Mt. Fuji, the symbol of Japan, was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in June 2013 under the title “Mt. Fuji – Object of Worship and Source of Art.” Among its assets are the five lakes at its base, known as the Fuji Five Lakes (Lake Motosuko, Lake Shojiko, Lake Saiko, Lake Kawaguchiko, and Lake Yamanakako).
While each of the five lakes offers a unique and breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji, Lake Kawaguchiko is especially renowned for its spectacular scenery. With its calm waters reflecting the mountain and seasonal landscapes, it has become one of the most visited destinations in the Fuji Five Lakes area.
In this article, we’ll introduce five must-visit attractions around Lake Kawaguchiko that can be enjoyed throughout the year. From nature experiences to cultural spots, each location offers a memorable way to enjoy the beauty of Mt. Fuji and its surroundings.
Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum
The Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum is a unique cultural spot showcasing antique music boxes and self-playing instruments from the late 19th to early 20th century.
The highlight is one of the world’s largest automated pipe organs, whose powerful performance continues to mesmerize visitors.
Daily live concerts by automated instruments and live performances by musicians create an atmosphere reminiscent of a European palace. Surrounded by seasonal gardens, visitors often feel as though they’ve embarked on a short trip to Europe—right here in Lake Kawaguchiko.
【Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum】
| Address | 3077-20 Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0304 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-20-4111 |
| Business hours | 10:00～17:30 |
| Closed | Tuesdays and Wednesdays |
| Website | https://kawaguchikomusicforest.jp/ |
Sightseeing Boat “Appare”
A must-try activity at Lake Kawaguchiko is the sightseeing boat Appare. On clear days, you can witness the breathtaking reflection of Mt. Fuji on the water’s surface—known as “Upside-Down Fuji”—from the deck or cabin.
The boat is modeled after the Atakebune warships once used by the Takeda clan, offering a historic atmosphere. Even on rainy days, onboard monitors display seasonal images of Mt. Fuji, local history, and tourist information (English available).
【Sightseeing Boat “Appare”】
| Address | 4034 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-72-0029 |
| Business hours | 9:00〜17:30 |
| Closed | – |
| Website | https://www.fujigokokisen.jp/contents/appare/ |
Oishi Park
Located on the northern shore, Oishi Park is famous for its seasonal flowers with Mt. Fuji as the backdrop. The lavender fields in late June to mid-July attract thousands of visitors seeking the iconic purple-and-Mt. Fuji view.
The 350m-long “Flower Road” features over 90 varieties of flowers throughout the year, including tulips in spring and kochia in autumn. It is also the main venue for the Kawaguchiko Herb Festival.
Within the park, Oishiya Market sells fresh local produce and specialties—perfect for souvenir shopping.
【Oishi Park】
| Address | 2525-11 Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0305 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-76-8230 |
| Business hours | 24 hours |
| Closed | – |
| Website | https://www.fkchannel.jp/naturelivingcenter/oishipark/ |
Momiji Tunnel
Among the best autumn foliage spots in the Lake Kawaguchiko area, the Momiji Tunnel is a must-see. From late October to late November, a tunnel-like arch of vibrant maple trees creates a magical atmosphere.
What makes it special is that you can capture Mt. Fuji, autumn leaves, and Lake Kawaguchiko in a single frame, making it a hotspot for photographers and social media fans.
The tunnel is also near the Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, which features illuminated displays at night. Outside autumn, the lush greenery of summer also makes it a photogenic destination.
【Momiji Tunnel】
| Address | Along Prefectural Road 21, Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi 401-0305 |
|---|---|
| Phone | – |
| Business hours | – |
| Closed | – |
| Website | – |
Kawaguchiko Panoramic Ropeway
The Kawaguchiko Panoramic Ropeway connects Lake Kawaguchiko with Mt. Tenjo, known as the setting for the Japanese folktale Kachikachi-yama.
From the 1,104m-high summit, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko.
Don’t miss the Kachikachi-yama Swing, a photogenic attraction where you can swing with Mt. Fuji in the background. The summit also features a hydrangea trail, best visited in June and July when over 100,000 hydrangeas bloom.
【Kawaguchiko Panoramic Ropeway 】
| Address | 1163-1 Asakawa, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0303 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-72-0363 |
| Business hours | 8:30〜17:00 |
| Closed | – |
| Website | https://www.mtfujiropeway.jp |
Summary
Lake Kawaguchiko offers a wealth of attractions where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers, vibrant festivals, autumn foliage, and winter fireworks displays—all with Mt. Fuji as a backdrop.
Whether it’s the Herb Festival in summer, the Autumn Leaves Festival in fall, or the Winter Fireworks, there’s always something magical to experience. From solo travelers to couples on romantic getaways, Lake Kawaguchiko promises unforgettable memories in every season.
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