Mt. Fuji is huge. You can see the mountain from almost anywhere in the Yamanashi Prefecture, but that doesn’t mean you’re getting the best view. You need clear sight lines and wide open angles to truly appreciate the mountain and take the best photos! Check out these spots with gorgeous views of Mt. Fuji:
Kawaguchi Lake area (North)
Chureito Pagoda, Arakura Sengen Shrine
The Chureito Pagoda is a five storied pagoda within the Arakura Sengen Shrine, located on the mountainside overlooking Fujiyoshida City.
Pro-tip: The shrine is open 24 hours, so go early in the morning for the best views!
Image via: ZEKKEI Japan
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
The ropeway is a short 3 minute journey that takes you from Kawaguchi-ko to the observation deck of Mt. Tenjo which sits at over 1,000m above sea level. Each cable car can fit up to 36 passengers and offers a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji.
Image via: Mt Fuji Panaromic Ropeway Image via: Mt. Fuji Panaromic Ropeway
Rooftop of Fujisan (Mount Fuji) Station
You’re sure to pass by this station if you head to the Five Fuji Lakes via bus or train. Take the elevator in the station up to the rooftop observation deck and enjoy the views of Fujisan.
Image via Rsa Image via: Gong Niu
Fuji Q Highland Amusement Park
If you’re a thrillseeker, definitely check out Fuji Q Highland for an adrenaline filled adventure. You can get a magnificent close up view of Fujisan from most areas within the amusement park, from the parking lot to many of the rides.
Image via Fuji-Q Highland Image via: Fuji-Q Highland
Saiko Lake area (North)
Koyo-Dai Lookout Platform
If you’re up for an easy hike, head up to the Koyo-Dai Lookout Platform for a beautiful elevated view of Mt. Fuji. The trek takes around 30 minutes on an unpaved path, but you’re not likely to bump into many other visitors while you’re there.
Image via ZEKKEI Japan Image via: ZEKKEI Japan
Sanko-Dai Lookout Platform
Sanko-Dai offers a view of Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Sai, and Lake Motosu plus Mt. Fuji. If you head to the Koyo-Dai Lookout Platform, it’s just another 10 minutes further up.
Image via Kawaguchiko.net Image via: Kawaguchiko.net
Iyashi no Sato Open Air Museum
Once a farming village that was destroyed by a typhoon in 1966, the area was converted into an open air museum to showcase the local culture. The village consists of more than 20 houses that include shops, restaurants, museums and galleries.
Image via Japan Travel by NAVITIME Image via: Fuji-Hakone-Izu Travel Guide
South of Fuji
Shin-Fuji Station Platform
Not all the bullet trains stop at Shin-Fuji Station, so if your train doesn’t stop there, make sure you’re seated on the correct side of the train! When coming from Tokyo, the mountain appears on the right side of the train and vice versa.
Image via Rsa Image via: Nick Kembel
Outliers
Oshino Hakkai (between Kawaguchiko and Yamanakako)
Catch Fujisan against a background of traditional thatched farmhouses in Oshino Hakkai. Located in Oshino Village between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka, Oshino Hakkai is a set of 8 ponds. Filled with pure, transparent spring water, the water is actually melted, filtered snow that has run down from Mt. Fuji.
Image via JNTO Image via: Planetyze
Hakone
Hakone (箱根) is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is most famous for its hot springs. It’s a popular place to view Fujisan, but the odds of catching a clear view is lower there since it needs to be clear both in Hakone and around Fujisan.
Image via HakoneNavi
Like our lil snippet of Hello Fujisan? Then head here to download Hello Fujisan – The Ultimate Guide on Viewing Mt Fuji!