Mount Fuji is one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. People worldwide visit to see its beauty and enjoy exciting yearly outdoor activities! This mountain has something special, whether you love adventure, nature, or peaceful views. The area around the mountain is filled with things to see, do, and explore every season!
Climbing Mount Fuji
Climbing Mount Fuji is one of the most popular ways to experience Japan’s tallest mountain. The official climbing season is from early July to early September, when the weather is safest. Many people hike overnight to reach the summit by sunrise, a moment called “Goraiko” that symbolizes a fresh start. Climbing Mount Fuji is challenging, but it’s a proud achievement for anyone who reaches the top.
The hike takes five to ten hours, depending on your chosen pace and trail. Mountain huts along the way offer places to rest and warm up. As you go higher, you’ll walk through forests, rocky paths, and volcanic landscapes. Some people may feel tired or dizzy because of the thinner air at the top, so it’s essential to rest and adjust. At the end, standing at the summit and seeing the sunrise is a life-changing moment!
Taking a Guided Mount Fuji Area Tour
If climbing isn’t for you, taking a guided tour is a fun and easy way to explore the Mount Fuji area. Guided tours often include stops at scenic viewpoints, traditional shrines, and beautiful lakes near the mountain. Many tours leave from Tokyo and offer round-trip transportation, making the trip stress-free and straightforward. Some also include activities like tasting local food, visiting museums, or trying cultural crafts.
Guided tours come in many styles—half-day, full-day, or overnight—and in different languages for international visitors. Some tours focus on nature and photography, while others highlight Japanese culture. These tours help you see more places in a short amount of time without worrying about planning or getting lost. Guides also share interesting facts and answer questions, making the experience a bright and relaxing way to enjoy Mount Fuji.
Exploring the Fuji Five Lakes
The Fuji Five Lakes—Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanakako, Shojiko, and Motosuko—are located at the base of Mount Fuji. These lakes offer incredible mountain views and are great places to relax, take photos, or walk. Lake Kawaguchiko is the easiest to access and has many hotels, restaurants, and sightseeing spots. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, and even camping around the lakes.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom around the lakes, and the trees glow with red and gold leaves in fall. These seasonal changes make the lakes popular all year round. Some areas offer bicycle rentals, making exploring at your own pace easy. There are also nearby hot springs where you can relax and enjoy views of Mount Fuji. Each lake has its special charm and natural beauty that everyone can enjoy!
Would you like to try some snacks from the Mount Fuji area? Check out Sakuraco! Sakuraco delivers traditional Japanese snacks, teas, and sweets from local Japanese makers directly to your door so you can enjoy the latest treats directly from Japan!
Visiting Chureito Pagoda
Chureito Pagoda is one of the most famous places to view Mount Fuji. Located on a hill in Arakurayama Sengen Park, the red five-story pagoda stands with the mountain behind it. Visitors must climb nearly 400 steps to reach it, but the view is worth the effort. In spring, cherry blossoms surround the pagoda, making it one of the most photographed spots in Japan. The blend of nature, tradition, and beauty creates an unforgettable experience.
The pagoda is part of a larger shrine called Arakura Sengen Shrine. Many visitors come to pray, take pictures, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In fall, colorful leaves make the scene just as stunning, and snow adds a magical feel in winter! Small shops and parks nearby make it a pleasant place to spend the day. Whether you’re interested in photography, culture, or spirituality, Chureito Pagoda is a must-see!
Enjoying Local Food and Souvenirs
Trying local food is a big part of the Mount Fuji experience. One famous dish in the area is hoto, a hearty noodle soup made with vegetables and miso. Try black sesame ice cream, grilled fish, and wasabi-flavored snacks. Many restaurants around Lake Kawaguchiko and Fujiyoshida offer mountain views while you eat.
Souvenir shopping is another fun activity near Mount Fuji. Shops sell handmade crafts, Mount Fuji-themed gifts, and tasty snacks to bring home. You can find these items at stations, small markets, and tourist spots like the 5th Station on the mountain. Some places even let you try making your fan, keychain, or traditional sweets.
Why should I tour around Mount Fuji?
Mount Fuji symbolizes Japan’s beauty, strength, and spirit. The area is clean, peaceful, and filled with natural and cultural treasures. The views of Mount Fuji make simple things like eating lunch or taking a walk feel extra special. It’s a place where you can slow down and enjoy the moment.
Doing these activities at Mount Fuji lets you experience the real heart of Japan. You can explore nature, meet local people, and learn about history and traditions. The mountain provides the perfect backdrop to everything you do in the area. Whether you visit for a day or stay for a week, Mount Fuji offers memories that last a lifetime. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime destination worth every moment. Have you ever been to Mount Fuji? What did you do these? Let us know in the comments below!
