Lake Kawaguchiko, a small town at the foot of Mount Fuji, is one of the best places in Japan to see Mount Fuji. It is easy to get there by bus from Shinjuku station. Of Fuji’s five lakes, it is the largest and most developed for tourism.
You can take a day trip from Tokyo. However, as the view of Mount Fuji depends on the weather, I recommend spending at least one night in the area. There are many things to do at Lake Kawaguchiko (also called Lake Kawaguchi), most of which offer views of Mount Fuji.
How to get to Kawaguchiko Lake
Unfortunately, there is no high-speed train to travel to Fuji Five Lakes. The easiest way to get to Lake Kawaguchiko is by bus. A bus ride from JR Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station costs around 1750 Yen and takes around 90 minutes. You can also take a day trip organized by a tour company so you don’t have to worry about transportation.
It is one of best places to try and get a clear view of Mount Fuji, as the lake provides a beautiful setting. There are also plenty of things to do in the area. You can rent a bike to go around the city, sail in a kayak or hike for even more incredible views.
Where to see Mount Fuji at Lake Kawaguchiko?
There are plenty of places to see Mount Fuji – it towers over the city, so look in that direction! We were lucky enough to stay in an apartment that overlooked Mount Fuji, so we were able to take full advantage of it! (more on where we stayed at the end of this post). The best time of day to see Mount Fuji is early in the morning.
For aerial views of the city (and Mount Fuji), head to Tenjoyama Park to take the cable car up Mount Tenjoyama. The return ticket costs 800 yen or you can take the cable car and walk back down. It’s an easy 40 minute hike.
The Fuji Scenic Cable Car is the main reason people come to the Lake Kawaguchi area.
Things to do in Lake Kawaguchiko
The lake is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and forests, with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. It has been designated an Important Bird Area for more than 20 years because it hosts a large number of migratory birds from all over Japan.
Kawaguchiko Musical Forest Museum
This museum, both indoors and outdoors, is dedicated to automatic musical instruments. It is a unique experience for music lovers.
Chureito Pagoda and Arakurayama Sengen Park
The quintessence of this five-storey pagoda rises above the trees. In spring, the red pagoda is surrounded by cherry blossoms. Even if the day is cloudy, the view of the city and the lake is magnificent. On a clear day, you have a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji. We didn’t have time to go all the way to where you can see the view, but just seeing the pagoda from the city is beautiful.
Oshino Hakkai
A little outside of Lake Kawaguchiko is an open-air museum (with a view of Mount Fuji). Here you will find picturesque ponds and thatched-roof farmhouses that give a glimpse of life in the past. Take Bus Line F from Kawaguchiko Station to get there.
Get lost in the woods of Aokigahara
We didn’t have time to explore the woods, but I heard some amazing things. The forest is dense and has earned the title of “sea of trees”. Not only is there a plethora of flora and fauna, there are also a number of lava tube caves to explore!
Itchiku Kubota Museum of Art
Art lovers can visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum which houses ancient ruins, primitive art and even a painted and dyed silk kimono. Itchiku Kubota was a textile artist and made amazing kimonos. His mission was to recreate the 16th century Tsujigahana dyeing technique, which took him over 20 years! The kimonos are so colorful and full of nature – you can tell he was devoted to his craft. Unfortunately, photos of kimonos are not allowed.
Corridor of maples
Near the Itchiku Kubota Museum is a short path lined with maple trees. In the fall, it offers stunning scenery with a variety of fall colors.
Relax in an Onsen
As Mount Fuji is rich in volcanic activity, there are plenty of hot springs. This makes relaxing in an onsen one of the best things to do at Lake Kawaguchiko. You will find some onsen offering a spectacular view of Mount Fuji.
Shopping at Kawaguchiko’s Herb Hall
Japanese food is amazing in every way, so take a look at the variety of herbs and spices. You will find local herbs, teas and flowers, including Kawaguchiko lavender. Don’t forget to buy lavender ice cream from Kawaguchiko – it comes with edible flowers.
Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park
Fuji Q Highland amusement park is hard to miss – it stands out in the countryside. Adrenaline seekers can enjoy the mountain views while riding a roller coaster!
Best Things to Do in Lake Kawaguchiko, Japan
Lake Kawaguchiko, a small town at the foot of Mount Fuji, is one of the best places in Japan to see Mount Fuji. It is easy to get there by bus from Shinjuku station. Of Fuji’s five lakes, it is the largest and most developed for tourism.
You can take a day trip from Tokyo. However, as the view of Mount Fuji depends on the weather, I recommend spending at least one night in the area. There are many things to do at Lake Kawaguchiko (also called Lake Kawaguchi), most of which offer views of Mount Fuji.
Kawaguchiko Natural Life Center
Depending on the season you visit, you might be able to see some incredible blooms at the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center. You can find everything from lavender to bellflowers. In summer, you can sign up for a fruit picking experience. There is also a small cafe with curry rice and ice cream.
Yamanashi Gemstone Museum
This museum is dedicated to the charm of precious stones. Learn all about the gemstones we often take for granted in our jewelry. Nature manufactures these amazing stones in the depths of the earth. This museum houses more than 3,000 pieces from around the world. Currently, a third of the jewelry in circulation in Japan is made in Yamanashi.
Take a paddle boat ride on Lake Kawaguchi
I love all things water so when I saw the duck paddle boats I knew I had to take a ride. It was such a fun way to get around on the water! I loved seeing Mount Fuji from the water – it looked so majestic. It was a unique and silly experience that only cost 1000 Yen.
Ide sake brewery
Call ahead for a tour and tasting at this small brewery. There are only two tours per day – one at 9:30am and one at 3pm – so be sure to call ahead! Who doesn’t love a little sake?
Where to eat at Lake Kawaguchiko?
Hōtō Fudō is known for their amazing Hōtō noodles – in fact – it’s almost the only thing they have on their menu. Don’t worry, if you want stewed intestines or Japanese pickles, they have those too. Hōtō noodles are thick wheat noodles – almost like dumplings – cooked in a savory miso soup that are a specialty of the region.
The Izakaya High Spirits can accommodate less than 20 people, but that’s an experience in itself. The owner is the only employee and you can feel the community as soon as you enter the restaurant. The fusion cuisine is served in the form of tapas, which makes it possible to make conversation with the other guests.
Cheesecake Garden only offers cheesecake. Although I’m not a cheesecake fan, they have an awesome amount of cheesecake types available – and you get a free cup of coffee with every slice.
Enjoy lavender and edible flower ice cream at Kawaguchiko Herb Hall.
