Aokigahara

Pre-booking requirements:

2-hour Explore Aokigahara Forest with a Nature guide , book the earliest time if possible. ( This tour must be booked 2 days in advance!

Day 1: Do Day 1 of Itinerary #1.

Day 2: Breakfast and check out. Hop the Green-Line bus and go to Fugaku Fuketsu bus stop to meet up with your nature guide for the beautiful Aokigahara forest exploration.

Afterward, you are free to go explore the rest of your day, you can either visit the Iyashi-no-Sato healing village or head straight to Yagisaki park (see Day 2 of Itinerary #1 for ideas). Head back to Tokyo.

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Fuji-Q Highlands

Day 1: No need to buy the 2-Day Unlimited Pass! Explore Lake Kawaguchi by bike! There are many bike rental shops around Kawaguchiko Station.

Rent a bike for the whole day (usually ¥1,500-2,000 per day) and follow the Day 1 of Itinerary #1.

Don’t forget to grab a map from the shop for the dedicated bike route to the attractions mentioned on the Itinerary 1.

Day 2: From Kawaguchiko Station, take a bus to Fuji-Q Highlands and spend the day riding some of the world’s top roller coasters! There’s plenty more to see and do between rides, so be sure to explore as you go.

When you’ve gotten your fill, head back to Tokyo.

NOTE: For those of you able to spend the 3rd day here, consider relaxing in the nearby Fujiyama Onsen after your day in the Fuji-Q!

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Arakurayama Sengen Park

Day 1: Do Day 1 of Itinerary #3.

Day 2: Take the train from Kawaguchiko Station to Shimoyoshida Station and walk to Arakurayama Sengen Park .

Do some warm-up stretches as you’ll be climbing nearly 400 steps to see the beautiful Chureito Pagoda on top, which offers a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji and the entire town of Fujikawaguchiko and Fujiyoshida City.

When you’re ready, head back to Tokyo.

1-Day Kawaguchiko (by bike only)

Just follow the Day 1 of Itinerary #3–explore Lake Kawaguchiko by bike!

Top things to do around Mt. Fuji’s Kawaguchiko & Saiko

1. sightseeing retro bus.

If you’re doing this trip on your own, again, I highly recommend that you stay overnight, ideally near Kawaguchiko Station as the bus starts there.

The Unlimited 2-Day Ride Pass is ¥1,500 . You just have to show the pass to the bus driver when boarding and exiting the Retro Buses. There are two bus lines that take you to the tourist spots around the area.

First is the Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus or the “Red-Line” which will bring you to areas around Lake Kawaguchiko. The second one is the Saiko Sightseeing Bus or the “Green-Line” which will bring you to areas around Lake Saiko.

2. Tenjō-Yama Park Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway (also known as Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway)

Hiking Mt Tenjo in Lake Kawaguchi - on top of Mt tenjo

Probably the most popular attraction within this little town, the ropeway provides you with easy access to the top of Mt. Tenjo and gives you a great view overlooking the lake and town with the many mountains surrounding it all.

While you can take the cable car to the top, you also have the option of hiking up the mountain, although it’s a deceptively difficult trail…if you’re carrying a child on your shoulders.

The only real drawback to hiking up is finding the actual entrance to the trail is a bit of a hassle. It honestly took us about an hour to finally find it because, like many hiking trails in Japan, it’s sort of in a weird place, and makes you feel like you’re trespassing at the start.

At the top, there is a small souvenir and snack shop, along with a few trails leading to better views, and other mountains.

We suggest hiking up and riding down the ropeway cable care if you’re feeling up to it, or vice versa. Riding both ways simply robs you of some of the best views of Fuji you’re likely to find, as well as robbing you of an excuse to eat one of the tasty treats found at the top!

3. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

The buildings inside the Music Forest Museum remind me of a European fairy tale setting, with somewhat exaggerated buildings, and lots of pink paint.

The whole “forest” itself is built to resemble a town square of sorts, with a central fountain. So if you’re expecting a walk through a nature trail, it’s not like that. There are two buildings with things to do or see inside, and all the others are some form of a souvenir store. The whole area is handicap and stroller accessible.

The only thing we don’t like about this place is the admission ticket price — ¥1,500 per person. But there are 2 ways to get some discounted tickets for the music forest for about ¥300 off:

By printing the web coupon screen from their website or;
By reserving in advance through their website and paying through PayPal.

4. Konohana Museum

Home of Dayan the Cat, the Konohana museum is a fantastical stylized architecture, reminiscent of the Ghibli Museum . Containing the works of Akiko Ikeda, it was built to look like the Tachiel Enit Museum in the fictional Tachiel City, and is as much a part of the artwork as the pieces it houses.

Wachifield is the fictional world created by Ikeda-san, and the love and care that went into making this museum feel as authentic as possible can be felt as you wander its halls. Pictures, sculptures, and dynamic dioramas can all be found inside.

And while the exhibit itself is rather small, that makes it easy to fit into most itineraries!

5. Kawaguchiko North Coast Walking Trail

The North Coast Walking Trail is just a 7-minute walk from the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum and located behind the Konohana Museum. This short trail offers a 180-degree view of Mt. Fuji and is a place that many tourists are unaware of.

We saw many restaurants as we walked the trail, mostly Italian restaurants (there is a strong European influence here), cafe shops, and dessert shops. But we didn’t dare to try one. They were expensive!

It seemed to me that you are mostly paying for the comfortable seats and view, rather than the quality of the food that you order. So I suggest just enjoying the view and skipping the restaurants, maybe bring a boxed lunch, or just eat at one of the much better options elsewhere.

6. Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Itchiku Kubota is actually my favorite museum in Kawaguchiko. The museum lies inside a paradise-like forest with breathtaking views of the calm lake of Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji. It’s the most fascinating museum I’m ever seen.

It’s because the building is made up of Okinawan corals and limestones, and the foundation of the main gallery building is made from Hiba trees that are more than 1,000 years old. With an entrance fee of ¥1,300 , we were able to learn about the life of Itchiku Kubota and his fascinating artwork “ Tsujigahana. ”

Tsujigahana is a technique of dying kimonos which was prevalent around the period of the 13th to 15th century, or Muromachi Period, and became mostly extinct during the 16th to 17th centuries.

Kubota was 14 when he became a kimono artist. However, when he saw a 350-year old silk fragment, which was a remnant of Tsujigahana in Tokyo National Museum, he became fascinated and devoted his life to reviving it.

Several years after, Kubota was captured by the Soviets and was imprisoned in Siberia during World War II. When he was released, he studied the tsujigahana technique. But, because no instructions survived explaining how to reproduce it, Kubota was forced to experiment on his own for decades. Eventually, Kubota was not only able to reproduce it, but also modernized it.

He had his first exhibition in 1977 at the age of 60, and his works quickly went abroad and received various awards due to their uniqueness and superb quality. I would really recommend visiting this museum when you travel to Kawaguchiko and allow yourself to be inspired by Itchiku Kubota.

When you really want something to happen, the whole world conspires to help you achieve it. ― Paolo Coelho

Seeing his art really left me in awe, and I’m sure it’ll have a similar effect on you.

7. Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center and Oishi Park

Located on the opposite side of the lake from Yagisaki Park, Oishi Park also takes part in the annual herb festival, and the Natural Living Center acts as a sort of a gift shop for buying herbs and blueberries.

Oishi park is also famous for its Kochia plants, which bloom in early autumn. You really can’t go wrong with either park, so why not just spend some time in both?

8. Yagisaki Park

Located along the southern coast of Kawaguchiko, Yagisaki park offers both an incredibly peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, as well as an absolutely gorgeous view of Fuji-san and the surrounding mountains.

I suggest planning your visit to the park between June and July, as the park holds the annual Lake Kawaguchi Herb Festival during that time. The plants will be in full bloom and the entire area will be filled with vendors selling delicious treats and souvenirs.

There is also a popular art museum called Muse-kan (Muse Museum) in the park, which displays the work of Yuki Atae, a famous doll-maker in Japan. There are approximately 90 dolls on display within the museum and are rotated twice a year. There’s also a cafe and gift shop within as well.

9. Saiko Iyashi-No-Sato Nenba (Healing Village)

Located near Saiko, Iyashi No Sato Nenba is an open-air museum that features thatched roofed houses that are similar to the historic village of Shirakawa-Go in Gifu Prefecture. These thatch-roof houses were originally built by farmers for raising silkworms back in Showa Period (1926-1989).

A typhoon in 1966 actually destroyed the village, but now, reconstructed 40 years later, there are over 20 thatched houses that were converted into shops offering souvenirs, workshops, or hands-on activities like paper mache, Hina doll making, or weaving.

Each thatched house has its own specialty, including souvenir shops, tea houses, handicraft workshops, and art galleries. This place is beautiful and relaxing and made more beautiful by the surrounding foliage.

This is also one of the best views of Fuji to be found in the five-lakes area. There are also stores near the parking lot with local fruits and vegetables, honey products, and other Japanese street food. In fact, my husband didn’t want to leave because a man was selling huge jars of honey for ¥2,000, which is unthinkably cheap in Japan!

10. Aokigahara Forest (Suicide Forest)

After reading many of the urban legends about this enigmatic forest online, I tended to think it was enough to discourage people from trying to enter this forest.

Exploring the infamous Aokigahara Forest was something I thought would be impossible given the stories surrounding it. But apparently, it’s not. The forest is open to the public and is actually a major attraction for the area.

Upon reaching the entrance to the forest, however, it becomes clear that not all the stories are myths. There are warning signs in Japanese telling you to stay on the hiking trail and avoid going too far from the entrance, as it was believed that people get lost because the GPS doesn’t work in some areas of the forest.

The entrance also has a sign in Japanese talking about suicidal thoughts, as well as listing various help hotlines. It reads:

Life is an important thing we receive from our parents. Think once more about your parents, your siblings, your children. Don’t suffer alone. Please talk to someone.

Aokigahara is both beautiful and creepy , and if you’re interested in seeing it for yourself, you should definitely join a guided nature tour .

Oh, and don’t be a Logan Paul…

11. Arakurayama Sengen Park

Home to the Chureito Pagoda, this park offers yet another incredible view of Mt. Fuji, while also overlooking Fujiyoshida City. It’s over almost 400 steps to the park, but the way is lined with cherry blossoms, which should take your attention away from your burning thighs.

It’s a hike to the top but you’ll be rewarded by the panoramic views of Mt. Fuji along with the Pagoda, made famous by Japan postcards.

12. Fuji-Q Highland

Probably the main attraction for Japanese locals around Mt. Fuji, not named Mt. Fuji, is this amusement park known for its roller coasters and thrill rides. For those less enthusiastic about that sort of thing, the park also offers 3 other areas to explore that don’t focus on rides.

Made up of four separate areas/parks, there is the main park, Fuji-Q, which is where the major rides and attractions are. Thomas Land, based on Thomas the Train, for the kids. La Ville de Gaspard et Lisa, based on the French picture book characters “Risa and Gaspearl.”

As I said before, the area around Fuji has a strong European influence). And it’s the newest area, Fuji Leaf Village, based on the popular manga anime Naruto and Boruto.

I’ve been to the park about 3 or 4 times, but I’ve honestly only been to the main park. Thomas Land was the only other area at that point (and we didn’t have a child at that point), and I haven’t returned since the other areas were built.

This is definitely on our to-do list, and we’ll be sure to get back to you with our thoughts as soon as we do. As for the main park, the roller coasters are incredible and are definitely the main attraction.

Each also affords a great view of Mt. Fuji (except Dododonpa, you’re going too fast), right before you take your first drop. I highly recommend stopping here during your trip if you’re looking for something different than the normal trip to Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan .

After all, you can get those in America as well. But there’s only one Fuji-Q.

Want to See More?

Our 53 Best Places & Things to do around Fuji Five Lakes There are so many things to do around Fuji Five Lakes! Even when you can’t see Mount Fuji, you can still enjoy all the attractions and off-the-beaten spots around the Fuji Five Lakes area.

Read our 53 Best Things to Do in Fuji Five Lakes

Top seasonal attractions in Kawaguchiko

1. Kawaguchiko Herb Festival in summer . Mainly lavender fields in Yagisaki Park and Oishi Park. Lots of Japanese street food, so make sure you try some. Event dates here .

2. Momiji Corridor Festival (Maple Corridor Festival) in autumn. Lots of fiery maple trees lined up with many street foods and souvenir stalls down the road. This is a very popular event in the autumn and is jam-packed with “Leaf-Peepers” (for my Mainers out there). Event dates here .

3. Oishi Park’s Red Kochia in autumn. A great alternative to Hitachi Seaside in Ibaraki, Oishi Park has plenty of Kochia plants that turn a deep red during mid-October . And the best part is it has Mt. Fuji as the backdrop.

4. Oike Park in autumn. Oike Park, a park in front of Kawaguchi Herb Hall, is lined with poplar trees which turn a beautiful yellow in late October to early November . Mt. Fuji isn’t so visible here because it’s partly a residential area, but it’s worth visiting only during autumn.

5. Arakurayama Sengen Park. Although still, very nice year-round, Arakurayama Sengen park is EXCEPTIONALLY beautiful when visited during cherry blossom and autumn season.

Where to Eat in Kawaguchiko

Food is our favorite part of every journey, and Kawaguchiko is perhaps one of our favorite places in Japan as it has really superb food. The Yamanashi area as a whole is most well known for its famous Hoto Noodles, and Kawaguchi has many restaurants specializing in it.

We tend to favor and remember restaurants which offer both great food AND kind staff, so here’s our list:

1. Momijitei restaurant

Momjitei is just a 7-minutes walk from the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum. And it is famous for making the best Houtou noodles in Kawaguchiko, and the best restaurant to go for your lunch.

Just make sure to get there early as it fills up fast! Their homemade miso sauce is aged for two years and is what sets them apart from other houtou noodle restaurants.

We had beef houtou during our visit and it was one of the best meals we’ve ever had! The staff instructed us by pointing to the condiment tray on our table that we could also add some Nanban (miso topping) for an added oomph to the soup flavor.

2. Houtou Fudou restaurant

Houtou Fudou has several branches in Kawaguchiko, and we ate at their main branch near the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum. All their branches are always extremely busy!

That’s how popular they are. There’s one just in front of Kawaguchiko Station, and of course, due to its location, it’s always jam packed!

Now if you were to ask us which Hoto noodle shop is best, we would personally choose Momijitei Restaurant because the food is great, it comes in a large portion, and the staff was very friendly.

3. Tempura Restaurant Ninja

This restaurant is only a 4 minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station. Now, I don’t usually like tempura because it’s generally greasy, but this is different and has become the only tempura I really like!

Our picky daughter surprisingly ate their tempura as well, which is always a plus. Something about their tempura is unique, I think it might be air fried, but who knows. The staff here are very nice too, and, as usual, our daughter received treats from them.

4. Cisco Coffee

This cozy coffee shop is located near Yagisaki Park is a San Francisco style coffee shop in a relaxing shop to sit and relax with a good book. The menu is pretty simplistic, but the coffee is top notch and really helps warm you up on a chilly morning by the lake.

5. Milky Way

This is a traditional shop that is also located near Yagisaki Park. They have an incredibly cozy atmosphere inside.

Now, I won’t lie, I’m a sucker for Mom & Pop type places, and this shop is clearly a passion project between the joint owners who run it. The desserts here are absolutely incredible, and the owners were super patient with our daughter, who was being rather moody this day.

There are plenty of toys to entertain most kids, but apparently, not enough for ours. I can’t recommend this place highly enough!

6. Troisieme marche

We love this coffee & bakery shop, and we wanted to enjoy it more, but our daughter just wouldn’t sit still. This is located near Kawaguchiko Forest Museum, and is famous for their cake desserts, which were amazing.

And that’s it! Please know that the itineraries presented above are based on our experience, so it’s tried and tested .

If you have any question, please leave you comment below!

11 thoughts on “Kawaguchiko: Full Guide, Sample Itineraries & Things to Do”

Hoping to see your 1 night itinerary for kawaguichiko we are coming from Narita. thank you!

I will be self driving from Narita Airport to Lake Kawa on March 11 . Hopefully we can reach before noon to Lake Kalwant. We will be staying in kawaguchiko Hotel. Can you assist to plan the route for us around the area for the places of interest? We will depart on the 13th. I would also like to know, since we self drive, there is no need for us to buy the bus pass right? Then where do we get the ticket for the cable car and the ferry? Is it still better to get the pass for the Ropeway? Want idea on the cost of the Ropeway and ferry ? Thanks in advance

Hi Ada, I will be travelling from Osaka to Kawaguchiko with my family of 3 by JR pass from 24-25 Apr. We will take the earliest train and hopefully to arrive Kawaguchiko before noon on the 24th of April.

We will be staying in the Hotel New Century. We are planning to rent 2 ordinary bikes & 1 E-bike to cycle around Kawaguchiko & Saiko.

Can you please advise to me where to rent a bike, and should I rent it for 2 days?

Can you also advise to me how to plan my cycling trip to cover all the places below? 1. Natural Living Center. 2. Oishi Park 3. Itchiku Kubota Art Museum. 4. Try houtou noodles 5. Momiji-tei Restaurant and order their beef houtou 6. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum 7. Konohana Museum 8. North Coast trail 9. Maples Corridor 10. Nagasaki Park 11. Oishi Park 12. Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center 13. Momiji Tunnel 14. Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba 15. Saiko Yacho-no-Mori Park 16. Fugaku Fuketsu (Wind Cave） 17. Narusawa Hyoketsu（Ice cave） 18. Ryugu Doketsu（Lava cave） 19. Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine 20. Yagisaki Park 21. Kawaguchi Asama shrine 22. Mt. Tenjō Ropeway 23. Arakurayama Sengen Park 24. Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Thank you for visiting!

First of all, WOW, you’ve got a ton of places on your wishlist!

Kawaguchiko and Saiko are two separate areas. And most attractions you listed are seasonal and are closed.

For example, you won’t see any red foliage in Maples Corridor in April.

And if you are going to the museums, you can easily spend 2-3 hrs inside.

I recommend that you pick 3 places per day.

For example: April 24: Arakurayama Sengen Park, Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, & Natural Living Center or Music Forest Museum. April 25: One or two museums.

Hi Ada, I will be coming from Tokyo, and either take the Shinkansen or a bus to Kawaguchiko. Where can I rent a car in Kawaguchiko near the Shikansen Station of bus station?

Hi Louie, you should take the bus as the Shinkansen Station is far from Kawaguchiko. The car rental is just a few minutes’ walk from Kawaguchiko Station, here it is: https://goo.gl/maps/hJdrHkwQ1bbm4hNB9

Hi Ada, I can’t seem to find the “Day 1 Typical Tourist itinerary”. How do i go about it?

Hi Ada, I find your information very useful and interesting. Based on what you have written, I bet 2 nights stay is not enough to see all those attractions. Should I book to stay for 3 nights or it is too long? We( my family- 3 adults) are planning to travel from Kyoto to Kawaguchi in May by bus and will arrive early at 7.30am. I wonder what activities are available at night as I read from other blogs that said Kawaguchi is a very rural town. Is there any travel agent in Kawaguchi that organize short trips around here like fruit picking etc. so that we can join them without having to plan on our own?

Since you are arriving early, 2 nights is enough, but 3 nights would be great too. You’re right Kawaguchiko is a rural town. It’s also hard to tell you some suggestions without knowing where you’re staying, so where are you staying?

“follow the Day 1 Typical Tourist itinerary” < I can't find the Typical Tourist itinerary…

Hi Nat, thanks for pointing that out. I forgot to edit the itinerary when I renamed them. I fix it now for you!

Kawaguchiko Itinerary: Complete 2-Day Itinerary and Must-See Places

快速導覽

Arrange a Kawaguchiko 2-day 1-night itinerary to visit Mount Fuji

I believe that for many people who come to Tokyo to travel, as long as time permits, they will definitely arrange a trip to visit Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji. It may be a trip back and forth to Kawaguchiko Station on the same day, or arrange a two-day one-night itinerary, spend one night staying at the accommodation in Kawaguchiko, so that you have the opportunity to enjoy the sunrise of Mount Fuji and the reflection of Mount Fuji in Kawaguchiko.

However, because there are so many places to visit in the entire Kawaguchiko and Mt. If you plan to arrange a one-day trip to Lake Kawaguchi, or if you want to visit Lake Kawaguchi in depth, and plan to arrange a three-day and two-night itinerary, in Lake Kawaguchi Tourist Information Classification More articles can be found there.

How to arrange the itinerary for Lake Kawaguchi for two days and one night?

If you are starting from Tokyo, Kawaguchiko's itinerary for two days and one night can be very simple. Basically, you only need to buy a round trip to Kawaguchiko Station in Tokyo Fuji tour Tickets, as well as Kawaguchiko tour bus tickets, can solve the transportation budget for the entire Kawaguchiko itinerary.

However, if you plan to combine Lake Kawaguchi, Mt. Fuji, and Hakone into a three-day, two-night itinerary, you may need to purchase the Fuji-Hakone 3-Day Transportation Package , so that you can save more transportation costs in Kawaguchiko and Hakone areas.

Enjoy the entire Mt. Fuji & Hakone with one set ticket! [Best Offer] Mt. Fuji – Hakone Area 3-Day Tour Pass The best choice to save transportation expenses!

Kawaguchiko two-day one-night itinerary planning from Tokyo

How to store suitcases before departure.

I believe that for many people, one of the most difficult things to deal with in the Kawaguchiko two-day, one-night itinerary is the need to find a place to store suitcases at Kawaguchiko Station and buy time to visit different scenic spots in the Kawaguchiko area.

