Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)★★★
The Fuji Five Lakes (富士五湖, Fujigoko) at the northern foot of Mount Fuji offer the most beautiful and closest views of Japan's sacred mountain — perfect reflections in the still water, cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage in November.
The Five Lakes
- Kawaguchiko: The most popular and best-developed lake. Panoramic view of Fuji from the north side, cable car to Mount Kachi Kachi (¥900), retro bus lines to all attractions. Here is also the famous Chureito Pagoda — red pagoda with Fuji in the background, one of Japan's most photographed motifs (398 steps ascent).
- Saiko: The quietest lake, surrounded by forest. Perfect for kayaking and the Aokigahara lava fields.
- Yamanakako: The largest lake, with water sports and camping.
- Shōjiko: The smallest and most pristine lake.
- Motosuko: The deepest lake with the clearest water — the Fuji view from here adorns the 1,000-yen bill!
Climbing Mount Fuji
The climbing season is short: July to mid-September. Four routes lead to the summit (3,776 m), the most popular is the Yoshida Trail from the 5th Station (2,305 m, accessible by bus). The ascent takes 5–7 hours, the descent 3–4 hours. Many start in the afternoon, stay overnight in a mountain hut (¥8,000–10,000 with dinner), and ascend to the summit for the sunrise (Goraiko).
Equipment: Good hiking boots, warm clothing (at the summit 5–10 °C even in summer), headlamp, water, cash for the huts. From 2024, an entrance fee of ¥2,000 and an online reservation are required.
💡 Tipp
The Chureito Pagoda in Fujiyoshida is THE photo motif — but the 398 steps are strenuous in the heat. Go before 8 a.m. for a clear view of Fuji and fewer crowds. For the Fuji ascent: The Taishi-kan mountain hut at 3,000 m offers the best view for sunrise.
Achtung
Do NOT climb Fuji outside the official climbing season (July–September) — snow, ice, and extreme winds make the mountain life-threatening. Even in season: Altitude sickness is possible from 3,000 m. Ascend slowly and drink plenty.
