Kawaguchiko (Lake Kawaguchi) is a picturesque town near the foot of Japan’s Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture. It’s part of the Fuji Five Lakes region and is the base for many visitors wanting to see the iconic volcano and for hikers wishing to summit it. Although Kawaguchiko Japan is known for its spectacular views of Mt Fuji, especially from the Lake, the town also offers many other things.
Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture, enjoy outdoor activities on and off the lake, unwind in an onsen and indulge in Japanese cuisine. Kawaguchiko is relatively easy to access from Tokyo, making it a popular destination and the perfect stop on your Japan itinerary.
Things to do in Kawaguchiko
I spent 4 days in Kawaguchiko visiting places like Arakurayama Sengen Park, Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba and Lake Kawaguchi. It had been on my list of Japanese places to visit for a long time, to see Mount Fuji. There was not much Wi-Fi in the area, so I used e-SIM Airalo, which was great for getting around.
Here are some other top things to do in Kawaguchiko and around Mt. Fuji, as well as travel tips and recommendations on where to stay.
1. Visit Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba
Visit the Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, a traditional Japanese village converted into an open-air museum and craft village. It is located along the shore of Lake Saiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes and on a clear day, you will have stunning views of Mt Fiji in the background. The village was reconstructed after being destroyed by a landslide in 1966 and offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s rural past. It reminded me of a rural fishing village on Sado Island, Japan.
Iyashi no Sato traditional thatched-roof houses feature various arts and craft shops, museums, exhibits and workshops, where you can learn Japanese craftsmanship. Several eateries sell local products and traditional Japanese food like Hoto noodles.
It makes for a picturesque setting, with traditional Japanese houses in the foreground and the majestic mountain in the background. Iyashi-no-Sato is open daily from 9 am – 5 pm and there is a direct bus from Kawaguchiko Station. Book this day tour from Tokyo that includes this Japanese village if you don’t have much time.
Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba a traditional Japanese village
2. See Mt Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park
One of the most iconic spots for taking pictures of Mt Fiji is the observation deck at Arakurayama Sengen Park. It is located at the base of Mount Arakurayama in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture. The park offers Japan’s famous 360 picturesque views of Mount Fuji. The combination of the Chureito Pagoda, Mount Fuji, and seasonal changes in the landscape provides endless photo opportunities.
Visitors can climb the steep 398 steps to the observation deck or take the well-maintained, wide path. While the park is beautiful all year round, one of the best times to visit Arakurayama Sengen is in Spring, during the cherry blossom season. Due to its popularity, it can get busy, especially during peak times. The best time to visit is early in the morning before the tourist buses arrive or late in the afternoon.
Take a look at one of these many tours in Japan with GYG that includes Arakurayama Sengen Park.
3. Try Hoto Noodles Kawaguchiko
Try Japanese cuisine in Kawaguchiko at one of the local restaurants and tea houses. Specialities include Hoto, a thick noodle soup, chicken Katsu curry and Yoshida Udon, a firm, chewy udon noodle. Sampling these foods adds to the cultural experience of the visit.
I tried Hoto or Houtou Noodles, a local speciality served in a hot miso-based soup with pumpkin and vegetables. One of the best restaurants in Kawaguchiko to try Houtou noodles is Koshu Hoto. They offer a variety of dishes featuring Houtou noodles, such as those with mushrooms or duck. Koshu Hoto restaurant is popular with tourists and locals.
Pumpkin and Hoto or Houtou Noodles Japanese cuisine
4. Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine
Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine, also known as Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja, is an important spiritual site. It is located in Fujiyoshida and is one of the main entrance points for climbing Mount Fuji. The Shrine dates back over 1,900 years and is dedicated to the deity Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess associated with Mount Fuji.
The shrine is surrounded by a sacred forest, home to ancient cedar trees that are hundreds of years old. The Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine boasts traditional Shinto architecture, featuring impressive wooden structures, including the main hall (honden). As well as a worship hall (haiden), and several other smaller buildings.
If you are visiting during the end of August, head to the Fujiyoshida Fire Festival (Yoshida no Himatsuri). This festival involves lighting torches and bonfires and is supposed to be a vibrant festival worth seeing. Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine is one of the top things to do at Mt Fiji for those interested in spirituality, Japanese culture and history.
5. Canoeing on Kawaguchi Lake
Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko) is one of the best spots to have unobstructed views of Mount Fuji. It is the second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes region and the easiest to access from Toyko. One of the most popular activities on the lake is canoeing, which is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.
Canoeing allows you to see the iconic mountain from various angles, that aren’t available from the shore. Paddle to a secluded island, watch the wildlife or drift and enjoy the views. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner, the calm waters of Lake Kawaguchi provide a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. It was one of my top things to do in Kawaguchiko.
The combination of water, Mt Fiji, and seasonal scenery makes Lake Kawaguchi the perfect spot for capturing images while canoeing. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to canoe for lighting and reflection on the water. Check out Jack Wolfskin’s latest outdoor wear online for both women and men.
Canoeing on Kawaguchi Lake with Mt Fuji in the background
6. Visit a Sake Brewery
Sake brewing is an ancient art with deep cultural significance in Japan. Visit a local Sake brewery and do a Sake tour and tasting in Kawaguchiko. Learn the traditional brewing techniques of the sake-making process from start to finish. Ending with a tasting session, enjoying different types of sake.
One of the best Sake Breweries in Fujikawaguchiko is Ide Sake Brewery near Mt Fuji. The brewery offers tours led by one of the brewers and Sake and Whiskey tasting. There is also a small shop where you can purchase a variety of their sakes and even sake ice cream. This activity takes about an hour and is a fun thing to do for someone travelling solo or as a couple. Another great place to try Sake is on Sado Island, Japan.
