When I first saw photos of Kawaguchiko on pinterest, I knew I had to visit. Nestled at the base of Mount Fuji, this charming town offers stunning views, peaceful lakes, and plenty of activities for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Kawaguchiko is located near Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the famous Fuji Five Lakes, and is a perfect spot for a relaxing escape or as a base for hiking Mount Fuji. Here’s a recap of my unforgettable experience.
Getting to Kawaguchiko from Tokyo
The journey to Kawaguchiko is smooth and scenic. I opted for the Fuji Excursion train from Tokyo, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. If you want to build an itinerary for your trip to Tokyo, check out this travel guide on my stay in Tokyo.
It’s one of the most comfortable ways to travel, with spacious seating and stunning countryside views along the way. I stopped at 7-11 before getting on the train and purchased a Salmon Onigiri (Japanese rice sandwich).
While you can also take a bus, I’d recommend the train for comfort and efficiency. The convenience of the train also allowed me to fully relax before beginning my Kawaguchiko adventure.
Scenic Views & Things to Do in Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko
One of the main draws of Kawaguchiko is Lake Kawaguchiko itself. This expansive, serene lake is not only great for a casual walk or bike ride, but it also provides a spectacular backdrop of Mount Fuji. On clear days, you can capture breathtaking photos with the mountain reflecting off the water. I opted for a long walk along the well-maintained path around the lake, soaking in the scenery at every turn.
Oishi Park
A visit to Oishi Park is a must for anyone looking to unwind. Located right by Lake Kawaguchiko this park offers manicured gardens, picnic areas, and unbeatable views of the lake and Mount Fuji. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon picnic or simply enjoying the natural beauty around you.
Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
Another highlight of my trip was taking the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. The ropeway offers sweeping views of the town, the lake, and—on clear days—Mount Fuji. The ride is quick, only about three minutes, but the real experience begins at the top. You can hike back down, as I did, for a 45-minute descent through the lush landscape.
If you’re a fan of walking and want to take in even more of the area’s beauty, I recommend purchasing a one-way ticket up and walking down. Just be aware, the ride can feel a bit cramped if you don’t like tight spaces!
Local Treats & Places to Eat
Lilac Ice Cream
If you find yourself craving something sweet, don’t miss out on trying lilac soft-serve ice cream. You can find it at various spots around town, and it’s not just delicious but also uniquely flavored with lilac—a subtle, floral treat perfect for warm summer days.
Doll Café
After a long walk through the park, I stumbled upon Doll Café, located right in Oishi Park. With floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains, it’s the perfect place to relax. The menu is small but thoughtfully crafted, and I enjoyed a quiet, peaceful meal overlooking the serene landscape.
7-Eleven
It might seem odd to recommend 7-Eleven as a must-visit food spot, but in Japan, 7-Elevens are a different experience entirely. I stopped here multiple times for quick meals, snacks, and even essentials like floss.
Japanese 7-Elevens offer fresh sushi, soba salads, and other high-quality meals on the go. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the food is surprisingly good for a convenience store!
Cisco Café
Missing home a bit, I decided to check out Cisco Café, a San Francisco-inspired coffee shop. It has a California vibe, with English music and matcha-centered drinks on the menu. I loved the Matcha latte, which was creamy and perfectly balanced.
Despite the American inspiration, the quality of ingredients and service was superior to any café experience back home.
Relaxing & Unwinding in Kawaguchiko
Onsen Experience
No trip to Kawaguchiko is complete without soaking in a traditional Japanese onsen. Many accommodations offer private onsen baths, and I was lucky enough to have one at the Airbnb where I stayed.
After a long day of exploring, soaking in the hot, mineral-rich water was the perfect way to unwind. The water is said to be sourced from Mount Fuji, making it even more special.
Getting Around Kawaguchiko
Kawaguchiko is a walkable town, and renting a bicycle is also a popular way to explore. Whether you’re heading to the lake, local cafés, or the ropeway, you can easily get around on foot or by bike.
The town is small enough that driving isn’t really necessary unless you’re venturing further out.
Where to Stay
For a truly authentic experience, I stayed in a traditional Japanese home through Airbnb. Sleeping on a tatami mat with a thick mattress gave me a taste of the local lifestyle, though I’ll admit I missed my usual bed by the end! Below is a picture of my airbnb. I loved my accommodation because of the view of Mount Fuji from my window.
If you’re planning to hike Mount Fuji, I recommend staying close to the Kawaguchiko bus station. It’s convenient for catching an early bus to the mountain, allowing you to get a head start on your hike.
A Day Trip to Mount Fuji
If you’re visiting during hiking season (July to early September), a trip to Mount Fuji is a must. I hiked in August, and while the climb was challenging, the views were worth every step.
You can either aim for the summit or stop partway, depending on how you’re feeling.
Just remember to purchase a hiking ticket in advance, as the Japanese government recently introduced a cap on the number of hikers allowed each day. It’s essential to plan ahead!
Here is a vlog of me hiking Mount Fuji.
Final Thoughts
Kawaguchiko is a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and adventure.
Whether you’re hiking Mount Fuji, biking around the lake, or simply enjoying the peaceful town, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone.
My time there was refreshing and inspiring—just what I needed to connect with nature and soak in the beauty of Japan.
Comments
No Comments