However, in fact, this problem can also be easily solved. The method is as long as you stay in the same hotel before departure to Kawaguchiko and after returning to Tokyo. In fact, most hotels in Tokyo will provide free luggage storage services. such as Tokyu Stay Shinjuku , APA Hotels in Shinjuku Etc. In this way, it is very easy to start sightseeing in Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji area, saving extra time and money for handling suitcases.

Itinerary for the first morning

Access to lake kawaguchi.

After you finish checking out of your Tokyo hotel in the morning, you can go to Shinjuku Station and take the limited express train "Fuji Tour", which takes about 2 hours to reach Kawaguchiko Station.

The advantage of choosing to take the Fuji Excursion Limited Express is that you don’t have to worry about traffic jams during the holidays like taking the express bus, which seriously affects the itinerary planning for the whole day in Kawaguchiko. And when you take the limited express train of Fuji Tour, you will have many opportunities to take pictures with Mount Fuji.

Basically, in addition to being a means of transportation connecting Shinjuku Station in Tokyo - Kawaguchiko Station, the limited express train of Fuji Tour is actually one of the attractions of the entire Kawaguchiko itinerary.

However, there are some points that need to be paid attention to when taking the limited express train of Fuji Tour. For example, there are not too many trains departing from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station in the morning. On average, there are only 3 sets of trains departing every day. The departure time is about 07:30-09:30, and the journey time also takes 2 hours. If you depart from Shinjuku, Tokyo too late, you may not have enough time to go sightseeing in Lake Kawaguchi.

In addition, the Fuji Excursion Express train is a very popular means of transportation, so if you plan to take the Fuji Excursion Express train to Kawaguchiko Station, you must buy a ticket one day in advance. if you purchased JR Tokyo Wide Area Pass If so, it is also highly recommended to redeem the ticket one day in advance, and buy a ticket for a designated seat if necessary, so as to ensure a smooth departure to Kawaguchiko Station for a two-day, one-night trip.

Fuji Tour Tokyo Kawaguchiko Mount Fuji JR Limited Express Train

Since it takes 2 hours from Tokyo Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station, if you depart from Tokyo Shinjuku Station at 07:30, you can arrive at Kawaguchiko Station at about 09:30. If you depart from Tokyo Shinjuku Station at 09:30 , you need to arrive at Kawaguchiko Station at 11:30.

The cheapest way to go sightseeing by Shinkansen? [Best Offer] JR Pass Tokyo Wide Area Pass Unlimited rides on the Shinkansen for 3 days!

Lunch Options in Kawaguchiko

When you arrive at Kawaguchiko Station, you can go to the Fudo Tea House in front of Kawaguchiko Station to have lunch, buy a one-day pass for the Kawaguchiko Tour Bus, and then officially start the two-day, one-night trip to Kawaguchiko.

Itinerary for the afternoon of the first day

When you come to Lake Kawaguchi for a two-day, one-night itinerary, of course you can’t miss the view of Mount Fuji next to Lake Kawaguchi Hot spring hotel , so after lunch, until a few hours before you can check in to the room at the hot spring hotel, you can go to Oishi Park, and Tenjō-Yama Park These two are the most suitable places to take pictures with Mount Fuji.

In addition to setting off to Tianshangshan Park, you can also consider taking Kawaguchiko Excursion Boat Tenharu , starting from Kawaguchiko, passing the Kawaguchiko Bridge, and taking pictures with the reflection of Mount Fuji on the water.

Itinerary for the first night

It is also because one of the key points of the trip to Kawaguchiko is to experience the hot spring hotel next to Kawaguchiko. So at around 16:00 in the afternoon, I left the scenic spot of Kawaguchiko and went to the reserved hot spring hotel room. Get the chance to enjoy hot springs and view Mt. Fuji from your room.

For example, near Lake Kawaguchi Hotel Kaze no Terrace KUKUNA , is a very popular hotel choice that can also enjoy Mount Fuji from the room. Although many people say that the price of this hotel is not cheap, but for some itineraries to celebrate important festivals, being able to face the scenery of Mount Fuji all day is actually the best festival gift .

Itinerary for the next morning

If you plan to enjoy the reflection of Mount Fuji on Lake Kawaguchi, you must grasp the sunrise time of the day. Because only at the moment of sunrise, the reflection of Mount Fuji on Lake Kawaguchi will be the most complete. Generally speaking, the sunrise time of Lake Kawaguchi starts from 04:30 to 06:30, depending on whether you go to Lake Kawaguchi in summer or in winter.

Of course, it will be difficult for many people to get up at 04:30 in the morning, but you can also arrange breakfast at 07:30 in the morning to gain a little more sleep before enjoying breakfast after enjoying the reflection of Mount Fuji.

Around 08:30 in the morning, I believe you have finished the breakfast provided by the hot spring hotel. At this time, you can fight for the last chance to enjoy the hot spring and appreciate Mount Fuji. Then around 10:00 in the morning, it was time to check out.

In the entire Lake Kawaguchi itinerary, being able to slowly appreciate the scenery of Mount Fuji from different angles and at different times is the focus of this two-day, one-night itinerary. So after completing the check-out procedures, you can take pictures with Mount Fuji again before setting off to other Kawaguchiko attractions.

After leaving the hot spring hotel in Kawaguchiko around 11:00 in the morning, you can consider going to Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum , a scenic spot with a collection of music box exhibitions and Western-style gardens, is also a very suitable place to take pictures and then share them on social media.

However, if you want to go to Mount Fuji for sightseeing, you can return to Kawaguchiko Station first, and then take the bus to the fifth station of Mount Fuji. In this way, you can experience the high-altitude environment at 2400 meters, as well as enjoy the scenery of the entire Kawaguchiko area.

Another option is to visit Fuyue Wind Cave, which is far away from Kawaguchiko Station, but you need to pay attention to the bus schedule connecting Kawaguchiko Station and the opening hours of Fuyue Wind Cave, and try not to leave too late.

Itinerary for the afternoon of the second day

If you choose to go to the Kawaguchiko Music Box Forest Art Museum, you can visit the entire Kawaguchiko Music Box Forest Art Museum in about 2 hours, and then return to Kawaguchiko Station. If you will consider going to Oike Park, Kawaguchiko Herb Museum Over there, you can take pictures with Mt. Fuji again, buy some special products near Kawaguchiko Station, and then take the limited express train Fuji Return to Tokyo.

However, if you choose to visit scenic spots such as Mount Fuji Wumuhe and Fuyue Fengxue, you must pay attention to the timetable of the return bus and calculate when you will return to Tokyo.

Don’t forget that the Fuji Excursion Express train also has a designated departure time, and it takes 2 hours to return to Tokyo by taking the Fuji Excursion Express train from Kawaguchiko. If you return to Kawaguchiko Station too late, you may miss the Fuji Excursion Express train, and You need to take a bus to return to Tokyo, which will also affect your itinerary in Tokyo at night.

Simultaneous departure to Lake Kawaguchi in Hakone two-day one-night itinerary planning

Under normal circumstances, Kawaguchiko's two-day and one-night itinerary will start at Tokyo Shinjuku Station and end at Tokyo Shinjuku Station. However, if you purchase Fuji-Hakone 3-Day Transportation Package If so, this three-day, two-night itinerary can be divided into a two-day, one-night Kawaguchiko itinerary, and a two-day, one-night Hakone itinerary, and experience different hot spring hotels within a few days, as well as from long-distance and close-distance. Enjoy the view of Mount Fuji from different angles.

while using Fuji-Hakone 3-Day Transportation Package The feature is that this package allows you to take unlimited rides on the designated transportation in Kawaguchiko and Hakone, and you can freely choose whether to go to Hakone first or go to Kawaguchiko for sightseeing first, without any restrictions.

To put it simply, you can arrange departure from Shinjuku Station, sightseeing in the Hakone area on the first day, and staying in a hotel in the Hakone area Spa Hotel . Then leave Hakone in the morning and noon of the next day, set off to Kawaguchiko Station and start the trip of Kawaguchiko for two days and one night.

while for the first use Fuji-Hakone 3-Day Transportation Package If you are traveling to Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, or the Hakone area, you need to pay attention to the fact that it will take a lot of time to travel between Hakone and Lake Kawaguchi. Therefore, when planning the itinerary for the next day, try to avoid arranging to visit too many scenic spots, so that it is easier to manage the schedule of the entire itinerary.

If you are visiting Lake Kawaguchi for the first time, maybe you can consider arranging a trip to visit Lake Kawaguchi and Hakone at the same time. Because compared to simply going to one of Kawaguchiko and Hakone, the itinerary to go to Kawaguchiko and Hakone at the same time can get a better experience in all aspects, and it can also make you remember it many years later. A trip to Mount Fuji and hot springs.

In addition, we are Fuji Hakone Tourist Information Category Here, I have prepared a lot of scenic spot itineraries, accommodation discounts, and ticket discounts for you in Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and Hakone. If you are planning to travel to these areas, maybe these articles can help you find some unique experiences. !

More Mt. Fuji and Hakone travel information

Mount Fuji area

Mount Fuji hot spring hotel recommendation: Hotel Room with Hot Spring, Private Bath and Exclusive View on Mount Fuji! Bus Route Guide to Mount Fuji Kawaguchiko Station! JR train from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko Station? The first choice for railway fans Fuji-Hakone Pass purchase discounts, itinerary planning sharing How to plan the itinerary of Lake Kawaguchi? Attractions, Transportation, Food and Overview The Flower Sea in front of Mt. Fuji Lake Kawaguchi》Annual Lavender Festival ⋯⋯ and MORE

Hakone area

Recommended Hakone Onsen Hotels》A list of high-end hot spring hotels with private baths! How to plan your trip to Hakone? Hakone Attraction Transportation Itinerary Sharing! Fuji-Hakone Pass purchase discounts, itinerary planning sharing Hakone Yumoto Attractions, hot spring hotel selection near the station ⋯⋯ and MORE

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RakuRaku, which is 楽々 in Japanese. This site is committed to providing the most authentic travel information in Japan, bringing you a different Japan travel experience!

Hakone Yumoto Station: Onsen, Shopping Street and Things to Do

Hakone kamakura pass: latest discount and reservation guide, more different travel information, tokyo to kawaguchiko station: complete guide for fuji bus, trains and buying tickets, 10 best ryokan in kawaguchiko with private onsen, kawaguchiko fugaku wind cave & narusawa ice cave" a unique experience of seeing icicles in hot summer, mount kachikachi ropeway in kawaguchiko: best cable car to enjoy mt. fuji, oshino hakkai: reviews, opening hours, transport from kawaguchiko to oshino hakkai, lake kawaguchiko sightseeing boat "appare", kawaguchiko music forest museum: opening hours, review, houtou fudou japanese noodles near kawaguchiko station, kawaguchiko herb festival: enjoy lavender & view of mt. fuji in summer, kawaguchiko herb hall & oike park.

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Survival of the littest, the complete kawaguchiko and mount fuji travel guide | japan.

The small town of Kawaguchiko is the main home base for travelers looking to summit the majestic Mount Fuji, but there’s much more to do than just visit Japan’s tallest peak. Kawaguchiko centers around the lake of the same name, with plenty of hiking and biking trails, and beautiful places to visit. My time here felt like one of those Ghibli films set in small-town Japan. I spent most of it cycling around the quiet village and immersing myself in the serene nature of Japan. It was a much-needed respite from the crowds and ultra-modern cityscapes of Tokyo, and really showed me how much more there was to Japan than its futuristic urban jungles.

I ended up spending four days in Kawaguchiko, despite many travelers staying no more than a day or two. It goes without saying that Mount Fuji is the main highlight of this town, although for non-trekkers, there is plenty to keep you busy. Here’s everything you need to know before taking on Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko.

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How To Get to Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko
Where To Stay in Mount Fuji
Getting Around Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji
The Best Things To Do in the Mount Fuji Area
Things to Know Before Going

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How to get to mount fuji / kawaguchiko.

Japan’s transportation system is well-renowned as one of the best in the world. Getting to Kawaguchiko is a breeze. Whether you plan on traveling by bus or by train, there are plenty of options throughout the day. From Tokyo would be the easiest option, although one can get there from Kyoto or Osaka or elsewhere with minimal connections. I didn’t buy one of the rail passes, so I opted for a bus from Shibuya Station to save some money.

Regardless of where you are leaving from, your ending point should be Kawaguchiko Station. The station services both trains and buses. From here, a walk or short taxi ride should get you to your accommodation.

Staying in Kawaguchiko allows you to enjoy a more tranquil and serene environment compared to the bustling cities, but it’s also possible to take a guided tour from Tokyo. I’d only recommend this option if you are strapped on time. Be sure to look at the tour itineraries to make sure you get to visit the places you want to see.

Where To Stay in Kawaguchiko

Despite being a smaller town, Kawaguchiko had no shortage of places to stay. I stayed at K’s House Fuji View , an incredible hostel with a stunning view of Mount Fuji. During the summer, there will be plenty of hostels and hotels open for the crowds of travelers. I visited in early September, just days before the climbing season for Mount Fuji ended. Only a handful of hostels remained open, but I was more than happy with the one I ended up with. The dorms were pod-style, each with lockers, plugs, curtains, and space for my luggage.

The hostels in Japan really are top-notch, and despite them being pricier than other countries, I feel like you get your money’s worth. I paid $25 a night for a dorm bed in K’s House, although the price jumped up to about $40 on Friday night. You’ll find that hostels and hotels tend to jump in price over the weekends when people are more likely to travel. During peak trekking season, be sure to book well in advance to guarantee that you have a place to stay in Kawaguchiko.

If you simply plan on getting in and out to summit Mount Fuji, I’d recommend picking a place near Kawaguchiko Station. K’s House is about a 20-minute walk, which isn’t bad, but it did feel like an eternity walking back from the station after summiting Fuji. Saving the 40-minute round trip can go a long way once your legs feel heavy from hiking. It also puts you closer to the lake and allows you easy access to public transportation if you plan on visiting other towns in the area.

The other hostel I heard great things about was Hostel Michael’s . It is in Shimoyoshida, though, so you’d have to make the journey to do the things you want to do in Kawaguchiko.

Getting Around Kawaguchiko

I’d recommend renting a bike. It costs about $7 a day and is by far my favorite way to get around Kawaguchiko. Many places in town offer bike rentals, and most likely, your accommodation will, too. I rented mine from my hostel and the rate for the entire day was 1000 yen, as long as I brought it back before 8 PM. Not much goes on in town after dark, so this was totally fine.

There is a bus system, but I don’t think Kawaguchiko is that big that you need to figure out the routes. The only time I would recommend it is if you plan on visiting neighboring Shimoyoshida or one of the further villages along the lake. Aside from that, cycling and walking will be just fine. The views are incredible and there are cycling and walking trails all around the lake.

Here are the bus timetables between Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station during the summer trekking season. If you want to visit Mount Fuji outside of trekking season, here are the bus timetables for the offseason .

Things To Do in Kawaguchiko

Although most people visiting Kawaguchiko have the intentions of visiting Mount Fuji, there is much more to do in the area than just that. The best views of Mount Fuji are from off the mountain, and with plenty of lakes, shrines, temples, and parks all with Mount Fuji serving as the stunning backdrop, Kawaguchiko has no shortage of breathtaking scenery to fill your time.

Cycle around Lake Kawaguchiko

Aside from summiting Mount Fuji, this was my favorite thing I did in Kawaguchiko. I rented a bike from my hostel and cycled around the lake, visiting various points of interest along the way. I basically followed the trail around the lake, pulling up Google Maps every now and then to see if I was nearby any points of interest. There were no shortage of places to rest my legs, from gorgeous parks and gardens to woodland shrines and unique museums.

If you’re up for the long bike ride, it’s worth heading over to Saiko Lake for more lakeside views of Mount Fuji. I wouldn’t say this is essential, as you definitely get your fair share of views cycling around Lake Kawaguchiko alone.

Visit the Gardens at Oishi Park

On a clear day, the views of Mount Fuji from Oishi Park are phenomenal. This small lakeside park is filled with bright, colorful flowers. Along with the lake and Mount Fuji in the background, you couldn’t dream up a more beautiful place to snap some photos.

Chureito Pagoda

Perhaps the most iconic view of Mount Fuji is the one from Chureito Pagoda. To get here, you’ll have to head to the town of Shimoyoshida and then walk here. It’ll also involve a short hike up, but it is worth it for the views.

Hit up an Onsen

What better way to relax after a day of cycling or hiking? Japan is famous for their hot springs, and this area has no shortage of them. Unwind in one of Kawaguchiko’s soothing hot spring baths, known as onsen, which offer relaxation and rejuvenation while enjoying panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes.

Fuji-Q Highland

I’m not really one to hit up amusement parks on my travels, but as the bus passed Fuji-Q Highland, I couldn’t help but be intrigued. A roller coaster with a view of Mount Fuji? I never did end up going, but it is free to enter. You simply have to pay for the rides, but I’d reckon it’s worth checking out if you have a few hours to spare.

Visit the Museums Along the Lake

As I cycled along the lake, I couldn’t help but be intrigued by some of the unique museums I passed. There ist he Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, featuring a collection of antique music boxes and instruments. Between that and the gardens, you’ll understand why I said my time in Kawaguchiko was very Ghibli-esque. One can also check out the intricate art of kimono dyeing at the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, showcasing the stunning creations of renowned artist Itchiku Kubota.

Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

For a stunning view of Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko, there is a cable car that takes you up the mountain. It’s right along the lake so I passed it while I was cycling, although the long lines deterred me from actually going up. I’m sure the views are incredible, though.

Summiting Mount Fuji

I summited Mount Fuji as a day trek, starting from Kawaguchiko Station at 6:40 AM. This was when the first batch of buses departed. I got there about 20 minutes early and already, the queue was long enough that they needed two full buses to transport the even-earlier birds.

After hopping on the bus, you’ll arrive at Mount Fuji Fifth Station, leaving you with about 1,400 meters of elevation gain until you reach the summit. The hike up took me about seven hours total, with four hours needed to go up, an hour-long break at the summit, and two hours needed to go down. The hike isn’t particularly challenging, but it does have steep stretches and some volcanic terrain which might prove tricky. For about ninety percent of the hike, you’ll be on switchbacks of soft dirt and some loose gravel. There are stations to buy snacks and drinks every 20-30 minutes as you work your way up to the summit.

If you’re lucky enough to get good weather, which most people aren’t, you’ll be able to see stunning views of the Japanese countryside. Otherwise, you’ll get a blanket of clouds which is also cool to look at. I wanted to do the hike just to say I summited Mount Fuji, so the cloudy day wasn’t a dealbreaker for me. Just keep in mind that you won’t be guaranteed unobstructed views for your efforts.

Once you’ve finished the hike, catch the bus back to Kawaguchiko from 5th Station and treat yourself to a huge meal as soon as you hit town.

Other Things To Know Before You Go

It’s important to note that the town is more rural, and amenities may be limited compared to larger cities. However, for those looking to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the Mount Fuji region, Kawaguchiko can provide a memorable and peaceful stay. Things close early in Kawaguchiko. I’m a night owl, so late dinners are the norm for me. My first night in Kawaguchiko, I went out for dinner at around 9 PM to find that almost everything was closed. I ended up at this cozy izakaya that was among the only places open, and absolutely loved it. Just keep in mind that your options might be limited if you put off dinner until late.

Be respectful when cycling around the area. Most locals are used to tourists so hordes of cyclists are nothing new to them, but still, it’s important to stick to your lanes and respect traffic laws.

Despite being a small town, Kawaguchiko has no shortage of ATMs. If you can’t find one, just look for a bank or one of the convenience stores. Most convenience stores will have an ATM inside that you can use. Credit cards are widely accepted in Kawaguchiko, but some places will charge more if you pay with card, or have a minimum purchase required to pay with card.

For travelers visiting Japan, Kawaguchiko is an essential stop on any itinerary. Along with Nikko , Kawaguchiko was my favorite small town I visited while traveling Japan. The vibes and views are simply immaculate.

As always, be sure to have good travel insurance handy when you’re off adventuring across the world. I use SafetyWing to keep me covered throughout my travels for as low as $45 a month, and their coverage includes Japan among the 190+ countries that they cover.

If this post helped you out, show some love and support for the blog and help keep my adventures going by buying me a beer ! My adventures are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated, and allows me to keep writing helpful travel guides and creating travel content to help you all travel the world on a budget.

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The Ultimate Lake Kawaguchi Guide (2023)

05/12/2023 by Kristin Addis 4 Comments

The world-famous volcano rises up like a giant over the island, the iconic slope wearing a hat of snow. Visible from the north end of Lake Kawaguchi, I know I’ve picked the perfect place to watch Mt. Fuji from. My days are spent relaxing, eating amazing food, and watching the stunning view.

Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchi) in Japan’s Yamanashi prefecture is a dreamy escape just a couple hours away from Tokyo. It’s peaceful, full of Fuji views, and home to Ryokans with delicious food and onsen, making it a perfect stop on your Japan itinerary . Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Kawaguchi Lake:

Table of Contents

What to do in Lake Kawaguchi

Although I think one of the best things to do is just chill while gazing at the amazing Mount Fuji, there’s plenty to do and see in Kawaguchiko from hikes to pagodas and more. These were our favorites:

Tenku no torii

I had seen photos of this iconic torii gate framing Mount Fuji and had to see it for myself. It turns out it’s more like an Insta shot opportunity that costs ¥100 maintenance donation. But despite waiting in a queue for our turn to take a photo and that being all there is to it, they are still some of my favorite photos from the whole trip.

