Overview
Mt. Fuji is Japan’s most famous view. Most visitors see it from the Fuji Five Lakes area around Lake Kawaguchiko, or from Hakone, a hot-spring town in the mountains between Tokyo and Fuji.
Hakone is also one of the best places to stay in a traditional ryokan with an onsen, which makes it a highlight for couples and families alike.
- Region
- Chubu and Kanagawa
- Stay
- 1 to 2 nights. One night in a ryokan is strongly recommended.
When to go
Fuji is often hidden by cloud, especially in summer. The clearest views are usually in late autumn and winter, particularly in the morning. Spring and autumn are lovely for Hakone.
How long and getting there
How long: 1 to 2 nights. One night in a ryokan is strongly recommended.
Getting there: Hakone is about 1.5 hours from Tokyo, and Lake Kawaguchiko about 2 hours by road.
Highlights
- Lake Kawaguchiko. Classic Fuji views across the lake, plus the Chureito Pagoda viewpoint.
- Hakone loop. Ropeway over the volcanic valley of Owakudani and a cruise on Lake Ashi.
- Hakone Open-Air Museum. Sculpture in a mountain setting, good for all ages.
- Ryokan and onsen. Traditional rooms, hot-spring baths and multi-course dinners.
Vegetarian and Jain food
Ryokan dinners are traditionally multi-course and often seafood-based. We request vegetarian or Jain meals in advance and choose ryokan that can accommodate them.
Theme parks and family days out
- Fuji-Q Highland. Record-breaking roller coasters with Mt. Fuji views, plus Thomas Land for small children, near Lake Kawaguchiko.
- Hakone Kowakien Yunessun. A hot-spring water park where everyone wears swimwear, ideal for families new to onsen.
Opening days, prices and ticket rules change through the year. We book dated tickets in advance as part of your itinerary.
Combine with
Tokyo on one side and Kyoto on the other, as a stop on the way between them.
Sample journeys that include Fuji and Hakone
Other regions
Questions people ask
Can we climb Mt. Fuji?
Only in the official summer climbing season, roughly July to early September, and it is a demanding overnight climb. Most families enjoy Fuji from the lakes and viewpoints instead.
What if Fuji is hidden by cloud?
It happens often. We plan the viewing for the morning when skies are usually clearest, and Hakone’s onsen, lake and museums are worthwhile either way.