Fuji Lakes Journey
- Asia
- Japan
Fuji Five Lakes Scenic Discovery
Tour Code: JAP4003
Overview
Spend three days exploring the Fuji Five Lakes region, located at the northern base of Mt. Fuji. This scenic area is known for its peaceful lakes, hot springs, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking views of Japan’s most iconic mountain.
The crystal-clear waters of the lakes beautifully reflect Mt. Fuji, creating spectacular photo opportunities, especially during the spring and autumn seasons. From hiking trails and mysterious caves to relaxing lakeside stays and thrilling theme parks, the Fuji Five Lakes region offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure.
Tour Highlights
Mt. Fuji Oshino Hakkai Lake Saiko Fuji-Q Highland theme park Lake Yamanaka
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Itinerary
Day 1-2 Lake Kawaguchi – Iconic Mt. Fuji Views
Begin your journey at Lake Kawaguchi, one of the most popular lakes in the Fuji Five Lakes region.
Enjoy an overnight stay near the lake while exploring nearby attractions during the day. The best views of Mt. Fuji are often in the early morning, as clouds tend to gather later in the day.
Nearby attractions include Fuji-Q Highland, relaxing hot springs, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest, and several museums.
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
(15-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station)
Take a scenic ride on the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, travelling about 1,000 metres up Mt. Tenjo. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji.
Along the ropeway route you’ll find monuments and playful displays based on a local folktale about a clever rabbit and a mischievous tanuki (raccoon dog). The area is particularly beautiful in June and July when hydrangeas bloom.
Active travellers can also hike the mountain via a nearby trailhead.
Oshino Hakkai
Travel time: approximately 35 minutes by bus
Visit Oshino Hakkai, a picturesque village famous for its eight crystal-clear ponds fed by melted snow from Mt. Fuji.
Surrounded by traditional houses and scenic landscapes, the area feels like stepping into a classic Japanese woodblock painting.
Visitors can explore the Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan open-air museum, learn about the region’s history, and enjoy local snacks at pondside stalls.
Lake Yamanaka
Travel time: approximately 15 minutes by bus
End the day at Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes.
This peaceful lakeside area offers comfortable inns, hotels, and relaxing hot springs. The western side of the lake provides stunning views of Mt. Fuji across the water.
Overnight stay near Lake Yamanaka.
Day 3-4 Lake Saiko and Aokigahara Forest
Travel time: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by bus via Kawaguchiko Station.
Lake Saiko – Outdoor Adventure
Head to Lake Saiko, a popular destination for camping, boating, and fishing.
The area is also a gateway to numerous mountain hiking trails and the nearby Aokigahara Forest.
One of the highlights is the Saiko Bat Cave, the largest cave in the region, featuring impressive underground chambers and tunnels.
Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba
Travel time: approximately 40 minutes by bus
Visit Iyashi no Sato Nenba, a restored traditional village with around two dozen thatched-roof houses.
Today the houses have been converted into craft shops, museums, galleries, and restaurants, allowing visitors to experience traditional culture and regional crafts.
Narusawa Ice Cave and Fugaku Wind Cave
Travel time: approximately 30 minutes by bus
Explore the fascinating lava caves formed by eruptions of Mt. Fuji.
- Narusawa Ice Cave – famous for large natural ice pillars that form during winter
- Fugaku Wind Cave – historically used to store ice for the surrounding region
These caves feature safe pathways and stairs, allowing visitors to explore without special equipment.
Aokigahara Forest
Stretching across the northwestern base of Mt. Fuji, Aokigahara Forest grows on a lava plateau formed by past volcanic eruptions.
The dense forest is home to diverse wildlife and numerous walking trails. Visitors should stay on the designated paths, as the thick forest can make navigation difficult.
Lake Shoji
Travel time: approximately 10 minutes by bus
The smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Shoji offers some of the most spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, especially from the northeastern shoreline.
This peaceful area is ideal for camping, hiking, and relaxing in nature.
Overnight stay in the area.
Day 5-6 Lake Motosu – Scenic Lakeside Views
Travel time: approximately 20 minutes by bus
Visit Lake Motosu, the westernmost lake of the Fuji Five Lakes.
The lake is famous for appearing on Japan’s 1,000-yen banknote and is known for its incredibly clear blue water.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, and lakeside walks.
From April to May, the area hosts the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, where fields of pink and purple moss flowers create a spectacular display with Mt. Fuji in the background.
Return Journey
Fuji Five Lakes to Tokyo
Travel back to Tokyo from Kawaguchiko Station by express bus or train.
Travel time: approximately 2 hours
Tokyo to Sydney
Depart from Tokyo (Haneda or Narita Airport) and return to Sydney.
Flight duration: approximately 9–10 hours
More to Explore
Fuji-Q Highland
Located near Lake Kawaguchi, Fuji-Q Highland is one of Japan’s most exciting amusement parks.
The park features some of the fastest and steepest roller coasters in the world, along with anime-themed attractions and family-friendly rides.
Its unique location at the base of Mt. Fuji makes the experience even more spectacular.
What’s Included
Return international flights to Tokyo
Comfortable hotel accommodation throughout the tour
Daily breakfast and selected meals
Airport transfers and intercity transport Highway bus or rail travel between Tokyo and Fuji Five Lakes
Guided sightseeing and cultural experiences as outlined in the itinerary
Trip Notes
This journey offers a seamless and enriching introduction to the Mt. Fuji region, combining scenic landscapes, traditional villages and peaceful lakeside settings with light outdoor exploration. Designed as an easy escape from Tokyo, the itinerary balances cultural experiences with nature, allowing travellers to slow down and fully appreciate one of Japan’s most iconic and picturesque regions.
To make the most of your trip, we recommend allowing time in Tokyo either before or after your journey. Tailored arrangements, including rail tickets, private transfers, guided excursions and additional hotel stays, can be organised to enhance your overall experience. Whether it’s a cultural visit, a nature walk or a relaxing onsen stay, each element can be personalised to suit your pace and interests.
Pack for seasonal conditions, with comfortable walking shoes for village exploration and light hikes. Layers are recommended, as temperatures around Mt. Fuji can vary, along with a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. Travel insurance is strongly advised, and guests should ensure all travel documents and regional requirements are in place for a smooth and enjoyable journey.
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