Chasing Mt. Fuji: The Best Place to See Japan’s Shy Mountain (Lake Kawaguchiko Guide)
Let’s be honest. You came to Japan to see Mt. Fuji (Fujisan). It is the symbol of the country. It is perfect. It is beautiful.
But here is the problem: Mt. Fuji is shy. It is often hiding behind clouds. Many tourists go all the way to Hakone, only to see a wall of white fog.
As your friend, I want you to get the perfect shot. If your #1 goal is “SEEING THE MOUNTAIN,” you should go to Lake Kawaguchiko (Fuji Five Lakes area), not Hakone. Here is your guide to the best views in Japan.
1. The Weather Rule (Check Before You Go!)
Before you buy a train ticket, check the weather forecast.
- Clear Sky? GO IMMEDIATELY.
- Cloudy/Rainy? Don’t go. You won’t see anything. It will just be a gray lake.
- Season: Winter (Dec-Feb) has the clearest skies. Summer is often hazy.
- Time: The mountain is clearest in the early morning. Clouds often roll in after 11:00 AM. Wake up early!
2. The Iconic Photo Spot: “Chureito Pagoda”
You have seen this picture on every travel brochure. A red five-story pagoda with Mt. Fuji in the background. It looks like Kyoto, but it’s actually here.
- Where: Arakurayama Sengen Park (Shimoyoshida Station).
- The Challenge: You have to climb 398 steps to get to the top.
- The Reward: The most famous view in Japan. It is breathtaking.
- Friend’s Tip: It gets crowded. Go at sunrise for the best light and no people.
3. The Lake View: Oishi Park
Take the sightseeing bus around Lake Kawaguchiko to the north side. Stop at Oishi Park.
- The View: You get the lake in the foreground and the massive mountain reflected in the water (“Upside-down Fuji” or Sakasa-Fuji).
- Seasonal Bonus: In June, it is purple with lavender. In October, it is bright red with Kochia bushes.
- Soft Serve: Buy a Blueberry Soft Serve ice cream here. It’s delicious.
4. The Local Food: “Houtou” Noodles
You can’t leave without eating “Houtou” (Ho-toh). It is the local soul food of the Fuji area.
- What is it? Flat, thick udon noodles stewed in a rich miso broth with pumpkin and vegetables.
- The Taste: It’s hearty, warming, and comforting.
- Where to eat: Look for a restaurant called “Houtou Fudou.” Their building looks like a white cloud (or an igloo). It’s famous!
5. Fuji-Q Highland (For Adrenaline Junkies)
Do you like screaming? Right next to the lake is Fuji-Q Highland, a theme park famous for having the scariest rollercoasters in the world. You can ride a coaster that drops 121 degrees while looking directly at Mt. Fuji. It is terrifying. I love it.
6. How to Get There from Tokyo
- Bus (Cheapest/Easiest): Take the “Highway Bus” from Shinjuku Station or Tokyo Station. It takes about 2 hours and goes directly to Kawaguchiko Station. Book online in advance!
- Train (Scenic): Take the “Fuji Excursion” limited express from Shinjuku. It’s comfortable but can be more expensive and sells out fast.
Summary: The Ultimate View
Hakone is for Onsen. Kawaguchiko is for Views. If you want to sit by a lake, eat pumpkin noodles, and stare at the most beautiful mountain on earth, this is your place.
Just remember: Check the weather. If Fuji-san is hiding, don’t force it. Save it for a clear day!
Want to combine a Fuji viewing trip with a visit to a Sake brewery or a Ninja village? Our Private Tours can take you to the best spots around the mountain in a private car, so you don’t have to wait for the bus!
