Fuji Five Lakes Scenic Drive Course

Scattered across the northern foot of Mount Fuji are Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Sai, Lake Shoji and Lake Motosu, together called the Fuji Five Lakes. Each differs in size and atmosphere, and the charm is enjoying Mount Fuji from a different angle at every lake. With a car you can tour all five in a day. Set off on a scenic drive that stars Mount Fuji.

Course Route

9:00 Start at Lake Yamanaka The largest of the five lakes and, at about 980 meters, the highest in elevation. Begin your trip gazing at the spacious lakeside scenery and Mount Fuji reflected on the water. It is a calm lake where swans glide, lined with walking paths and parks that make an ideal starting point.

10:30 Sightseeing and food at Lake Kawaguchi (about 25 minutes by car) The most visited of the five lakes. Stop by a lakeside cafe or art museum, and lunch on the local houtou noodle hotpot is recommended. With many shops and day-use hot springs, it is an easy place to take a break.

12:30 Enjoy quiet nature at Lake Sai (about 20 minutes by car) Not overly developed, Lake Sai is a quiet lake surrounded by primeval forest. You can relax to the songs of wild birds. Lava caves formed by Fuji eruptions dot the area nearby, offered as paid attractions where you can sense the volcanic landscape.

14:00 See the child-cradling Fuji at Lake Shoji (about 20 minutes by car) The smallest of the five lakes, Shoji. Its charm is a unique composition in which Mount Fuji appears to cradle the smaller Mount Omuro in front, affectionately called the child-cradling Fuji. The shore is relatively quiet, letting you take in the view at leisure.

15:30 Finale at Lake Motosu (about 10 minutes by car) With its high clarity, Lake Motosu is famous as the Mount Fuji scene printed on the thousand-yen note. The view from the northwest high ground said to be that photo spot is exceptional. End the drive gazing at Fuji across the lake.

Highlights

The main attraction is how Mount Fuji looks different from each of the five lakes. The vast Yamanaka, the lively Kawaguchi, the hushed Sai and Shoji, and Motosu famous from the banknote. Along the roads that link the lakes spread natural wonders unique to Fuji, such as the Aokigahara sea of trees and lava caves. Some caves near Lake Sai may close seasonally, so it is reassuring to check opening status before your visit.

Access and Tips

This loop relies on your own car or a rental. The Kawaguchiko interchange on the Chuo Expressway is a convenient starting point. The roads connecting the lakes are easy to drive, but they can be congested in the tourist season and on weekends. Looking up viewpoints and parking at each lake in advance keeps things smooth. If you plan to go up to the fifth station on the Fuji Subaru Line, a private-car restriction is usually in place from roughly early July to mid-September, during which you must transfer to a shuttle bus (fee) from a parking lot at the foot. The dates change each year, so advance confirmation is essential.

Practical Travel Notes

• Getting around: The five-lake tour assumes a private car or rental. The driving distance is about 50 to 60 kilometers, and with breaks it takes a full day.
• Fuji Subaru Line: This toll road leads to the fifth station, with a round-trip toll of around 2,800 yen for an ordinary car (subject to revision). A private-car restriction applies in the summer climbing season, so check the official road information.
• Fuel and restrooms: Some stretches around the lakes have few shops. Refuel and use restrooms in busier areas such as around Kawaguchiko for peace of mind.
• Clothing: The elevation is high and mornings and evenings can be chilly even in summer. A layer to throw on keeps you comfortable.
• Parking: Viewpoints at each lake have free and paid parking, but lots fill quickly in peak periods, so start early.

A Quick Tip

The upside-down Fuji reflected on a lake is best caught in the windless early morning. Drivers should not be too distracted by the scenery and must put safe driving first. Park in a spot with a good view before taking photos, and avoid looking away while driving. Take frequent breaks as you enjoy the tour of the five lakes.