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JPY (¥)The second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchi is located near the southern Yamanashi Prefecture and close to Mount Fuji. It is the second largest in terms of total surface area and is the lowest elevation of the lakes. Kawaguchi is situated within the borders of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is recognized on the World Heritage List as part of the Fujisan Cultural Site.
The area around Lake Kawaguchi is a popular resort town attracting both locals and tourists to its many hotels and lakeside resorts. This area is also known for camping and watersports on the lake. For those visitors who are interested in hiking Mount Fuji, it is easy to access via Lake Kawaguchi. 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 proximity and accessibility, Lake Kawaguchi is perhaps the most popular 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. All these options make it a wonderful place to spend some time in nature away from the city.
Mount Kachi Kachi Ropeway
Easily accessed from Kawaguchiko station, the Mount Kachi Kachi Ropeway is an exciting way to take in the sights 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 with music playing in each section of the building. In Japan in June, a special Music Forest concert invites guests to an outdoor rose garden to listen to the music.
3077-20 Kawaguchi, Minamitsuru, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
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, 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 include lush forests and miniature waterfalls.
401-0304 Yamanashi Prefecture, Minamitsuru District, Fujikawaguchiko, Kawaguchi, 2255
Open Sunday-Saturday closed on Tuesdays
Oishi Park
Oishi Park is ideal to visit in the spring and summer months. The area, filled with lavender, is one of the best places to take a picture of the 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,
The 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 and highway buses that travel to and from Tokyo as well as Gotemba.
If navigating foreign public transport seems daunting, we recommend joining our Mt Fuji & Lake Kawaguchi Tour – From Tokyo or our 2 Day Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi & Onsen Tour – From Tokyo which both include door-to-door transfers. For those with more time to spend in the region, our 7 Day Tokyo, Mount Fuji & Nikko Tour Package offers the most comprehensive experience, taking care of all your transportation, accommodations, and guided tours. After enjoying the best spots in and around Lake Kawaguchi, head to Mount Fuji’s fifth station along with your guide. These tours and tour packages are the ultimate way to experience many of Japan’s most scenic spots in one day. Join us now and secure memories to last a lifetime!
