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Lake · Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi
Lake Kawaguchi
The most visited lake among Fuji’s Five Lakes, with a view of the cone reflected in the water, flower parks, museums, boats and the maple corridor.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Lake Kawaguchi in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Discover
About Lake Kawaguchi
Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko) is the second-largest of Fuji’s Five Lakes and the most visited. It lies at about 830 meters elevation, north of the mountain, and the town of Fujikawaguchiko spreads along its shores. It is part of the Fuji World Heritage related to the mountain’s cult.
The north shore has the classic view: the cone of Fuji across the water, which on windless days reflects in the lake, the so-called inverted Fuji. Oishi Park on that shore has flower beds facing the mountain, typically with lavender in June and July and kochia, a shrub that turns red in autumn.
Along the shores there are museums, such as the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, dedicated to the artist’s dyed kimonos, set in a garden of stones and waterfalls, and the Lake Kawaguchi Museum. On the northwest shore, the Maple Corridor, Momiji Kairo, forms a tunnel of red leaves in early November, with a festival and evening illumination.
Boat cruises operate on the lake, and there are bicycle rentals to ride along the shores. Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge connects the station side to the north shore. The hot spring baths of ryokan on the east shore often have tubs facing Fuji. Circular tourist buses, in colored lines, connect Kawaguchiko Station to the shores and the other lakes.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day for the north shore, Oishi Park and one museum; a full day to go around the lake.
Best time
Early in the morning, when the air is usually clearer and the lake calmer, especially from November to February. Oishi Park’s lavender typically blooms in June and July, and the maples in the corridor in early November. In summer clouds often cover the summit.
How to get there
Kawaguchiko Station, the terminus of the Fujikyu railway and of buses from Tokyo, is on the east shore. Circular tourist buses depart from the station and run along the shores; the north shore is about 20 to 25 minutes by bus.
Tip
To see Fuji’s reflection, go to the north shore early, before the wind ripples the water. Rent a bicycle at the station to explore the shores at your own pace.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lake Kawaguchi
Where can you see Fuji reflected in Lake Kawaguchi?
On the north shore, near Oishi Park and the Maple Corridor, early in the morning when the lake is usually windless. The reflection depends on the weather.
How to get around Lake Kawaguchi?
Circular bus lines run around the shores; rental bicycles near the station are another option.
When is the red-leaf (autumn foliage) festival at Lake Kawaguchi?
Generally in early November, along the Maple Corridor on the northwest shore, with evening illuminations. Check the dates for the year.
When does lavender bloom at Lake Kawaguchi?
Generally in June and July, at Oishi Park on the north shore.
Are there boat rides on Lake Kawaguchi?
Yes. Sightseeing boats depart from the east shore, near the ropeway, for short cruises on the lake.
Beyond the guide
