Fuji Five Lakes

Close to Kofu, where our head office is based, lies one of Japans most beautiful regions — the Fuji Five Lakes. Known for  views of Mt Fuji, this area makes for a perfect day trip or a relaxed weekend getaway. It’s a place that captures the best parts of Yamanashi in all seasons.

The Five Lakes of Yamanashi:

1. Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko) – The most accessible and well-known, with scenic walking paths, cozy cafés, and boats you can rent for a quiet ride across the water.

2. Lake Saiko (Saiko) – Peaceful and surrounded by nature, a favorite for hikers and photographers.

3. Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako) – The largest of the five, popular for kayaking, fishing, and water sports.

4. Lake Shoji (Shojiko) – Small and tranquil, perfect for a picnic and clear views of Mount Fuji.

5. Lake Motosu (Motosuko) – Known for its deep blue color and the famous reflection of Fuji that appears on Japan’s ¥1,000 bill.

Exploring more than one lake gives you a deeper sense of how varied and beautiful this area really is.

Things to Do

• Scenic Walks & Photos: Each lake has its own walking trails with incredible Fuji views. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn paints the landscape in colors of reds and oranges.

• Boating & Water Activities: Rent a kayak or paddle boat on Lake Kawaguchi or Yamanaka for a calm moment on the water.

• Museums & Culture: Near Lake Kawaguchi, the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum is a must-see, showcasing breathtaking kimono art inspired by traditional Japanese patterns.

• Lakeside Cafés & Local Food: Take a break with a bowl of hōtō noodles or fresh local fruit while gazing out at the water.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (Mar–May): Cherry blossoms and mild weather make this a favorite season.

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for swimming and water sports — just expect more visitors.

• Autumn (Sep–Nov): The foliage is spectacular, with rich, warm colors everywhere you look.

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Quiet, crisp, and perfect for catching snow-capped Fuji under clear blue skies.

Tips for Your Trip

• Getting There: Renting a car gives you the most freedom to move between lakes. There are also buses and trains, but are less flexible. 

• Timing: Try to arrive early — sunrise over Mount Fuji is absolutely worth it.

• Photography: The best views are often from the northern shores of Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Motosu. Even cloudy days can make for dramatic, moody shots.

Why It’s Special

What makes the Fuji Five Lakes truly memorable isn’t just the view — it’s the feeling. There’s a peacefulness here that’s hard to describe. Whether you’re traveling with friends, taking photos, or simply slowing down for a moment, this area offers a quiet kind of magic that stays with you long after you’ve left.