It’s possible to take a bus most of the way and hike 30 minutes or so up, or in our case, take a taxi to the top, walk down, and bus back into town in order to save time. You’ll find the gate in the Kawaguchi Asama Shrine area.

Oishi Park is a famous place to take photos of Mount Fuji with the lake in front. The gardens can be beautiful throughout the year, with different plants in bloom at any given time. Since we visited in the winter, it was the least exciting possible foreground, but I’d definitely visit in the spring or summer. Walk the short walking trail and enjoy an ice cream (I was shocked at how much ice cream we had – Japanese soft serve is delicious!) and coffee. General admission is free.

Chureito Pagoda

One of the most iconic views of Mount Fuji in the area, or potentially the whole country, the Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park is a must-see. In the autumn months, the trees have colorful changing leaves and in the spring, they’re brimming with cherry/sakura blossoms.

In the winter months, the trees will not be decorated with foliage, but the winter is typically the best time to see Mount Fuji without clouds. Ironically, the clouds moved in for the only time during our whole visit right as we reached the viewpoint.

It was not crowded when we visited in early February (a big reason why we chose to visit Japan in the winter ), but I’ve heard that the queue to take photos can be hours long during cherry blossom season. Keep in mind that in order to get there, after exiting the train you’ll need to climb quite a few stairs to get to the top, passing through several torii gates on your way up.

North Lake Shore Walk

There’s a lovely walking trail along the north shore of the lake with some of the best views of Mount Fuji. It’s easy to walk in or out of it at any point and catch the bus which runs clockwise and counterclockwise back to the main station. One of the best views is in front of the ryokan where we stayed – Kozantei Ubuya (more on that below).

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

kawaguchi lake view from mt fuji ropeway

The Mount Fuji panoramic ropeway is one of the most popular things to do in Kawaguchi lake. You’ll ride a small cable car up to the top — or you can hike if desired — for this view of the volcano. It costs ¥900 per person round-trip.

There’s also another iconic photo opportunity swinging on a swing sit in front of a nice view of Mt. Fuji. You’ll also see a queue for the opportunity to get on the swing and it costs ¥500 extra. I didn’t want to do it badly enough and had a baby on my back, but the photo opportunity could be great.

I was honestly underwhelmed by the overall view from the top, which featured a chainlink fence and views of the city buildings in front of the mountain, and feel the views along the north shore of the lake are better. If I could do it again I’d skip this one.

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Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station

Heading out of town, the Fuji Subaru line 5th station is famous for views of the surrounding area from the base of the mountain. This is a popular place to start the hike to the top of Mount Fuji during climbing season. Although you won’t get views of the mountain, because you’ll be on it, you will see the sweeping views of the surrounding area. There are also souvenir shops and restaurants.

It takes about 50 minutes to get there via direct bus from Kawaguchiko station.

Oshino Hakkai

Located about 30 minutes from Kawaguchiko, Oshino Hakkai is a village named for its eight clear spring water ponds at the foot of Mount Fuji. The charming village is the most photogenic, and popular, during the spring months when the trees are full of cherry blossoms. It’s also a beautiful spot in the fall months with the changing leaves.

Fuji Yurari Onsen

Onsen, or hot springs, are one of the best ways to enjoy Japan during the cooler months. The Fuji Yurari onsen allows day visitors and features several indoor pools as well as two outdoor pools with views of Mt. Fuji.

Since all of the onsen I could find in the area ban tattoos, I ended up booking a room with its own private one (see below), but if that’s out of your budget, this is a great place to visit if you have no ink.

Where to Stay in Lake Kawaguchi

We had quite a variety on our trip in Japan beginning in Kyoto and stopping by Takayama prior to heading to Kawaguchiko and finishing in Tokyo . We had very different accommodation at each stop, and I knew I wanted to stay in a traditional Ryokan at least once during the trip.

From all my research, which took hours, Kozantei Ubuya came out on top. It was consistently rated highly by guests, featured the best views I could find, and many rooms have their own private onsen on the balcony.

We booked the Superior room, which was quite large for Japanese, and really any hotel, standards. It’s one of few places where enjoying a green tea and a snack in your room is an experience . Dinner and breakfast are also included, and we were even given our own private room to dine in.

We enjoyed a Kaiseki (multi-course dinner you can read more about here ) each night with delicious, fresh seafood and always featuring tender, marbled beef.

Although it is a pretty penny, it was worth it. The hotel books out pretty far in advance, so if you know you want to go, book well ahead of time !

How to Get to Lake Kawaguchi

Getting to Kawaguchiko for us meant busing in from Mishima station via Nagoya en route from Takayama. For most visitors, it will probably mean coming from Tokyo. Here are the options:

From Tokyo Station: Fujikyu and JR Kanto Bus operate 1-2 direct buses hourly between Tokyo Station (Yaesu South Exit) and Kawaguchiko Station. The one way trip takes about two hours and costs ¥2000. Reserve a spot ahead of time.

From Shibuya station: Fujikyu operates approximately one bus every two hours between Shibuya, Fuji Q Highland, Kawaguchiko Station and Fujisan Station. Reserve a spot ahead of time.

From Shinjuku station: Take the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (about 70-100 minutes depending on the line you take). From Otsuki, take the Fujikyu Railway Line to Kawaguchiko Station (55 minutes, ¥1170 one way).

There are also a few direct limited express trains per day between Shinjuku and Kawaguchiko in each direction (about 2 hours, around ¥4000 yen one way, seat reservations are mandatory).

Solo Female Travel in Japan

How to Get Around Lake Kawaguchi

Getting around Kawaguchiko is fairly simple and straightforward. From Kawaguchiko station, you’ll find buses going in just about every direction in the five lakes region, including around the lake in both directions. Amazingly, you can tap your credit card when getting off the bus to pay for fare, which made it so easy!

There is also a train from the same station that can take you to the Chureito Pagoda. Consider getting the Fuji Q highlands pass for local buses, or the Hakone pass for transport around the whole area, including the famous Hakone area, which also has stunning Mt. Fuji views and includes transport to and from Tokyo.

Lake Kawaguchi ended up being one of the highlights of our Japan trip for the beauty and relaxation. For those looking for a city escape from Tokyo, I can’t think of a better place!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

Exploring Fuji Five Lakes: 3 Days in Kawaguchiko Guide

A short journey from Tokyo will lead you to the foothills of Mount Fuji, where the captivating Fuji Five Lakes region awaits. Exploring the five stunning lakes and their breathtaking views of Mount Fuji during our 3 days in Kawaguchiko was one of the highlights of my most recent Japan trip.

In this guide, I cover all you need to know about exploring Fuji Five Lakes, including the ultimate Fuji Five Lakes itinerary. From all you need to know to get around, to an optimised 3 day itinerary to cover the best of the region (plus some lesser-known gems!). This travel guide has all you need to know to plan your own unforgettable adventure in this remarkable corner of Japan.

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About the Fuji Five Lakes Area

Fuji Five Lakes is arguably the best place to view Mt Fuji from – it felt like every corner I turned, Fujisan was there standing tall in all it’s glory.

Unsurprisingly, the Fuji Five Lakes area is made up of, yep you guessed it – five lakes!

The area comprises five lakes: Lake Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanakako, Shojiko, and Motosuko. These lakes all offer stunning views of Mount Fuji.

Most visitors to the area stay in Kawaguchiko, as it is the most developed and accessible for tourists. Lake Yamanakako is the largest of the five Fuji lakes and has a small number of accommodation lodgings.

Incredible view of Mt. Fuji from Fuji Five Lakes area

How Long to Spend in Fuji Five Lakes

I’d recommend spending at least 2 nights in Kawaguchiko.

In April 2023, I stayed 3 nights which was a decent amount of time, though we still left with a few activities and sights we didn’t quite manage to fit in!

It’s also possible to explore Fuji Five Lakes on a day trip from Tokyo.

Some popular tour options are included below which explore the main sights near Kawaguchiko. However, if you have the time, I highly recommend spending at least a couple of nights in Kawaguchiko.

Day Tours from Tokyo

These are the most popular day tours from Tokyo to Kawaguchi

Scenic 1 Day Tour: Chureito Pagoda, Oishi Park & Lake Saiko Traditional Village
Mt Fuji Sightseeing Trip: Oishi Park, Chureito Pagoda, Fuji Fifth Station & Oshino Hakkai
Private Customisable Day Trip from Tokyo (up to 5 People)

Oishi Park provides great view of the Mt. Fuji

Best Time to Visit

You can visit the Fuji Five Lakes area all year round, however, the best time to visit for clear views of Mount Fuji is between November to April.

As Japan has a hot and humid summer, there are more often clouds to obstruct the view. This is why I’d recommend spending at least a few days in Kawaguchiko, to give you the best chance of seeing Mount Fuji on a clear morning.

During our 3 night, 4 day stay in Fuji Five Lakes in April, we had clear views for three of those. One morning we woke up and we couldn’t even see Mount Fuji as it was heavily obscured by clouds!

Cherry blossom season in early-mid April is a very popular time to visit – while it’s beautiful to see Mount Fuji framed by cherry blossoms , it’s also extremely busy.

Read my dedicated guide for the best viewpoints of Mount Fuji .

Shibazakura in bloom with Mt. Fuji in the background

Where to Stay

Following my itinerary, you’ll base yourself around Kawaguchiko. For stays longer than three nights, you could consider spending a night or two at Yamanakako.

Budget – Hostel Michikusa : this small, family-run guest house was wonderful. We booked the private tatami mat triple room with a Mount Fuji view. It was incredible waking up to see Mount Fuji each morning. There is a small common area and modern, clean shared bathrooms.
Mid-Range – Fuji View Hotel : Overlooking Lake Kawaguchi, this hotel is surrounded by Japanese gardens and has a public onsen (hot spring bath).
Luxury – La Vista : A short walk from the lake, this hotel offers rooms with clear views across to Mount Fuji plus a sauna, hot tub and onsen hot spring bath.

Explore all accommodation options in Kawaguchiko

Where to Eat

Below are my tried and tested recommendations from our trip:

Tanpopo : Unique family-run izakaya where the wife speaks to you via a hand-held translator. There are no menus and they serve you fresh seasonal local cuisine! Bookings required.
Kosaku : A busy restaurant serving the regional specialty, Houtou noodles. Word of warning, the seating is traditional tatami mat style so wear stretchy clothes!
FabCafe Fuji : A great coffee spot after a visit to the nearby Chureito Pagoda
Ramen Kaneyuki : One of the few ramen restaurants in the middle of town. Meals are served in this casual, open-air restaurant out of a food truck.

Delicious Japanese food served in a local Japanese restaurant

After a few long days exploring and eating lunch out, we had some quick, easy and tasty grab-and-go dinner meals from the Ogino supermarket in town which we ate at our guesthouse.

How to Get to Fuji Five Lakes from Tokyo

Getting to Fuji Five Lakes from Tokyo is straightforward. I found it easiest (and cheapest!) to get the direct highway coach bus, but you can also catch the train.

I booked the highway bus from Tokyo Station to Kawaguchiko Station (buses also depart from Shinjuku Station). The bus travels directly between the two stations, with no transfers required and takes around 2 hours.

I purchased our tickets with Fujikyu Bus from Japan Bus Online and simply showed the driver our electronic tickets when boarding. This cost ¥2,060 per adult (2023 pricing).

By Train

Catching the train to Kawaguchiko will usually require at least one transfer .

Catch the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station, and transfer to the Fujikyu Line to Kawaguchiko Station. This takes around 2 – 2.5 hours and costs ¥3,530 on the Limited Express train from Shinjuku.

There are also limited departures a day on a direct train which varies in length, depending on whether it is a Limited Express. It’s pretty easy to work out the best option, as both bus and train times and routes are synced into Google Maps.

In summary, getting the highway bus is often the cheapest and quickest route . Book your tickets a few days in advance, especially if travelling during peak periods.

How to Get Around Kawaguchiko and Fuji Five Lakes

The easiest way to get around the Fuji Five Lakes area is by rental car, especially if you’re planning to visit the other lakes or other attractions.

It’s also possible to get around by bus, but as we wanted to visit some attractions early in the morning and visit the other lakes, we decided for the convenience it was worth the cost to hire a car for our 3 days in Kawaguchiko.

Renting a Car in Kawaguchiko

We hired a car from Toyota Rent a Car near Kawaguchiko Station, however, the booking form was in Japanese which was quite challenging and a bit convulated to navigate. Step by step instructions are available here if you’d like to give it a go.

For an easier option, you can book a rental using Rental Cars with pick up from Mt Fuji Station / Fujiyoshida Station (as shown in the image below), which is only one stop further from Kawaguchiko Station.

Getting Around by Bus

Getting around Kawaguchiko by bus is another option. The tourist bus Omni Bus has three lines (red, green and blue) that run around Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Shojiko and Lake Motosuko.

There is also the Free retro bus Fujikyu Loop Shuttle Bus (brown line).

You can purchase an Unlimited Ride Pass for 1,700 JPY per adult which covers 2 days of unlimited rides in all areas, or most buses accept Suica or Pasmo.

Click here for an easy-to-follow Omni Bus route map. For more information, timetables and all bus routes, you can find them here .

3 Day Kawaguchiko Fuji Five Lakes Itinerary

Day 1 of your Kawaguchiko itinerary will be spent exploring the northern side of Lake Kawaguchi .

Assuming you’ve come from Tokyo today, this might only be a half day, so if you run out of time you could always spend your last morning before departing Fuji Five Lakes to squeeze in any attractions you don’t get time for today.

Mt Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

I recommend visiting this panoramic lookout of Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji early in the morning.

When visiting around midday, the lines were pretty long! This popular attraction involves catching a short cable car ride up the mountain to take in the incredible views from the Observation Area.

You can either hike or catch the cable car down. The hike down Mount Tenko is called the “Hydrangea Route,” due to the blooms of hydrangeas from mid-July to August. The trail is a great way to soak in extra views of Mt Fuji, without the crowds!

Open: Daily 9 am – 4 pm Entrance: ¥900 return cable-car trip, purchase at the counter or online

Continue around the edge of the lake to reach Oishi Park .

This spot has some spectacular views of Mount Fuji across the lake and is a lovely spot to go for a stroll and admire the gardens and seasonal flower fields. You’ll find a couple of cafes here and the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Centre, with a large range of Fuji-themed souvenirs and ice cream.

Another view of Mt. Fuji from Oishi Park

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

We skipped this one, but one of the highly-rated museums and unique attractions in Kawaguchiko is the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum .

You might feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale, the mediaeval-style buildings, a large collection of music boxes playing and an art garden on the shore of Lake Kawaguchiko.

Open: Friday – Monday, 10 am – 6 pm Entrance: From ¥1,800 on weekdays, ¥2,100 on weekends

Kawaguchi Asama Shrine & Tenku no Torii

In need of a coffee stop, we set out for the nearby Nagasaki Coffee Roasters . This was one of the best hand-drip coffees we had during our one month in Japan ! You’ll find this spot in a small hut near the entrance of the Kawaguchi Asama Shrine .

Nagasaki coffee roaster offers incredible drip coffee near Kawaguchi Asama Shrine

This shrine is impressive for its towering giant cedar trees that line the path to the shrine, and was a very serene and peaceful sanctuary to wander through after our coffee.

You can hike through the forest from the shrine to reach the Tenku no Torii viewpoint, which has become a popular Instagram photo spot, and costs ¥100 to enter with a timed stay of 3 minutes to reduce the length of the line of people queueing for a photo.

We’re not a big fan of queuing or over-commercialised attractions, so decided to skip this one (but the photos are pretty impressive).

I was SO excited to begin our second day in Kawaguchiko by seeing the famous Chureito Pagoda – this iconic spot has become a photo on postcards and tourism brochures worldwide, synonymous with Japan.

Luckily, we awoke to clear skies and views of Mount Fuji, so we quickly hurried to get to the pagoda before it got too busy.

Chureito Pagoda

Chureito Pagoda is located within Arakurayama Sengen Park and is reached via a steep 398-step climb part-way up the hill. It’s worth it though for the views that await – it felt like a dream come true to finally capture this iconic view through my own camera lens.

I recommend visiting as early as possible to get the best photos, as it’s a popular spot – for good reason!

Beautiful view of Chureito Pagoda with Mt Fuji in the background

When visiting in late April, parking was free, however during peak periods like Cherry Blossom season, there is limited parking and a fee payable. After visiting the observation deck with the viewpoint of the pagoda and Mount Fuji, we walked for a further 10 minutes up the hill for another great viewpoint of Fujisan – and we had it ourselves!

At the base of the hill, there is a small shrine and an orange torii gate, and some food trucks were beginning to set up as we left around 9 am.

Shimoyoshida Street

In need of caffeine after our early start, we drove over to FabCafe Fuji for coffee and breakfast.

Outside the cafe, there were signs and even a traffic controller to stop people from walking out into the middle of the busy road to take photos of the picturesque street with views of Mount Fuji in the background.

I was excited to see this scenic street for myself after having seen some beautiful photos online, but it was pretty disappointing to see a lot of people jumping out onto the road to take photos in front of cars, and the obvious impact it was having on local businesses and residents with signs up everywhere encouraging people not to do this.

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

A short 5-minute drive took us to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine.

My favourite part about this shrine was walking up the path through the forest to reach the shrine, surrounded by towering ancient cedar trees. Hikers seeking to scale Mount Fuji visit here before beginning the trail for a prayer for safety.

Towering cedar trees in Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

Open: Daily, 8.30 am – 5 pm Entrance: Free

Onshirin Garden

After spending some time wandering the shrine complex, we set off in search of a potential hidden gem near the shrine. Onshirin Garden wasn’t a spot listed on any tourist maps, and looking at the Google reviews it seemed more to be a popular playground for families.

What intrigued me though was a few photos of an incredible viewpoint of Mount Fuji, with fields of blue nemophila . This beautiful spring flower is most notably seen at the Hitachi Seaside Park near Tokyo, but I hadn’t heard of it in Fuji Five Lakes.

Our hunting paid off, and we came across this spectacular, quiet and free photo spot just near the entrance to Onshirin Garden.

Fujisan World Heritage Center

On the way back to Kawaguchiko, consider stopping in at Fujisan World Heritage Center.

This free visitor centre is a must-see if you are interested in learning more about Mount Fuji. Facilities include a 4D Theater, a 15-metre wide model of Mount Fuji, interactive exhibits and an observation viewing deck.

Ide Sake Brewery

In the centre of Kawaguchiko, you’ll find Ide Sake Brewery tucked away down a side street.

As big sake lovers (pretty much the reason we visited Takayama on this same trip!), we loved it.

This small family-run brewery produces both sake and whisky. You can do a self-pour tasting for ¥550 and sample a few different varieties of their products. There is also a small shop, where we picked up our own sake set to take home with us!

Ide Sake Brewery also runs guided tours in both English and Japanese – unfortunately, they were already fully booked on the day of our visit, but we would have loved to do this.

You can enquire online here .

Sake vending machines in Ide Sake Brewery

On your third and final day of exploring Fuji Five Lakes, we’ll be exploring attractions outside of Lake Kawaguchi.

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

During my visit in the spring of 2023, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival was being held near Lake Motosu to the west of Kawaguchiko.

Typically held from mid-April to late May, this festival is popular for the incredible fields of bright pink moss phlox that cover the landscape, with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji in the background.

Vibrant sea of flower in Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Even if you aren’t visiting during the festival period, the rest of the itinerary is still relevant as there are some unique things to see in this area to the west of Lake Kawaguchi.

Read my detailed guide on all you need to know about visiting the festival .

Lake Motosuko

After spending a few hours walking the grounds, taking many photos and having morning tea at the cafe onsite, we headed off to our next stop, Lake Motosuko.

Lake Motosu is featured on the 1000 yen bill. It’s also known as the mirror lake , due to the stunning mirrored reflection of Fuji – this is what we set off in search of.

Driving around the lake, there were camping grounds and campers set up right on the lake’s edge. Coming to Motosukotenbo Park , we pulled over and took these incredible photos of Mount Fuji and the lake. If you have a car, it’s well worth the short detour to visit this viewpoint.

Fugaku Wind Cave and Narusawa Ice Cave

On the highway driving towards Kawaguchiko, you’ll pass two ice caves, the Fugaku Wind Cave and Narusawa Ice Cave. There are thought to be over 100 caves at the base of Mount Fuji, as a result of volcanic eruptions creating lava caves.

We decided to stop and explore the Fugaku Wind Cave . Descending into the cave, you instantly feel the point that the temperature drops – it stays consistently around 0 degrees Celsius throughout the year in the cave. Due to this, the cave was used as a natural refrigerator and used to store silkworms.

Interesting ice formation in Fugaku Wind Cave

It takes around 15 minutes to explore the cave, with the highlight being the impressive ice stalactites illuminated in the depth of the cave.

When you resurface, there is a 30-minute forest trail that connects the two caves.

We followed this trail, going for a walk in the serene Aokigahara Forest in favour of visiting the second ice cave.

There’s also a third cave a short drive away, the Bat Cave, which is also the largest of the three caves open to the public in the Fuji Five Lakes area.

Onsen with a View of Mount Fuji

As you head back to Kawaguchiko, you can stop at the Fuji Yurari Onsen for a blissful afternoon of relaxation.

With 16 hot springs including 2 outdoors with views of Mount Fuji, this is a great way to unwind after a busy few days exploring Fuji Five Lakes. Plus for an extra fee, you can also book a private onsen. Just note that no tattoos are allowed.

Alternative Day 3

An alternative option for a day trip from Kawaguchiko is visiting Oshino Hakkai .

