Complete Guide To The Best Spots To View Mount Fuji

SEO Accom (Global)
02 Jun 2024 - 7 min read

Mount Fuji isn't just a mountain; it's a cultural icon steeped in history and spirituality. Designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 2013, it has been a pilgrimage site for centuries and continues to be a symbol of reverence. The nearly perfectly shaped volcano has been immortalized in countless works of art, most famously in Hokusai's "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji, an iconic symbol of Japan, is not only famous for its majestic summit but also for the stunning views it offers from various points around the region. Whether you’re up close or viewing from a distance, the mountain provides picturesque scenes that are almost surreal. Traveloka will help you explore the best spots to view Mount Fuji, ranging from locations nearby to those that offer distant but dramatic perspectives.

1. The Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)

Location: At the northern base of Mount Fuji

The Fuji Five Lakes area is arguably the best place for up-close views of Mount Fuji. Each lake offers a unique vista of the mountain, but Lake Kawaguchiko is the most popular due to its accessibility and the variety of viewing spots. You can enjoy the reflection of Fuji on the lake’s surface, a sight that is especially magical during the cherry blossom season in spring or the autumn colors in late November.

2. Chureito Pagoda

Location: Arakura Sengen Shrine, Fujiyoshida City

This five-storied pagoda is set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji and is one of the most photographed locations in Japan. It offers a perfect postcard view, especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season when the pagoda and the mountain are framed by pink blooms.

3. Oshino Hakkai

Location: Oshino Village

Situated between Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Yamanakako, Oshino Hakkai is a touristy village known for its eight ponds filled with melted snow from Mount Fuji. The clarity of these ponds, combined with the scenic view of Fuji in the background, makes it a photographer’s paradise.

4. Gotemba Peace Park

Location: Gotemba City

Gotemba Peace Park, located on the southeastern side of Mount Fuji, offers splendid views of the mountain. The park is particularly lovely during the spring when hundreds of cherry trees bloom, creating a colorful foreground for Fuji.

5. Hakone

Cris Foto / Shutterstock.com

Location: Approximately 40-50 km southeast of Mount Fuji

Hakone is famous for its hot springs, museums, and spectacular views of Mount Fuji. You can catch a glimpse of the mountain from various points throughout the area, but the view from the Ashinoko Lake, created by a volcanic eruption 3,000 years ago, is particularly impressive. The sight of Fuji rising behind the lake is truly unforgettable.

6. Tokyo Skytree

Cris Foto / Shutterstock.com

Location: Tokyo

Approximately 100 kilometers away, the Tokyo Skytree offers a distant, yet comprehensive, view of Mount Fuji on clear days. From the observation decks of the world’s tallest tower, you can see the mountain standing tall beyond the city’s skyline.

7. Boso Peninsula

Location: Chiba Prefecture

For those looking for a unique and distant view of Mount Fuji, the Boso Peninsula in Chiba offers a rare sight where Fuji can be seen across Tokyo Bay. This spot is especially recommended during the early morning hours when the air is clear.

8. Enoshima Island

Location: Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture

Enoshima Island provides a wonderful view of Mount Fuji from a distance, combining the beauty of the sea, the island, and the mountain. The view from the Enoshima Sea Candle (lighthouse observation tower) is particularly noteworthy, where you can enjoy a panoramic view that includes not only Fuji but also the surrounding bay.

9. Shinkansen Bullet Train

Location: Between Tokyo and Osaka

One of the most thrilling ways to view Mount Fuji is from the window of a Shinkansen bullet train. Specifically, on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, right-side seats offer a fleeting but spectacular view of Fuji while traveling from Tokyo towards Kyoto or Osaka. This view is best between Shin-Fuji and Shizuoka stations, where the mountain appears majestically beside the tracks.

10. Fujimi Terrace

Location: Nagoya

Fujimi Terrace in Nagoya offers a unique urban perspective on Mount Fuji. Located on the rooftop of a skyscraper, this spot provides a distant view of the mountain which can be seen on clear days, framed by the cityscape. It’s a perfect blend of urban and natural beauty, offering a different yet impressive angle to witness Fuji’s grandeur.

Mount Fuji can be admired from countless spots across Japan, each offering a different experience and perspective. Whether you prefer to see the mountain from a lush park, beside a peaceful lake, or even amidst a bustling cityscape, Fuji’s majestic presence provides a constant source of inspiration and awe. Remember, the clarity of the view depends heavily on the weather, so always check the local forecast and try to start early in the day for the best visibility.

