The Best Places to View Mount Fuji: A Journey to Remember
When we embarked on our adventure to view the majestic Mount Fuji, we were determined to experience it from every possible angle. From serene lakeside spots to panoramic viewpoints, Japan's iconic peak never failed to impress.
Here’s a roundup of the best places we discovered for taking in the breathtaking beauty of Mount Fuji.
1. Hakone: A Spa with a View
Our first stop was Hakone, renowned not just for its hot springs but also for its stunning views of Mount Fuji. We stayed at the luxurious Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, where the onsen baths offer a panoramic vista of the mountain. Room rates start at ¥60,000 per night, but the experience is well worth it. We spent our mornings soaking in the outdoor baths while watching the sun rise over Fuji.
For a perfect view, we visited the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Located at 1-1 Hon-chou, Hakone, this outdoor art museum provides a unique vantage point with its blend of sculptures and the natural beauty of the area. The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with an entrance fee of ¥1,600.
2. Fuji Five Lakes: A Lakefront Panorama
Next, we ventured to the Fuji Five Lakes area, specifically Lake Kawaguchi. This lake offers some of the most picturesque views of Mount Fuji, especially with the reflection of the mountain shimmering on the water. We took a relaxing boat ride, which allowed us to capture some amazing photos. Boat rentals start at ¥1,000 for a 30-minute ride.
For accommodation, we stayed at the Oike Hotel, located near the lake. With prices starting at ¥20,000 per night, the hotel’s rooms provide unobstructed views of Mount Fuji. In the evening, we enjoyed a traditional kaiseki dinner, featuring local delicacies.
3. Chureito Pagoda: A Classic Viewpoint
Our journey continued to the Chureito Pagoda, part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine in Fujiyoshida. The pagoda’s five tiers offer a classic and iconic view of Mount Fuji, framed beautifully by cherry blossoms in spring or vibrant foliage in autumn. We climbed the 400 steps up to the pagoda, and the panoramic view was absolutely worth it. There’s no admission fee to visit, and it’s open year-round.
4. The Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station: High Altitude Views
For those who want to get closer to the peak without climbing, the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station is a must-visit. Located at 2,305 meters above sea level, this spot offers an up-close view of Mount Fuji and the surrounding landscape. We took a bus from the base, which cost us ¥2,000 each way. The station is open from late May to early November, and we were thrilled to see the stunning vistas from this altitude.
5. Nearby Specialty Hotels
In addition to the Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, another wonderful place to stay is the Fuji View Hotel, located at 3000 Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko. With room rates starting at ¥25,000 per night, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations and spectacular views of Mount Fuji right from your room.
6. Local Specialties and Prices
No visit to this region is complete without sampling local delicacies. In Hakone, we indulged in a bowl of onsen tamago (hot spring eggs) for ¥300 each. In the Fuji Five Lakes area, we enjoyed hoto, a hearty noodle soup native to the region, with prices around ¥1,200 per bowl.
Our journey to view Mount Fuji was filled with unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights. Whether soaking in hot springs, cruising on a lake, or admiring a classic pagoda view, each spot provided a unique and stunning perspective of Japan’s iconic mountain.
Dear Lykkers! We hope these recommendations help you make the most of your own Mount Fuji adventure.