Also a popular day trip from Tokyo, visitors can explore the small traditional village reconstruction surrounded by eight ponds, fed by spring water from the snow on the slopes of Mount Fuji.

As we had just visited the similar Hida Folk Village open-air museum in Takayama , we decided to skip this one, but it is an enjoyable (if somewhat touristy) alternative.

Another option for thrill-seekers is to spend the day riding the gravity-defying roller coasters at Fuji-Q Highland . This park is best known for its four giant roller coasters and anime-themed rides.

Buy your tickets online in advance for a discounted admission price.

Snaking roller coaster in Fuji Q Highland

Final Thoughts – Mount Fuji Itinerary

That wraps up this complete guide to Mt Fuji Lake Kawaguchi and the Fuji Five Lakes region. With this itinerary, you’ll uncover the highlights of the region plus a few unique things to do that aren’t possible on a day trip.

Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions about this Kawaguchiko guide, and check out my other articles to help you plan your Japan trip.

More Japan Guides:

How to Easily Visit the Chureito Pagoda from Tokyo
10 Most Mesmerising Views of Mt Fuji from Kawaguchuiko
An Exciting 4 Days in Osaka Itinerary for First-Timers
Koyasan Temple Stay: Essential Travel Guide & Tips
A Fun 7 Day Tokyo Itinerary: Complete 1 Week in Tokyo Guide
A Perfect 4 Weeks in Japan Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide
Takayama Itinerary: 2 Days Discovering Traditional Japan

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2 thoughts on “Exploring Fuji Five Lakes: 3 Days in Kawaguchiko Guide”

Thank you. The link to book bus ticket from Tokoyo to fuji doesn’t show up kawaguchiko in the locations

Hmm, that’s strange I can see it when I look. Here’s the direct link (to/from Tokyo Station): https://japanbusonline.com/en/CourseSearch/11500410001?AreaCd=313

A Day Trip to the Mt. Fuji Area: Lake Kawaguchiko

There are a number of places to enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji, and one of the most accessible from Tokyo is Lake Kawaguchiko. Make the most of a day trip out to the area with this one-day itinerary.

There are many places to enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji, but few are as picturesque an area as Lake Kawaguchiko. Not only is it remarkably beautiful, there’s plenty to do in the area too. Active folks will want to cycle, hike, or go fishing; while those who prefer more leisurely activities might like to explore the many museums surrounding the lake.

Our itinerary takes you on a leisurely exploration of some great sights in the Lake Kawaguchiko area - with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji.

Lake Kawaguchiko viewed from the cable car to Tenjoyama Park.

Notes Before You Go

One of the most economical ways to travel to and from the Mt Fuji area is by highway bus from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station. A single journey is JPY1750 and takes approximately 1 hour 45 minutes from the Shinjuku Bus Terminal. Return or one-way tickets can be booked online on the Highway Buses Japan site. You can also buy your ticket back to Shinjuku at Kawaguchiko Station once you’re there, though you may have fewer options on the day itself.
We suggest taking an early morning bus - departing around 7:30am or so - to arrive at around 9:30am. This will give you a full day in the area.
Bear in mind that the bus journey returning to Tokyo in the evening can coincide with rush hour, depending on your timing. Traffic conditions can slow down the journey considerably and take up to 3 hours. If you’d rather get back to Tokyo faster and don’t mind paying a little extra, consider taking the train.

For getting around the Lake Kawaguchiko Area, we recommend purchasing a bus pass that gives you unlimited rides on the “Retro Bus” sightseeing bus lines. (A PDF version of the bus map can be found here and saved to your phone for easy access.) The stop numbers in this itinerary refer to the map of the Red Line in this PDF. Buses along the line operate at 15-minute intervals, so you’re never left waiting long before the next one comes along.
The pass costs just JPY1500 and is valid for two days. It’s fantastic value even if you’re not staying overnight in the area. A one-way ride from the first stop to the last stop on the Red Line, for instance, costs JPY480. On a day trip, it’s entirely possible to recoup the cost if you use it frequently enough. Just show this pass to your driver every time you alight.

At Renta Cycle Pu-San near Kawaguchiko Station, it costs JPY1500 to rent a bicycle for the day.

An alternative if you’d rather have a more active day is to rent bicycles from the shop near Kawaguchiko Station. A non-electric bicycle costs JPY1500 to rent for the day, and you could easily do this itinerary on a bike rather than taking the bus. On a clear, cool day, this might be a good choice for the more athletic traveler. There aren’t dedicated cycle paths, however, so you’ll either be on normal roads or the pavements.
Itinerary timings are approximate. Adjust them to suit your schedule. Add or subtract places from this itinerary as you prefer, but it’s generally better to enjoy a few places properly than to sprint through many places. The most important thing is to ensure that you’re back at Kawaguchiko Station in good time to catch your bus back to Shinjuku.

Bus stop B5 on the 4th floor of Shinjuku Bus Terminal.

7:45am Shinjuku Bus Terminal

The easiest way is to find the Shinjuku Bus Terminal is to take the South Exit 南口 from JR Shinjuku Station. Once you’re outside the ticket gates, walk outside to street level.

The Shinjuku Bus Terminal is opposite the South Exit from JR Shinjuku Station.

You’ll see a building opposite the South Exit that looks like this. Cross the road and take the elevator up to the 4th floor as indicated in the photo (or the escalators).

Once you emerge from the escalator, there’ll be a map a little to your left showing you where the various bus stops are. Buses to the Mt. Fuji area typically depart from stops B5 or B6.

Sometimes it won’t be entirely clear which bus stop it is, but just bring your ticket to the bus station attendant and check with them. For this reason, it’s best to arrive at least half an hour before your bus is due to leave to give yourself extra time for the last minute things - like an extra cup of coffee from Family Mart.

The Red Line bus stop directly in front of the station.

9:30am Arrive Kawaguchiko Station

Once you alight at Kawaguchiko Station, the first thing you should do is to pick up a bus pass. You’ll want the 2-day sightseeing pass that’s valid across all lines - whether it’s the red, green, or blue lines.

A tourist booklet for the Lake Kawaguchiko area.

While optional, you could pick up a copy of this tourist booklet. There are short guides to sights and restaurants in the area, and an overall map of the area at the back of the booklet. You’ll find this at the tourist information counter.

The view of Mt. Fuji from Tenjoyama Park.

10:00am Mt. Kachikachi Ropeway to Tenjoyama Park

The cable car up to Tenjoyama Park, from where you’ll see a super view of Mt. Fuji, is actually about a 15-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station. Since it’s the 11th stop on the line, riding the bus will take you on a more circuitous route. Both the bus ride and the walk are about 15 minutes. Alight at Stop 11.

Ticket machines located on the second floor, with English-language capabilities.

On busier days, there might be a long queue snaking up the staircase. Have someone else in your group wait in line while you head upstairs to buy cable car tickets at the machine - it’s a JPY800 return journey. Cable cars run every 5-10 minutes, so you shouldn’t have to wait too long. It’s a 3-minute ride to the top of Mt. Tenjoyama.

On a clear day, the view from the observatory deck is pretty impressive - even if the top of Mt. Fuji happens to be obscured by a passing cloud.

Tanuki, or raccoon dogs, on top of the cable car.

Take a few minutes to poke around the kitschy rabbit and tanuki-themed shrines and souvenir shop before heading back down. For the energetic, there’s a gentle 40-minute hiking trail leading down from the top of the mountain, which is particularly pleasant in cooler weather.

11:30am Lunch at Hōtō Fudō

Once you’re done with the pretty views, take the cable car back down and return to Stop 11. Take the bus to Stop 17, which is outside the Music Forest Museum.

Cross the road and head towards the nearest intersection as pictured above. Cross the road and take the small path running parallel to the main road. You’ll pass through some fields and a few standalone houses. Hōtō Fudō is the large restaurant across the road at the end of the path.

You’ll be eating Hōtō noodles here. There's almost nothing else on the menu, save for some decent simmered intestines, inarizushi (rice in tofu pockets), and Japanese pickles. These noodles are a local Yamanashi specialty, consisting of thick, chewy wheat noodles (texturally rather like rustic dumplings, or knife-cut Chinese noodles) and simmered seasonal vegetables in a rich miso-based broth. Don’t forget to stir in some shichimi chili powder.

A dimly-lit restaurant interior. There’s more natural light here than the photo suggests.

Diners have the option of tatami mat or table seating. We suggest asking for seats by the window - the cool breeze blowing in makes the hot noodles go down a treat.

If you’re not keen on wheat noodles for lunch, skip this and head straight to the next stop. There’s a cafe at the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center with curry rice options.

View of the lake from the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center.

12:45pm Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center

Walk back to Stop 17. It’s a short 10-minute ride to the end of the line - the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center.

The gardens at the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center.

Skip the souvenir shop and walk around the flower gardens - you’ll see all kinds of blooms across the seasons, from lavender and hydrangeas to bellflowers and roses.

Along the Hana Kaido, or Flower Highway.

It’s a heavily manicured garden, with plants in overly-neat, fussy rows. Still, it’s quite picturesque if you enjoy this style of garden. Plus, there's a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji with the lake in the foreground. Have an ice cream. Take some time to enjoy the surroundings.

During the summer, you can also sign up for a fruit picking session. This will vary with the weeks, but options might include cherries, blueberries, and cherry tomatoes. While the fruit farms aren’t located on the grounds of the center, the staff provide free transport to and from the farms after you sign up for a session (approximately 40 minutes of picking and eating). If you decide to include this in your itinerary, budget around an hour to an hour and a half spent at the center.

The entrance to the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum.

2:15pm Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Hop back on the bus, this time heading back towards Kawaguchiko Station. Alight at Stop 19 for the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum.

Even if you’re not a huge fan of art museums, this one is worth visiting for the natural space it's in. The doorway to the museum looks like the entrance to hidden ancient ruins of some kind. Walk through and you'll find a gorgeous little waterfall with benches at the side. It's a wonderful place to lie down on a bench and nap - or stare at the shifting sunlight in the maple boughs above.

Entrance to the museum proper is JPY1,300 per person. The buildings are made of Okinawan corals and limestones, and they're almost more interesting than the objects they house - an eclectic collection of primitive art and Itchiku Kubota's beautiful tie-dyed painted silk kimono. With one exception, photography inside the museum is not allowed.

The tea room on the second floor of the main museum building is worth spending some time in. This looks out into a small waterfall and pond in an overgrown grove. The view is even prettier in the autumn when the fall colours are out. It's a lovely place to enjoy a cup of tea and some sweets; and photography is allowed here. When there are few visitors around, the staff won't mind if you take a seat to enjoy the view.

Don’t forget to explore the north side of the main building. Turn right as you exit and follow the path up into the forest. It’ll lead you to a mildly eerie, dimly-lit cave with a few statues inside - the source of the ice cold water streaming down the mountainside.

3:15pm Maple Corridor

After you’re finished with the museum, walk back to the main road, and through the Maple Corridor. It’s a short path flanked by maple trees on either side. It's best visited in autumn for the fall foliage.

Ubuyagasaki Cape as viewed from the Kawaguchiko-ohashi Bridge.

3:30pm Ubuyagasaki Cape and Crossing Kawaguchiko-ohashi Bridge

Make your way back out to the main road and back to the same bus stop from before (Stop 19). Alight at Stop 15. Cross the road, heading to the lakeside walking path. The views of the lake and Mt. Fuji are fabulous.

Turn into this path when you encounter it.

Follow the path, all the while skirting the edges of the lake. Turn into the canopied walking path.

Further along, you’ll encounter a set of stone steps. Climb up.

You're now on Ubuyagasaki Cape, where you’ll see another view of Mt. Fuji.

Go back down and find your way onto the bridge. Walk across to the other side of the lake. It's a leisurely stroll that shouldn't take more than 15 - 20 minutes. If it's hot and sunny, we recommend parasols and plenty of water.

We recommend walking down to the lake shore after you reach the other side. Spend some time enjoying the waters - and the fabulous views.

4:15pm Tea time

It's time for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Find your way back to the main road from the lake shore. Turn left and walk up the road. The nearest stop is Stop 8, further up the road opposite the Yamanashi Gem Museum.

Ride the bus to Stop 10. Directly outside this bus stop opposite the road is a charming cafe with a frontal view of the lake - coffee and sweets.

Alternatively, ride the bus to Stop 11. Walk back the direction the bus came in until you see Cheesecake Garden on your left across the road. As the name suggests, it’s all about the cheesecake. There are around a dozen different kinds of cheesecake available, and every slice comes with a free cup of coffee.

5:30pm Kawaguchiko Station

Head back to Kawaguchiko Station in time for your bus back to Shinjuku Station. Generally it's best to time your arrival a little earlier than your intended departure time. Things can get a little chaotic around the bus stops, since traffic along the highway can cause bus delays. If that happens, it's best to show the bus attendants your ticket every time a bus to Shinjuku appears.

Mt. Fuji Area - Lake Kawaguchiko Day Trip Map

View the full size version of our Lake Kawaguchiko map which has each of the places discussed above marked on it.

Climbing or Visiting Mount Fuji from Tokyo

For more information about climbing Mount Fuji or other ways to enjoy the area, read our Climbing Or Visiting Mount Fuji guide here.

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Lake Kawaguchiko

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By far the most visited of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchiko serves as the main point of entry to this famous lake region. It is the second largest of the Five Lakes in terms of surface area and the second most shallow with a depth of only 14.6 meters. It has a surface elevation of approximately 830 meters, which accounts for its relatively cool summers and icy winters. The area surrounding Lake Kawaguchiko is well-developed in terms of tourist infrastructure, with many lakeside hotels, hot springs, windsurfing facilities, campsites, and excursion boats. This makes it a popular weekend destination, with many visitors partaking in outdoor activities such as sports fishing, hiking, yachting, and cycling. Lake Kawaguchiko attracts especially many visitors in spring during cherry blossom season and in autumn when the fall foliage comes out in full force. From late June to mid-July, the lavender fields at Yagizaki Park and Oishi Park are the main draw. Unsurprisingly, the lake is popular with photographers––the observation deck at Tenjoyama Park and the middle of Kawaguchiko-Ohashi Bridge are favorite Mount Fuji photo spots––and is also a major hub for those looking to climb the sacred mountain during the summer months. Other nearby attractions include Fuji-Q Highland, Kawaguchiko Music Forest, and the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum. The museum is especially worth visiting for its quirky architecture and silk kimono displays.

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19 Best Things to Do in Kawaguchiko | Ultimate Travel Guide

August 23, 2023

There’s a magical quality to Kawaguchiko that’s hard to put into words.

For me, Kawaguchiko is a place where memories are made and hearts are touched. Where one can witness nature’s masterpieces, this charming town offers experiences that stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

One of the reasons why people visit Kawaguchiko is to see Mt. Fuji in various stunning backdrops so be forewarned that you’ll be seeing a lot the old majestic mountain throughout this post.

In this guide to Kawaguchiko, I want to share with you not just a list of activities but also the emotions and sensations that you too can experience.

From the changing season that paint the region in different hues to the simple joy of a lakeside walk, these are the moments that define a trip to Kawaguchiko.

So what are you waiting for?

Table of Contents

What to Know About Kawaguchiko

Kawaguchiko, or Lake Kawaguchi, is part of the scenic Fuji Five Lakes region, located at the base of Mt. Fuji , Japan’s iconic and highest peak. The lake’s origin is geological, formed by the lava flow from Mt. Fuji’s multiple eruptions over the millennia.

The area around Kawaguchiko has been a place of inspiration for centuries. Early historical records depict pilgrims making their way to Mt. Fuji, often stopping at Kawaguchiko to admire the breathtaking reflection of the mountain in the lake’s calm waters. Which is quite similar to the scenery found in Sayama and Hakone !

The landscape around Kawaguchiko was also a favored subject for ukiyo-e artists, like Hokusai and Hiroshige, who captured the beauty of Mt. Fuji from various viewpoints.

Best Places to Visit in Kawaguchiko

1. Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Kawaguchi is the largest and arguably the most famous of the Fuji Five Lakes.

With a surface area of approximately 15.8 square km (6.1 sq m) and a depth reaching up to 44 m (144 ft), it offers one of the best views of Mt. Fuji. People flock to its shores to capture photographs of Mt. Fuji’s reflection in the water.

The surroundings of Lake Kawaguchi are marked by beauty and seasonal changes. In the spring, cherry blossoms bloom along the lake’s shores, while autumn sees the area enveloped in rich, fiery colors.

It’s a scene that constantly evolves, offering something new with each passing season.

2. Fuji-Q Highland

In for a thrill? Fuji-Q Highland is an exhilarating amusement park that hosts four major roller coasters that will definitely put your bravery to the test.

Fujiyama, once the world’s tallest roller coaster, offers an impressive 79-meter height and reaches speeds of 130 km/h.

Dodonpa is known for its intense acceleration, going from 0 to 180 km/h in just 1.56 seconds.

Eejanaika is a unique 4D coaster that rotates riders a full 360 degrees, while Takabisha holds the record for the steepest drop in the world at 121 degrees!

In addition to its thrill rides, Fuji-Q Highland caters to fans of popular anime, including “Evangelion” and “Attack on Titan,” with themed attractions and interactive exhibits. There are also gentle rides kids so there’s something for everyone!

Click the link to get your 1-Day Pass Ticket for Fuji-Q Highland if you’re keen on trying out the monster rides.

3. Arakurayama Sengen Park

Arakurayama Sengen Park is home to the Chureito Pagoda, a five-storied pagoda that was built as a peace memorial in 1963.

It is part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine complex, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the worship of Mt. Fuji, and it offers one of the most iconic views of Mt. Fuji, particularly during the cherry blossom season when over 600 cherry trees bloom around the pagoda, or during the autumn when the leaves change colors.

It has become one of the most photographed spots in Japan , and I’m sure everyone has seen that shot at one point whether it’s on a post-card or a cover of a magazine.

Reaching the Chureito Pagoda requires a climb of 398 steep steps, but the reward is a view that captures the essence of Japan.

4. Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba is a picturesque open-air museum located on the banks of Lake Saiko, another one of the Fuji Five Lakes.

This charming village offers an incredible insight into traditional Japanese culture, as well as the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Originally, Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba was a farming village until it was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966.

In an effort to preserve the cultural heritage, it was reconstructed into a museum that showcases over 20 traditional thatched-roof houses.

Within these historical structures, various workshops are conducted, allowing you to dive into the world of traditional Japanese arts and crafts. From pottery and indigo dyeing to weaving and papermaking, you have the opportunity to learn and create with the guidance of expert artisans.

Furthermore, the village itself is designed as a living exhibit, as you’ll find gardens with native plants, koi ponds, and stone pathways that add to the calming atmosphere.

A walk through the village can feel like stepping back in time, allowing you to appreciate the slow and careful life that once dominated this region.

Cost: 500 JPY

5. Oshino Hakkai

Oshino Hakkai is another tranquil village, renowned for its eight natural springs.

These springs are fed by the melting snow of Mt. Fuji, and the water that filters through the volcanic rock over decades emerges in Oshino Hakkai as crystal-clear ponds, filled with unique aquatic plants and fish.

The water is so pure that it’s considered one of the 100 Best Springs of Japan!

Each of the eight ponds has a distinct character, with different depths and clarity, and they are all connected through a network of gentle streams. Walking paths meander through the village, allowing you to explore these natural wonders at a leisurely pace.

The largest pond, Wakuike, is particularly famous for its exceptional clarity and amazing aesthetic with the traditional houses as a backdrop.

The village itself, framed by traditional thatched-roof houses, offers a snapshot of rural Japanese life, preserving the customs and architecture of a bygone era.

Many of the old farmhouses are now shops or restaurants, and you can sample local specialties, like the fresh-water delicacies cooked to perfection or the renowned “yokan,” a sweet bean jelly.

You can join Mt. Fuji tours that include Oshino Hakkai through here .

6. Momiji Corridor

If you’re planning on visiting in autumn, then the Momiji Corridor is where you have to go.

It’s actually the place that drew me in the first place.

The Momiji Corridor, Momiji meaning Maple, is a picturesque pathway lined with brilliant maple trees on both sides. Though the crowds can be quite daunting, going through this fiery canopy of red, orange, and yellow is a beautiful experience. The trees arch over the pathway, forming a natural tunnel that’s a feast for the eyes.

During fall, the corridor hosts the Kawaguchiko Momiji Festival, an event celebrating the autumn colors. Stalls selling local food and crafts line the streets, and the area is illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance that extends into the evening.

7. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

Tucked away in the dense forest at the base of the Mt. Fuji, this Shinto shrine is a place steeped in a mystical aura that seems to permeate the entire complex.

Originally established over 1900 years ago, the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine is one of the starting points for the Yoshida Trail, the route that countless pilgrims and hikers have taken over the centuries to reach the summit of the sacred mountain.

The shrine’s architecture is stunning, with its intricately carved wooden gates, moss-covered stone lanterns, and timeless buildings that wear the patina of history with grace. The main hall, built in the traditional Nagarezukuri style, is designated as a cultural property.

8. Oishi Park

Nestled on the northern shores of Lake Kawaguchi, Oishi Park offers a panoramic spectacle that’s forever etched in many hearts.

Oishi Park is a sensory delight that changes with the seasons. During spring, the area blooms with colorful tulips, while summer brings on the fragrant lavender fields.

Autumn transforms the park into a kaleidoscope of reds from the kochia and in winter, you can see the snow-capped summit of Mt. Fuji in all its glory.

No matter what draws you to Oishi Park, whether it’s the seasonal blooms, the striking landscape, or simply the calm that comes from being in a beautiful natural setting, it always seems to offers an enriching experience.

