Kawaguchiko Travel Guide: Mount Fuji Views, Lakes, and Best Photo Spots

Introduction

Just 2 hours from Tokyo lies the small town of Kawaguchiko, a perfect destination to experience Mount Fuji along with Japan’s beautiful nature, forests, and lakes. Kawaguchiko is also home to a few Instagram-famous photo spots featuring stunning views of Mount Fuji.

Why Visit Kawaguchiko?

People visit Kawaguchiko not only to see Mount Fuji but also to enjoy the five beautiful lakes, relax in traditional Japanese hot springs (onsen), and experience staying in a ryokan, a Japanese-style inn. If you’re planning to climb Mount Fuji, Kawaguchiko is where your journey begins. It’s also the best place to capture iconic photos with Mount Fuji in the background.

How to Get to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo

It’s easy to reach Kawaguchiko from Tokyo, with two public transport options: bus or train.

By Train:

For an experience on Japan’s fast trains (Shinkansen), take the JR Chuo Line or Fujikyu Line.

By Bus:

The bus is convenient, costing less while taking the same time. It’s recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during high season or if visiting for a day trip. Buses to Kawaguchiko depart from several stations:

• Shinjuku Station: Buy tickets here
• Tokyo Station: Buy tickets here
• Shibuya Station: Buy tickets here

Stay Connected with an eSIM Card While traveling in Japan, having reliable internet access is essential for navigating transport and accessing maps, especially in more rural areas like Kawaguchiko. Check out this eSiM card option* to stay connected on your journey.

How to Get to Kawaguchiko from Kyoto

Traveling from Kyoto to Kawaguchiko is a bit trickier. You’ll need to take a JR train to Mishima Station, then transfer to a bus from Mishima to Kawaguchiko.

🕒 Train Time: 2 hours

🕒 Bus Time: 2 hours

Book your bus tickets in advance here. Alternatively, if no bus tickets are available, you can travel via Tokyo, though it will take longer and cost more.

Top Things to Do in Kawaguchiko

1. Chureito Pagoda

Start your day by visiting Chureito Pagoda, which offers stunning views of Mount Fuji. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

How to Get to Chureito Pagoda: Take a train from Kawaguchiko to Shimoyoshida Station. From there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk and a climb up a few hundred stairs to the pagoda.

2. Yamanashi Street at Fujiyoshida

After visiting Chureito Pagoda, head to Yamanashi Street for an Instagram-famous photo spot. This street, lined with lanterns, perfectly frames Mount Fuji in the background.

💡 Tip: Be mindful of traffic and follow safety instructions from local guards. While you’re there, stop by Fab Cafe Fuji for coffee and carrot cake.

3. Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko is the center of Kawaguchiko, surrounded by attractions. You can explore the area on foot, bike, or by bus. Two bus lines circle the lake:

The red line covers Kawaguchiko Lake, and day tickets can be purchased at Kawaguchiko Station. On the lake, you can enjoy a boat cruise or rent a swan-shaped paddle boat.

4. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

Located by Lake Kawaguchiko, this museum is set in a beautiful garden with flowers, small bridges, and statues, all against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. There’s a fountain that “dances” to music every hour, and several buildings where you can listen to live music and view musical instruments.

5. Oishi Park

A short drive from the Music Forest Museum is Oishi Park, known for its flower fields set against Mount Fuji. The flowers change with the seasons, with lavender blooming in the summer. A small shop in the park sells local lavender products.

6. Hiking and Cycling Around Kawaguchi Lake

For a more active experience, rent a bike and cycle around Lake Kawaguchi or the nearby Saiko Lake. You can also hike up small mountains for panoramic views of the lakes and Mount Fuji. More information about hiking routes can be found here.

7. Hot Springs (Onsen)

The Kawaguchi area is famous for its hot springs. Some onsen offer baths with views of Mount Fuji, such as Fuji Yurari Hot Spring. Many hotels in the area also offer private onsen baths, though they may not have Fuji views.

Best Places to Eat in Kawaguchiko

• KANJYUKUYA: Located next to the Music Forest Museum, this restaurant is perfect for trying local hoto noodle soup
• Lake Bake Cafe: A pastry cafe near Oishi Park with beautiful views of Mount Fuji
• Beef Cutlet Restaurant Koushuya: A great spot for Japanese beef cutlet
• Cooliya: Enjoy sashimi or dinner by Kawaguchi Lake
• FabCafe Fuji: Coffee and cake next to Fuji Photo spot 

Tips for Planning Your Kawaguchiko Trip

Best Time to Visit Kawaguchiko

The best time to visit is during the cherry blossom season, but it’s also the busiest. Autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant red, is another great time with milder weather and fewer crowds. Summer may have cloud cover obscuring Mount Fuji, but it’s lavender season, offering unique photo opportunities.

How Much Time Do You Need in Kawaguchiko?

A day trip from Tokyo is possible, but staying for one or two nights allows you to explore at a more relaxed pace and fully enjoy the area’s natural beauty.

Looking to another day trip idea from Tokyo? Check my post about Kamakura Day Trip from Tokyo

Where to Stay in Kawaguchiko

Choose a hotel with a view of Mount Fuji or the lake. Many hotels have Onsens (hot spring) for their guests., Kawaguchiko is the perfect place to stay in traditional Japanese ryokan for a more authentic experience. 

Conclusion

Kawaguchiko is more than just a photo destination—it’s a peaceful retreat where you can experience Japan’s natural beauty. Have you visited Kawaguchiko? Share your favorite experiences or ask any questions in the comments!

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