Things To Know About Climbing Mount Fuji

Climbing Mount Fuji can be a rewarding experience, but it requires preparation. The mountain is divided into ten stations, with the first station at the base and the tenth at the summit. Most climbers start their ascent from the fifth station, accessible by road. Check out trails to the top of Mt Fuji.

Yoshida Trail: The most popular route due to its large number of huts and facilities. It takes approximately 6 hours to ascend and 3 to 4 hours to descend.
Subashiri Trail: Merges with the Yoshida trail at the eighth station, offering a quieter climb through lush forests.
Gotemba Trail: The longest and least crowded route, suitable for those looking for a more challenging climb.
Fujinomiya Trail: The shortest route to the summit, taking about 5 hours to ascend.

Mount Fuji is a blend of breathtaking natural beauty and deep cultural significance. Whether you're looking to challenge yourself with a climb or simply soak in the surrounding beauty and culture, Fuji-san is a destination that belongs on every traveler's bucket list. Remember to respect the environment and local customs as you enjoy all that this majestic mountain has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Mount Fuji: A Seasonal Guide

Mount Fuji, known affectionately as Fuji-san in Japan, is not only a national symbol but also a top destination for travelers from around the globe. Its iconic, snow-capped profile is recognizable worldwide, and visiting this majestic mountain is a dream for many. If you’re planning a trip to Mount Fuji, choosing the right time to visit is crucial to making the most of your journey.

1. Summer: July to August – Peak Climbing Season

Why Visit in Summer:

Climbing Season: This is the official climbing season when all the trails to the summit are open. The weather is relatively mild and stable, providing safer climbing conditions.
Festivals: Many festivals, like the Yoshida Fire Festival in late August, occur during this time, offering a rich glimpse into local traditions and celebrations.
Wildlife and Flora: The surrounding forests and parks are lush and vibrant, ideal for nature walks and photography.

Considerations:

Summer attracts the most tourists, so expect the trails and nearby attractions to be busier. Although the mountain itself may be cool, the areas at lower elevations can be quite hot and humid, especially in July.

2. Autumn: September to November – Scenic Beauty

Why Visit in Autumn:

Stunning Scenery: Autumn is famous for its vivid foliage, with the areas around Mount Fuji and the Five Lakes (Fujigoko) displaying a breathtaking palette of colors.
Pleasant Weather: The temperature is cooler and more comfortable for hiking and other outdoor activities around the base of the mountain.
Fewer Crowds: With the climbing season over, the paths and popular spots around Fuji are less crowded, making it a great time for those seeking tranquility.

Considerations:

Variable Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, and early snowfalls in November can affect access to higher elevations.

3. Winter: December to February – A Snowy Wonderland

Why Visit in Winter:

Snow-Capped Summit: Winter offers the classic view of Mount Fuji with its summit beautifully covered in snow, perfect for photographers and sightseers alike.
Skiing and Onsens: The region offers excellent winter sports opportunities near Fuji Five Lakes, and soaking in an onsen (hot spring) while gazing at the snowy mountain is a must-do experience.
New Year Traditions: Experiencing New Year’s Eve celebrations in Japan, including the first sunrise (Hatsuhinode), can be a memorable event.

Considerations:

The temperature can be extremely cold, especially at higher elevations, so appropriate winter clothing and gear are essential. There is also limited access as some roads and paths might be closed due to snow.

4. Spring: March to June – Cherry Blossoms and Mild Weather

Why Visit in Spring:

Cherry Blossoms: Late March to early April is cherry blossom season, and seeing the blooms with Mount Fuji in the background is iconic.
Ideal Weather: Weather is generally mild and comfortable for all types of outdoor activities, from hiking around the lakes to leisurely walks through blooming parks.
Less Crowded: Apart from the cherry blossom spots, this season is generally less crowded before the summer tourists arrive.

Considerations:

Unpredictable Weather: Spring can also bring rain and occasionally late snowfalls, which can disrupt travel plans, especially in early March.

Each season at Mount Fuji offers unique experiences and showcases the mountain’s beauty in different ways. For climbing, summer is the only option when all trails are open. For sightseeing and cultural experiences, autumn and spring provide beautiful scenery and comfortable weather. Winter is perfect for those who enjoy serene, snowy landscapes and winter sports.

Now that you know all the things about visiting Mount Fuji, wait no more to book your flight to Japan with Traveloka and enjoy exclusive deals to make your trip more affordable. You can also find the best accommodations in Japan that cater to all your needs in Traveloka.

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