It’s also one of the few places where I found a restaurant while cycling around Lake Kawaguchi.

Where to Stay in Kawaguchiko

Kawaguchiko is home to some of the most home-y and not to mention tranquil establishments, most of them offer unparalleled views of Mt. Fuji with Lake Kawaguchi just right in front of your window.

During the summer, when it’s the peak time to climb Mt. Fuji, Kawaguchiko’s prices tend to sky-rocket so it would be best to book accomodations at a less busy season.

Nevertheless, here are some of my curated recommendations if you’re staying in the area:

Best Hotels in Kawaguchiko :

Fujikawaguchiko Resort Hotel – offers a range of amenities including a garden, free private parking, and an on-site restaurant. You can benefit from free shuttle services, luggage storage, and complimentary WiFi throughout the property. The hotel’s air-conditioned rooms come equipped with practical amenities like a desk, electric tea pot, fridge, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a bidet. The multilingual staff, speaking English, Japanese, and Chinese, are readily available to assist.
Fuji Osenji Yumedono – this luxurious ryokan offers an exclusive experience with features such as in-room hot springs, traditional Japanese cuisine in the dining area, and a beautiful garden. The ryokan’s well-appointed suites boast private outdoor hot-spring baths (onsen), flat-screen cable TV, DVD player, and essential amenities like a bathtub and hairdryer in the private bathroom.
Hananoyado Yumefuji – offers a unique accommodation experience with each room featuring a private garden with a terrace.This villa ensures you’ll have modern conveniences, with air-conditioned rooms that include a wardrobe, flat-screen TV, private bathroom with free amenities, and a kitchenette complete with a fridge. Breakfast is thoughtfully provided daily as a morning basket (bento).

Best Hostels in Kawaguchiko :

Hostel Michikusa-ya – enjoy the convenience of free private parking and the relaxation of a shared lounge and garden. The air-conditioned rooms, equipped with shared bathrooms, come with complimentary WiFi access. The property features a shared kitchen, along with free shuttle service and luggage storage.
Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel – designed to cater to travelers from across the globe. Once an old hotel, it has been rebuilt into a hostel that embraces a modern Japanese-style concept, infusing it with a touch of traditional Japan. The renovation of the hostel involved using wood from a 150-year-old Japanese house, retaining the charm of old Japanese materials and traditional items, such as Tatami mats, which add a relaxed feel to the rooms.
Dot Hostel & Bar – this hostel is built on the concept of encouraging everyone to meet new people, explore new cultures, and have new experiences, the property offers a lively and inviting atmosphere. The wide lobby space, filled with many board games and a big screen, serves as a common area to socialize. There is also a bar on-site where guests can indulge in local beer and Japanese sake.

Hidden Gems in Kawaguchiko

9. Kubota Itchiku Art Museum

The Kubota Itchiku Art Museum stands as a showcase for the works of Itchiku Kubota, an extraordinary textile artist who revived and transformed the ancient kimono-dyeing technique known as “Tsujigahana.”

The museum itself is a piece of art, from the decidous main gate to the elegant wooden architecture that blends seamlessly with the surrounding natural beauty.

Inside, the main exhibition hall holds an awe-inspiring collection of Kubota’s masterpieces. His most famous work, the “Symphony of Light,” is a series of kimonos that together form a stunning panorama of Mount Fuji across different seasons.

Cost: 1,300 JPY

10. Lawson At Kawaguchiko Station

A Lawson might seem like an odd recommendation, as it’s essentially a convenience store located near the Kawaguchiko train station.

Yet, it has become something of a local landmark and its aesthetics.

What sets this particular Lawson apart from others is its strategic location and spectacular view of Mt. Fuji. Positioned just right above the store stands an unobstructed, picture-perfect view of Japan’s iconic peak.

11. Aokigahara Forest

Aokigahara Forest is lovingly known as the “Sea of Trees”. It’s a vast forest that sprawls at the base of Mt. Fuji.

Covering an area of around 35 sq km (14 sq mi), Aokigahara Forest is unique in its terrain. The ground is uneven and filled with caverns and crevices since it formed on top of hardened lava following an eruption of Mt. Fuji over a millennium ago.

The forest is so dense that it can become nearly dark in broad daylight, and the absence of wildlife creates an uncanny silence.

As many might know, this beautiful forest has a darker side. Aokigahara has become known as a place where people go to end their lives, and this reputation deeply overshadows the forest’s natural beauty.

Nevertheless, there are plenty of trails that are safe for public use, you can also join guided tours as well if you’re afraid of getting lost.

12. Narusawa Ice Cave

The Narusawa Ice Cave was formed over 1,150 years ago following an eruption of Mt. Fuji. Legend has it that it’s connected to the Iwaya Caves of Enoshima , all the way in Kamakura !

As you descend into the depths of the cave, the temperature drops significantly, and the walls become adorned with these striking icicles even during the summer months.

The cave maintains a constant temperature of around 3°C (37°F), preserving its icy features year-round. The passage through the cave leads you through narrow and twisting paths, and the glistening ice contrasts beautifully with the dark, rocky surroundings.

In the past, the ice from the cave was considered sacred and used in various ceremonies at the Imperial Court. It was also utilized to store silkworm eggs, as the constant cold temperature provided the ideal conditions for preservation.

Though the walk is not particularly long (10 minutes), the cave’s low ceilings and narrow passages can still make it a very memorable experience.

Cost: 350 JPY

Top Things to Do in Kawaguchiko

13. Take Beautiful Photos of Mt. Fuji

Capturing the grandeur of Mt. Fuji is an experience that many travelers to Kawaguchiko yearn for, and it’s easy to see why.

As Japan’s highest peak and an iconic symbol of the country, Mt. Fuji presents a majestic sight that inspires anyone who catches a glimpse of it. I can never get tired of Mt. Fuji, no matter how many times I’ve already seen it.

The region around Lake Kawaguchi provides numerous vantage points to frame Mt. Fuji in all its glory. Depending on the season and weather conditions, the mountain’s appearance can change dramatically, offering unique opportunities to practice your photography composition .

During the early morning, when the air is crisp, you might capture Mt. Fuji with a perfect reflection in the calm waters of Lake Kawaguchi. In the autumn months, the colorful foliage of the nearby forests adds a vibrant contrast to the snow-capped peak.

Winter brings clear skies and a stark, monochromatic beauty, while spring offers a chance to photograph the mountain with cherry blossoms in the foreground.

14. Shred Some Powder at Fujiten Snow Resort

If you’re visiting Kawaguchiko in the winter and have a love for snow sports, Fujiten Snow Resort is a destination that should not be missed. It’s one of the few snow resorts that can be easily done as a day trip from Tokyo.

Fujiten Snow Resort boasts well-maintained slopes that cater to various skill levels, its got gentle trails and some challenging runs. It’s here that I first tried to ride a snowboard, only to fail miserably. I later tried my hand at it again at Niseko , where I was finally able to thrive !

The resort’s elevation ensures good snow quality throughout the season, and the modern snowmaking equipment supplements the natural snowfall, keeping the trails in excellent condition.

There’s also an indoor “Kids Land” where little ones can play with sleds and other snow toys.

15. Paraglide Around Mt. Fuji

The Asagiri Kogen Paragliding School provides the unique opportunity to soar through the skies, with Mt. Fuji as the awe-inspiring backdrop.

Located on the Asagiri Plateau, this school offers paragliding experiences for both beginners and seasoned fliers. The professional and highly experienced instructors guide will guide you through the entire process, ensuring safety and comfort at all times.

For those new to paragliding, tandem flights with an instructor are available. These allow you to enjoy the thrill of flight without the need for prior experience. Strapped securely to a qualified instructor, you’ll launch from the gentle slopes of the plateau and rise into the air, carried by the wind and thermal currents.

As you ascend, the view of Mt. Fuji becomes increasingly breathtaking, appearing almost surreal as it dominates the horizon.

16. Relax in an Onsen with a View

Relaxing in an onsen while enjoying the majestic view of Mt. Fuji is one of the quintessential experiences you can have in Kawaguchiko. Here’s a look at some onsens where you can indulge:

Fuji Yurari Onsen: Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji from the outdoor baths at this location. The unique setting offers exceptional vistas, particularly during sunset.

Benifuji no Yu: Bathe with a spectacular view of both Mount Fuji and Lake Yamanaka. This onsen allows you to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings, all while indulging in soothing hot spring water.

Ishiwari no Yu: Known for its rocky interior, this onsen is surrounded by the beautiful forests of the Yamanaka area. It’s an ideal place to unwind and take in nature.

Koraku Onyado Fujiginkei: For an authentic ryokan experience, this traditional onsen ryokan offers beautiful garden views. The outdoor baths are set within a tranquil garden, adding to the charm.

17. Cycle Around Lake Kawaguchi

The natural beauty of Kawaguchiko is something that not only can be seen but also felt as you pedal your way around the shimmering lake.

The cycling path around Lake Kawaguchi is approximately 20 km (12 mi) long and offers a pleasant route that’s suitable for riders of all levels. You can take it at a leisurely pace, pausing to take in the landscapes and going down at the various hot spots around the area.

Rental bikes are available near the station, with options ranging from standard bicycles to e-bikes. You might have to call to make a reservation or get there earlier to secure yourself a bike.

I did the cycling trip around autumn which is one of the best times to do it, in my opinion. You can read more at my post on Cycling Around Lake Kawaguchiko .

18. Ride the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Starting from the eastern shore of Lake Kawaguchi, the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway lifts you up to an elevation of about 1,075 m (3,525 ft), leading to the observatory at the summit of Mt. Tenjo.

The ascent itself is an exciting part of the experience, as you find yourself smoothly gliding over lush forests and terrains that gradually reveal a panoramic view of the area.

Once you reach the summit, the view is nothing short of breathtaking. The majestic Mt. Fuji stands tall in the distance, framed by Lake Kawaguchi’s sparkling waters and the vibrant hues of the land.

19. Go Museum-Hopping

From classic art to innovative displays, Kawaguchiko is packed with museums. Here’s a look at some of the top museums you can explore:

Yamanashi Gem Museum : If you’re fascinated by gemstones, this museum hosts an extensive collection of rare and beautiful gems from around the world.

Kawaguchiko Museum of Art : Showcasing contemporary Japanese and Asian art, this museum highlights local talents and offers changing exhibitions that keep the experience fresh.

Music Forest Museum : An enchanting museum that feels like stepping into a fairytale, it’s dedicated to automatic musical instruments and features beautiful gardens, live music performances, and more.

Yamanashi Prefectural Museum : This museum offers an insight into the history and cultural heritage of Yamanashi Prefecture, featuring archaeological artifacts, folklore, and more.

How to Get Around Kawaguchiko

Bus: There are local and sightseeing buses, including the Omni, Fujikko, Mt. Fuji World Heritage Loop, and regular buses.
Rental Car: Car rental services are recommended if you’re someone who prefers to drive and explore at the area at your own pace.
Bicycle: As mentioned before, bikes are a great way to explore the lakeside.

Best Time to Visit Kawaguchiko

Spring (March to May): With cherry blossoms blooming, spring offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji paired with the colorful scenery. The temperatures are mild, and the weather is generally pleasant.
Summer (June to August): Summer is famous for being Mt. Fuji climbing season. Plus, the area around Kawaguchiko tends to be not too hot nor humid so it’s still a good time to visit.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn brings vibrant fall foliage, and is arguably one of the best times to visit though that just may be my biased opinion.
Winter (December to February): Winters are cold but clear, often providing the best views of Mt. Fuji.

When planning your trip to Kawaguchiko, consider securing your journey with SafetyWing Insurance . SafetyWing offers comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unexpected events. Click the link to explore their packages and ensure a safe and worry-free travel experience.

How to Get to Kawaguchiko

From Shinjuku Station: Fujikyu and Keio Bus run about two direct buses per hour from Shinjuku Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station. The trip takes slightly under 2 hours and costs 2000 yen. Buses may also continue to Lake Yamanakako.

From Tokyo Station: Buses operated by Fujikyu and JR Kanto Bus connect Tokyo Station (Yaesu South Exit) with Kawaguchiko Station, about 1 to 2 times per hour. The journey is 2 hours long and costs 2000 yen.

From Shibuya Station: Fujikyu offers a service every two hours from Shibuya (Mark City) to Kawaguchiko Station, Fuji Q Highland, and Fujisan Station. Expect a 2 to 2.5-hour trip, costing 2000 yen.

From Shinjuku Station: Start by taking the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station (70 minutes, 2360 yen for direct limited express; 100 minutes, 1340 yen for local trains). Then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway Line to reach Kawaguchiko Station (55 minutes, 1170 yen).

Direct Limited Express Trains: A few direct limited express trains operate daily between Shinjuku and Kawaguchiko. These take about 2 hours, costing around 4000 yen, and seat reservations are mandatory.

Alternatively, you can also join tours departing from Tokyo that will take you to Mt. Fuji and Kawaguchiko such as this 1-Day Scenic Bus Tour .

There is also a Private Tour available for a more intimate experience.

Plan Your Trip to Japan | Best Travel Resources

Book Your Accommodations

Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.

Don’t Forget Insurance

SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.

Find Cheap Flights

Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.

Join Tours & Activities

GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.

Catch a Ride

Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.

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Tokyo to Kawaguchiko: Take a Day Trip to Fuji's Nearest Neighbor

Kawaguchiko has some of the best views of Mount Fuji in Japan — reflected across a lake, or foregrounded by fields of lavender — and there’s no shortage of things to do there, either. Here are a few tips for a day trip from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko.

The second biggest and most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes, Kawaguchiko has a wealth of natural resources, with stunning autumn leaves, cherry blossoms, and flower festivals galore. With direct transport — a two-hour bus or train — from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko, it’s an unsurprisingly popular spot, and well worth a day trip.

The need to escape city streets can be strong, and there is nowhere better to get in touch with nature, as well as tick off the biggest sight in Japan. If you are planning to size up the beast before you climb , there are buses to Fuji’s 5th station available from Kawaguchiko too. With onsen , art museums, and seasonal delights, there are plenty of things to do throughout the year, so add Kawaguchiko to your bucket list!

Getting from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko

We’ve given a quick overview below but for more information, please see our Tokyo to Mount Fuji transport guide .

Private Driver

If you’re happy to pay a bit more for convenience and flexibility, then this very reasonably priced private driver service costs ¥ 66,000 for 4-7 people and is the smoothest way to enjoy the Mount Fuji area. Having a private driver pick you up from your hotel and not having to figure out schedules/queues for buses makes for a nice hassle-free day!

From JR Shinjuku Station, you have three options. The fastest is the direct Limited Express Fuji Excursion service, which takes 1.5 hours and costs ¥ 4,130 . For a middle option on price and time, you can take a Limited Express Kaiji to Ōtsuki and then hop on the Fujikyū railway to Kawaguchiko — this takes just over two hours and costs ¥ 3,530 . If you want to save your cash, you can catch a local train (possibly changing at Takao, depending on the times) to Ōtsuki instead, which brings your travel time up to about 2.5 hours but costs ¥ 2,510 .

To avoid the inevitable line at Kawaguchiko Station, you could catch a highway bus from stations across Tokyo, including Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo. Tickets start around ¥ 2,000 and the ride takes about two hours, stopping at Fuji Q Highland on the way. You can book the return trip here .

Tours from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko

If you can’t be bothered to delve into the intricacies of public transport, then it’s worth hopping on a day tour from Tokyo. This highly rated day trip on Viator which includes the famous Chureito Pagoda Mount Fuji view, Kawaguchiko, and a visit to a traditional thatched roof village . Also worth mentioning is this tour where you ride the bus to Mount Fuji 5th Station, then to Hakone and transfer to take the bullet train back to Tokyo (NB there’s no stop at Kawaguchiko). If you need any more ideas, there’s a wide range of Mount Fuji excursions here on Viator .

Getting around Kawaguchiko

The easiest option to access most sights around Kawaguchiko is to make use of the sightseeing buses. There are three main bus lines: Red, Green, and Blue, all departing from Kawaguchiko Station. You can purchase a two-day ticket for ¥ 1,700 . There are also passes that include the ropeway and sightseeing boat for ¥ 2,800 . IC cards also work on trains and local buses. Another option is to rent a bicycle — there are a few stores dotted around the area.

Top things to do in Kawaguchiko

Since everything in Kawaguchiko comes with the bonus of Japan’s most famous mountain in the background, you can’t really go wrong, no matter what you decide to explore. If you decide there’s too much to cram into a single day, then check out the options for spending a night in the shadow of Mount Fuji . There’s plenty to see in the area, but here is a selection of some of the top spots.

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Sightseeing Boat/Ropeway Entrance Stop (No. 9) via the Red Line Bus

The ropeway gives fantastic views of both Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko, reaching an altitude of 1075 meters (3527 ft) at its highest point. It runs up to Fujimidai Station on top of Mt. Tenjō within three minutes. The observatory has grown in recent years and has plenty of photo spots and even some games to try out. The ropeway is the setting for a story written by one of Japan’s literary masters, Osamu Dazai, which describes raccoons and rabbits being placed on gondolas and around the observatory to welcome guests.

If you’re looking for more views of Fuji, we have some great alternative hikes with stunning vistas to consider!

Oishi Park and Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center

Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center Stop (No. 20) via the Red Line Bus

To view Mt. Fuji from fields of lavender and blueberries is a pretty awesome experience and one you can get at the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center and nearby Oishi Park. The lavender is in peak bloom in mid-June, which is also when the nearby herb festivals take place. From July to mid-August, you can pick your own blueberries and other fruit at nearby farms. This can be organized by the center. But no matter when you go, the view will still be spectacular.

Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center

Itchiku Kubota Art Museum and The Maple Corridor

Itchiku Kubota Art Museum Stop (No. 17) via the Red Line Bus

The museum has numerous examples of work by Itchiku Kubota, a world-renowned specialist in the ancient art of fabric dyeing. This includes beautiful kimono, as well as a tearoom with stunning views across the lake of Mt. Fuji. There are gardens surrounding the museum, with mini waterfalls and forests. The museum is also close to the Maple Corridor , one of the best spots in the whole area for autumn leaves — it even has its own festival . The Momiji Tunnel is a little closer to the lake.

If you fancy more day trips for autumn leaves, see our guide to fall day trips from Tokyo for ideas.

Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Fuji-Q Highland Amuseument Park

Fuji-Q Highland Stop (No. 105) via the local route bus (included in bus pass) or train to Fujikyu Highland Station

A theme park so dedicated to breaking world records it builds a new rollercoaster every five years just to do so, Fuji-Q Highland is a great place if you want to be scared out of your wits. There are multiple ways to achieve this, of course, from the terrifying drops and knee-buckling speeds of the rides to the horrifying haunted house. With views of Fuji-san as you rocket at speeds of up to 172km/hr, this is a different way to enjoy the greatest sight of Japan. A direct bus from Tokyo is also available.

Pro tip: If you’re keen on Fuji-Q, it’s worth considering a Mt. Fuji Pass — this covers your entrance, plus a bunch of other attractions and transport.

Fuji Q Highland

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum Stop (No. 15) via the Red Line Bus.

A slightly strange attraction but popular nonetheless, the Music Forest Museum is dedicated to a mostly European collection of automatic musical instruments. The biggest attraction is the French fairground organ from 1905 which plays every 30 minutes. There are European-style gardens with views of Mt. Fuji, as well as shops, a chapel, rose garden, and restaurant. The stylized design of the museum and gardens creates quite a surreal setting and it’s very pretty — reminiscent of a fairytale cottage.

Eat hōtō noodles: the local specialty

Various spots on the Red Line Bus route, including at Kawaguchiko Station

While you’re in Yamanashi Prefecture, you’ll want to try the local noodles to complete your experience. These unusually flat noodles are cooked in a miso soup with vegetables to create a nourishing bowl of hearty goodness, similar to a stew. Despite looking like udon (albeit flatter), the noodles are prepared similarly to dumplings. There are plenty of places to try the dish — just keep your eyes peeled as you pass restaurants. If you want to plan ahead, the restaurant chain Hōtō Fudō has restaurants around the lake and a great reputation for high-quality noodles.

Hōtō Fudō Kawaguchiko Station

Soak in the sights at a hot spring

There are two primary onsen towns on the Red Line Bus route: Funatsu-Hama and Azagawa, each with plenty of hotels and public onsen which welcome day guests into their relaxing baths. Hotel Mifujien has good views of Mt. Fuji, although it is not the fanciest of onsen. Entry costs ¥ 1,200 . Yurari has great views from the second-floor baths, with a range of bath types and entry from ¥ 1,200 to ¥ 1,700 depending on day and time — they also have private onsen bookable from ¥ 2,500 for one hour, with views of that mountain we keep mentioning. You can also try Yamanakoka Hot Spa-Beni Fuji no Yu , which has good views and a nearby morning market to boot.

Pro tip: You can combine your hot spring experience with shopping and a stop-off at Mt. Fuji's 5th station, on an [affiliate id="viator" text="all-in-one tour from Tokyo" link="https://www.viator.com/Tokyo/d334-ttd/p-2142TYO_BUSS10"].-->

Things to do around Kawaguchiko

Chūreitō pagoda.

Train from Kawaguchiko Station to Shimoyoshida Station

No doubt you’ve seen this photo a thousand times in research for your Japan trip. It’s a photo that can’t be shared widely with fears that people will accuse you of mishandling Photoshop. But you deserve to take it — I mean you did have to climb 400 steps to get there. This spot is so popular that they have recently built a large platform — no more elbowing people out the way — and there’s free Wi-Fi.

