The term Fuji Five Lakes (also known as Fujigoko) comes from the five lovely lakes that surround Mount Fuji: Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanakako, Shojiko, and Motosuko. There is a lot to see and do in the area, which is popular with both locals and international visitors. It’s a very beautiful spot if you appreciate outdoor activities and picturesque woodland panoramas. The area is appropriately recognized as a lake resort area, offering camping, fishing, hiking, cycling, water sports, and snow sports. There are also a variety of hot springs to select from, as well as museums and other attractions, including a popular theme park. Here are our top picks for activities to do in the Fuji Five Lakes area:
1. Lake Kawaguchiko
A list of things to do in Fuji Five Lakes would be incomplete without including a lake! Lake Kawaguchiko is considered the nicest of the lakes for international visitors because it is the most accessible and, perhaps, has the most to see and do. Kawaguchiko is a hot spring resort town at the foot of Mount Fuji that is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding area. To reach there with your JRailPass, take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway Line to Kawaguchiko Station.
2. Cycling
Fuji Five Lakes isn’t the only fantastic cycling destination in Japan. In reality, the country features some of the world’s top cycling routes.
3. Relax in an onsen in Hakone
Hakone is well-known for its hot spring resorts (onsen) and makes an ideal day trip from Tokyo. It also has a lot of natural beauty, such as tranquil views of Lake Ashinoko and adjacent Mt. Fuji, as well as a variety of activities and attractions. The lake is well-known for its lovely red Torii gate on the shore, which is also a popular Instagram location. Hakone is most known for its incredibly relaxing hot springs (which are reason enough to visit), but there is also a variety of historical shrines, castles, ropeways, observatories, museums, and other attractions.
4. View Mt. Fuji from Subaru Line 5th Station
At 2.300 meters above sea level, this excellently located station is a superb sightseeing site halfway between Chureito Pagoda and the summit of Mt. Fuji on the Yoshida Trail up the mountain. It contains restaurants, cafes, and lockers for climbers to refuel and store their goods before climbing, but don’t worry if you just want to enjoy the scenery!
5. Visit a green tea plantation
Japan is well-known for its green tea, and two of the top farms in the country are located in this region. The plantations of Imamiya and Obuchi Sasaba, in particular, are highly recommended and offer stunning green fields against the iconic background of Mt. Fuji. JR Fuji Station is the nearest train station, and buses run in both directions to the plantations.
READ ALSO: What You Need To Know About Chureito Pagoda
6. Enjoy Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Chureito Pagoda and Mt. Fuji are both part of the stunning Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Mt. Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes, Hakone, the Izu Peninsula, and the Izu Islands are all part of the 474-square-mile park. Activities include bathing in hot springs, trekking, swimming in lakes, and visiting one of the dozens of volcanic islands. This park is one of Japan’s most frequented national parks. Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is only one of over 30 beautiful national parks in Japan, ranging from the chilly and snowy north of Hokkaido to the white sands and crystal blue waters of subtropical Okinawa. The variety of settings, landscapes, and species is astounding.
7. Ride the ropeway up Mount Tenjo
In the vicinity, there are several stunning ropeways up the mountains to try, including the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, which transports guests 400 meters from Lake Kawaguchiko to Mount Tenjo’s peak.
8. Explore subterranean lava caves
These incredible underground tunnels formed by former Mt. Fuji eruptions offer for a terrific day out. The bat cave, ice cave, and wind cave are located near the mountain’s northern base. The caves are accessible by bus from Kawaguchiko Station.
9. Go on a culture trip
There are several museums in the neighborhood for individuals with refined tastes. If you’re interested in the history and origins of kimono arts, visit the Kubota Museum, Iyashi no Sato, a small open air museum and craft town, or the Maglev Exhibition Center for train enthusiasts.
10. Have fun at Fuji-Q Highland
While the area is noted for its natural beauty and calm, Fuji Five Lakes also offers one of Japan’s top entertainment parks, Fuji-Q Highland, which features a world-record roller coaster. It is not for the weak of heart! There is also a tiny alternative theme park called the Music Forest for individuals who are less daring.
