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Iconic Landmarks

Iconic Landmarks

West Of Tokyo, Japan

Major Natural & Scenic Sites

Mount Fuji is Japan's highest peak and an UNESCO World Heritage site. Its striking presence is visible from many points throughout the region.

The Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) are five lakes formed by previous volcanic eruptions. Each lake provides unique views and activities.

Fuji Five Lakes

  • Lake Kawaguchiko: Most developed, many hotels, museums, attractions. Classic Fuji reflections.
  • Lake Yamanakako: Largest of the five, less developed, quiet. Popular for watersports and cycling. Good Fuji views from northern shore.
  • Lake Saiko: More secluded and natural, providing a quiet escape.
  • Lake Shojiko & Lake Motosu: Smallest and most pristine. Lake Motosu on the 1000 yen banknote.

Hakone's Prominent Sites

Art & Nature Blends

  • Hakone Open-Air Museum: Japan's first open-air museum. Features modern and contemporary sculpture amidst natural scenery.
  • Lake Ashi (Hakone): Scenic lake formed in Mount Hakone's caldera. Famous for "pirate ship" cruises and Fuji views on clear days.
  • Hakone Shrine (Hakone-jinja): Picturesque shrine nestled in the forest on Lake Ashi's shores. Known for "Heiwa no Torii" (Peace Gate) in the water.
  • Owakudani (Hakone): Volcanic valley with active sulfur vents and hot springs. Accessible via Hakone Ropeway.
  • Chureito Pagoda (Arakurayama Sengen Park): Five-storied pagoda with Mount Fuji perfectly framed. Popular for cherry blossom and autumn foliage.
  • Mount Fuji: Japan's highest peak and an UNESCO World Heritage site.

Practical Visitor Information

  • Hours and Fees vary; check websites for current information.
  • Best Fuji views: autumn/winter (Oct-Feb) for clear skies. Early morning/late afternoon light for photography.
  • Locations for Fuji views: Chureito Pagoda, Lake Kawaguchiko's northern shore, Hakone Ropeway.
  • Less crowded times: Visit early morning/late afternoon. Explore lesser-known lakes like Shojiko, Motosu, Saiko.

Consider visiting on weekdays outside of peak seasons.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Hakone Open-Air Museum: Sculptures by Henry Moore, Picasso, Japanese artists in outdoor grounds.
  • Pola Museum of Art (Hakone): Western and Japanese art, Impressionist paintings (Monet, Renoir).
  • Narukawa Art Museum (Kawaguchiko): Modern Japanese painting (nihonga). Panoramic lounge with stunning Fuji views.
  • Itchiku Kubota Art Museum (Kawaguchiko): Elaborate kimonos by Itchiku Kubota. Set within beautiful gardens.

Historical Sites

  • Hakone-Yumoto:

    Traditional hot spring town with older ryokan architecture, reflecting its past as a resort.

  • Old Tokaido Road (Hakone):

    Sections of this historic highway from the Edo period remain, allowing walks on ancient stone pavements.

  • Hakone Shrine:

    Ancient shrine, significant spiritual site and guardian of Lake Ashi. Distinctive torii gate in the lake.

  • Sengen Shrines:

    Dedicated to Mount Fuji's deity. Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine marks a traditional pilgrimage start.

  • Taisekiji Temple:

    Head temple of Nichiren Shoshu Buddhism, attracting pilgrims and visitors interested in its history.

Natural Attractions & Hidden Gems

The Mount Fuji region is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Discover some less-visited spots for unique experiences.

Parks, Gardens & Views

  • Arakurayama Sengen Park

    Home to Chureito Pagoda, known for panoramic Fuji views and cherry blossoms.

  • Oishi Park (Kawaguchiko)

    Famous for seasonal flowers (lavender in summer, kochia in autumn) with Fuji backdrop.

  • Mishima Skywalk

    Japan's longest pedestrian suspension bridge. Panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Izu Peninsula. Book tickets on GetYourGuide.

  • Fuji Panoramic Ropeway (Kawaguchiko)

    Provides aerial views of Lake Kawaguchiko and surrounding area, with Mount Fuji in the background.

  • Geological Features

    Owakudani's volcanic activity. Near Lake Saiko, explore lava caves (Narusawa Ice Cave, Fugaku Wind Cave).

  • Shiraito Falls

    Beautiful waterfalls in Shizuoka Prefecture, fed by Mount Fuji's underground spring water. A serene natural sight.

Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba

Traditional Japanese village with thatched-roof houses, restored into a craft village. Offers workshops, traditional goods, historical rural life insight. Often less crowded than Kawaguchiko spots.

Fuji Sengen Shrine Trail

Experience the beginning of the traditional pilgrimage route up Fuji (Yoshida Trail entrance). A quieter, more historical approach compared to the busy 5th Station.

Fuji-san Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine

The main Sengen shrine, which once owned Mount Fuji itself. Located in Fujinomiya city, it is a significant historical and spiritual site often overlooked.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Capture the region's beauty with these unique perspectives.

  • Sunrise over Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko, especially for "Upside-Down Fuji" reflections.
  • Capture Fuji from less-crowded spots on Lake Shojiko or Lake Motosu.
  • Look for local festivals or seasonal flower displays for unique foregrounds.

Practical Tips for Sightseeing

Make the most of your sightseeing adventure with these pointers.

For attraction tickets, use platforms like GetYourGuide.

Best Viewing Conditions for Mount Fuji

Optimal visibility of Mount Fuji typically occurs during autumn and winter months, from October to February.

Conditions to seek

  • Clearer skies and lower humidity.
  • Early morning light.
  • Late afternoon light.

