Top Scenic Spots for Viewing Mt. Fuji in Fujikawaguchiko, Japan

May 29, 20243 min read

When is the best time to see Mt. Fuji?

Not in April, they said!

After making a last-minute decision to travel to Japan without our kids in April of 2024, we knew it was our chance to visit Mt. Fuji. We decided to spend three days and two nights in Fujikawaguchiko, hoping to catch a glimpse of the majestic Fujisan at least one of the days we were there. Historically, Mt. Fuji's visibility is lowest in April, July, and August: LINK

As our departure date (April 12) approached, I began to follow the cherry blossom forecast closely. It became evident that we had a good chance of catching the cherry blossoms in the Fujikawaguchiko area due to the unusually late blooms throughout Japan - but I still didn't want to get my hopes up!

So to our surprise, we not only caught the cherry blossoms in peak bloom, but also enjoyed clear views of Mt. Fuji every day we were in the area - it was simply majestic!

Before I get to the list of the top scenic spots for viewing Mt. Fuji, I want to recommend the easiest and most convenient way to get around the Fujikawaguchiko area, which is with a private driver. Book one here with Viator: LINK

By hiring a private driver, we were able to customize our entire day, starting from Tokyo. While the cost may look intimidating, remember that you are making a 2.5 hour trip from Tokyo (5 hour round trip). However, for us, instead of a round trip back to Tokyo, we chose to get dropped off at our hotel, Fujisan Onsen Hotel Kaneyamean. The flexibility with a private driver is really unbeatable!

Check out our Japan - Not Your First Time Itinerary here: LINK

Now lets get into the Top Scenic Spots for Viewing Mt. Fuji in Fujikawaguchiko, Japan:

Chureito Pagoda

This is one of the most iconic spots, frequently featured in travel brochures and magazines for Japan. Here, you can see Mt. Fuji against the Chureito Pagoda. If you're lucky, the trees will be filled with cherry blossoms or fall foliage. It's a must-see when visiting Mt. Fuji.

Tip: If visiting during cherry blossom season, go early. We arrived at 8:30 AM, and the lines were already long—it took us an hour to reach the pagoda platform. You'll also have only 15 minutes on the platform to take photos, and yes, it is crowded. To get the clear view, stay at the end of your turn and wait until most of the people have cleared to get your shot!

Shimoyoshida Station/Honcho Street

This is a famous Showa-style shopping street lined with streetlights and Mt. Fuji in the background. It is a functioning road which can be tricky to get a good photo.

Tip: Have the driver drive up the street and take photos out the window. Be safe and courteous to locals if you are taking photos along a cross walk!

Tenku No Torii

Not to get confused with the Kawaguchi Asama Shrine, this is a single Torri gate with Mt Fuji in the background. It is located further up from the shrine where you can either hike or have the driver take you up the narrow windy road.

Tip: You will need to provide a "donation" to take a photo, about 300 YEN.

Oishi Park

This park is located on Lake Kawaguchi. Depending on the season, you will find different foliage spread throughout the park. In April, we had cherry blossom trees, tulips, daffodils, and rapeseed flowers in bloom.

Oshino Hakkai

This is a picturesque village famous for their crystal-clear spring ponds that are fed by the melting snow from Mt. Fuji.

Tip: Near the village is a river flowing through a bridge. You can get a photo of cherry blossom trees and Mt. Fuji in the background.

Fujisan Hotel Kaneyamean

We absolutely loved this ryokan because of the views of Mt. Fuji we got at breakfast, in the wine lounge, and in our open air tub.

Tip: Book early!

Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Famous for its sea of shibazakura (pink moss or phlox moss), this festival provides a breathtaking view of Mt Fuji in a sea of pink! You may have seen people canoeing in this sea of pink with Mt. Fuji in the background on Instagram. Unfortunately, we made it a little too early to get the sea of pink moss, but it was still fun to get in the boat and take this instagramable photo!

Tip: Although the Fuji Shibazakura Festival runs from mid April to late May or early June, the best time to see the pink moss flowers in full boom is around the first 2-3 weeks of May.