Fuji Five Lakes Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Fuji Five Lakes with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, where to stay, must-try dishes, transportation options and logistics, and more.


Introduction to Fuji Five Lakes

Nestled in the Yamanashi Prefecture of Japan, the Fuji Five Lakes area is a stunning destination that boasts of miraculous natural beauty, rich cultures, and fascinating history. The area is named after five scenic and stunning lakes that surround the revered Mount Fuji. The five lakes are Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanakako, Shojiko, and Motosuko. The region offers a range of cultural and outdoor activities that can appeal to any type of traveler. It is a must-visit place for nature enthusiasts, hikers and trekkers, history buffs, and laid-back tourists who want to experience a bit of Japan’s countryside charm.

List of Places to Visit in Fuji Five Lakes

Here is a list of must-visit places in Fuji Five Lakes:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park
  • Kawaguchiko Music Forest
  • Oshino Hakkai - Eight Ponds of Oshino
  • Arakurayama Sengen Park

Fuji Five Lakes is a region steeped in history, and you can explore that by visiting these culturally important sites. The Fuji-Q amusement park features thrilling roller coasters, stunning vistas of Mount Fuji and other attractions that can appeal to many. The Kawaguchiko Music Forest is a unique museum dedicated to mechanical organs, music boxes and a wide range of musical instruments. Oshino Hakkai provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the area’s natural wonders and traditional Japanese architecture in a serene and peaceful setting.

Natural Attractions of Fuji Five Lakes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Fuji
  • Lake Kawaguchiko
  • Aokigahara Forest
  • Chureito Pagoda

The natural beauty of the Fuji Five Lakes region is breathtaking, with Mount Fuji looming large in the background. Lake Kawaguchiko is a beautiful lake surrounded by nature trails and hot springs, among other things. Aokigahara Forest, also known as the “Sea of Trees,” is a beautiful, dense forest that is home to a variety of wildlife and beautiful outdoor viewpoints. Chureito Pagoda is an iconic site that provides beautiful views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding area, especially during the cherry blossom season.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fuji Five Lakes

The five pristine lakes and stunning views of Mount Fuji offer some of the best hikes and bike routes in the region. The following routes are highly recommended for anyone looking to explore the outdoors:

  • Kawaguchiko Lake Loop
  • Saiko Lake and Aokigahara Forest Hike
  • Yamanakako Lake Bike Trail
  • Mount Fuji Summit Hike

Each of these hikes or bike rides offers its own unique views of the region, so choose the one that best fits your interests and experience level.

Best Things to Do in Fuji Five Lakes: Activities and Tours

The list of things to do in Fuji Five Lakes is endless, but here are some must-try activities:

  • Soak in hot springs
  • Participate in a traditional tea ceremony
  • Take a walk along Lake Kawaguchi and watch the sunset
  • Go cherry blossom viewing
  • Visit a traditional village and explore life in ancient Japan

Week-Long Itinerary for Fuji Five Lakes

Here is an itinerary for a week-long trip to Fuji Five Lakes that includes must-see attractions:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival, Hotel check-in, and local exploration
Day 2 Explore Kawaguchiko Music Forest, Kawaguchiko Lake, and Fuji-Q amusement park
Day 3 Visit Oshino Hakkai, Chureito Pagoda, and Shimoyoshida Station to view Tokyo-Fuji trains
Day 4 Visit Aokigahara Forest and Saiko Lake
Day 5 Take a traditional tea ceremony lesson, visit Mount Fuji Summit, and watch the sunset from Lake Kawaguchi
Day 6 Visit Yamanakako Lake, Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine, and the Yoshida Sake Brewery
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Fuji Five Lakes

The Fuji Five Lakes area is renowned for its delicious cuisine, with fresh seafood dishes and sake breweries in abundance. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hoto Noodles
  • Fujizakura Pork in Hoto Noodles
  • Grilled Saury Fish

Local Beverages

  • Sake
  • Shochu

Where to Stay in Fuji Five Lakes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many options for accommodation in Fuji Five Lakes that cater to various budgets and preferences. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or traditional Japanese guesthouses, here are some top options:

  • Hotel Mystays Fuji Onsen Resort
  • Fuji View Hotel
  • Konansou
  • Oshino Hakkai Hotel

What to Buy in Fuji Five Lakes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Fuji Five Lakes area has a unique range of traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products that you can take home with you. Here are some popular options:

  • Fujiyama cookies
  • Hoto Noodles
  • Traditional Japanese Crafts and Artwork

Local Culture and Customs of Fuji Five Lakes

It is important to understand local customs and etiquette when traveling to Fuji Five Lakes. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly when entering temples or other religious sites
  • Remove your shoes when entering a traditional Japanese guesthouse

Best Time to Visit Fuji Five Lakes

The best time to visit Fuji Five Lakes is during September and early October when the autumn leaves start to turn, giving you unbeatable views of the colorful landscape. The cherry blossom season, which generally lasts from late March to early May, is another great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fuji Five Lakes

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Fuji Five Lakes:

Do:

  • Visit local attractions
  • Try traditional Japanese cuisine
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and site you are visiting

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Smoke in public areas
  • Litter

Safety and Health

Safety in Fuji Five Lakes

Fuji Five Lakes is a generally safe tourist destination. However, it’s important to keep the following precautions in mind:

  • Take caution when hiking or trekking in the mountains
  • Keep a safe distance from wild animals
  • Wear proper walking shoes and stay hydrated during outdoor activities

Health in Fuji Five Lakes

It’s important to always stay hydrated during outdoor activities and watch out for the signs of heat stroke. Always carry medication with you if you have an illness or medical condition, and make sure to have travel insurance.

Getting to Fuji Five Lakes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fuji Five Lakes is accessible by various modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Fuji Five Lakes

  • Tokyo Haneda Airport
  • Tokyo Narita International Airport
  • Shizuoka Airport

Bus Stations Near Fuji Five Lakes

  • Fujikyu Bus Station
  • Otsuki Station
  • Kofu Station

Other Options

  • Taxis
  • Train

How to Get Around Fuji Five Lakes

There are various transportation options available for getting around Fuji Five Lakes, including:

  • Local buses
  • Taxis
  • Bicycles for rent

Where to Go Next from Fuji Five Lakes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have a few extra days to explore, here are some nearby destinations that you can visit:

  • Tokyo
  • Nikko National Park
  • Hakone

Conclusion

Fuji Five Lakes is an extraordinary travel destination with its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Visitors to the area can explore the area’s museums and historical sites, hike or bike along the five stunning lakes, participate in traditional tea ceremonies or soak in hot springs. With an array of activities to choose from, it’s highly recommended to spend at least a week in the region to make the most of what it has to offer. Plan your trip well ahead of time to ensure you make the most of your time in Fuji Five Lakes.

Main approaches to Mt. Fuji Main approaches to Mt. Fuji Aokigahara and Lake Sai Aokigahara and Lake Sai Maple ( Maple ("momiji") corridor Momiji tunnel and view on the mount Fuji from the Kawaguchi lake shore Momiji tunnel and view on the mount Fuji from the Kawaguchi lake shore Hike to Mt. Mitsutsoge Hike to Mt. Mitsutsoge Lake Motosu Lake Motosu