Tip: If you board a limited express train to Shimoyoshida, it costs ¥ 400 extra on top of your regular ticket. Alternatively, if coming from Tokyo, you can hop off the train early and put your luggage in the station’s lockers.

Ice and Wind Cave

Narusawa Hyōketsu Ice Cave Stop (No. 80) via the Blue Line Bus Fugaku Fūketsu Wind Cave Stop (No. 51) via the Green Line and Blue Line Bus.

For an interesting geo-thermal phenomenon check out the Narusawa Hyōketsu Ice Cave and Fugaku Fūketsu Wind Cave. It takes around 30 minutes from Kawaguchiko Station to reach the caves, and they are both within a 10-minute walk away from each other. The ice cave is the more interesting of the two and is cold all year round with icicles sprouting from the ceiling. You’ll need to wear a helmet in both. They are also right next to Aokigahara Forest; you’ll get a glimpse when you walk from one cave to the other.

Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba Healing Village

Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba Stop (No. 48) via the Green Line Bus

Visit the Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba Healing Village with thatched buildings, each containing a local craft demonstration. You can wear samurai armor, dress as a geisha, buy some wind chimes, and chow down on local delicacies (wasabi ice-cream, anyone?).

Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba (Healing Village)

Fuji Moss Phlox Festival

40-minute shuttle bus from Kawaguchiko Station

Carpets of over 800,000 shibazakura cover the ground before Mount Fuji from mid-April to late May, creating stunning views with contrasting colors from flower to mountain to sky. There are good-value, all-in-one tour packages available during the festival period, but if you’re not keen on those you can easily access the site by shuttle bus from Kawaguchiko Station (approximately 40 minutes).

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Oshino Hakkai

30-minute local bus from Kawaguchiko Station

Oshino Hakkai is known for its magical eight ponds, quaint windmills, and stunning views of Mount Fuji. In the past, devout individuals would cleanse themselves in these ponds before making their way up Mount Fuji. Nowadays only the Waku Pond holds great significance, with visitors encouraged to bottle up the water and drink.

While it can get quite busy during tourist season, heading there will treat you with a breathtaking vista, especially during the Diamond Fuji phenomenon .

Bonus sights

In case that wasn’t enough for you, there is plenty more to see dotted along the lake shore and in the main town of Kawaguchiko.

The area is known for its museums, so if you fancy it, visit the Yamanashi Gem Museum , Kawaguchiko Museum of Art , and Kawaguchiko Konohana Museum .
Head indoors and escape the heat or cold at Fuji-san World Heritage Center .
For shrines, you could visit the Fuji Omuro Sengen Jinja Shrine on the east side of the lake, a few stops down from the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum listed above.
And for atmospheric fire-pit cooking ( robotayaki ), we recommend the restaurant Sanrokuen — only a 10-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station.

Where to stay in Kawaguchiko

If you’ve just realized that 24 hours isn’t enough time to see everything in and around Kawaguchiko, then there are many fabulous places to stay over at — and some come with unforgettable views of Mount Fuji. One such hotel is the Fuji View Hotel , but we have plenty more in our dedicated article.

While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in April 2017 and last updated in January 2024.

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Lake Kawaguchiko Guide: 15 BEST Things To Do In Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the most popular destinations in Japan for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Tokyo.

There are many awesome things to do in Kawaguchiko with something for everyone to enjoy in this picturesque lakeside region.

The view of Mount Fuji across the lake is undoubtedly the main attraction, however, there are many other things to do near Mount Fuji that you should add to your list.

Let’s dive into this comprehensive guide to the attractions in Lake Kawaguchiko and everything else you should know!

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS: LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO JAPAN

To give you a bit of an overview of Kawaguchiko town, the lake, and the surrounding region, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.

WHERE IS LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO?

Located near the foothills of Mount Fuji in Japan, Lake Kawaguchiko is a beautiful small town about 100km west of Tokyo, located in the southeastern Yamanashi province.

Kawaguchiko is also 100km north of Shizuoka City, about a 1.5-hour drive.

There are 5 Fuji Lakes where you can stay to see the views, and Kawaguchiko is the second-largest.

Click here or on the image below for an interactive map of Kawaguchiko Lake.

IS LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO WORTH VISITING?

Absolutely! Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the most beautiful and captivating places in Japan, with incredible views over Mount Fuji.

Of course, the town is known for the impressive views of Fuji-san, but there are also many other awesome things to do in Kawaguchiko during your visit.

Wander around the different parks, sit down and chill at some cafes, take in the Japanese culture, and visit the museums in town.

Despite being a small town, you’ll love spending a couple of days here.

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Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

HOW TO GET TO LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO FROM TOKYO?

From Tokyo to Kawaguchiko town, you can use public transportation or rent a car. The former is cheaper but takes longer, and the latter is more convenient.

OPTION 1: PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Head to Shinjuku Station and take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station. You can use the JR Pass up until here.

Once you’re at Otsuki Station, change to Fuji Kyuko Line bound for Kawaguchiko Station. The cost is 1,170 Yen per adult and the journey time is 55 minutes.

OPTION 2: RENT A CAR

The second option is to rent a car in Tokyo and head out to Kawaguchiko Lake at your own pace. The distance is 115km and approximately a 1.5-hour drive.

Renting a car gives you more freedom and flexibility to move around, however, train travel in Japan is the most convenient and affordable when using the JR Pass .

HOW TO GET AROUND LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO?

Kawaguchiko is relatively walkable and you can easily stroll around town and along the lake while taking in the views of Mount Fuji.

Alternatively, if you want to go further and discover all the hidden corners, you can rent a bicycle and bike around Lake Kawaguchiko.

Some hotels offer free bike rental, otherwise, the best place to rent a bike is from NaturaBase and the cost is 1500 Yen per day.

You can also book a taxi to get you around the things to do in Lake Kawaguchiko, which is pricier yet practical.

THINGS TO DO IN LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO

If there’s a popular spot in Japan, it’s definitely Mount Fuji, and Kawaguchiko is by far the best place to take photos.

But there’s so much more to do here, so let’s go through the best things to do in Lake Kawaguchiko.

ENJOY THE VIEWS AT CHUREITO PAGODA

Let’s kick off this list of things to do in Kawaguchiko with the world-famous Chureito Pagoda, a five-story pagoda located just outside the town.

Surrounded by the majestic Mt. Fuji and the traditional buildings, standing at the Chureito Pagoda very well could be the highlight of your trip to Japan.

The Chureito Pagoda is inside the Arakura Sengen Shrine and you’ll have to hike 400 steps up to get there.

Note that you can’t walk from Kawaguchiko to Chureito Pagoda as it’s 7km away, but you can call a taxi or take a train to Shimoyoshida Station from Kawaguchiko Station, which takes about 13 minutes.

RELATED GUIDE: 7-Day Japan Itinerary

MT. FUJI PANORAMIC ROPEWAY

The Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway is a cable car that takes you 1000 meters above sea level.

From here, you can see Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji, and the views are simply spectacular.

Once you get here, you’ll be greeted with a long walkway where you can take photos, as well as a vast terrace where you can enjoy the views from.

Most visitors go up and down the mountain on the ropeway, but there is also a hiking trail that goes from the observation deck down the mountain. It takes about 30 minutes to walk down this trail.

The cable car starts working at 9:30 am and there are departures every 5 to 10 minutes, which is pretty convenient.

Note that it can get pretty crowded, and you may have to wait up to 30 to 45 minutes to get in.

The admission will set you back 900 Yen ($6.60) for a roundtrip or 500 Yen ($3.70) for a one-way ticket.

VISIT AOKIGAHARA FOREST

One of the most intriguing and free things to do near Mount Fuji is an excursion through the Aokigahara Forest.

Nicknamed “the Sea of Trees,” this lush forest covers 14 square miles at the northern base of Mt. Fuji.

An excellent destination for hikers and nature lovers alike, visitors are enthralled by its silence.

It’s one of the quietest places in Japan with enigmatic caves, massive trees, and diverse wildlife.

With established trails and fascinating legends, this is your chance to explore the Japanese countryside far from the crowds.

HAVE FUN AT FUJI-Q HIGHLAND AMUSEMENT PARK

The area near Mount Fuji is known for its lakes and beautiful shrines.

But if you’re looking for a unique way to experience Japanese culture while having fun, then Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park is your place.

Located in Yamanashi, this amusement park is home to some of the most thrilling roller coasters in the country.

Other than the amazing rides, there are several restaurants around as well as street food, which I recommend!

As you can expect, many tourists are here too, and entering each ride might take up to 30 minutes.

I recommend spending at least half a day here to enjoy the roller coasters, the food, the walk around, and everything else!

I recommend booking your ticket in advance , especially when visiting around the cherry blossom or during the summer. Get it here below:

BOOK HERE: Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park

SPEND SOME TIME AT OISHI PARK

Oishi Park is another awesome spot in town that I recommend visiting, and I guarantee you’ll fall in love as soon as you arrive.

The park offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji, which are comparable to those you get at Chureito Pagoda, but you can enjoy the reflection of Mount Fuji on the lake and the lavender flowers too.

Other than taking photos and roaming around, there are two ice cream stores inside the park where you can buy a small snack.

Unlike other places and parks near Mount Fuji, Oishi Park isn’t as crowded and, when it gets busy, there’s enough space around for everyone to enjoy. So make sure to come over and relax!

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TAKE A STROLL AT MOMIJI CORRIDOR LAKE KAWAGUCHI

Taking a stroll at Lake Kawaguchi is sure to make for a memorable experience near Mount Fuji. It reminded me of the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto , and I’m sure it won’t disappoint!

The lake is lined with over 1,000 maple trees forming a colorful path – locally known as Momiji Corridor – making it an enchanting natural scenery you can’t find anywhere else.

If you’re staying for the night, I suggest you come in the evening and take a photo of all the illuminated trees and paths!

With its blooming seasonal colors and incredible mountain views of Mount Fuji, walking along Momiji Corridor is one of the must-see attractions in Lake Kaqaguchiko region.

TAKE PHOTOS AT SHIMOYOSHIDA HONCHO STREET

Located in Fujiyoshida town, just 5 minutes walk from Fujiyoshida station, is this idyllic shopping street with an incredible view of Mount Fuji looming in the background.

If you’re an avid photographer and want to capture a unique photo of Fuji-san, then head on over to Shimoyoshida Honcho Street and put your composition skills to the test!

RELAX AT OSHINO HAKKAI SPRINGS

Another impressive place you can’t miss out on is the Oshino Hakkai Springs, nestled between Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanakako.

The springs consist of eight interconnected ponds set among green surroundings and a peaceful environment.

The eight ponds are fed by snow melt from Mount Fuji. The snow melts and then filters down the mountain through porous layers of lava.

Note that the springs have become pretty popular with tourists and, therefore, don’t expect raw, untouched nature as you’d get at Aokigahara Forest.

Nonetheless, it’s an incredible spot that you can’t skip while being near Mount Fuji.

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KUBOTA ITCHIKU MUSEUM

Kubota Itchiku was a local artist that revived the art of Tsujigahana silk dyeing, which is nowadays used to decorate kimonos in the Muromachi Period (1333-1573).

Itchiku loved the textile displayed at the National Museum in Tokyo and devoted his life to it, hence this museum.

Here, you can learn about the silk history in the region, roam around the beautiful garden at the entrance, and see some of the best kimonos he created back in the day.

The museum is open from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm and the entrance fee costs 1300 Yen ($9.50).

HAVE LUNCH AT MIYAKI UDON

For a quick break in a traditional, delicious restaurant, Miyaki Udon has got you covered.

This unassuming restaurant is renowned for its traditional udon dishes, all made using handcrafted noodles. On top of that, you should know that the place is famous for horsemeat.

The place is mostly for locals, so they don’t have a menu in English, but a little translation from Google Translate will do.

For just 350 Yen ($2.50), you’ll get a delicious bowl of noodles and that’s really all you need after a day exploring around!

SEE THE YAMANASHI GEM MUSEUM

The Yamanashi Gem Museum, located just a short walk from Lake Kawaguchiko, showcases an array of precious gems and stones from all over the world.

Here, you can see the various types of gems on display, like diamonds, sapphires, and rubies.

The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to learn more about the history and science behind these beautiful stones.

It’s not an activity for everyone but it’s definitely a nice thing to do near Mount Fuji if you’re interested in gems.

The museum opens at 9:00 am and closes at 5:30 pm, and the admission will set you back 600 Yen ($4.50).

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ONSEN AT HOTEL MIFUJIEN

There are different onsens in town, but a hotel that opens to non-staying guests is Hotel Mifujien.

Here, the hot springs are on the top floor and you can see Mount Fuji while relaxing in the tub. Note that the onsen has 2 pools, one indoor and one outdoor, which are separated for men and women.

Apart from that, they also have towels so you don’t need to bring your own, which is super convenient.

All in all, out of all the activities near Mount Fuji, this is one of the coolest, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.

DRINK SAKE AT IDE SHUZO BREWERY

Experience the unique taste of sake at Ide Shuzo Brewery, a family-owned brewery that will keep you entertained when visiting.

Located just a short walk from Kawaguchiko Station, Ide Shuzo offers 2-hour sake-tasting sessions for only 500 Yen ($3.70)!

And if you want to include the brewery tour, that will cost you 1500 Yen ($10). What is so unique about this brewery is that they make the sake with water sourced directly from Mount Fuji.

For this reason, you can’t find the same taste anywhere else in the world!

The brewery is open daily from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. What to say, it’s just one of the coolest things to do near Mount Fuji!

HAVE A BREAK AT LAKE SIDE CAFÉ KU

Tired of walking around and want a quick break? Lake Side Café Ku is a fantastic option – It’s cheap, it’s delicious, and it’s photogenic.

They have chairs near the window where you can sit and take in all the views over the mountains. Plus, the food they offer is as tasty as it gets.

And if you’re in the mood for it, make sure to try their matcha tea, it’s to die for!

SIGHTSEEING BOAT TOUR ON KAWAGUCHIKO LAKE

Last but not least on this list of things to do in Kawaguchiko is a sightseeing boat tour on the lake.

It’s a short 20-minute boat ride that departs from the shores of Lake Kawaguchi and will take you across the lake for breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes.

Operating hours are Monday to Sunday from 9 am to 4:30 pm. The cost is 1000 Yen per adult and 500 Yen per child.

BEST TOURS IN LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO

Other than joining a tour to Lake Kawaguchiko, I also recommend taking a day trip from Tokyo to Hakone , which is also worth it.

These are the best tours you can join to Kawaguchiko!

WHERE TO STAY IN LAKE KAWAGUCHIKO

There are dozens of hotels in Kawaguchiko, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

Luxury: La Vista Fujikawaguchiko

Mid-Range: Mount Fuji Panorama Glamping

Budget: Haleluya Guest House

OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO

Didn’t find the perfect accommodation above to suit your needs.

Use the interactive map below to search all the available hotels in Lake Kawaguchiko. Simply enter your dates of stay and hit the search button!

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FINAL THOUGHTS

I hope you enjoyed reading this article about things to do in Kawaguchiko and if you have any questions, please drop me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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Kawaguchiko

Mount fuji’s beautiful lake.

Kawaguchiko is one of the five lakes surrounding Mount Fuji, in Fujikawaguchiko City in the heart of Yamanashi prefecture. Located to the north of the sacred mountain, the view on Fuji-san is breathtaking which makes the surroundings of this body of water a privileged tourist destination.

Climbing Mount Fuji 🗻 is only the start of the area's discovery. At its foot is a set of five lakes called " Fujigoko ", of which the most famous, aside Lake Ashi in Hakone , is certainly Kawaguchi. We went on a day-trip at the later sometimes in mid- November when the momiji 🍁 , the Japanese maple trees foliage, is at its peak.

To get there, take a bus from the same company serving Fuji-san: Keiô (not covered by the Japan Rail Pass ). The office is located at Shinjuku station west exit, in front of the Yodobashi Camera 📷 store, and buses depart just in front of it. The journey to Kawaguchiko lasts 1h45, but the trip back is not guaranteed due to the heavy traffic on Highway 20 to Tokyo .

Get off the bus at Kawaguchiko station, which is about a 10 minutes walk from the lake. Treading in Kawaguchi City feels like being in an outdated place; despite its many sightseers, the antiquated buildings look washed-out and rusty. However, nature is superb especially during the fall season.

To travel around Lake Kawaguchiko , it is a good idea to rent electric bicycles . The most interesting company in terms of location and price is probably Sazanami, adjoining the eponymous restaurant. You can find them on the road between the Ropeway and the bridge. Even if the lake is "only" 20km of circumference, there are many spots with views of the momiji and on Fuji-san , so 3 hours aren't too much. Tall people should be careful though: the bikes’ size are adapted to the Japanese people’s!

You can then enjoy a nice ride, in search of the most beautiful momiji viewing spots! Do not forget to stop at the famous " Koyo " spot (called " maple corridor " on maps provided by the tourist organization at the station) which gathers some of the most beautiful ones.

For those who don't wish to rent a bike 🚲 or in case of bad weather, sightseeing buses ( shûyû basu 周遊バス) can drop you to famous places around Kawaguchiko, although they don’t fully circle the lake.

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Fujikawaguchiko 河口湖

Published on : 09/10/2020
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Panorama aérien de la ville de Kawaguchi avec vue sur le Mont Fuji

Photo by Peter Nguyen on Unsplash

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The most beautiful view of Mount Fuji!

Located in the heart of the Five Lakes Region and at the foot of Mount Fuji, Kawaguchi offers the most beautiful view, and has the significant advantage of being a less expensive destination than its neighbor Hakone.

Access by train

From Tokyo, take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (1h-1h30), then the Fujikyu train to Kawaguchiko Station (55 min)

Access by bus

From Shinjuku bus station (1h45 by Keio bus or Fujikyu bus).

Places to visit

Mount Kachi Kachi

Komitake shrine

Kubota Itchiku Museum of Art

Kawaguchiko Music Forest

Kawaguchi: a popular vantage point

Less than 2 hours by bus from Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchi ( ko meaning "lake" in Japanese) offers a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji . When you arrive at the station, you can choose to rent a bike and set off around Lake Kawaguchi (about 20 kilometers) to find the best viewing angle for your souvenir photos.

The north shore is the most popular with walkers, especially when the cherry trees are in bloom or the maple trees are blushing. But just like the biggest celebrities, the sacred mountain is modest. It lets itself be desired and only the most patient (and the luckiest) will be able to appreciate its splendor.

Read also: Views of Mount Fuji, 5 places to see it better

Vue sur le lac Kawaguchiko et sur le Fuji-san

Photo by Catriona Palo on Unsplash

Find the best point of view on Kawaguchiko

Get up early to optimize your chances of seeing Fuji-san, because during the day, it often disappears under the clouds ... If you want a panoramic view, head to Mount Kachi Kachi . This onomatopoeia would refer to an old Japanese tale featuring a hare and a tanuki (the Japanese raccoon) and would refer to the sound of twigs catching fire. To climb this mountain, two options: the cable car or the hike .

The cable car

The cable car is taken from Kohan station in the southeast of the lake and costs 700 yen (5.50 €) round trip per adult. In just three minutes you will reach Fujimidai station and its viewing platforms. On a clear day, it is possible to see the Japanese Alps on the horizon.

On foot, it takes 30 minutes to reach the first station and 45 minutes if you decide to extend to the Komitake Shrine , over 1000 meters above sea level. Kawaguchiko is also the rallying point for Mount Fuji climbers during the summer period. From the station, take a bus that will take you to Fuji Subaru Fifth Station (sometimes called Kawaguchiko). In an hour and for 2,700 yen (20 €) round trip, you will be very close to the Yoshida trail leading to the top of Mount Fuji. This path is very busy because of its ease of access and the many lodges along the route.

Read also: Mount Fuji, up to the 5th station

The city of Kawaguchi: cross the centuries through artistic discoveries

The city has many museums including the Kubota Itchiku Museum of Art named after its creator. This renowned dyer artist has dedicated his entire life to recreating the kimono dyeing technique called Tsujigahana , used in the Muromachi period (14th to 16th century).

The museum presents the ultimate work of the artist-craftsman: The Symphony of Light , a set of 46 kimonos illustrating a landscape changing with the seasons. Only winter and autumn could be completed before the artist's death. He left it to his apprentices to complete the picture by adding representations of summer, spring and the universe, which brought the collection to 80 pieces.

Another curiosity, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest theme park. Taking on European airs, this museum offers the opportunity to discover automatic musical instruments from Europe. The centerpiece? A French organ dating from 1905, 5 meters high and 13 meters wide, playing every half hour!

Whether it is to climb Mount Fuji or simply to observe it from the feet in the water, Kawaguchiko is a peaceful and welcoming place. Walking, cycling, cultural discovery and relaxation at the onsens will punctuate your stay in this city near Tokyo.

Museums to visit in Kawaguchiko

Itchiku kubota museum of art.

Address: 2255, Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi-ken
Hours: From December to March: from 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. (last admission at 4 p.m.) / From April to November: from 9.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Last admission half an hour before closing.
Price: 1300 yen (10 €)

Kawaguchiko Music Forest:

Address: 3077-20 Kawaguchi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi-ken 401-0304
Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Last admission half an hour before closing.
Price: 1500 yen (14 €)

Mt. Fuji-Shizuoka Tourist Pass

For further :.

