Fuji Twin Lakes Hot Springs Day Tour

Must Do Experiences

• Capture the iconic postcard-perfect view of the Chureito Pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background at Arakurayama Sengen Park.

• Glide across the serene waters of Lake Yamanaka on a charming swan-shaped sightseeing boat.

• Stroll along the scenic shores of Lake Kawaguchi and savor local Japanese cuisine during your lunch break.

• Ascend to the Mt. Fuji 5th Station during the warmer months to stand on the slopes of Japan's most famous peak.

Hidden Gems

• Visit Oishi Park to see the stunning Shibazakura moss phlox festival with vibrant pink flowers framing the mountain.

• Look out for the seasonal shift at Arakurayama Sengen Park, where the same spot offers spectacular cherry blossoms in spring and fiery maple leaves in autumn.

• Discover the quieter, less crowded eastern shores of Lake Yamanaka, which offer pristine reflections of the mountain on calm mornings.

What Makes it Special

• The itinerary dynamically adapts to the seasons, swapping Arakurayama Sengen Park for the Mt. Fuji 5th Station during the snow-free months to ensure the best possible experience.

• Convenient dual pickup locations at JR Tokyo Station and the Shinjuku LOVE sculpture make starting your day completely hassle-free.

• A dedicated English-speaking guide provides deep cultural insights and handles all navigation, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the scenery.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The tour operates year-round, but the best months for clear mountain views are typically from late autumn to early winter when the air is crisp and dry. Spring offers magical cherry blossoms at Arakurayama Sengen Park, while summer provides access to the Mt. Fuji 5th Station and lush green landscapes. Mornings generally offer the clearest visibility of the peak before afternoon clouds roll in.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• The Chureito Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park is best photographed in the early morning light, which perfectly illuminates the pagoda and the mountain behind it.

• Use a polarizing filter or adjust your camera's exposure when shooting the swan boat on Lake Yamanaka to reduce water glare and capture vibrant reflections.

• Take advantage of the Oishi Park flower fields by getting low to the ground, using the colorful moss phlox or lavender as a vibrant foreground for your Mount Fuji shots.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When visiting the shrines and pagodas around the Fuji Five Lakes, remember to bow slightly before passing through torii gates and avoid walking directly through the center of the paths, which is reserved for deities. Tipping is not customary in Japan, so simply express your gratitude to your guide and local vendors with a polite bow and a warm thank you. Keep noise levels down in public spaces and on the tour bus to respect the peaceful environment and fellow travelers.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Fuji Shibazakura Festival near Oishi Park usually runs from mid-April to early June, carpeting the ground in vibrant pink moss phlox.

• The Kawaguchi-ko Autumn Leaves Festival in November features stunning illuminated maple trees along the lake shores and special local food stalls.

• Winter brings the magical sight of snow-capped Mount Fuji reflecting perfectly in the crisp waters of the Twin Lakes, a favorite for landscape photographers.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay on marked trails and observation decks at all times, especially when visiting the higher elevations of the Mt. Fuji 5th Station where the terrain can be uneven.

• Protect yourself from strong UV rays at higher altitudes by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, even on cloudy days.

• Hold onto the handrails when boarding and disembarking the swan sightseeing boat at Lake Yamanaka, as the docks can be slippery when wet.