If you’re preparing a trip to Tokyo excursion and seeking a brief getaway from the urban hustle, consider exploring the Kawaguchiko area, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquil magnificence of Mount Fuji. Our journey to Mt. Fuji followed our tour of Hokkaido, where we marveled at the vistas of Rishiri Fuji and Mt Yotei—two picturesque mountains in their own right. However, Mt. Fuji really is something else! It’s no wonder it’s an icon of Japan and one of the most recognizable mountains in the world!
There are many spots where you can take in the view of Mt Fuji, but Kawaguchiko is one of the most popular. Located around 90 minutes from Tokyo, it is a captivating destination renowned for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. Surrounded by the stunning Fuji Five Lakes, with Lake Kawaguchi being the most famous, the region offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. The area is dotted with hot springs, traditional ryokan inns, and charming villages, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city life, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat in the shadow of Japan’s iconic peak.
Here are the highlights of our 2-day trip to Kawaguchiko.
Arakurayama Sengen Park, located in the city of Fujiyoshida, is a stunning vantage point offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Famous for its iconic Chureito Pagoda, the park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. The place gets really crowded with tourists so the best time to go is early in the morning before the tour buses arrive from Tokyo. The best season to be there is during the spring when the park is adorned with vibrant pink hues. It is a bit of a climb up to the pagoda but you would be rewarded with an awe-inspiring vista of Mount Fuji, framed by cherry blossoms and lush greenery. Unfortunately, we were there in Autumn just before the snow started falling on top of Mt Fuji, so we didn’t get to see a snow-capped Mt Fuji or the cherry blossoms. But, it was still an awesome experience, nonetheless.
Arakurayama Sengan Park
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Shimoyoshida Honcho Street, situated in the charming town of Fujiyoshida is one the most popular spots to take a stunning shot of Mount Fuji with the iconic foreground of the quaint shophouses and electric wires. The street is also known for its seasonal festivals and events, where the community comes together to celebrate the beauty of the surrounding nature and the iconic presence of Mount Fuji. There is one particular junction where the photos of Mount Fuji are taken and there are policemen around to ensure that photographers don’t stop in the middle of the street to take photos!
Shimoyoshida Honcho Street
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Right across from the junction where the photographers are is a charming café. Here, you can enjoy a meal while witnessing the intriguing dance between the police and the photographers!
Fabcafe Fuji
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Another iconic spot to take a photo of Mt Fuji is at the Kanadorii Gate, a historic bronze torii gate that serves as the entrance to the revered domain of Mount Fuji worship. Revered as a sacred artifact, passing beneath this gate was believed to transport individuals into a different spiritual dimension. Originally constructed in 1788, the gate endured damage from various natural calamities, leading to multiple reconstructions over the years. It’s current iteration was completed in 1957 and stands as an iconic landmark in Fujiyoshida City. It is located at a cross junction and you can easily miss it if you are busily trying to locate it on the map.
Kanadorii
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We had a great meal at this place after visiting Arakurayama Sengan Park. We had to queue for half an hour before getting a seat but it was worth the wait. The tempura was very good but what they are famous for is their thick noodles which are known as “hoto”. It’s served with generous slices of pork charshu in a velvety thick miso broth! Just what you need after trekking up and down Sengan Park!
Hoto Tempura Wakana
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Being a small country town, there aren’t many restaurants that are open till late in the night. Most of them close quite early. We managed to find this little Izakaya which is operated singlehandedly by one chef. He doesn’t speak much English but is quite friendly. The food is good and the chef takes pride in making his goma sauce and other sauces. The tofu salad and egg omelet are well worth ordering.
Soramame
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One of the most popular spots to view Mount Fuji is Oishii Park. This is where you get vistas of the lake with Mt Fuji in the background. This is a very very popular Tourist spot and by late morning all the tourist buses will start arriving from Tokyo. So, go early if you want to avoid the crowds!
Oishii Park
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This little family-run cafe is quite close to Oishii Park. It’s a good place for matcha latte and homemade waffles with a view of Mt Fuji.
Hidamari Coffee
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If you find Kawaguchiko a little too crowded then you can continue driving westwards to Lake Saiko which is often overshadowed by its more popular neighbor. Surrounded by lush greenery and framed by the distant silhouette of Mount Fuji, the lake offers a picturesque setting for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Saiko Rest House
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Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, located near Lake Saiko is a picturesque traditional village preserving Japan’s cultural heritage. With thatched-roof farmhouses from the Edo period, it serves as a living museum where artisans demonstrate traditional crafts like pottery and weaving. It’s well worth a visit if you have an extra 2 hours to spare.
Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba
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We dropped by this little burger joint which is located just outside Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba. After eating Japanese food for so many days, it was good to be able to eat a burger. The burgers are decent and they are a local brand. No need to drive all the way there to eat, but good if you are hungering for a burger and fries.
Sugeez West Lake
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