Where to see Mount Fuji in Kawaguchiko: Best Viewpoints

If you’re planning to see Mount Fuji up close, there’s no better place to base yourself than Kawaguchiko. Located just a few hours from Tokyo, this lakeside town offers some of the best views of Japan’s most famous mountain, and in every season, it has something special to offer.

I’ve visited Kawaguchiko several times now, and each trip has been different. But if I had to pick a favourite season, it would definitely be autumn. The colours are amazing, the skies are usually clear, and the views of Mount Fuji are simply amazing.

How many days in Kawaguchiko?

Kawaguchiko and the Fuji Five Lakes are often sold as an easy day trip from Tokyo. But if you can, stay 2 or 3 days. A quick visit feels rushed, and you’ll appreciate having time to explore properly (and actually relax). Transport can also take longer than expected, especially if connections don’t line up. Some sights are bus-only and buses aren’t very frequent, so renting a car can be a smart move for reaching some spots.

Visiting Kawaguchiko in different seasons

Autumn in Kawaguchiko

Autumn is absolutely magical here. The weather is cool and crisp, the trees are on fire with reds and golds, and Mount Fuji often appears perfectly clear against a bright blue sky. It’s a photographer’s dream!

Winter in Kawaguchiko

Winter in Kawaguchiko is freezing, so cold that I could barely operate my camera with numb fingers. But the reward is worth it. The views are stunning, the sky is often crystal clear, and the snow-covered Mount Fuji looks even more majestic. Best of all, I was almost completely alone.

If you don’t mind the cold, winter is a fantastic time to visit. Clear skies mean a much better chance of actually seeing Mount Fuji, after all, you don’t want to travel all this way only to find it hidden by clouds. It’s also off-season, fewer people, making the experience feel peaceful.

Summer in Kawaguchiko

Summer in Kawaguchiko can be a hit or miss. It’s hot and humid, and because of that, the skies are often hazy, so Mount Fuji isn’t always as clear. It’s also one of the busiest times of year, especially around weekends and school holidays. That said, summer has one big advantage: it’s climbing season. Mount Fuji is typically open for hiking from early July to early September, making Kawaguchiko a convenient base if summiting the mountain.

Spring in Kawaguchiko

Spring is the busiest season in Kawaguchiko, but it’s also when the area looks its most picture-perfect. Cherry blossoms frame Mount Fuji, creating some of the most iconic views in Japan. Crowds can be heavy, with tourists (local and international) especially during peak sakura season.

Best places to see Mount Fuji

There are plenty of great spots around Kawaguchiko for viewing Mount Fuji. Some of my favourites include:

Lake Kawaguchi (Northern shore)

In any season, the best place to take pictures of the Fuji san is the Northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi. This is the picture perfect spot framing the trees and the fuji.

Maple Tunnel (Momiji Tunnel)

Momiji tunnel is situated near the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi, on the way to Oishi Park. It’s a beautiful spot where maple trees arch over the road, forming a natural tunnel.

Chureito Pagoda

The iconic red pagoda with Fuji in the background, especially beautiful in autumn or cherry blossom season.

Iyashi-no-Sato

This is a lovely traditional village on the western shore of Lake Saiko, where you can explore old-style houses, watch craftspeople at work, and enjoy views of Fuji too.

Honcho Street

This street is in Fujikawaguchiko Town, and it has become very popular on social media because of its direct view of Mount Fuji rising behind the road.

Oishi Park

Another famous spot to see the cherry blossoms with Mount Fuji in the background

Kawaguchiko is well-connected but peaceful. It has a small-town feel, with local cafés, hot springs (onsen), museums, and beautiful walking paths. From here, you can also explore other lakes in the Fuji Five Lakes area. Staying overnight also means you’ll get to see Mount Fuji at golden hour! And because the light pollution isn’t too bad i Kawaguchiko, you can also see the starry sky on clear days.

Tenku no Torii 天空の鳥居

This place is part of Kawaguchi Asama Shrine, and the name means “Torii Gate in the Sky.” The gate perfectly frames Mount Fuji, especially on clear days, which makes it a great spot for photos and Instagram. You can reach it by walking uphill for about 30 minutes from the shrine.

What I also like: going into shops! There are so many products dedicated to Mount fuji. Kitkat, sake, candies, plush, and even trains. Everything is here to celebrate Mount fuji.

Visiting Kawaguchiko: travel tips

How to get from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko?

Kawaguchiko is about 2–2.5 hours from Tokyo by train or bus.

By train: The easiest and most convenient option is the Fuji Excursion Limited Express from Shinjuku Station. It runs directly to Kawaguchiko Station and takes just under 2 hours.

By bus: For the cheapest option, highway buses run from Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Tokyo Station. Travel time is around 2–2.5 hours, depending on traffic.

By car: Driving from Tokyo takes around 2 hours (when traffic is traffic). Renting a car gives you more freedom for reaching spots around the Fuji Five Lakes that are difficult to access by public transport.

How long to stay Kawaguchiko

At least 2–3 days to really enjoy the area.

So if you’re planning a trip to Japan and want to experience Japan’s most iconic mountain in a peaceful, natural setting, make sure Kawaguchiko is on your list!