Mount Fuji, an active volcano that last erupted in 1707, is the highest mountain peak in Japan (3780 m). It is considered sacred among Shinto religion and Buddhism and is famous among night climbers to view the sunrise from the summit.
Sightseeing
Fuji Five Lakes around Mt. Fuji
Even if you don’t intend to climb Fuji-san, it’s still worth coming to enjoy the beautiful landscapes; the surrounding five lakes that act as a natural reflection pools for the mountain’s exceptionally symmetrical cone, which is snow-capped several months a year. These lakes are formed by the previous eruptions of Mt. Fuji.
When to visit Fuji Five Lakes?
The best view of Mount Fuji from the lakes can be enjoyed during April (the cherry blossom season) and November (the autumn season). Although the lakes and the surrounding areas can be enjoyed on any day with a clear sky.
How to get there from Tokyo?
Follow Japan Guide : Fuji Five Lakes Travel for all available options.
The most convenient and cheaper available option is the bus from Shinjuku Bus Terminal towards Kawaguchiko Station which takes 2 to 2.5 hours and costs 1750 yen.
What to enjoy?
Lake Kawaguchiko, which is one of the five lakes, has many interesting things to do around its shore. There are swan boats, excursion sightseeing boats which give you a ride of the whole lake and Mt.Fuji is best viewed from here.
Kachi Kachi Ropeway
It is a cable car that takes you to the top of Mount Tenjo, near Lake Kawaguchiko. The summit of Mount Tenjo acts as a observatory area to see the panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji.
There are combo-offer tickets sold for the sightseeing boat plus the ropeway near Lake Kawaguchiko, costs 1300 yen.
Fuji Five Lakes Sightseeing Bus
The five lakes named Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Saiko, Lake Yamanakako, Lake Shojiko, and Lake Motosuko are located far from each other and it can be inconvenient if you don’t have a car.
These buses cover different lakes and hence take different routes. These routes are named Green Line and Red Line. The red route and green route covers Lake Kawaguchiko but the green route also covers Lake Saiko and has longer route. Take this line preferably during early morning or evening to get the best scenic views.
More details here : Fujikyuko Bus Guide
X-treme thrills around Mt. Fuji
Fuji Q Highland for thrill seekers
Fuji Q is a theme park at the base of Mt. Fuji, and is well known amongst adrenaline junkies for its record-breaking roller coasters. It can be well enjoyed with a one-day free pass, that costs 5,700 yen which includes the entry fee as well all the rides. Dedicate one whole day of your trip to this spine chilling rides.
Fuji Q’s most famous roller coasters :
Fujiyama
This ‘King of Coasters’ is 5th tallest, 8th tallest, 10th fastest roller coaster in the world !
Dodonpa
This is known for its speed. It is 4th fastest roller coaster in the world with maximum acceleration of 172 km/hr in 1.8 sec.
Eejanaika
This is a 4 dimension roller coaster and is registered in the Guinness Book of World Records for its 14 different inversions.
Takabisha
It is world’s 2nd most steepest roller coaster with a drop angle of 121 degree.
The other notable rides are as follows :
Tondemina a.k.a Pizza-la
Tekkotsu Bancho
Red Tower
There are many other attractions around Mt. Fuji worth your visit which includes Bat Caves, Music Forest, Hot springs etc.
Enjoy your visit to the Fuji Five Lakes, Fuji Q Highland and climbing Mt. Fuji.
Hit the green heart so that this article helps others to explore the aesthetic as well as spine chilling thrills of Japan.