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Near Mt. Fuji! 8 Things to Do by Lake Kawaguchiko
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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.
Written by
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.
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
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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
1. Viewing Mt. Fuji from Various Angles
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.
Picture courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Organization
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.
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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.
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3. Lake Kawaguchiko Cruise
Picture courtesy of Ensoleille
It’s possible to take a cruise boat to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko.
The Inverted Fuji, a phenomenon that occurs when Mt. Fuji is reflected on the water’s surface on days of clear weather and no wind, is an amazing sight we hope you get to witness!
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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.
Picture courtesy of Music Forest Museum
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.
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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.
Picture courtesy of Itchiku Kubota Art 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.
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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
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7. Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda
Photo by Pixta
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.
8. Narusawa Ice Cave
Photo by Pixta
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.
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Local Foods to Try at Lake Kawaguchiko
Picture courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Organization
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.
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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.
Two Days
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.
Three Days
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
Fujiyoshida, the next city over, is home to Chureito Pagoda, a super popular photo spot where you can capture both Mt. Fuji and the five-storied pagoda together, and Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine a.k.a. the starting point to begin the climb up Mt. Fuji. Both spots can be visited by bus or train from the Lake Kawaguchiko area.
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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
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
Picture courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Organization
Once the cherry blossoms have fallen, next comes the shibazakura (moss phlox) season. The sight of brilliant pinks covering the ground like a giant blanket of flowers is incredible.
June - July: Herb Festival (Yagizaki Park, Oishi Park)
Picture courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Organization
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
Picture courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Organization
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.
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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.
Train
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.
Rental Car
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
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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.
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
Pictures courtesy of Booking.com
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.
FAQ
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.
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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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