On the Yamanashi side of Mt. Fuji, you'll find the Fuji Five Lakes: Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, Motosuko, and Yamanakako. Kawaguchiko sits to the north of Mt. Fuji and boasts the longest shoreline of the five lakes. Each season brings its own colorful scenery — cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant lavender in early summer, and fiery leaves in the fall.

One of Kawaguchiko's most famous sights is the 'Sakasa Fuji,' when Mt. Fuji is reflected upside down on the surface of the lake. If you want to catch this stunning view, head to the north shore of the lake or around Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge. Just keep in mind that the reflection only appears under the right conditions — clear skies, no wind, and often in the early morning or during winter.

Kawaguchiko is a favorite destination not just for locals, but also for international visitors exploring Japan. Here's why it's so loved by everyone.

The area around Kawaguchiko offers some of the most breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. One of the most famous spots is from Ubuyagasaki on the north side of Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge, which connects the lake's southern and northern shores. When the weather conditions are just right, you can catch iconic sights like Mt. Fuji framed by cherry blossoms or the stunning upside-down 'Sakasa Fuji' reflection. The small Ubuyagasaki Shrine, perched at the tip of the cape, is also a popular viewpoint.

What makes the view of Mt. Fuji from Kawaguchiko so special is the mountain's beautifully symmetrical ridgeline that stretches gracefully to both sides from the summit. Especially from the north shore, where there are hardly any obstructions, you can admire Mt. Fuji's breathtaking silhouette all the way down to its wide, sweeping base — a truly mesmerizing sight.

Mt. Fuji has something special to offer no matter what time of year you visit and each season brings its own unique charm.

Spring
From the northern shores of Kawaguchiko, you can enjoy a stunning view of Mt. Fuji, the lake, and cherry blossoms all in one. The area is also known for its lovely 'shibazakura' (pink and purple moss phlox), which bloom in colorful carpets.

Summer
In places like Yagizaki Park and Oishi Park, you'll find vibrant lavender fields. The sight of lavender blooming against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji looks like a giant purple carpet stretching out across the landscape.

Autumn
The fall foliage around Kawaguchiko is a sight to behold, usually reaching its peak from early to mid-November. Popular spots like the Momiji Corridor along the north shore and Yagizaki Park are perfect for leaf viewing.

Winter
When it snows, Kawaguchiko transforms into a winter wonderland. The crisp, clear air makes it the perfect time to see Mt. Fuji with a beautiful blanket of snow and its sharp ridgelines standing out in the cold, bright sky.

One of the reasons Kawaguchiko is so popular is its easy access from Tokyo. It's just about 1 hour and 40 minutes by the Fujikyu Highway Bus from Shinjuku, or around 1 hour and 50 minutes by train. With such a short travel time, it's easy to visit without much hassle, making it perfect for a day trip.

Kawaguchiko is home to popular attractions like Fuji-Q Highland amusement park, known for its Guinness World Record-breaking roller coasters and haunted houses. The area also has a variety of museums and other sightseeing spots, making it a perfect mix of thrilling entertainment and natural beauty. Plus, there's a wide range of dining options, souvenir shops, and accommodations, giving visitors plenty of choices to ensure an enjoyable visit to the area.

On the northeastern side of Kawaguchiko, you'll find attractions like the Kawaguchiko Music and Forest Museum and the Kawaguchiko Craft Park. These spots offer visitors a mix of art and culture. If you're a fan of local cuisine, don't miss Hoto Kenkyusho (Houto Labo), a restaurant specializing in seafood hoto (a local noodle dish). Not only can you enjoy a delicious meal, but you can also participate in a hands-on class next door where you can try making your own hoto noodles.

On the northwestern side of Kawaguchiko, you'll find popular scenic spots like Oishi Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. The 'Hana Kaido' (Flower Road) is another must-visit, offering beautiful flowers throughout the year. For a more hands-on experience, you can visit places like Hohoemi-en, where you can pick your own 'fruit tomatoes,' or head to spots offering cherry and blueberry picking.

The southeastern area of Kawaguchiko is the heart of the town, where you'll find Kawaguchiko Station, the town hall, and a variety of restaurants. About a 10-minute walk from the station, you'll find Kawaguchiko Shopping Street, lined with restaurants and souvenir shops.

This area is also home to the Kawaguchiko-Fuji Mountain Panorama Ropeway, offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji, and the Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat 'Appare,' which departs from here. The ropeway area features a popular spot called the 'Mount Kachikachi Super View Swing,' located about 3.5 meters above the observation deck, offering even more breathtaking views and making it a favorite photo spot.

The southwestern area of Kawaguchiko, also known as Oku-Kawaguchiko, is perfect for those looking to enjoy aquatic activities like fishing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing. It's also a great place for souvenir shopping, dining, and gathering tourist information at the Michi-no-Eki Katsuyama roadside station. Right in front of the rest stop you'll find Koumi Park, a grassy area with a lakeside walking path, ideal for a relaxing stroll.