7. Hike the Syosenkyou Gorge
Head to Shosenkyo Gorge to do some hiking in one of Japan’s most beautiful national parks. It is an area renowned for its rugged rock formations, towering cliffs, clear water, and rushing streams. As well as the spectacular waterfall Sengataki, which stands 30 meters high and is one of the main attractions at the Gorge. It reminded me of the one I hiked to in Myoko Niigata.
Located along the Arakawa River in the northern part of Kofu City, Yamanashi prefecture, Shosenkyo Gorge is part of the Chichibu Tama Kai National Park. The gorge offers well-maintained hiking trails for all ages and levels of fitness and experience. The main trail follows the Arakawa River and is approximately 2.5 miles (4 km) in length. It ends at Sengataki waterfall, where shops, a car park, toilets and the ropeway are situated.
Afterwards, take the 5 minute cable car ride on Shosenkyo Ropeway up a forested mountain. Where you be rewarded with impressive views of Mt Fiji and the Minami Alps in the distance. Here are some good recommendations for day backpacks for hiking, in Japan at reasonable prices.
Sengataki Waterfall along the hiking route in Shosenkyo Gorge
8. Take the Fuji panoramic ropeway
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway (cable car) is one of the top things to do in Kawaguchiko. It’s located on the Lakeside of Kawaguchi in the Yamanashi Prefecture. The cable car takes visitors up to the summit of Mount Tenjo, where you can take in the spectacular views of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and the Fuji Five Lakes area.
At the top is the observation deck, a tea shop, Tenjo Bell, and the popular “Mount Kachikachi Superb View Swing”. As well as hiking trails, including the path to the summit of Mount Mitsutoge. The cable car takes around 3 minutes each way and it is best to book in advance as you can wait around 30 minutes to get on. Pre-book your Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway online.
9. What to do at Lake Kawaguchiko
Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum is located along the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko. It is a themed museum with automated musical instruments, European-style gardens and regular live performances. There is a small entrance fee and it is a fun attraction, especially for families. There is a small admission fee which you can purchase online.
Oishi Park is a scenic park on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko within the five lakes area. The park offers amazing views of Mt Fuji, with flowers or grasses in the foreground. Oishi Park has several cafes and shops where you can relax and admire the views.
Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center is located next to Oishi Park on the lake. It features a cafe, restaurant, a learning area and a shop that sells Mt Fuji local produce and souvenirs. The Natural Living Center also offers workshops, like how to make jam and fruit picking lessons.
Having tea on an island on Lake Kawaguchiko, Japan
10. Kawaguchiko events and festivals
Kuradashi Wine Festival is held at Oike Park next to Lake Kawaguchi over 3 days in June. It showcases wine and food from Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan’s number one wine-producing region. The entry is free; however, tokens must be purchased to sample the wines.
Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks Festival attracts thousands of tourists every year. Held in early August, the fireworks launched along the banks of the lake with the iconic Mt Fuji in the background. It is the oldest fireworks festival in Yamanashi Prefecture, and it is free of charge to watch.
Fuji Shibazakura Festival is held mid-April to late May or sometimes June, depending on the bloom. The festival showcases fields of Shibazakura (pink moss phlox) from various varieties, which look stunning against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. There are also stalls selling products, ranging from small pots of Shibazakura to souvenirs, food, and local produce.
Glamping Villa Hanz Kawaguchiko
I stayed at Glamping Villa Hanz Kawaguchiko near Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes. It offers a unique blend of luxury and nature, set in a beautiful location with some of the best Mount Fuji views as your backdrop. Surrounded by nature, you can enjoy serene views, fresh air, and a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere.
You can choose accommodation from Pao luxury glamping tents, Villas and a guest house that sleeps up to 10 people. All the accommodations have private BBQ Areas where you can cook your meals. In the evening, a selection of ingredients is offered to guests for the BBQ.
There is a cafe/bar, natural private Onsen (“Tenkeichijun Fujino-motoyu), public bath, Outdoor Barrel Sauna “Taru” and a Kura shop that houses a wide variety of outdoor gear for your glamping stay. The villas offer private hot tubs, perfect for unwinding after a day of outdoor exploring.
Transfer service is available from Tokyo Haneda Airport to Villa Hanz, which can be arranged at an additional cost. Price is based per car, which can seat up to three people with luggage. Feel free to make a booking here with Glamping Villa Hanz Kawaguchiko.
View of Mount Fuji from Glamping Villa Hanz Kawaguchiko
JR Pass to Kawaguchiko
Direct trains run from central Shinjuku Station, Tokyo, to Mt Fuji Kawaguchiko Station. It takes under 2 hours, and you can use a Japan Rail Pass. There are two round-trip trains a day from Tokyo, and the train also stops at several other popular spots around Mount Fuji.
I suggest getting the Japan Rail Pass for the whole of Japan if you plan to visit other parts of the country. It offers more flexibility and convenience, and is available for 7, 14, or 21 days.
How to get around the Mt Fuji area
One of the best ways to get around Kawaguchiko and the surrounding areas is by using a Mt Fiji Pass. It offers free transportation and admission to select popular tourist sites. You can get a 1, 2 or 3-day pass, and it is available to foreigners.
You might be interested in these other articles on Asia
Feel free to visit my Asia page for more informative articles, or check out the links below.
- A Travel Guide to Panglao Island, Bohol
- How to spend a day in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei
- 24 Best Outdoor Things to Do in Hualien, Taiwan
Explore and book other tourist attractions and activities, as well as day trips to Mount Fuji, Japan, with Viator. Have you been to Kawaguchiko before? Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below.
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Disclaimer: Even though I was a guest at Glamping Villa Hanz Kawaguchiko. All views are my own and based on my own experience.
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Best views in Kawaguchiko
I agree, such a great spot