Top 6 Best Spots to View Mount Fuji
In the heart of Japan, surrounded by forests, lakes and the mountain ranges of Akaishi and Okuchichibu, Mount Fuji, at 3,376 meters altitude
In the heart of Japan, surrounded by forests, lakes and the mountain ranges of Akaishi and Okuchichibu, Mount Fuji, at 3,376 meters altitude, is an unmissable playground for lovers of green escapes. The site gained international recognition among tourists from 2013 onwards, when it was inscribed on UNESCO's cultural heritage list. Here are five charming corners to enjoy a lovely view of the mountain and its surroundings in a privileged natural setting.
Fuji Go Ko, the region of five lakes
Climbing Mount Fuji – Japan's highest peak – is a childhood dream for many travelers; but if you don't have a particular fondness for heights, the Fuji Go Ko region is an ideal spot for stunning photographs. At the foot of the mountain, the five lakes Sai, Shoji, Yamanaka, Kawaguchi and Motosu form a most picturesque tableau. Set out early in the morning, when Fuji's conical silhouette is gilded by the first rays of dawn and reflects on the transparent waters of the lakes.
The best observation point is said to be on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Beyond this purely photographic interest, you can enjoy a magical walk among the flower and cherry blossom fields. Visits to secret caves, canoe rides and tasting local products are just some of the recreational activities available.
Lake Ashi
Crossing the Hakone region in Kanagawa Prefecture, Lake Ashi will enchant cruise lovers and delight those dreaming of a magnificent view of Mount Fuji. A boat ride will serve as an excuse to see many points of interest: you can pay your respects at the Hakone-jinja Shrine, wander freely through the Onshi-Hakone-Koen park and admire its lush vegetation, or visit the Open Air Museum. Let yourself go and surrender to the simple, endearing atmosphere of the countryside. As long as the weather is fair and warm, all these observation spots are perfect for contemplating Mount Fuji.
The Chureito Pagoda
Located in Arakurayama Park, the Chureito Pagoda offers one of the most iconic views of Mount Fuji. In spring, with the cherry blossoms in bloom, and in autumn with the fiery-colored maples, photographs of Fujisan cannot help but be glorified!
The pagoda overlooks the town from the heights of the park and therefore requires some effort to reach. Around a hundred steps lead to the structure and allow you to enjoy the view. You can continue your walk in the shaded park, which is very pleasant.
Wakasu Seaside Park
The famous engraver Hokusai set the tone when he painted the emblematic mountain beneath the Mannen Bridge in Fukagawa. To follow his example, Wakasu Seaside Park features a rather unusual bridge – Tokyo Gate Bridge – from which travelers can admire the white majesty of Mount Fuji defiantly piercing the clouds. The remarkable profile of the Tokyo Gate Bridge, which resembles two dinosaurs in confrontation, will leave you speechless. You can visit the golf course and cycling path if you feel a bit of exercise will recharge your batteries. But don't miss the mountain view at twilight when Fujisan appears like a volcano ablaze in the fires of the setting sun.
5th Station of Mount Fuji - KAWAGUCHI-KO
On a climbing trail starting from Yoshiba to Subaru, at 2,105 meters altitude, Kawaguchi-ko is a very well-known station for discovering Mount Fuji from a fabulous perspective. The intense visitation to the site is explained by three reasons: the hiking level is relatively easy, the food in the surrounding hotels is excellent, and the view of the five lakes is absolutely breathtaking. This spot is for you if you want to enjoy mountain landscapes without intending to continue climbing to the summit.
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival
With a bit of luck, your stay in Tokyo will coincide with the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, a floral event that takes place every year in early spring. This festival is the perfect opportunity to observe the grandeur of Mount Fuji in a most spectacular setting of thousands of pink, white and purple flowers.
Located near Lake Motosu in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, the festival takes place in a park of nearly 2.4 hectares. Some 800,000 Shiba-sakura flowers bloom and offer visitors a tableau that highlights the sacred mountain.
Frequently asked questions
The Chureito Pagoda in Arakurayama Park is often cited as the most iconic photo spot, especially in spring with the cherry blossoms. Lake Kawaguchi also offers a spectacular reflection of Fuji on its calm waters at sunrise.
Spring (March-May) for the cherry blossoms and the Shibazakura Festival, and autumn (October-November) for the colorful maples, are the two ideal seasons. Winter also offers a clear view thanks to the snow that caps the summit. Summer can be hazy but it is the climbing season (July-September).
Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from certain elevated points in Tokyo, notably from Wakasu Seaside Park and its Tokyo Gate Bridge. However, air pollution can reduce visibility. The closest spots to Tokyo accessible in 1-2 hours offer much clearer views.
Yes, the Fuji Shibazakura Festival takes place every year in early spring, generally from April to late May. It is held in a 2.4-hectare park near Lake Motosu in Fujikawaguchiko, where 800,000 Shiba-sakura flowers create a colorful carpet at the foot of Mount Fuji.
Not at all! The 6 spots presented in this article allow you to admire Fuji without climbing. The 5th station of Kawaguchi-ko, accessible by car or bus, for example offers an impressive view at 2,105 meters altitude without requiring difficult trekking.
