Lake Kawaguchiko offers one of the best views of Mount Fuji in Japan. It is the second largest lake of the Fuji Five Lakes. It is situated in the Fujikawaguchiko village. This lake is easily accessible by Tokyo and, if the weather permits, offers a fantastic view of Mount Fuji.

When I think about Japan, my mind always goes to two things: Sushi, an amazing dish, and Mount Fuji – the most recognizable mountain in the country. They are both synonymous with Japan. It would be a waste to leave Japan without experiencing Mount Fuji and eating some sushi. Mount Fuji can be viewed from a variety of places. Lake Kawaguchiko offers the best view of Mount Fuji.

Lake Kawaguchiko as seen from Tokyo

It is easy to plan a day trip to Lake Kawguchiko. However, it is best to use this as a weekend getaway. You may leave Saturday morning and return Sunday evening. You will have a better chance of seeing Mount Fuji. Lake Kawaguchiko is a great weekend getaway from Tokyo, as well as a trip to Nikko.

There are several ways to get to Lake Kawaguchiko in Tokyo. Bus travel is the most convenient and quickest option. You have many options when it comes to booking your bus.

Lake Kawaguchiko is accessible by Bus from Tokyo

If you want to visit Lake Kawaguchiko alone, it is best to take the bus. It’s the fastest and most affordable way to get there. Buses can be taken in Tokyo from various locations. The station from which you depart can be selected based on your accommodation.

Start From Ikebukuro or Shibuya

The Seibu tourist buses depart from Ikebukoro, and it takes a little more than two hours to get to Lake Kawaguchiko. Tokyu’s transit bus leaves Shibuya, and travels for two and a quarter hours to Kawaguchiko.

Our partner website allows you purchase advance bus tickets from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko. One-way tickets cost between $15 to $18 USD. Book online as soon as possible because morning seats are often sold out on weekends.

Starting From Shinjuku

Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (4F) is easily accessible from anywhere in Tokyo. Take the new South exit from JR Shinjuku. The bus ride takes 2 hours to Lake Kawaguchiko and costs JPY 2000 one way.

Train to Lake Kawaguchiko, Tokyo

Take the Chuo Line—Fuji-Excursion 7 Limited Express Kawaguchiko—from Shinjuku station. You will pay JPY 4400 for this, which is double the cost of taking the bus. This train does NOT accept JR passes. If you want to use your JR card, you can only do so partially. You will need to change trains in between. You can take the JR from Shinjuku station to Otsuki by this method. Take the Fujikyuko Line from Otsuki.

Buy a Pass that is great value for money

You can also purchase this Mt. Fuji pass which includes free access from Otsuki station to Kawaguchiko (Fujikyu railway), Fujikyu Bus access, Fuji-Q Highland (includes an admission ticket for 1 attraction of your choosing), Grinpa amusement park, Narusawa Ice Cave, Fugaku Wind Cave and Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, Kawaguchiko Excursion Ship ‘Appare’, and Yamanakako, an excursion ship of ‘Swan Lake’.

Kawaguchiko has many things to offer

Kawaguchiko was dubbed as a cloud-magnet. The summit of Mount Fuji, for most of the year is covered by mysterious clouds. If you’re lucky, you might have a sunny afternoon, and be able to enjoy some of the most beautiful views of Mount Fuji.

Lakeside Green Belt Walk

Itchiku Kubota Museum is located at station number 17 of the “Red-Line”. You can walk to one of the most beautiful walking paths on the lake in just a few minutes.

The promenade faces the lush mountains. You’ll find a place to relax after a while. If you arrive in April (spring), you will be able to see the beautiful cherry blossoms—all pink! If you visit in the autumn, you’ll see a different shade of reds and oranges.

Mount Fuji is the most famous monument in Japan. It can be found on your right side. It sits like a wise monk. It is surrounded by the beautiful, ever-smiling Lake Kawaguchiko. This is one of Japan’s five Fuji lakes.

I was simply captivated by the beauty of the surroundings. All I did was stroll along the pavement and take in the scenery. There were more colors than just pink cherry blossoms or ume trees. Once you’ve walked around the lake enough, take the red line bus back to the main road. Keep the lake on your left.

Mount Fuji is best viewed from Oishi Park

Next, you will arrive at the beautiful Oishi Park. The final stop is #20, Kawaguchiko Nature Living Center. You can reach Oishi Park by crossing the street. The park is filled with beautiful flowers and has a well-known shop.

Oishi Park on the northern shore of the lake is one of best places to get a clear view of Mount Fuji. Grab an icecream cone and relax on the grass.

Mount Tenjo Ropeway

This ropeway will transport you to Mount Tenjo’s observatory. You will get a panoramic view of Mount Fuji, Aokigahara Forest, and the lake. This cable car is the most popular, so expect a long wait.

Fuji-Q Highland

Get ready for an adrenaline rush. Kawaguchiko offers more than Mount Fuji and nature. Fuji-Q Highland is a fantastic entertainment park. It has some of Japan’s best roller coasters. Fujiyama is 70 meters high and travels 130 kilometers per hour. It is the third-longest roller coaster in the world and the eleventh-highest. You can also visit some haunted house. Book your ticket to Fuji-Q Highland today and prepare to scream at the beautiful Mount Fuji while you are on top.

How to get to Lake Kawaguchiko Station from Kawaguchiko Station

Lake Kawaguchiko can be reached on your own. You have two options besides walking around.

Take a bus

The town itself is not large. Three bus lines (Red, Green, and Blue ) cover the majority of the area throughout the day. If you are planning to stay in Kawaguchiko longer than a single day, a two-day pass is available for JPY 1500. With this pass, you can take any bus in the city. You must enter the vehicle through the rear door. You must present your ticket to the bus driver when exiting. You can use a IC card, such as Pasmo, Suica or a similar one if you don’t wish to purchase a bus pass. Visa cards are accepted. You just have to tap them once you’re inside the bus. Tap the card again before you go down. Red Line buses are the best way to see the lake and Fuji Mountain. The red line bus runs every half hour, the green every hour, and blue every 2 to 3 hours.

Rent a bike

You can also get around town by riding a bicycle. You can rent an electric bike or a regular bike. Several shops are located near the station. Fill out the form, pay and you are ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible for me to get around Kawaguchiko with out a car?

Absolutely! You can take advantage of the public transport which is readily available. You can also walk or rent a bike.

Can I find a locker in Lake Kawaguchiko?

Yes, lockers can be rented at Kawaguchiko Train Station.

How much is it to rent a bike in Lake Kawaguchiko?

1 hour ¥500, 3 hours ¥1,000, 1 day, ¥1,500, 24 hours ¥2,500, 1 night & 2 days ¥3,000.

How much does it cost for a rental electric bike on Lake Kawaguchiko?

3 hours ¥3,000, 1 day, ¥4,000, 24 hours ¥5,500, 1 night & 2 days ¥6,500.