Watching Mt. Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko has become too mainstream, thanks to its perfectly placed Lawson.
Not many people are aware of this, but aside from Lake Kawaguchiko, a popular day-trip destination from Tokyo, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji from five other lakes in Japan, known as the Fuji Five Lakes, or fujigko.
Hence, if you’d like a break from the mainstream, consider these four other lakes that aren’t Lake Kawaguchiko.
1. Lake Yamanaka
Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, offers stunning and unobstructed views of Mt. Fuji. Its spacious surroundings and fewer crowds make it a peaceful alternative to Lake Kawaguchiko.
You can enjoy cycling, fishing, boating, and lakeside picnics here. If you’re lucky, you can spot some white swans passing by during winter time. Note that the temperature around this lake is cooler than other lakes, so be sure to bring warm clothing, especially during winter. There are also cute cafes, restaurants, and shops around the area, but with relatively higher prices.
From Tokyo, it is a 1.5-2 hours drive or a 3-hour train via the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station, then transferring to the Fujikyu Railway to Fujisan Station. You can also take direct highway buses from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Yamanakako village office, which takes two hours.
2. Lake Saiko
If you love quiet nature spots, Lake Saiko is the perfect retreat. Surrounded by lush forests, it offers activities like camping, fishing, and hiking.
While Mount Fuji is partially hidden behind the hills, the peaceful atmosphere makes up for it. Adventure seekers can explore Aokigahara Forest and the Saiko Bat Cave nearby.
The easiest way to reach Lake Saiko from Tokyo is taking the direct highway bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station for about two hours, followed by the Omni Bus Green Line to the lake. You can also drive for about 1.5-2 hours depending on the traffic.
3. Lake Shoji
Unlike the more developed lakes, Lake Shoji remains largely untouched, making it perfect for nature lovers and photographers. It is the smallest lake amongst the Fuji Five Lakes, with unobstructed view.
What you can do there are fishing, canoeing, hiking, and camping. While it lacks major tourist facilities, it’s an ideal spot for those looking to experience Mount Fuji without the crowds.
By car, Lake Shoji is about 1.5 to 2 hours from Tokyo via the Chuo Expressway. By bus, take a highway bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko for 2 hours, then a local bus to Lake Shoji about 25–40 minutes.
4. Lake Motosu
The iconic view of Mount Fuji from this shores is famously depicted on the Japanese 1,000-yen note.
Lake Motosu is known to have the clearest water among the rest, The clarity makes it a favoured spot for activities like windsurfing, canoeing, yachting, and even scuba diving.
By car, Lake Motosu is about 2 hours from Tokyo via the Chuo Expressway. The total travel time from Tokyo to Lake Motosu by train and bus is approximately 3.5-4 hours.
Special mention: Enoshima
Just 1.5 hours from Tokyo, Enoshima is a popular day-trip destination for its cultural and historical sites. But it’s also home to this amazing “Diamond Fuji” view, which occurs at sunset in April and September.
This amazing view can be seen from Enoshima Uomi-tei, or any of the restaurants along Oiwaya Street.
Visiting Enoshima? Here’s how you can explore the entire island in one day
Follow Us For More Content!
Planning a trip to Japan?
