Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko

At 3,776 metres, Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage cultural site, revered for centuries by pilgrims and painters. The best views are from the Fuji Five Lakes area on its northern side, especially Lake Kawaguchiko, about two hours from Tokyo.

A day here might include the ropeway to a lookout above the lake, the five-storey Chureito Pagoda framed against the peak, the flower gardens of Oishi Park and a lakeside lunch. In the warmer months the Fifth Station, halfway up the mountain, can be reached by road for a closer look.

Fuji hides behind cloud more often than not, so early mornings and the clear, cold months of late autumn and winter give the best chance of a view. We keep the Fuji day flexible wherever the itinerary allows.