Located in the southeast of Yamanashi Prefecture, near the territorial border of Shizuoka, are the captivating Five Lakes of Mount FujiThese lakes boast incredible beauty that you'll never see again anywhere else. Each one has unique characteristics.
Therefore, in this article we are going to tell you what are the characteristics and beauty of the 5 lakes of Mount Fuji.
The 5 lakes of Mount Fuji
Lake Yamanaka
To get to Lake Yamanaka from Tokyo, you need to board the JR Chuo Line express train and transfer at Otsuki Station to the Fuji Kyuko Line (note that this transfer is not covered by the JR Rail Pass). Alternatively, you can opt for a bus ride from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station, which takes approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive at Kawaguchiko Station, you have the option to take another bus to any of the five lakes. For Lake Yamanaka, The most convenient route is from Fujisan Station. You can also plan your visit by consulting information about the climate of Mount Fuji and its formation for better experiences.
Lake Yamanaka offers a host of exciting water activities, including sailing, fishing, water skiing and windsurfing. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are also options like camping and tennis at this highly sought-after summer waterside destination. Located near Oshino Hakkai, a charming town famous for its eight pristine springs that come from the groundwater of Mount Fuji, Yamanaka It is part of the Mount Fuji region, which was designated a World Heritage Site in 2013. Additionally, visitors can explore the Yukio Mishima Literary Museum, conveniently located in the vicinity of the lake.
Lake Kawaguchi
Lake Kawaguchi, located in the Kawaguchiko region, is the most convenient lake to reach from Tokyo and serves as a central tourist destination. A lakeside bus offers transportation to several surrounding museums, including the famous Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, which It has an exquisite variety of kimonosThe fall season offers stunning views of the lake.
In addition to its regular stops, the bus makes convenient stops at several amusement parks, including Fuji-Q Highland, home to thrilling roller coasters, and Thomas Land. Lake Kawaguchi is also known as a popular jumping-off point for those embarking on the challenging climb up Mount Fuji.
Make sure you don't overlook a trip to the Kawaguchi Musical Forest, a captivating destination filled with a variety of self-playing musical instruments, such as music boxes and mechanical organs. Then, relax and rejuvenate at one of the nearby hot springs, such as the famous Kawaguchi Kaiun no Yu. If you prefer outdoor activities, you can participate in exhilarating water skiing, wakeboarding, or embark on scenic hikes during the warmer seasons. And let's not forget the impressive summer fireworks, a truly extraordinary and unforgettable spectacle to behold.
Sai Lake
The lake, living up to its name, offers a host of extraordinary adventures, earning it the title of “the best” or “the largest.” One such adventure is exploring the Sai Bat Cave, which maintains a comfortable temperature all year round, even during the winter months. Besides, Narusawa Ice Cave offers a unique experience with the formation of icicles, even in the middle of summer.
For those looking for the ultimate winter experience in Japan, look no further than Fujiten Ski Resort. This pristine destination offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the thrills of skiing, snowboarding and even sledding on the powder slopes. As you venture further south towards Sai, you will discover the charming Sai Iyashi no sato Nenba, a picturesque village adorned with charming thatched-roof houses. It is from this idyllic location that you can capture stunning photographs showcasing the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji.
Culturally, Lake Sai also has its importance in the Fuji Five Lakes region. Although perhaps not as prominent in Shinto tradition as some of its neighbors, It remains a place revered for its natural beauty and its connection to the surrounding mountain landscape.
Shoji Lake
Located in the southwestern section of Lake Shoji, the smallest of Mount Fuji's 5 lakes, is Eboshi-dake Viewpoint, which offers stunning views. One of the highlights is the fascinating view of Mount Fuji's reflection on the surface of the lake, commonly known as Reverse Fuji. Visitors to Lake Shoji can engage in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.
With a surface area of approximately At 1.7 square kilometers, it is the smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes. However, its smaller size does not detract from its beauty or attractiveness. On the contrary, its elongated shape and mountainous surroundings create a charming and picturesque landscape that attracts visitors seeking more intimate and peaceful experiences.
Lake Shoji is also known for its tranquil atmosphere and pristine natural environment. Being less crowded than some of the other lakes in the region, it offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the serenity and peace of the natural environment without the crowds. This makes it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.
Lake Motosu
With its extraordinarily clear waters, Lake Motosu stands out as the deepest of the five lakes surrounding Mount Fuji. A spectacular view of the iconic mountain, identical to the one depicted on the 1.000 yen note, awaits those who contemplate it from the northern shore of the lake.
During the summer season, there is a wide range of activities available, such as camping, hiking, and horseback riding. You can also explore the natural formations of the Mount Fuji hot springs region, which contribute to the beauty of this unique environment, and embark on the Moguran, a vibrant yellow glass-bottom cruise ship, for a scenic ride around the lake while taking in the underwater views.