Fujigoko: the 5 lakes region

Our tours in Fujikawaguchiko

Japanese martial arts athlete training samourai kendo

Path of the Samurai Self-Guided Tours in Japan

Duration : 14 days
Locations : Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Matsumoto, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto
Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Non-flight transportation, Guided activities, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Japanese Zen & Wellness Self-Guided Tours in Japan

Duration : 15 days
Locations : Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Matsumoto, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Koyasan, Osaka
Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Hotel temple, Non-flight transportation, Guided activity, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Hike on the Nakasendo road, between Tsumago and Magome in Japanese Alps

The Japan Alps Self-Guided Tours in Japan

Duration : 18 days
Locations : Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Matsumoto,Tsumago,Takayama, Shirakawago, Kanazawa, Kaga Onsen, Kyoto
Included : Airport Transfers, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Japan Experience house, Hotel temple, Non-flight transportation, Guided activities, Travel diary, Pocket wifi, Assistance

Himeji Castle, UNESCO World Heritage, under the colors of autumn

Autumn Leaves Photography Group Tours in Japan

Duration : 12 days
Locations : Tokyo, Mt Fuji (Kawaguchiko), Osaka, Himeji, Kyoto, Nara
Included : English-speaking tour leader, 3* Hotels & Ryokan, Visits & meals

Cherry Blossoms Photography Group Tours in Japan

Locations : Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Kawaguchiko, Tokyo
Included : English-speaking tour leader, 3*/4* Hotels & Ryokan, Visits & meals

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Near Mt. Fuji! 8 Things to Do by Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko is located at the foot of Mt. Fuji and can be easily accessed from Tokyo. Read on to find out fun things to do in this area, along with food, hotels, and transportation tips.

Lake Kawaguchiko: A Resort by Mt. Fuji Near Tokyo

The Lake Kawaguchiko area is a resort in Yamanashi Prefecture that is not far from Tokyo. It is located at the foot of Mt. Fuji —the highest mountain in Japan—and sits at the center of the Fuji Five Lakes with beautiful nature, lakes, and various leisure activities to enjoy.

The main highlight of the area is the immense Lake Kawaguchiko and the breathtaking scenery of Mt. Fuji . Many leisure centers, restaurants, and hotels are located around the lake. This area can be reached in only one hour and a half by highway bus from Shinjuku in Tokyo.

Find a hotel room by Lake Kawaguchiko on Booking.com

Lake Kawaguchi / Fujiyoshida

8 Things to Do by Lake Kawaguchiko

1. Viewing Mt. Fuji from Various Angles 2. Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway 3. Cruise on Lake Kawaguchiko 4. Music Forest Museum 5. Itchiku Kubota Art Museum 6. Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park 7. Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda 8. Narusawa Ice Cave Local Foods to Try at Lake Kawaguchiko Sample Itineraries around Lake Kawaguchiko Seasonal Events at Lake Kawaguchiko How to Access Lake Kawaguchiko and Ticket Deals Hotels in the Lake Kawaguchiko Area

Gotemba / Fuji

1. Viewing Mt. Fuji from Various Angles

Near Mt. Fuji! 8 Spots to Visit in Lake Kawaguchiko Including Fuji-Q Highland

Picture courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Organization

There are a number of viewing spots that give you a clear, stunning view of Mt. Fuji.

The first spot is Kawaguchiko Enkei Hall on the northern bank of Lake Kawaguchiko. You can capture the perfect shot of Kawaguchiko Bridge and Mt. Fuji near this hall.

Oishi Park , located a little further towards Lake Saiko, is another popular spot. You can marvel at the view of Mt. Fuji, seen from beyond Lake Kawaguchiko, together with fields of seasonal flowers. The lavenders in particular can be seen going into full bloom (pictured) across the entire field between June to July.

There are many places with great scenery on the northern side of Lake Kawaguchiko. We recommend taking a stroll to find your favorite photo spot.

Kawaguchiko Circular Hall

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2. Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway

Photo by Pixta

The Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway (Japanese) provides a view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko from a slightly different perspective. The ropeway was previously known as the Kachi Kachi Ropeway. This was because Mt. Tenjo, the mountain peak where the ropeway will take you, is said to be where the Japanese folktale “Kachi Kachi Yama” took place.

Take your time going up the mountain by ropeway, then head to the observation deck on the summit. You can enjoy a large panorama of Mt. Fuji alongside the foot of the mountain. The heart-shaped Bell of Tenjo is another popular photo spot. Feeling tired? We recommend snacking on dango (sweet rice dumplings) or a light meal at Tanuki Chaya Teahouse .

Lake Kawaguchiko Fuji Panorama Ropeway

3. Lake Kawaguchiko Cruise

Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat Ensoleille

Picture courtesy of Ensoleille It’s possible to take a cruise boat to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko.

Kawaguchiko Pleasure Boat Tensei

4. Music Forest Museum

Picture courtesy of Music Forest Museum

The Music Forest Museum is situated in an expansive garden and has eye-catching Western-style architecture.

There are several things to see at this museum. A large music box that supposedly was to be installed on the infamous Titanic is exhibited here. There are also concerts with sand-painting performances , the practice of depicting a story through sand paintings accompanied by music, held three times a day.

On sunny days, head over to the Rose Garden where you can enjoy roses in a multitude of colors. In June, the best time to see the flowers, you can enjoy up to 720 varieties of roses blooming in profusion.

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

5. Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

Picture courtesy of Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

The Itchiku Kubota Art Museum was awarded three stars in the 2009 Michelin Travel Guide. Artworks and kimonos designed by Itchiku Kubota, a textile-dyeing artist, are exhibited inside splendid Japanese architecture.

Itchiku Kubota is famous for reviving a long-lost dyeing technique called "tsujigahana" with his own unique interpretation and skills. A glass beads gallery, museum shop, and teahouse are also located on the same premises as the museum.

This art museum’s distinct features are not only found inside the museum but also outside where you can enjoy the scenery. The Japanese garden, a collaboration between nature and human ingenuity, changes seasonally in appearance. In particular, autumn mesmerizes those who visit with its magnificent autumn leaves.

Itchiku Kubota Museum

6. Fuji-Q Highland

Fuji-Q Highland is a popular amusement park among youth and young adults from Japan and overseas. Its biggest feature is the array of thrilling attractions! The amusement park is teeming with roller coasters like FUJIYAMA, Takabisha, and Eejanaika—all of which have been recorded in the Guinness World Records for the tallest height, fastest speed, and steepest inclination in no particular order.

Other attractions include a massive maze, a haunted house, and areas like La Ville de Gaspard Et Lisa inspired by a French picture book. Hotels and restaurants are also located near and inside the amusement park. It might be a great idea to make use of these facilities during your visit.

Book the FujiQ Highland Ticket

Fuji-Q Highland

7. Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda

The Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Sengen Park is known as a picturesque view near Lake Kawaguchiko.

Here, you can get a panoramic view of the townscape, five-storied pagoda, and Mt. Fuji’s beautiful figure all from an observation deck located up 398 flights of stairs. The cherry blossom and snowy seasons are immensely popular times to visit.

Arakurayama Sengen Park

8. Narusawa Ice Cave

Narusawa Ice Cave is a cavern that was formed by oozing lava from a volcano that erupted near Mt. Fuji in 864. The average temperature in the cave is 3℃ (37.4°F) and is covered in ice all year round.

The ice pillars inside the cave are especially famous. Depending on the year, the pillars will sometimes reach 50 centimeters in diameter and 3 meters in height.

Narusawa Ice Cave

Local Foods to Try at Lake Kawaguchiko

If you'd like to try food that’s unique to Lake Kawaguchiko, we recommend hoto noodles.

Hoto is a local dish from Yamanashi that consists of wide wheat noodles, pumpkin, and other vegetables simmered in miso (soybean paste) soup. The savoriness of the dashi broth and the sweetness of the vegetables go well together. It has a delicious flavor that will especially hit the spot during the chilly seasons. Restaurants like Houtou Fudou and Koshu Hoto Kosaku are popular options in the Kawaguchiko Station area.

Aside from hoto, there are several other unique foods that are local to the region like Fujizakura Heights Beer. This beer uses spring water sourced from the area surrounding Mt. Fuji.

Suggested Itineraries around Lake Kawaguchiko

Next, we’ll recommend itineraries that include the spots we just introduced. You can hit all the major spots in Lake Kawaguchiko in only one or two days . But if you have the extra time, you should be able to leisurely experience the charms in the area in two nights.

After you’ve arrived at Kawaguchiko Station by highway bus or railway, the first place you should head to is the Mt. Fuji Panorama Ropeway . Gaze at the spectacular scenery, then travel by route bus to have hoto , a Yamanashi specialty, or udon for lunch.

In the afternoon, take it slow by visiting the art museums . Check in early if you’re staying at a hotel with a hot spring or ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) and take your time unwinding from the day.

Hana Terrace is a complex with an open view of Mt. Fuji from the lakeside of Lake Kawaguchiko

On the second day, take a walk around Oishi Park . If you’re feeling tired, then take a break at a cafe or enjoy some shopping at Hana Terrace . There are several shops that sell items like trendy Japanese goods and desserts made with Yamanashi fruits. If that doesn’t sound appealing, then another great option is to play hard from the morning at Fuji-Q Highland .

If you’re looking to buy souvenirs, then we recommend the souvenir shops adjacent to Kawaguchiko Station, Fujisan Station, and the Fuji-Q Highland bus stop.

If you’re staying for another night, then how about going out a little further to Lake Saiko to the west of Lake Kawaguchiko or Fujiyoshida ?

Jukai is a nature-rich forest in the Lake Saiko area. Routes and guided tours are available for visitors to fully take in the forest while walking.

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine doubles as the entrance to the Mt. Fuji trailhead

Seasonal Events at Lake Kawaguchiko

Lastly, we’ll dive into information on events. Various festivities are held in each season during the peak blooms for flowers and autumn leaves.

April: Fuji Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival

Near Mt. Fuji! 8 Things to Do by Lake Kawaguchiko

Photo by Pixta The best time to see the cherry blossoms at Lake Kawaguchiko is around mid-April every year.

You’ll find rows of cherry blossom trees along the lakeshore that line the walking trail near Kawaguchiko Enkei Hall. Food stalls are set up along the trail during the festivities for visitors to eat and snack on.

April - May: Fuji Shibazakura Festival

June - July: Herb Festival (Yagizaki Park, Oishi Park)

Lavender flowers reach their peak bloom between June to July at Yagizaki Park (Japanese) and Oishi Park. Both parks are known photo spots where you can admire the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji.

November: Fall Foliage Festival - The Maple Corridor

The autumn leaves turn red slightly earlier than in flatland areas like Tokyo between late October to November. During this time, rows of food stalls are set up near the Maple Corridor on Lake Kawaguchiko’s northern bank and it becomes crowded with people.

By the way, the Lake Kawaguchiko area sits at a high elevation so winters get extremely cold. However, it is thanks to these conditions that you are all the more able to see a breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji. The snow on Mt. Fuji melts between June to September in the summer, so we recommend any other season outside of summer if you want to see a snow-capped Mt. Fuji.

How to Access Lake Kawaguchiko and Ticket Deals

If you are traveling from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko, then you can take the highway bus or train.

Highway Bus

You can get to Kawaguchiko Station by highway bus without any transfers from Shinjuku, Narita Airport, Haneda Airport, Tokyo Station, Shinagawa, Shibuya, or Yokohama. This is most recommended for first-time visitors. If there’s no traffic, then you can arrive at your destination within two hours from Shinjuku or Shinagawa.

Book a Highway Bus now! kosokubus

If you plan to walk around the Lake Kawaguchiko area, then it would be very convenient to use the Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus. The Mt. Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes Passport (2-Days) (adults 2,600 yen, children 1,300 yen) is a great option if you want access to unlimited rides and is valid for two days. The pass is sold at the Fujikyu Bus ticket counter in Kawaguchiko Station.

Aside from these deals, there are various other discount tickets available. Please check out the official Fujikyu Bus website (Japanese) for details.

If traveling by train, take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyuko Line to get to Kawaguchiko Station. Total travel time is about three hours from Tokyo Station and costs around 2,700 yen.

The FUJI EXCURSION , a service that connects Shinjuku to Lake Kawaguchiko in an hour and 56 minutes, began its daily morning and night departures in 2019. Are you an international visitor? Then take advantage of JR ride passes like the Japan Rail Pass or the JR TOKYO Wide Pass to get on the train (additional fees will apply for reserved seating).

The Japan Rail Pass and JR TOKYO Wide Pass are very valuable passes to have when traveling around Tokyo or other parts of the country, so please do check them out.

Book the Japan Rail Pass

Book the JR TOKYO Wide Pass

A car is also recommended for traveling to Lake Kawaguchiko. By using the expressway, you can get to Lake Kawaguchiko from Tokyo in about an hour and 30 to 40 minutes.

It would be easier to travel around by car as the Lake Kawaguchiko area does have many sights to see. If you plan to travel long distances with a large party, then it would be cheaper in some cases to rent a car rather than taking the bus or train.

MATCHA offers a 10% discount coupon when renting a car from Nippon Rent-A-Car, a major Japanese car rental company, that is exclusive to international visitors. Be sure to check it out if you’re considering renting a car!

Nippon Rent-A-Car 10% Off Coupon

Shinjuku / Yotsuya

Hotels in the Lake Kawaguchiko Area

The next section introduces our recommended hotels and accommodations for admiring the magnificent scenery of Mt. Fuji and the great outdoors.

PICA Fujiyama

Pictures courtesy of Booking.com PICA Fujiyama is a popular glamping spot near Lake Kawaguchiko. Spend your stay comfortably in a white, elegant half-dome tent that is one with nature.

Book lodging at PICA Fujiyama

Fuji Lake Hotel

Pictures courtesy of Booking.com

Fuji Lake Hotel is an established hotel that opened in 1932. The hotel offers private baths with a view of both Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko. There is also a public bath where guests can enjoy a hot spring with water sourced from beneath Mt. Fuji.

Book a room at Fuji Lake Hotel

SUPER HOTEL Fuji Kawaguchiko Natural Hot Spring

If you want to enjoy your stay comfortably at a reasonable price, then we recommend SUPER HOTEL Fuji Kawaguchiko Natural Hot Spring. A stay at the hotel comes with free breakfast and a natural hot spring.

Book a room at SUPER HOTEL Fuji Kawaguchiko Natural Hot Spring

Enjoy Lake Kawaguchiko in Every Season!

This was our list of must-visit spots in Lake Kawaguchiko and how to enjoy them. There are many things to do near Mt. Fuji from appreciating the natural landscapes and fine arts to enjoying the local foods and thrilling attractions, all while being in a convenient to access location from Tokyo.

There are still many more sights and charms to see in the Fuji Five Lakes area, including the nearby Lake Yamanakako and Lake Saiko. Take your time to truly take in the area together with the seasonal scenery.

What's the best way to get to Lake Kawaguchiko from Tokyo?

The most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko is by taking a train from Tokyo Station to Otsuki Station via the JR Chuo Line, followed by transferring to the Fujikyu Railway Line to reach Kawaguchiko Station. From there, it's a short walk or bus ride to Lake Kawaguchiko. An alternative option is to consider a direct highway bus from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko, offering a more straightforward journey without transfers.

Is Lake Kawaguchiko worth visiting?

Lake Kawaguchiko is a must-visit destination for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding scenic beauty, drawing in visitors and photographers alike. This picturesque spot offers a range of outdoor activities such as boat cruises, fishing, cycling, and hiking, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature's tranquility. The region is also renowned for its hot springs, providing a relaxing retreat, while cultural attractions like museums, art galleries, and temples offer insights into the area's heritage.

Which is better Lake Kawaguchiko or Hakone?

Choosing between Lake Kawaguchiko and Hakone depends on your preferences. Lake Kawaguchiko is ideal for Mount Fuji views, outdoor activities, and relaxation in hot springs, while Hakone is known for its onsens, art spaces like the Hakone Open-Air Museum, and convenient access from Tokyo and Yokohama. Kawaguchiko offers natural beauty and cultural sites, and Hakone focuses on onsens, art, and volcanic landscapes. Choose Kawaguchiko for nature and mountain vistas, or Hakone for a blend of hot springs, art, and cultural exploration in a volcanic setting.

What is Fujikawaguchiko known for?

Fujikawaguchiko near Lake Kawaguchiko is prized for its stunning Mount Fuji vistas, diverse outdoor activities, relaxing hot springs, cultural attractions, and proximity to Mount Fuji, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and those seeking a rejuvenating retreat with a backdrop of Japan's most iconic peak.

Can you walk around Lake Kawaguchi?

Yes, it is possible to walk around Lake Kawaguchi. The lake has a walking and cycling path that encircles its perimeter, providing visitors with the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the scenic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscapes. Walking or cycling around Lake Kawaguchi allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the area, explore different vantage points, and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere that the lake offers.

Can you use Suica in Kawaguchiko?

Yes, Suica cards are accepted in Kawaguchiko, providing a convenient payment option for travelers using public transportation in the area. This allows visitors to easily access and pay for transportation services using their Suica cards, offering a seamless and efficient way to navigate around Lake Kawaguchi and its surroundings. It's recommended to confirm the current status of Suica card usability in Kawaguchiko before relying on them for transportation payments.

Main image by Pixta

Born in Yamagata Prefecture. I have experience working in community development at the foot of Mt. Fuji and PR for local products across the country, and am currently working in Tokyo to disseminate information about Yamanashi Prefecture. A mother of one who loves local gourmet food and alcohol.

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Kawaguchiko travel blog — the fullest kawaguchiko travel guide & lake kawaguchiko itinerary 2 days for the first-timers.

I ate at an eatery that opposite Kawaguchi station and close to my hotel. However, this shop is only open in the morning, and it only open from 9 – 9:30am. Houtou noodle is quite similar to the cold soba noodle which I ate in Kyoto. In addition to this shop, you can refer to another famous restaurant, Houtou Fudou (Address: 2458 Funatsu Higashikoiji, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun 401-0301, Yamanashi Prefecture / Hours: 11AM–8PM / Phone: +81 555-72-8511) , but it is located a bit far from Kawaguchi station.

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There are many eateries and restaurants around Kawaguchiko station. However, in the evening they closed quite early, especially traditional food stores. For dinner I went looking for a long time, finally eating in a restaurant a bit far away from the station, called Tetsuyaki (Address: 3486 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301, Japan / Hours: 12–2PM, 5–9:30PM; Sunday: Closed / Phone: +81 70-4075-1683) . Later at night, there was a fairly large Tempura restaurant open, but I didn’t like to eat tempura very much.

My meal is a stir-fried squid dish and battered deep fried fish. Overall quite delicious, there are many Western tourist and Japanese people eating here, mostly are tourist couples. The price for the meal is 1.800JPY ($16.56).

Lake Kawaguchiko itinerary: What to do in Kawaguchiko and how to spend 2 days in Lake Kawaguchiko?

2 days in kawaguchiko — day 1.

Take the train from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko

6 AM: Go to Tokyo Station to take a bus to Lake Kawaguchiko.

8:30 AM: The bus arrives at Kawaguchi station, get off the bus and go to the hotel to send my luggage. Then go to breakfast – Houtou noodles at Houtou Restaurant nearby.

9:30 AM: Line up to buy 2 Day Pass in Kawaguchi to use sightseeing tourist bus. The first destination is Arakurayama Sengen Park, but there is no bus until 11:00 AM, so I take the train to avoid waiting. The train in Kawaguchiko is very beautiful with many colors outside, inside the cabin is also very cool and cure.

Arakurayama Sengen Park

Chureito mount fuji best places to photograph mount fuji 2

10:30 AM: The train arrives Shimoyoshida station, walking about 10 minutes to reach the foot of the mountain. From here, I climbed the mountain for 15-20 minutes to reach the top of Arakurayama Sengen Park. The way up has quite a lot of rest and dining points, and any spot can be viewed directly to Mount Fuji.

However, the best spot to see Mt. Fuji is still the peak of Arakurayama Sengen, with a small beautiful pagoda called Chureito that is painted in red, very nice. If you come here in the season of cherry blossoms, the flowers bloom will create even more spectacular scene.

Address: 3353-1 Arakura, Fujiyoshida 403-0011, Yamanashi Prefecture Hours: Open 24 hours Phone: +81 555-22-1111

Take the bus around Lake Kawaguchiko

At 12:00 AM, I returned to Kawaguchiko central station, taking a red line bus to get around the lake for sightseeing. The area around the lake has a lot of attractions and buses will stop at every point so visitors can get off, want to continue, wait for another bus to pick up, it is a hop-on and hop-off bus.

Attractions around Lake Kawaguchiko such as:

Lake Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge (Fujikawaguchiko-machi): Many young people gather here, you can walk across the bridge, or wander around on the riverside road.

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway: Sitting in a cable car you can see both Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, up to the top is Mount Tenjo – which is mentioned in the context of Kachi Kachi Yama fairy tale. Remember to take a picture with the heart-shaped Tenjo no Kane bell.

view-point-kachi-kachi-ropeway-fujisan-background-japan4

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum: This European-style museum is located in a garden. If you go walking around, it is free, and step inside to visit you have to pay admission fee.

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum,kawaguchiko travel blog (1)

Oishi Park: The last point of the red line bus, this park is a massive complex that views straight to Mt. Fuji. Oishi is also a huge flower garden with lots of colorful flowers. The services at the park are also diverse, including restaurants, food stores, shopping malls, cafes, ..

Getting to the town to see the beautiful Mt. Fuji at sunset

After finishing the sightseeing bus tour around lake Kawaguchiko with the Red Line bus, I returned to Kawaguchiko central station and continued to catch the train to Mt. Fuji Station. From here I wandered into the town center. There are no places to visit here, but it is a living area of indigenous people, full of services, shops, stores, and supermarkets.