Owakudani Visit Guidelines

The volcanic activity at Owakudani can sometimes lead to operational changes for the Hakone Ropeway.

Before Your Visit

  • Check the Hakone Ropeway status before visiting.
  • Volcanic activity can lead to closures or restrictions.
  • Stay informed about local advisories.

Avoiding Crowds

Popular sightseeing spots can become busy, especially during peak times.

Strategies for a smoother visit

  • Visit popular spots early in the morning.
  • Visit popular spots late in the afternoon.
  • Consider visiting during weekdays.
  • Avoid peak seasons (Golden Week, summer, autumn leaves).

Wildlife & Waterways

While not a main wildlife destination for large animals, the region still has natural points of interest.

Points of Interest

  • Forests around the lakes host diverse birdlife.
  • Fuji Five Lakes and Lake Ashi are main water bodies.
  • Izu Peninsula offers coastal areas and beaches as part of the wider national park.

Museums & Galleries Cont.

Specialized Museums

  • Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum: European-themed park with antique music boxes.
  • Fuji Museum (Fujiyoshida): Focuses on local history and culture of the Fuji region.
  • Lake Kawaguchiko Konohana Museum: Dedicated to author Akiko Ikeda's works.

Arts and Programming

  • Art Galleries: Smaller galleries around the lakes and in Hakone showcase local/regional artists.
  • Special Exhibits: Check museum websites for temporary exhibitions or special programming.
  • Cultural Centers: Less prominent for tourists; local community centers might host traditional performances.

Additional Tips

Practical advice to enhance your exploration of the Mount Fuji region's attractions.

Device Readiness

Always carry a charged phone or camera with enough storage. The views change quickly, and you will want to capture them.

Local Orientation

Utilize local maps and transportation guides. The Hakone Free Pass is highly recommended for efficient travel within Hakone.

Weather Preparedness

Weather around Mount Fuji can be unpredictable. Carry layers and prepare for sudden changes, especially when ascending higher elevations.

Getting Around

Kawaguchiko Transport

Centrally located around Kawaguchiko Station. Buses connect to most points of interest around the lake.

Hakone Transport

Spreads across various hubs like Hakone-Yumoto, Gora, Togendai. The Hakone Loop transportation system connects these efficiently.

Odawara Gateway

Odawara serves as the main shinkansen gateway for Hakone, making it a convenient entry point.

Fuji Q Highland Access

Accessible by bus from Kawaguchiko Station or direct buses from major cities. Check their website for specific routes.

Owakudani Ropeway Status

The Hakone Ropeway operates from approximately 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (seasonal changes). It may close due to strong winds or volcanic activity.

Kawaguchiko Ropeway Details

The Kawaguchiko Ropeway provides stunning aerial views.

Operational Information

  • Operates roughly 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (seasonal variations).
  • Round trip ticket costs ¥900.
  • Offers panoramic views of the lake and Fuji.

Hakone Sightseeing Cruise

Enjoy Lake Ashi on a scenic cruise.

Cruise Information

  • Operates roughly hourly, typically 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM.
  • Often covered by the Hakone Free Pass.
  • Provides views of Hakone Shrine's torii gate and Mount Fuji.
  • A relaxing way to experience Lake Ashi.

Friendly Tip

Always carry a charged phone or camera with enough storage. The views change quickly, and you will want to capture them.

For seamless access to attractions, consider pre-booking tickets online through platforms like GetYourGuide.

Regional Exploration

Explore further beyond the main attractions to discover more of what the Mount Fuji region has to offer.

Less Common Discoveries

Seek out some less-visited spots for unique experiences, away from the typical tourist routes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

  • Fuji Sengen Shrine Trail (Yoshida Trail entrance): quieter, historical approach to Fuji.
  • Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba: Traditional craft village with thatched-roof houses.
  • Shiraito Falls: Beautiful waterfalls fed by Mount Fuji's spring water.

Local Insights & Emerging Areas

Connect with locals and consider new areas for a different perspective on the region.

Further Exploration

  • Explore smaller, local onsen or eateries outside main tourist strips.
  • Ask accommodation staff for truly local spot recommendations.
  • Areas along the Izu Peninsula are gaining popularity; consider extending your trip.

Fujinomiya Side of Fuji

Discover the western side of Mount Fuji, offering different views and historical significance.

Attractions

  • Fuji-san Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine: The main Sengen shrine.
  • Shiraito Falls: Beautiful waterfalls.
  • Makiba Park: Rural park with farm animals.

This area is often overlooked by visitors focusing on the northern side.

Gotemba Explorations

Explore the town of Gotemba, known for its shopping and as a Fuji gateway.

Main Features

  • Gotemba Premium Outlets: Major luxury shopping destination.
  • Gateway to Subaru Line for Mount Fuji climbing.

Offers shopping opportunities and direct access to Fuji climbing routes.

Mishima as a Base

Mishima serves as a convenient transport hub for regional exploration.

Strategic Location

  • Shinkansen (bullet train) stop.
  • Home to Mishima Skywalk.
  • Provides access to the Shizuoka side of Fuji.

An excellent transport hub for exploring Hakone or the western side of Fuji.

Emerging Destinations within the Region

Izu Peninsula Coast

Areas along the Izu Peninsula, south of Hakone, are gaining popularity.

Scenic Coastline

Discover beautiful coastal areas for driving and seaside activities.

Diverse Hot Springs

The Izu Peninsula also has a wide array of hot spring towns and resorts.

Final Tip

Consider visiting during weekdays outside of peak seasons for a more relaxed experience.