Kawaguchiko Station, the main hub for sightseeing around the Fuji Five Lakes, is located in the southeastern area of Kawaguchiko. It serves as a terminal for the Fujikyuko Line (train), the Fujikyu Highway Bus, and the Kawaguchiko Loop Bus (Fujikyu Bus). Just east of the station, you'll find the Fujikawaguchiko Tourist Information Center, where you can gather travel information.

Fuji-Q Highland, an amusement park located at the base of Mt. Fuji, is just one station away on the Fujikyuko Line (about 3 minutes), or around 3 kilometers from the station by car via Prefectural Road 707.

The Kawaguchiko area has unique charms in every season, so you can choose when to visit based on the kind of experience you're looking for.

Spring (March to May):
In March, although you can start to feel the arrival of spring, the average temperature is around 4.2°C (39°F). You'll need warm layers like a thick coat, gloves, and a scarf to stay comfortable. By April, the weather warms up significantly, and in May, temperatures can reach around 25°C (77°F) on some days, with sunshine that feels quite warm. Some days, you can get by with just a long-sleeve shirt. However, it’s still chilly in the mornings and evenings, so don’t forget to bring warm layers.

Summer (June to August):
In June, the weather is comfortable enough for long sleeves. On rainy days, temperatures can drop, so be sure to pack rain gear and a light layer. In July and August, average temperatures are around 22°C (72°F). Short sleeves and shorts are ideal. It’s cooler than the city, but summer showers are common, so bring an umbrella or raincoat—and stay hydrated.

Autumn (September to November):
September is perfect for sightseeing and art walks, with mild weather. By late September, the air begins to cool. In October, temperatures drop further, with lows often below 5°C (41°F). By November, winter sets in, so pack sweaters, coats, boots, gloves, and scarves for comfort.

Winter (December to January):
In December, temperatures average around 2.3°C (36°F), and snow or frozen ground is possible. January is even colder, with highs often staying below 5°C (41°F). Be sure to wear thermal undergarments, sweaters, thick (or down) coats, thick socks, heat packs, hats, and gloves to stay warm.

The main ways to get to Kawaguchiko from the Greater Tokyo Area are by highway bus, express train, and local train.

The Fujikyu Bus operates highway buses from major locations including Tokyo Station, Shinjuku Station, Akihabara Station, Haneda Airport, and Narita Airport. From the Shinjuku Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku South Exit), some buses pass through stops like Fujikyu Highland Station and Kawaguchiko Station on their way to the Yamanakako area. If you're heading to Fuji-Q Highland, there's also a great deal called the 'Fuji-Q Highland Discount QPACK,' which includes a round-trip highway bus ticket and a Fuji-Q Highland Free Pass.

Express Train 'Fuji Excursion' (Travel Time: About 1 Hour 50 Minutes, Fare: Around 4,000 Yen)
You can board the 'Fuji Excursion' express train from JR Shinjuku Station, which takes you directly to Fujikyu Highland Station or Kawaguchiko Station without needing to transfer. Reservations can be made in advance at JR East's Midori-no-Madoguchi (Ticket Offices), ticket vending machines, or online through Ekinet.

JR Chuo Line Express - Azusa or Kaiji + Fujikyu Line (Travel Time: About 2 Hours 30 Minutes, Fare: Around 3,860 Yen)
From JR Shinjuku Station, take the express train ('Azusa' or 'Kaiji') to JR Otsuki Station. From there, transfer to the Fujikyu Line, which will take you to either Kawaguchiko Station or Fujikyu Highland Station.

JR Chuo Line + JR Chuo Hon Line + Fujikyu Line (Travel Time: About 2 Hours 50 Minutes, Fare: Around 2,510 Yen)
From JR Shinjuku Station, take a local train to JR Otsuki Station, where you transfer to the Fujikyu Line. On the Fujikyu Line, you can choose between an express train or a regular train that doesn't require a reservation.

Keio Line + JR Chuo Hon Line + Fujikyu Line (Travel Time: About 3 Hours, Fare: Around 2,170 Yen)）
From Shinjuku Station, take the Keio Line to Takao Station, then transfer to the JR Chuo Line. After that, switch to the Fujikyu Line at Otsuki Station. On the Fujikyu Line, you can choose between an express train or a regular train that doesn't require a reservation.

The 'Mount Fuji & Fuji Five Lakes Passport (Fujikyu Train Set)' offered by Fujikyu Bus is a 2-day pass priced at 4,700 yen for adults, allowing unlimited travel on the entire Fujikyu Line (from Otsuki to Kawaguchiko). There's also a version that covers a portion of the Fujikyu Line (from Shimoyoshida to Kawaguchiko), priced at 3,300 yen for adults. Both passes come with benefits such as discounts at nearby museums, hot springs, and other tourist attractions. These passes are a convenient and cost-effective way to explore the area.

In the Kawaguchiko area, you'll find a wide variety of accommodations, including hotels, ryokan (Japanese inns), pensions, and guesthouses.

Some notable options include Shuhoukaku Kogetsu, where you can see Mount Fuji from every room, Tominoko Hotel, located on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi with stunning views of both Mount Fuji and the lake, and the Fuji View Hotel, which offers rooms specifically designed for Mount Fuji views.

