The mystical Mount Fuji is easily one of the greatest landmarks to gaze upon during your stay in Japan. The majestic 3,776-meter-tall active volcano has attracted the attention of artists and travelers for hundreds of years, and is one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions.
If you’re visiting the mountain from Tokyo, I suggest checking to make sure the weather is clear and you’re getting the earliest and fastest train you can. Mount Fuji, though striking, can be elusive, and several of my friends have spent days around the area and have been unable to get a sight of the mountain due to the clouds which often surround it.
You want to give yourself as much time as possible to visit the multiple spots and have leeway in case the weather turns against you.
With that, here are my favorite spots from which you can view the peak:
Lake Kawaguchi
Lake Kawaguchi is one of the five lakes that surround the mountain and is the most popular among tourists due to its good transport links to Tokyo. Kawaguchi is the second largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and provides some of the best views of the grand volcano.
I advise setting off early, packing a wide-angle lens and walking around the lake to capture interesting reflection photos of the mountain.
Kawaguchiko Tenjozan Park
While in the Lake Kawaguchi area, be sure to use the panoramic ropeway to get to Kawaguchiko Tenjozan Park. From here, you can get an aerial view of the area surrounding the mountain as well as a cool photo of the volcano, too.
Saiko Lake
For a more peaceful view of the landmark, away from the droves of selfie sticks, head over to Lake Saiko. This lake is a short 13-minute drive from Lake Kawaguchi, or a 30-minute bus ride is also an option.
The Lake Saiko view of the summit is slightly further away, but being able to gaze up on it, surrounded by the sounds of nature and a couple of local fishermen, is truly something to behold. Lake Saiko is a great spot for some time-lapse and long exposure shots of the volcano.
Chureito Pagoda
One of the most famous views of the mountain is from the Chureito Pagoda. This beautiful five-story pagoda sits on the mountainside, gazing upon the peak. To get to the Chureito Pagoda, hop on the train from Lake Kawaguchi station to Shimo-Yoshida Station, from where you’ll walk up 400 steps to reach the summit.
The Chureito Pagoda, in my opinion offers, the most spectacular view of the volcano. However, if you visit during Cherry Blossom season, be prepared for extremely long queues.
Fujiyoshida
One of the most popular spots to photograph in recent years is from the city of Fujiyoshida. I get asked for directions to this spot every week and locals in the area seem humorously bemused by the number of tourists who have been visiting in recent months.
To get to Fujiyoshida City, hop on the train from Kawaguchiko to Mount Fuji Station. From there, just wander around the city until you find your favorite view of it, framed between narrow streets.
Other views of Mt Fuji:
Shiraito Falls
An often overlooked photo spot in the area is Shiraito Falls, which has been ranked among the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. I highly recommend packing the widest lens in your kit and if you’re in luck, you’ll even be able to see the peak of it from the falls which would offer up incredible photo opportunities.
Stops Around Mount Fuji
I highly recommend hiring a car or bike while traveling around the area. Some of my favorite views of Mount Fuji are from random convenience stores, coffee houses, and road sides (like the ones above).
