Travel : Mount Fuji Yama: The iconic sightseeing spot of Japan

 

Mount Fuji, or Fuji-san, is Japan’s highest mountain, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). This iconic, perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone is recognized worldwide as a symbol of Japan. Located about 100 km (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo, Mount Fuji is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of immense cultural and spiritual significance. It is also a popular destination for climbers and nature enthusiasts, particularly in the summer months when the weather allows for safe hiking.

Best Spots to Visit in Detail

1. Fujisan Fifth Station (Subaru Line 5th Station)

This is the most popular starting point for climbers. At around 2,300 meters (7,546 feet), the Fujisan Fifth Station provides stunning views of Mount Fuji's peak as well as the surrounding forests. Even for non-climbers, the area offers panoramic vistas, souvenir shops, and shrines.

Highlight: The Komitake Shrine, located near the Fifth Station, is dedicated to Mount Fuji and is a beautiful spot for photos.

2. Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko)

Lake Kawaguchi is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and is known for offering one of the most beautiful views of Mount Fuji, particularly when the mountain is reflected on the lake’s calm surface. It’s a popular spot for sightseeing, boat rides, and hot spring resorts.

Highlight: Visit the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum or take a ride on the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for an even better vantage point.

3. Chureito Pagoda

Located in the town of Fujiyoshida, the Chureito Pagoda offers one of the most famous and picturesque views of Mount Fuji, framed by the five-story pagoda and cherry blossoms (in season). It’s part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine and requires a climb up several steps, but the view is well worth the effort.

Highlight: This spot is especially breathtaking in the spring during cherry blossom season and in the fall when the leaves change colors.

4. Oshino Hakkai

A small village between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka, Oshino Hakkai is famous for its eight natural ponds filled with crystal-clear spring water from Mount Fuji. The ponds are considered sacred, and the surrounding traditional thatched-roof houses and gardens make for a peaceful and scenic visit.

Highlight: Try the fresh water from the springs and visit the Hannoki Bayashi Shiryokan, a small museum that displays historical farming tools and samurai armor.

5. Aokigahara Forest (Sea of Trees)

Also known as the Suicide Forest, Aokigahara is a dense forest located on the northwest base of Mount Fuji. While it has a dark reputation, the forest is also known for its beauty and tranquil hiking trails, offering a chance to explore lava tubes and caves formed by past eruptions of Mount Fuji.

Highlight: Explore the Fugaku Wind Cave and the Narusawa Ice Cave, both natural lava caves with year-round ice formations.

6. Fuji-Q Highland

For thrill-seekers, Fuji-Q Highland is a must-visit amusement park near Mount Fuji. It is home to some of the world’s steepest and fastest roller coasters, as well as attractions themed around popular Japanese anime series. The park offers fantastic views of Mount Fuji as well.

Highlight: Ride the Dodonpa, one of the world’s fastest roller coasters, and enjoy the adrenaline rush with Mount Fuji in the background.

7. Gotemba Premium Outlets

Located near the base of Mount Fuji, Gotemba Premium Outlets is one of Japan’s largest shopping outlets. It offers a wide range of international and Japanese brands at discounted prices. On a clear day, shoppers can enjoy views of Mount Fuji while they browse.

Highlight: The outlet’s Ferris wheel offers a unique perspective on Mount Fuji and the surrounding areas.

8. Lake Yamanaka

The largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Yamanaka is popular for water sports, fishing, and camping. The lake offers quieter, less crowded spots for views of Mount Fuji compared to Lake Kawaguchi.

Highlight: Rent a paddleboat or try fishing while taking in the stunning scenery.

9. Mount Fuji Hiking Trails

For those looking to climb Mount Fuji, the official climbing season is from early July to early September. There are four main routes: Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya. The most popular is the Yoshida Trail, which starts at the Fifth Station and offers mountain huts for overnight stays.

Highlight: Climb to the summit to experience the famous sunrise from Mount Fuji, known as Goraiko, a spiritual and awe-inspiring sight.

Food in the Mount Fuji Area

1. Hoto Noodles

A regional specialty, Hoto is a hearty noodle soup made with thick, flat noodles, seasonal vegetables, and miso broth. It’s perfect for warming up after a day of exploring.

Where to Try: Houtou Fudou, a popular restaurant in the Kawaguchiko area, is known for serving excellent hoto.

2. Fujizakura Pork

This high-quality pork is raised locally in the Mount Fuji area and is known for its tender texture and rich flavor. It’s often served grilled or in hot pots.

Where to Try: Many local restaurants around Lake Kawaguchi and Gotemba serve dishes featuring Fujizakura Pork.

3. Udon

The region around Mount Fuji, particularly Yamanashi Prefecture, is famous for its various styles of udon noodles, often served with locally grown vegetables and meat.

Where to Try: Yamanashi Udon can be found at many eateries in the Fuji Five Lakes area.

4. Trout

The Fuji Five Lakes area is home to an abundance of freshwater trout, which is often grilled or served as sashimi.

Where to Try: Local inns and ryokan often feature trout dishes as part of their traditional meals.

5. Sakura Mochi

A popular Japanese dessert, Sakura Mochi (rice cakes wrapped in cherry blossom leaves) is often available around Mount Fuji, particularly during cherry blossom season.

Where to Try: Traditional sweet shops in Fujiyoshida and Kawaguchiko offer this treat.

Connectivity

1. By Train

From Tokyo:

The most common route to Mount Fuji from Tokyo is via the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station, where travelers can transfer to the Fujikyu Railway bound for Kawaguchiko Station. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Alternatively, the JR Tokaido Shinkansen can be taken from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station, followed by a bus to the Fuji Five Lakes area. This route is faster but requires more transfers.

Mount Fuji Pass: For tourists, the Mount Fuji Pass offers unlimited access to buses, trains, and selected attractions in the Mount Fuji area for a fixed price.

2. By Bus

From Tokyo:

There are direct highway buses from Shinjuku and Tokyo Station to the Fuji Five Lakes area, including stops at Fujisan Station and Kawaguchiko Station. The bus ride takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.

Buses also operate from Shibuya and Ikebukuro, making it convenient to reach Mount Fuji from different parts of Tokyo.

Gotemba Premium Outlets: Shuttle buses are available from Shinjuku directly to the Gotemba Premium Outlets, with some also continuing on to Fujisan Station.

3. By Car

Driving to Mount Fuji offers flexibility and allows visitors to explore less accessible spots. It takes about 2 hours from central Tokyo to the Fuji Five Lakes area by car, depending on traffic.

There are several parking lots available near popular attractions, including the Fifth Station, though parking fees may apply.

4. By Plane

Shizuoka Airport and Haneda Airport are the nearest airports for travelers coming from other parts of Japan or internationally.

From Shizuoka Airport, it’s about a 2-hour drive to Mount Fuji, and buses or trains are available from nearby stations.

5. Local Transportation

Mount Fuji Sightseeing Bus: Several local buses operate between key tourist sites, such as the Fuji Five Lakes, Gotemba, and the Fifth Station.

Fujisan World Heritage Loop Bus: This bus connects heritage sites around Mount Fuji, making it easy for tourists to visit multiple locations in one day.

Mount Fuji’s majestic beauty, combined with its cultural and spiritual significance, makes it one of Japan’s most iconic and memorable destinations. Whether you’re climbing to the summit or exploring the surrounding areas, Mount Fuji offers a unique experience for every traveler.