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Lake Kawaguchiko

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Lake Kawaguchiko

The most accessible of the Fuji Five Lakes, with Mount Fuji reflected on calm mornings.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Half a day
Entry
Free
Best time
Early morning
Area
Fuji Five Lakes

The most popular lake, with Fuji reflected in its calm water.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Lake Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi

  • From Tokyo: About 2 hours by highway bus to Kawaguchiko Station.
  • Bus: Retro sightseeing buses loop around the lake.
  • Ropeway: The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway climbs to a viewpoint.

The story of Lake Kawaguchiko

Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the five lakes formed by ancient eruptions of Mount Fuji. Its north shore offers some of the best views of the mountain, with its reflection on still mornings.

The area around Mount Fuji, a sacred mountain in Japanese culture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a "place of worship and source of artistic inspiration".

Best time to visit

Best season

November–February for the clearest Fuji views; April for cherry blossoms; June for lavender.

Best time of day

Early morning for reflections.

Summer

Hazy; Fuji is often hidden.

Tips before you go

  • Rent a bike and ride along the north shore.
  • Walk the north shore for Fuji reflections.
  • Ride the ropeway for panoramic views.

Best hotels near Lake Kawaguchiko

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Hoshinoya Fuji

Glamping resort above Lake Kawaguchiko.

See prices

Fuji View Hotel

Lakeside hotel with Fuji views.

See prices

Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu

Hot-spring hotel in Hakone.

See prices
All hotels near Lake Kawaguchiko

What's around Lake Kawaguchiko

  • Oishi ParkFlower park on the north shore.
  • Kawaguchiko Music ForestMuseum with gardens.
  • Mt. Fuji Panoramic RopewayHilltop viewpoint.
  • Chureito Pagoda15 minutes away.

Questions travellers ask

Which lake has the best Fuji view?

Kawaguchiko is the most popular.

How do I get there from Tokyo?

By highway bus, about 2 hours.

When is Fuji most visible?

In winter mornings.

More in Mount Fuji & Hakone

Chureito Pagoda

Chureito Pagoda

Read the guide
Hakone Shrine

Hakone Shrine

Read the guide
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Travel Plan · Lake Kawaguchiko Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure