The second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchi is located near the southern Yamanashi Prefecture and close to Mount Fuji. It is known to be the second largest in terms of total surface area and is the lowest elevation of the lakes. Lake Kawaguchi is also situated within the borders of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is recognized on the World Heritage List included as part of the Fujisan Cultural site.
The area around Lake Kawaguchi is also recognized as a popular resort town attracting both locals and tourists to the many hotels and lakeside resorts in the area. This area is also known for camping and watersports on the lake attracting many travelers. For those visitors who are interested in hiking Mount Fuji, it is easy to access via Lake Kawaguchi and the area is generally used as a meeting hub – particularly in the summer months when it is ideal to hike and climb Mount Fuji.
What to do at Lake Kawaguchi
Due to its close proximity and easy accessibility, Lake Kawaguchi is one of the most popular lakes out of the Fuji Five Lakes among tourists. There are a wide array of attractions in the area including hot spring baths, a large amusement park, and several museums. The area is filled with options making it a wonderful place to spend some time in nature away from the city.
Mount Kachi Kachi Ropeway
Easily accessed from Kawaguchiko station some 15 minutes away, the Mount Kachi Kachi Ropeway is an exciting way to take in the sites and get a unique view overlooking the lake area. WIth the Ropeway, there is access to the mountaintop from Tenjoyama Park. There is an option to take in the panoramic view or to take the hiking route down, for more adventurous travelers.
1163-1 Azagawa, Minamitsuru, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours depend on the season
Kawaguchiko Music Forest
A unique and beautiful museum showcasing the biggest mechanical organs worldwide. Within the museum there are several exhibition halls and music can be heard in each section of the building. In June, a special Music Forest concert invites guests in an outdoor rose garden to listen to the music.
3077-20 Kawaguchi, Minamitsuru, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours :9:00am – 5:30pm
Itchiku Kubota Art Museum and The Maple Corridor
A beautiful insight into the unique technique of fabric dying, the museum is a glimpse into the works of Itchiku Kubota, who is famous for this ancient technique. Some of the works of art include kimonos and a tea room overlooking the lake of Mount Fuji. From the museum, the Maple Corridor is accessible and the gardens surrounding the museum including lush forests and miniature waterfalls.
401-0304 Yamanashi Prefecture, Minamitsuru District, Fujikawaguchiko, Kawaguchi, 2255
Open Sunday-Saturday closed on Tuesdays
Oishi Park
A park ideal to visit in spring and summer months, the area is filled with lavender and is one of the best places to take a picture of iconic Mount Fuji. This is an ideal place to purchase souvenirs and snacks from various craft vendors including lavender-flavored ice cream.
Yamanashi Prefecture, 401-0305, Minamitsuru District, Fujikawaguchiko, Oishi,
Park is open 24 hours (not all vendors)
How to get to Lake Kawaguchi
There is a stop along the Fujikyu Railway traveling from Otsuki. The terminus station is at Kawaguchiko Station. Upon arrival, visitors can use local buses as well as highway buses which travel to and from Tokyo as well as Gotemba. Joining a tour from Tokyo is another great idea to visit the Lake area.
