Lake Kawaguchiko, Yamanakako & Fujiyoshida
So you’re looking for the best spots to view Mt Fuji.
We spent a full week based around Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanaka, chasing clear mornings, frozen lakes, and those rare moments when Fuji actually shows itself. Some days it didn’t. Some mornings it did, perfectly.
These are the Mt Fuji view spots we’d go back to, plus a few things we wish we’d known before visiting.
Best time to see Mt Fuji
Autumn and winter (November to February) are the best times for clear views of Mount Fuji. Early mornings offer the best chance, though clear afternoons are also common in winter. Summer tends to be hazy and cloud-covered.
How to Get to Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko From Tokyo
By train
Take the Chuo Line from Shinjuku, connecting to the Fujikyu Railway. The journey takes around 3 hours and becomes scenic toward the end.
By bus
Direct buses run from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station or Mt Fuji Station. Travel time is about 1 hour 50 minutes.
Getting Around Lake Kawaguchiko & Yamanaka
Tourist loop buses run around Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanaka with hop on hop off passes available. You can also use local trains between Kawaguchiko and Fujiyoshida, or hire a car if you have an international licence.
Where to Stay Near Mt Fuji (Best Bases)
Lake Kawaguchiko (best all round base)
The easiest base with the most accommodation, restaurants, and transport options.
Recommended stays:
Fujiyoshida (best for street views & budget)
Closer to Honcho Street, good transport access, and a more local feel.
Recommended stays:
Lake Yamanaka (best for quiet winter scenes)
Less crowded, beautiful in winter, and known for Diamond Fuji sunsets.
Recommended stays:
Can You Do A Day Trip To Mt Fuji?
Yes, a day trip is possible if you leave Tokyo early. A common route is the direct bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko, make sure you leave early to maximise the day. Staying at least one night gives you a much better chance of clear morning views before clouds cover mt Fuji.
10 Best Mt Fuji View Spots
1. Tenku-no Torii, Asama Shrine
An easy hike from Asama Shrine leads to the Torii gates with a direct view of Mt Fuji. Go early if you want it quieter. Accessible via the Kawaguchiko loop bus.
2. Lake Yamanaka
One of our favourite locations for natural Mt Fuji View spots, especially in winter when it freezes over, creating a dramatic scene with white swans against Mount Fuji. The annual Diamond Fuji event, when the sun sets directly over the mountain, is a show not to be missed. It happens between January 18th and February 20th. The best spot to find the most swans is out the front of Koyu Club Hotel. you can get here with the Yamanaka Kawaguchiko loop bus.
Accommodation / Hotels Around Lake Yamanaka
3. The Park Cafe Pancakes, Lake Yamanaka
Head here for those famous Japanese soufflé pancakes, hot coffee, and amazing views across lake Yamanaka to Mt Fuji. These were easily some of the best fluffy pancakes we had in Japan.
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4. Arakura Shrine
A peaceful stop on the walk up to Chureito Pagoda. Quieter than the viewpoint above and still beautifully framed.
5. Chureito Pagoda, Mt Fuji View Spot
One of the most iconic Mt Fuji viewpoints. Crowded, but still worth seeing once, especially at sunrise or in winter.
6. Oshino Hakkai
Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque tourist spot nestled in the Fuji Five Lakes region, mirrors a traditional Japanese village and offers a stunning view of Mount Fuji. This location has eight natural springs, each crystal clear and filled with koi fish and lush plant life. As we wandered around, we loved the different stalls showcasing local crafts and offering a taste of the region’s cuisine. Our highlight was Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan, an open-air museum located near the largest pond. For a small admission fee, we were able to step back in time and explore the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Oshino Hakkai is accessible by bus from Fujisan or Kawaguchiko Station. In winter, the village transforms into a serene, snow covered landscape, offering a unique feel to the experience.
7. Honcho Street, Fuji View
The main street in Fujiyoshida offers dramatic views of the mountain, especially stunning in the early morning. Don’t miss a stop at Fab Cafe Fuji, located next to the prime viewing point on Honcho Street.
8. Lake Kawaguchiko
The most popular lake for viewing Mount Fuji. The northern side of the lake and the Mt Fuji Panoramic Ropeway offer amazing vantage points. Depending on what season you visit Oishi park, you’ll see different landscape according to the four seasons. Cherry blossoms in spring, lavender in summer, maple leaves & Kochia balls in autumn, in winter the snow takes the show. Kawaguchiko is the most developed of the lakes and offers many options for accommodation and restaurants.
Accommodation / Hotels Around Lake Kawaguchiko
9. Lawson Mt Fuji convenience store, Kawaguchiko
Just a short walk to the left as you exit Kawaguchiko train station, this famous Lawson convenience store provides a unique backdrop of Mt Fuji, perfect for a casual photo op and picking up some snacks for the day. If this spot is too busy there is another Lawson with the Mt Fuji backdrop a bit further into town at “Lawson Fujikawaguchiko Town hall” and its usually empty.
Both spots on google maps here:
Lawson Kawaguchiko train station
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10. Mt Fuji Station & Kawaguchiko Station
Fujisan and Kawaguchiko train stations both offer fantastic views of the mountain, especially memorable as you pass by on the train. Both these stations are the main arrival spots to explore the area and are accessible by train from Tokyo. From here you can pick up the hop on hop off loop bus to take you around the lakes Kawaguchiko and Yamanaka.
Bonus spot: Hoto Fudo
Hoto fudo is an igloo like noodle restaurant near Mount Fuji, Japan. Not only is this place a great photo op but also the perfect place to try the local specialty, Hoto noodles. The dish consists of thick wheat noodles in a miso based soup and is often served in an iron pot. While hoto noodles resemble extra thick udon noodles, they are prepared more like dumplings, and lend a heartier quality to the dish than udon would. The soup is traditionally a miso based broth with pumpkin and other seasonal vegetables added, perfect for the wintery days.
Mt Fuji View Spots FAQ
Which area is best to stay for Mt Fuji views?
Lake Kawaguchiko is best overall. Fujiyoshida suits shorter stays and Lake Yamanaka is ideal for quieter winter trips.
Can you see Mt Fuji every day?
No. Weather is unpredictable. Staying at least two nights improves your chances.
What’s the best time of day to see Mt Fuji?
Early morning before clouds build.
Is Lake Yamanaka worth staying overnight?
Yes, especially in winter if you want fewer crowds and wider landscapes.
Mt Fuji & Lake Kawaghuchiko
The area around Mount Fuji & Kawaguchiko is easily one of the best places in japan to find the best Mt Fuji view spots. Whether you’re on a day trip or a longer stay, the 5 Lakes region offers numerous opportunities to experience the unforgettable beauty of one of Japan’s most iconic natural landmarks.
MAP
Here’s our google map list of Best Mt. Fuji view spot to help you navigate.
Heading to Japan in Winter, make sure to check out this beautiful Japnese alpine Village Shirakawago
Or Looking for Unique things to do in Tokyo or Kyoto?
Check out our other Japan blogs on best and unique things to do in Tokyo and Kyoto
