Catch and Savor the Season! Enjoy Wakasagi Fishing on Lake Kawaguchiko with Mt. Fuji Views

In Yamanashi Prefecture, one of the most popular winter activities is wakasagi fishing—a fun and relaxing experience that anyone can try, from complete beginners to seasoned anglers. This seasonal pastime lets you embrace the charm of winter while enjoying the crisp mountain air.

At Natura Base on Lake Kawaguchiko, everything you need is provided: fishing gear, heated facilities, and expert guidance. That means you can focus on catching fish and admiring the breathtaking scenery of Mt. Fuji towering over the lake.

In this article, we’ll cover the highlights of wakasagi fishing, explain how to enjoy it, and introduce different plans available. If you’re looking for a unique winter activity near Tokyo, this is one you won’t want to miss!

What Is Wakasagi Fishing?

Wakasagi fishing is a classic Japanese winter pastime that targets wakasagi, a small freshwater fish found in lakes across the country. The season typically runs during the colder months, when these fish are most active.

Wakasagi are considered a winter delicacy in Japan—delicious when deep-fried as tempura, lightly battered and fried, or simmered in soy-based sauces.

One of the best places in Japan to try wakasagi fishing is Lake Kawaguchiko, at the foot of Mt. Fuji. It’s said that experienced anglers can catch up to 1,000 fish in a single day here. With its convenient location and iconic mountain backdrop, Lake Kawaguchiko has become increasingly popular among both domestic and international visitors.

Why Is Lake Kawaguchiko Famous for Wakasagi?

Wakasagi thrive in clean, oxygen-rich waters, which makes Lake Kawaguchiko an ideal habitat. Situated at the base of Mt. Fuji, the lake meets all the right environmental conditions.

During the cold winter months, wakasagi move in schools. Once a school is found, the catch rate rises dramatically—making it easy even for beginners to feel the excitement of fishing success.

This combination of abundant fish, beginner-friendly conditions, and stunning Mt. Fuji views explains why wakasagi fishing at Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the most sought-after winter activities in Yamanashi.

How to Enjoy Wakasagi Fishing

Compete for the Biggest Catch

Once a school of wakasagi is found, it’s possible to catch a large number in a short time. Many visitors enjoy turning the activity into a friendly competition—seeing who can reel in the most fish. Whether you’re with friends or family, this playful rivalry makes the experience even more exciting.

Feel the Thrill of the Bite

Wakasagi are small fish, so the sensation of a bite on the line is incredibly subtle. Anglers need to stay focused and tune in to these delicate movements, which adds to the thrill. Even without advanced fishing skills, you’ll enjoy the rhythm of waiting for the bite and the suspense of reeling in your catch. That moment of success brings a sense of achievement unlike any other form of fishing.

Bond with Family and Friends

Beyond the fishing itself, wakasagi fishing is a wonderful way to connect with loved ones. You can chat, share tips, and simply enjoy being together on the water. At Lake Kawaguchiko, the stunning backdrop of Mt. Fuji makes the experience even more memorable. In winter, the snow-covered scenery adds a touch of serenity, offering both adventure and relaxation.

Taste Your Fresh Catch

At Natura Base, wakasagi fishing takes on a delicious twist—you can have your freshly caught fish cooked on the spot. Staff will prepare them as crispy tempura or other simple dishes, allowing you to enjoy the flavor of your hard-earned catch right away. It’s the perfect way to round off the experience.

Why Choose Wakasagi Fishing with Natura Base?

Natura Base is an activity center located on the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko, right at the foot of Mt. Fuji. It offers a wide variety of year-round outdoor experiences—such as kayaking, SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), and of course, wakasagi fishing. With plenty of beginner-friendly programs, even first-timers can join with peace of mind.

When people think of winter fishing, they often imagine sitting on a frozen lake in the bitter cold. But at Natura Base, you don’t have to worry about that at all.

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Their wakasagi fishing experience takes place in stylish, newly renovated dome boats (refurbished in December 2022). Inside, you’ll find a clean, spacious, and cozy environment—perfect for families, groups, and those who might not usually enjoy the outdoors. You can relax, sip on complimentary hot drinks, and fish in total comfort, no matter the weather outside.

With its unique setting on Lake Kawaguchiko and the stunning view of Mt. Fuji, it’s one of the most enjoyable and accessible ways to try this classic Japanese winter activity.

Schedule for the Natura Base Wakasagi Fishing Experience

Meet at Natura Base

Gather with your family or friends at the activity center, located at:
4010 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301

Transfer to the Dome Boat

You’ll be taken to the dome boat by shuttle boat. Life jackets are provided, so both children and adults can enjoy the trip safely and comfortably.

Orientation by Staff

Inside the newly renovated dome boat, an instructor will give you a short lecture on how to fish for wakasagi.

• English-speaking guides are available (though not always on site). Written instructions in English are also provided, so international guests can relax and enjoy the activity.

Start Wakasagi Fishing

Enjoy fishing with a full set of gear included—rods, bait, and tackle—as well as free drinks and a ziplock bag to take your catch home.

• For those who want to try their catch on the spot, the staff can prepare your wakasagi for you: around 15–20 fish served per plate for ¥500.

Return & Dismissal

船After fishing, you’ll be transported back to the Natura Base dock, where the experience concludes.

Relax, warm up, and enjoy the satisfaction of catching (and tasting!) your own fish at the foot of Mt. Fuji.

Wakasagi Fishing Plans at Natura Base (Lake Kawaguchiko)

🎣 1.5-Hour Wakasagi Fishing Plan

Perfect for beginners or families with small children who want a quick and easy experience.

🎣 3-Hour Wakasagi Fishing Plan

Recommended for those who want more time to relax, compete for the biggest catch, or try freshly cooked wakasagi on board.

🐶 Pet-Friendly 1.5-Hour Private Dome Boat Plan

Enjoy fishing with your dog in a private mini dome boat. A cage is provided for your pet, so you can come empty-handed.

🎣 Full-Day Wakasagi Fishing Plan

For those who want to enjoy a full day of fishing at Lake Kawaguchiko with Mt. Fuji views.

Limited-Time Offer until March 31! Overnight Stay with Wakasagi Fishing Experience

Just a 16-minute drive from Natura Base, Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko is offering a special package from November 1 to March 31 that includes an overnight stay and a 1.5-hour wakasagi fishing plan at Lake Kawaguchiko.

Highlights of Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko

• Four accommodation styles: Suite Villas, Deluxe Villas, Forest Garden Domes, and Nature Domes (30 units in total).
• Private hot springs in every unit, allowing you to relax and unwind in a secluded setting.
• Villa types also feature a private sauna, where you can indulge in the ultimate totonou wellness experience while admiring Mt. Fuji.
• Dining options:
  • Glamping BBQ Plan – enjoy the open-air atmosphere of outdoor dining.
  • Koshu Taste Comparison “Shindo Fuji” Plan – savor regional specialties from Kofu, showcasing the rich local flavors of Yamanashi.

👉 Learn more about Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko here!

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Luxurious Glamping with Mt. Fuji Views! A Full Guide to Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko For those who dream of spending a luxurious time surrounded by nature, enjoying hot springs and a private bonfire under the starry sky with Mt. Fuji as your …

Summary

In this article, we introduced the popular wakasagi fishing experience at Natura Base.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Kawaguchiko, this activity lets you enjoy a truly unique winter pastime in Japan.

This winter, why not make unforgettable memories by trying wakasagi fishing at Natura Base and combining it with a relaxing stay in a hot spring villa?

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