There is no better place to view the magnificent Mount Fuji than from the Fuji Five Lakes region. Located at the northern base of Mount Fuji approximately 1000 meters above sea level, this region affords views of the mountain along with the natural surrounding beauty of the lakes. The area is largely defined by its five distinctive lakes. In addition to its iconic views, the area also makes a good home base for all of your climbing adventures. There are a variety of attractions in the Fuji Five Lakes area, making this an ideal jumping-off point for your mountain adventure.
Lake Kawaguchi
As the most developed resort area of the region, Lake Kawaguchi is also the most accessible. Visitors can reach this area via bus or direct train from Tokyo. The best place to view Mount Fuji is from the lake’s northern shore. However, the eastern end is the most developed with a variety of tourist attractions. The town is also known for its rejuvenating hot springs. In addition to the hot springs, be sure to visit the Fuji Q amusement park and the myriad of museums. Or take a boat tour or experience the thrill of the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway.
Shoji Lake
Nestled between Lake Motosu and Lake Sai, Shoji is the smallest of the five lakes. Because of this, it is no surprise that it is also the least developed. However, this remoteness makes Shoji Lake one of the most tranquil and quiet places to visit while in Japan. The lake borders the dense Aokigahara Jukai forest and features only a few hotels around the northern shore. All of these hotels deliver outstanding views of Mount Fuji in the distance. Visitors enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, water skiing and boating.
Sai Lake
This serene lake features a wooded landscape, making it a popular destination for campers. The lake’s western end is the best place to see Mount Fuji in the distance. The volcano is obscured by mountains in the other areas of the lake, making the western shore the place to be if the view is important to you. This lake also offers a network of hiking trails that traverse the hills that dot the landscape. In addition, Sai Lake is a good place to start your journey exploring the caves that have formed as a result of past eruptions.
Lake Motosu
As the westernmost of the five lakes, Lake Motosu was formed by an eruption by Mount Fuji in the 9th century. Lake Motosu is more challenging to access with very few public transportation options. The lake and its views of Mount Fuji are so stunning that it is featured on the 1000 yen bill. While it is largely undeveloped, visitors will find a few campsites that take up home around the shore of the lake. A myriad of water sports can be enjoyed in this picturesque lake.
Lake Yamanaka
Boasting its status as the largest of the five lakes, Lake Yamanaka is flush with an abundance of activities, lodging options, and restaurants. Lake Yamanaka is the second-most developed lake behind Lake Kawaguchi. The Panorama Dai observation point delivers sweeping views of the lake and Mount Fuji. Tourists also enjoy the area’s hot springs baths. The popular Benifuji no Yu baths even provide views of Mount Fuji while you relax in the bubbling springs. A one-way bus trip to Lake Yamanaka takes about 2.5 hours.
