JP · Yamanashi Prefecture · 35.52°N 138.76°E

kawaguchiko

That postcard Mount Fuji view across the lake, with sakura or red maples in season.

Best time
Late autumn and winter give the clearest Fuji views. Cherry blossoms come around mid-April, later than in Tokyo, and autumn leaves peak in early to mid November. In summer Fuji often hides in cloud.
How long
2 days, 1 night
Getting there
Fly from KL to Tokyo (about 7 hours). Highway buses from Shinjuku take about 2 hours, and there are direct limited express trains too.
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JP · Yamanashi Prefecturekawaguchiko35.52°N 138.76°Egowherelah.com
Dear group chat,That postcard Mount Fuji view across the lake, with sakura or red maples in season.— gowherelahTo: whoever’s drivingKawaguchikoJP, Yamanashi Prefecture
KLkawaguchiko
≈ 5,241 km from KL, as the crow flies
Mount Fuji above Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchi-ko) in Japan. January 19, 2014.

Photo: Marion & Christoph Aistleitner · CC0

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Photos: Wikimedia Commons, credited on each.

The most popular of the Fuji Five Lakes, at the northern foot of Mount Fuji. On a clear day the mountain fills the view across the water, and the lakeside has parks, flower fields and an easy base for Fuji trips.

Makan

  1. HotoThick flat noodles stewed with pumpkin and vegetables in miso, Yamanashi's comfort food.Map ↗
  2. Yoshida udonVery firm, chewy udon from neighbouring Fujiyoshida.Map ↗
  3. Shingen mochiSoft mochi in roasted soybean flour, with a tiny bottle of black sugar syrup.Map ↗

Things to do

  1. Chureito PagodaClimb the steps for the classic view of a red pagoda in front of Fuji.Map ↗
  2. Oishi ParkA lakeside park with seasonal flowers and big Fuji views across the water.Map ↗
  3. Kachi Kachi RopewayA short ride up Mount Tenjo for views over the lake to Fuji.Map ↗
  4. Momiji CorridorA tunnel of red maples by the lake in November, lit up at night.Map ↗
  5. Oshino HakkaiA nearby village of clear spring-fed ponds and thatched roofs.Map ↗

Good to know

  • Fuji is clearest early in the morning, so get up for sunrise and check the forecast.
  • Some photo spots are in residential areas. Don't block roads or step onto private property for a shot.

Last checked October 2026. Things change, so check opening times, fees and transport before you go.