A best spot where you can see Mount Fuji at sunset is the town center, with both sides of the street lights up. The spectacle is like Mt. Fuji is devouring a neighborhood, so majestic.

Kawaguchiko itinerary — Day 2

Saiko iyashino-sato nenba (ancient japanese village).

This village located next to Lake Saiko is quite far from Kawaguchi central station. The earliest bus route departs at 9.30am, so if you wake up early, you can cycle around Lake Kawaguchi to breathe fresh air in the morning.

It takes about 45 minutes to travel from Kawaguchiko to Iyashi no Sato village, the way passes through both Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Saiko. The roadside scenery is beautiful and if you have time, you should stop on the road to enjoy it.

Iyashi no Sato Village originated as an old village located in the west of Saiko Lake. It was destroyed by a landslide and many years later, houses with traditional thatched roofs were rebuilt. They rebuilt it and make it become an outdoor museum and traditional craft village with local handicraft products.

Admission is 350 JPY ($3.22), it will take about 1 hour to visit the village. From here view Mount Fuji is also very beautiful, very suitable for those who like to take pictures.

Address: 2710 Saikonemba, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun 401-0332, Yamanashi Prefecture Hours: 9AM–5PM Phone: +81 555-20-4677

Return to Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Kawaguchi Ohashi Bridge kawaguchiko travel blog.4

Actually, the first day I went around Lake Kawaguchi but it was still not very satisfying, because that day was murky. On the 2nd day, the sun was beautiful, and I decided to go back to Lake Kawaguchi to take photos. The lake surface is also greener and clear clouds to see the best of Mount Fuji.

You can stop at the opposite point of Mt. Fuji, about 2 km from Oishi park. It often has early blooming cherry blossoms, along with a small gravel-lined street for walking, very beautiful.

In addition to the attractions in the Lake Kawaguchiko itinerary for 2 days above, if you have more time, you can visit some other attractions like Itchiku Kubota Art Museum . Or spend half a day or full day for playing at Fuji-Q Highland amusement park .

Usually, people will combine to visit both Kawaguchiko and Hakone, which is famous for its onsen bathing resorts. We had a very detailed guide about Hakone here: Hakone travel blog — The Hakone travel guide & how to spend 2 days in Hakone for the first-timers.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Lake Kawaguchi you can refer to

Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi Scenic Spots Day Tour from Tokyo
Mt Fuji Day Tour from Tokyo
[Klook Exclusive] Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and Seasonal Fruits Day Trip
Lake Kawaguchi, Arakura Mountain Sengen Park, and Yamanakako Onsen Experience Full Day Trip from Tokyo
Mt. Fuji, Hakone, Lake Yamanaka, and Lake Kawaguchi Tour from Tokyo (with a Chinese-speaking Guide)
Mt. Fuji, Oshino Hakkai and Lake Kawaguchi Day Tour with Matcha Experience from Tokyo
Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket
Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan
JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

Are you looking for more top things to do around Mount Fuji: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Mount Fuji places to visit — Top 10 most beautiful places to visit near MT Fuji . And Mount Fuji day trip blog — How to spend one perfect day itinerary in Mt Fuji ?

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15 BEST THINGS TO SEE AT LAKE KAWAGUCHI [JAPAN GUIDE]

WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO AT LAKE KAWAGUCHI?

This is our ultimate guide about Lake Kawaguchi in Japan . One of the best places to see Mount Fuji . This is one of the main highlights during our 2 months trip through Japan!

When traveling in Japan, a day trip or weekend trip to Lake Kawaguchi to see Mount Fuji is simply a must! Lake Kawaguchi is located in a region called the Five Lakes.

Lake Kawaguchi is the most visited out of the 5 lakes ( Yamanaka , Kawaguchi, Sai, Shoji and Motosu ), partly because it is the most accessible by public transport from Tokyo.

Key Takeaways from a Visit to Kawaguchiko

– Stunning Views of Mount Fuji : This is one of THE MOST SCENIC spots in Japan. – Rich Cultural Experience : The area around Lake Kawaguchi is steeped in Japanese culture. – Outdoor Activities : The lake offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, and camping. There are also numerous hiking trails. – Chureito Pagoda : Make sure to visit the famous Chureito Pagoda with its incredible view! – Seasonal Beauty : Each season brings a different charm to Lake Kawaguchi. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn leaves, and the snowy landscape in winter all offer unique experiences. – Although many people will only visit Kawaguchiko during a day trip to see the main highlights, we recommend 2 full days to fully discover the area and to take your time to appreciate the views of Mount Fuji.

A SNEAK PEEK OF WHAT TO EXPECT AT LAKE KAWAGUCHI

THINGS TO SEE AT LAKE KAWAGUCHI

1. start your visit at the famous chureito pagoda for the best view of mount fuji.

We have many memories of our trip to Japan, however watching Mount Fuji from the Chureito Pagoda, was like a dream come true! We saw so many photos of this place before traveling to Japan and couldn’t wait to see it for ourselves!

And it did not disappoint, IT EVEN EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS !

Chureito pagoda is part of the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine. To get to the pagoda a set of 400 steps awaits you! BE READY!

Remember to turn around regularly: the view gets prettier with each new step! Once at the top head to the viewing platform behind the Pagoda! Ta-Da! Here you have one of the viewpoint in the whole of Japan!

It’s just incredible.

Especially on a clear day with the Mount Fuji in the background.

Do check out the Arakura Fuji Sengen shrine before leaving. This is beautiful shrine nestled in the forest.

Location: HERE
Admission fee: FREE

How to reach Chureito Pagoda?

If you have car, then it would be very easy. It’s a 10min drive. There is a pretty big parking once you arrive.

With public transportation, the easiest way is to take the train from Kawaguchi station and stop at Shimoyoshida Station. From there it’s a short walk to reach the shrine and Chureito pagoda.

2. Take Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, for another stunning view of Mt. Fuji at Lake Kawaguchi

This is another stunning view of Mount Fuji!

Take the ropeway at Lake Kawaguchi (beware there could be a long queue on weekend), and head to Kawaguchiko Tenjozan Park. This hillside park offers incredible view of Mount Fuji.

There is also a small shrine at the top: Tenjosan Komitake Shrine

The departure of the ropeway is right by the lake.

Admission: 900 yen for adults and 450 for children (round trip)
Website: HERE

3. Enjoy a walk by Lake Kawaguchi

One of our favorite areas around Lake Kawaguchi to take a walk is around Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum ( HERE ). From this area there is a nice promenade along the lake with a direct view of Mount Fuji.

To complement this postcard view, there are lots of cherry trees, which is perfect during the Sakura season in spring, and lots of Mapple Trees (Momiji in Japanese), which turn in vivid yellow and red colors in autumn.

Enjoy a coffee at Cafe Mimi, right by the lake. The view from the terrace is stunning ( location )!

4. Take plenty of great photos at Momiji Corridor

Still in the same area, continue your promenade all the way to the Momiji Corridor.

This is a wonderful place to enjoy the colorful autumn trees… there are red and yellow Momiji everywhere along a beautiful water canal.

This place is especially beautiful in Autumn. There is also a festival in Autumn around this area, with lots of stands serving many kind of different food.

This is another best things to see in Lake Kawaguchi.

Admission: FREE

5. Continue your visit at Oichi Park one of the best things to see at Lake Kawaguchi

This is one of the most famous viewpoint to see Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi! Make sure to check it out during your trip.

At Oichi park you can observe a gorgeous garden changing by the season. Another postcard moment in Lake Kawaguchi! This view is amazing!

There is also a souvenir shops and other shops selling local produce (sweet potatoes, grapes, vegetables, etc). There are also a few ice-cream stands (you gotta try ice creams in Japan, it’s really delicious).

6. Enjoy a boat tour at Lake Kawaguchi

Another best things to do in Lake Kawaguchi is to go on a boat tour.

On a sunny day you will have a wonderful view of Mt. Fuji from the lake. The boat company is Ensoleille Excursion Ship. You can board the ship from HERE .

Duration of the tour: ~20 minutes
Admission fee: 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children

Another fun activity on Lake Kawaguchi is to go on swan looking pedal boat. There are many places around the lake where you rent a pedal boat.

7. Visit Kawaguchi Asama Shrine (Tenku no torii), for one of the most scenic view of Mt. Fuji

This is one of the most instagrammable places around Lake Kawaguchi ( check out this IG post ). However to get there, you will need a car, or be prepared for a long uphill walk.

At the end, it’s all worth it! The view from up there is incredible.

There is a torii gate right in front of the viewpoint which makes it magical. And of course, you guessed it, in the background you can see the spectacular Mount Fuji!

However, don’t go there at midway, as the sun will be directly in front of you. Early morning or late afternoon would be much better to take photos!

We love the view from Tenku no torii. With Chureito Pagoda, this is one of our favorite viewpoints to see Mount Fuji.

Admission: there is a small donation box, as this shrine was placed on a private land.

At the bottom of the hill, don’t miss the visit of Kawaguchi Asama Shrine, the main temple. It’s an impressive and beautiful temple surrounded by massive trees! Worth a visit!

8. Visit the traditional and charming village of Iyashi no Sato, one of the best things to see near Lake Kawaguchi

A visit of the village of Iyashi no Sato is one of the best things to do at Lake Kawaguchi!

Iyashi no Sato is a village-museum located near Lake Kawaguchi. Here you can see traditional houses with thatched roofs .

It’s like an open air museum.

Everything at Iyashi no Sato is dedicated to local craft. The houses are home to workshops (washi paper, soba noodles, basketry), art galleries, restaurants, local craft shops (pottery, kimono, jewelry). It’s a nice place to spend half a day.

And the cherry on top of the cake, is that in the background you can see the beautiful Mt. Fuji. This is one of our favorite places to visit in Kawaguchi!

Admission: 500 yen for adults and 250 yen for children

9. Explore an ice cave near Lake Kawaguchi

An Ice Cave? Yes, you read that right!

Head to Narusawa Ice Cave, near Lake Kawaguchi. Here you go deep down the cave to the see ice formation.

Prepare a jacket as it gets really cold down the cave. Some part of the cave are extremely low, you need to squat down to go through it . Once you reach the bottom of the cave you see lots of ice. It’s really interesting!

Best things to do around Lake Kawaguchi: visit an ice cave

Visiting Narusawa Ice Cave is one of the best things to do around Lake Kawaguchi.

Admission: 350 yen for adults and 200 yen for children

BOOK: FULL DAY SAKE BREWERIES GUIDED TOUR AT LAKE KAWAGUCHI

Fugaku Wind Cave is another cave which can be visited near Narusawa Ice Cave. Winter is obviously the best time of the year to observe the ice inside the caves. Both caves are really impressive. Fugaku Wind Cave is slightly easier to explore.

10. Walk through Aokigahara Forest, near Narusawa Ice Cave

Aokigahara Forest, one of the best things to see at Lake Kawaguchi

Aokigahara Forest is a very dense forest with several trails. The particularity of this forest is that it grew on top of lava flow from Mount Fuji after an eruption in 864.

Today visiting the Aokigahara Forest is one of the best things to do in Lake Kawaguchi.

Because of its dense landscapes, rocky volcanic soil, thousand-year-old trees and winding paths, Aokigahara Forest has the reputation of being cursed … It is even believed to have demons.

Those “legends” aside, this forest is absolutely stunning. Venture in one of the trails to enjoy a relaxed walk in the nature.

BOOK: GUIDED TREKKING EXPERIENCE AT AOKIGAHARA FOREST + CAVE EXPLORATION

11. Learn more about sake at Ide Sake Brewery

Ever tried sake in Japan? Or ever wonder how sake is made?

Why not joining a Sake Brewery tour where you can also taste various sakes.

We recommend the Ide Sake Brewery at Lake Kawaguchi. This family owned brewery offer english guided tour and free tasting !

Reservation is required 1 day before, HERE .

12. Enjoy a delicious meal at Sanrokuen, a 150 years old restaurant at Lake Kawaguchi

To complete your visit of Lake Kawaguchi, enjoy a fantastic meal at one of the oldest restaurants in the area : Sanrokuen

This could well be one of the most traditional Japanese dining experience we had during our 2 months road trip. Everything is done the traditional way here. The food is super fresh and absolutely delicious!

We highly recommend this place if you are visiting Lake Kawaguchi. You won’t regret it.

13. Check out Oshino Hakkai village near Lake Kawaguchi

Best things to see in Lake Yamanaka in Japan

Oshino Hakkai Village is located between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka . This is one of our favorite places to visit in this area!

Make sure to check it out as this is one of the cutest places to visit in Japan !

At Oshino Hakkai Village, there are many scenic ponds , with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and snacks around. The village is really cute and worth spending a few hours wandering through the various alleys and finding all the water ponds!

Deguchi Pond, Okama Pond, Choshi Pond, Sokonashi Pond, Nigori Pond, Waku Pond, Kagami Pond, and Shobu Pond, each with its own history of Fuji worship.

You can also combined your visit of Oshino Hakkai Village with Lake Yamanaka, which is another place with the best viewpoint of Mt. Fuji.

READ: 10 BEST THINGS TO SEE AT LAKE YAMANAKA

Location: HERE
Admission: FREE

HOW TO GET TO OSHINO HAKKAI VILLAGE FROM LAKE KAWAGUCHI?

If you have car, then it will take around 20min to get there. There are plenty of parking spaces around the village.

By public transport from Lake Kawaguchi you can also catch a bus. It takes about 30min.

14. Enjoy a visit of Kawaguchi Forest Museum

There are many museums around Lake Kawaguchi. Our favorite one is Kawaguchi Forest Museum.

This museum is a beautiful place with a magical scenery. Especially on clear day when Mt. Fuji is visible.

The garden is our favorite part, especially the rose garden.

There is also a cool playground and show for kids, which makes it the perfect place to visit as a family.

Admission: 1800 yen for adults / 1200 yen for children

15. Relax at an onsen with a view of Mt. Fuji is one of the best things to do at Lake Kawaguchi after a full day of visit

Head to Fuji Yurari Hot Spring for one of the most beautiful onsen experience at Lake Kawaguchi. The outdoor onsen has a view of Mt. Fuji. The whole area is nestled deep in the nature.

We absolutely love this place.

This is a public onsen, meaning you do not need to stay at the hotel, you can simply buy a pass to access the onsen.

How to get to Lake Kawaguchi from Tokyo?

Three options are possible to get to Lake Kawaguchi from Tokyo.

1. Reach Kawaguchi by train

The train with the JR lines: From Shinjuku change trains at Otsuki station al the way to Kawaguchi. However, we do do recommend this option, as the train from Otsuki is very crowded.

2. Reach Kawaguchi by bus

Taking the bus from Tokyo is the cheapest and most practical option in our opinion. Not only can you book in advance on the Highway Bus website , but the bus is also direct! Just seat down and relax until you reach Kawaguchi.

3. Getting to Kawaguchi by car

If you have a car, or decided to rent a car during your visit of Japan, then you can easily get to Kawugachi. The journey from Tokyo takes about 1h30min (depending on traffic).

We highly recommend Nippon-Rent-A-Car in Japan when renting a car in Japan. We always use them, their service is top notch!

4. Private Transfer

If you are a group of people traveling to Japan, it makes sense to hire a private transfer from Tokyo. This is a 1 day trip with a guide. The tour will take you around Kawaguchi and Hakone. This is the most efficient way if you only have 1 day to see Mt. Fuji. BOOK HERE

5. Join a tour group

How to get around at lake kawaguchi.

The good part about traveling to Lake Kawaguchi, is that there are many public buses which will take to the main sights. The buses are very frequent too, which is very convenient!

There are three lines starting from Kawaguchiko Station : the red Kawaguchiko Line (buses every 20 minutes) runs along the eastern and northern shores.

The green Saiko Line (hourly) runs along the southern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko and around Lake Saiko.

The blue Narusawa Shojiko Motosuko Line (every 2-4 hours) serves Lake Shoiko and Lake Motosuko. A pass for unlimited use of all three lines on two consecutive calendar days costs 1500 yen.

If you only want to see the main highlights in a day, the red line would be sufficient!

How many days to visit Lake Kawaguchi?

We recommend 2 full days to cover the best things to see in Kawaguchi!

You can visit Kawaguchi during a day trip, which is very common from Tokyo, however, you will have to skip a few things!

Where to stay at Lake Kawaguchi? Which are the best hotels around Kawaguchi?

1. fuji lake hotel (best seller).

Fuji Lake Hotel is one of the best hotels around Lake Kawaguchi. You can enjoy a private onsen with the view of Mt. Fuji! How cool is that?

The hotel is close to Kawaguchiko Station and just a few minutes walk to the bus stop. Which makes it a perfect place to stay if you do not have a car.

Fuji Lake Hotel is often ranked as the best hotel around Lake Kawaguchi.

2. KORYU HOTEL (BEST VALUE)

In terms of best value for money, Koryu Hotel is the best option! This hotel is right by the lake and offer multiple onsen options. It is located walking distance to Mt. Fuji ropeway.

Perhaps the only con, is that there is no view of Mt. Fuji from the hotel. It didn’t bother us at all when staying there as we could see Mt. Fuji the whole day already.

Best time to visit Kawaguchiko?

One of the main point for a visit of Kawaguchi is to see Mount Fuji. Now, beware that Mount Fuji is very often covered by a thick cloud… sadly.

However, you will have more chances to see Mt. Fuji in Winter or in the colder days of Autumn and Spring. But you can also have beautiful clear days in summer. It’s just that the humidity will be higher and the chances of being cloudy higher too.

All and all we recommend Spring for the Sakura and Autumn to see the fall foliage.

Other things to see near Lake Kawaguchi?

1. lake yamanaka.

Lake Yamanaka, one of the best things to see near Hakone

Lake Yamanaka is one of our favorite places to admire Mount Fuji.

This is another excellent day trip from Tokyo as it’s only located 1 hour from the capital. At Lake Yamanak a, besides the amazing view of Mount Fuji, you can do plenty of outdoor activities. Hike, Canoe, Cycling etc. It’s also a great spot for camping.

From Hakone, it takes about 1h to drive to Yamanaka . By public transportations it’s a tiny bit more complicated, as it takes about 3h. You will then to change bus twice.

READ: 10 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN LAKE YAMANAKA

2. HAKONE, ONE OF THE BEST PLACES IN JAPAN TO SEE MT. FUJI

Hakone is one of the best places to visit in Japan . It’s a region with significant geothermal activity. There are therefore many onsen (Japanese hot springs).

Around Lake Ashi, you can also visit the famous and stunning Hakone Shrine, the Hakone Checkpoint and admire Mount Fuji of course!

A visit to Hakone is a must if your are in visiting in Japan. For people living in Tokyo, Hakone is also one of the best day trip or weekend trip from the capital

READ: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO SEE IN HAKONE

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kawaguchiko travel guide

IMAGES

VIDEO

COMMENTS

Lake Kawaguchiko

Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Kubota Itchiku Museum

Kawaguchiko Museum of Art

Kawaguchiko Music Forest

Yamanashi Gem Museum

Hot spring baths

Hotel Mifujien

Kaiun no Yu

Links and Resources

Experiences around Fuji Five Lakes

Kawaguchiko: Full Guide, Sample Itineraries & Things to Do

Understanding Mt. Fuji and Fuji Five Lakes

Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)

Kawaguchiko and Saiko

Kawaguchiko or Hakone: Which is worth visiting?

How to get to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo

Ways to get around Kawaguchiko

2. By Sightseeing Bus

Which is better, join a day tour or on your own?

What about self-driving?

Know before you go

Our Suggested Mount Fuji & Kawaguchiko Itineraries

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Saiko

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Aokigahara

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Fuji-Q Highlands

2-Day Kawaguchiko & Arakurayama Sengen Park

1-Day Kawaguchiko (by bike only)

Top things to do around Mt. Fuji’s Kawaguchiko & Saiko

2. Tenjō-Yama Park Mt. Kachi Kachi Ropeway (also known as Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway)

3. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

4. Konohana Museum

5. Kawaguchiko North Coast Walking Trail

6. Itchiku Kubota Art Museum

7. Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center and Oishi Park

8. Yagisaki Park

9. Saiko Iyashi-No-Sato Nenba (Healing Village)

10. Aokigahara Forest (Suicide Forest)

11. Arakurayama Sengen Park

12. Fuji-Q Highland

Top seasonal attractions in Kawaguchiko

Where to Eat in Kawaguchiko

1. Momijitei restaurant

2. Houtou Fudou restaurant

3. Tempura Restaurant Ninja

4. Cisco Coffee

5. Milky Way

6. Troisieme marche

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Kawaguchiko Itinerary: Complete 2-Day Itinerary and Must-See Places

Arrange a Kawaguchiko 2-day 1-night itinerary to visit Mount Fuji

How to arrange the itinerary for Lake Kawaguchi for two days and one night?

Kawaguchiko two-day one-night itinerary planning from Tokyo

Itinerary for the first morning

Lunch Options in Kawaguchiko

Itinerary for the afternoon of the first day

Itinerary for the first night

Itinerary for the next morning

Itinerary for the afternoon of the second day

Simultaneous departure to Lake Kawaguchi in Hakone two-day one-night itinerary planning

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Table of Contents

Buy Me A Beer!

Where To Stay in Kawaguchiko

Getting Around Kawaguchiko

Things To Do in Kawaguchiko

Cycle around Lake Kawaguchiko

Visit the Gardens at Oishi Park

Chureito Pagoda

Hit up an Onsen

Fuji-Q Highland

Visit the Museums Along the Lake

Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Summiting Mount Fuji