When choosing a place to stay around Kawaguchiko, one key point to consider is whether the location allows you to enjoy views of Mount Fuji. Check whether the rooms have a good view before booking. If you want to see the 'Upside-Down Fuji' (Sakasa Fuji), choose accommodations on the northern side of the lake. Another important factor is accessibility. If the hotel is far from Kawaguchiko Station, check whether they offer a free shuttle bus, or if not, how you should plan your transportation.

'Glamping' is a blend of 'glamorous' and 'camping.' It offers a camping experience where you stay in comfortable accommodations like dome tents, with everything ready for a BBQ, including ingredients and cooking equipment — like a hotel, but with the chance to enjoy nature.

In the Kawaguchiko area, you can find glamping spots like Hoshinoya Fuji, Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko, and Hoshifull Dome Fuji Kawaguchiko.

There are several routes for climbing Mount Fuji, and among them, the Yoshida Route (Kawaguchiko Route) is the most popular due to its well-equipped facilities, including mountain huts, first aid stations, and shops. One great option is to stay overnight in the Kawaguchiko area before your climb, then after descending from the summit, spend another night to enjoy the surrounding sights.

Fuji-Q Highland is an amusement park located at the base of Mount Fuji. It boasts thrilling rides, including the 'FUJIYAMA,' which formerly held the Guinness World Record as the world's tallest and fastest roller coaster and for the longest drop; and the immersive haunted hospital experience of 'Labyrinth of Fear: The Ward Lurking in the Darkness.' The park is also home to 'Thomas Land' and 'Lisa and Gaspard Town,' offering attractions for all ages, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers and families alike.

Around Kawaguchiko and the lakeside area, you'll find a wide variety of cafés and restaurants serving Japanese, Chinese, and Western cuisine, as well as sweets. A must-try local dish is 'Hoto,' a traditional Yamanashi specialty consisting of flat noodles simmered in a miso-based broth with seasonal vegetables, mushrooms, and meat. Another popular local delicacy is 'Yoshida Udon,' a specialty of the Fuji Five Lakes area. Both are delicious examples of the region's cuisine!

Visiting cafés with stunning views of Mount Fuji is highly recommended. There are several cafés with museum settings or terrace seating, offering the perfect spot to relax while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. It's definitely worth exploring to find your favorite!

A classic souvenir from Yamanashi is the famous wagashi (Japanese sweets), Kikyo Shingen Mochi. It comes in a small container with three pieces of chewy mochi dusted with soybean flour, and topped with generous amounts of sweet black syrup. Other great options include sweets inspired by Mount Fuji, both in the form of wagashi and Western-style confections. You can also bring home a taste of the region with Hoto cup noodles and Fujiyoshida's Yoshida Udon.

Fuji & Kawaguchiko Cherry Blossom Festival (Late March to Mid-April)
Held around the walking trail along the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi near the Kawaguchiko Circlular Hall, this cherry blossom festival is centered in the northern area of the lake. Visitors can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms in a peaceful setting.

Fuji Shiba Sakura Festival (Mid-April to Late May)
Held at Fuji Motosuko Resort, this event features about 500,000 shibazakura (moss phlox) in full bloom. The stunning contrast of the vibrant pink flowers against the blue sky attracts many visitors.

Kawaguchiko Herb Festival (Mid-June to Mid-July)
This festival coincides with the blooming of lavender and is held at Oishi Park. Visitors can enjoy local crafts and products at the various stalls set up in the park.

Kawaguchiko Lake Festival (Early August)
This event features musical fireworks shows, large-scale fireworks displays, and star mines, showcasing a variety of fireworks in a stunning lakeside setting.

Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival (Late October to Mid-November)
Held when the leaves of about 500 trees along the lakeside are at their peak, this festival includes food stalls, craft markets, and the beautifully illuminated 'Momiji Corridor' (Maple Corridor) in which the vibrant red leaves are lit up at night.

Kawaguchiko Winter Fireworks (Late January to Late February)
A spectacular fireworks display held along the lakeside during winter. The fireworks are launched from three different locations, with the most thrilling view from Oike Park, which is the closest to the fireworks.

Fuji-Kawaguchiko Tourist Information Center:
Located east of Kawaguchiko Station, this center provides information about the Fuji-Kawaguchiko area. They offer services in multiple languages.

Address: 3641-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi-ken 401-0301
Phone: +81 555-72-6700
Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM, open daily

Michi-no-Eki Katsuyama:
This facility offers local specialty products, tourist information, and also has a restaurant, restrooms, and an observation deck.

Address: 3758-1 Katsuyama, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi-ken, 401-0310
Phone: +81 555-72-5633
Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (until 4:30 PM on weekends and holidays), open daily

Kawaguchiko, with its seasonal charms — cherry blossoms in spring, lavender in summer, and autumn foliage — is well-connected by car and train, making it a perfect base for exploring the Fuji Five Lakes area. With attractions like the ropeway, sightseeing boats, the thrilling Fuji-Q Highland amusement park, and various museums, there's something for everyone!