15 Best Things to Do in Mount Fuji: Must-Sees & Hidden Gems

Mount Fuji is a must-visit iconic symbol in Japan. You could enjoy its beauty from the Fuji Five Lakes and other destinations like Hakone.

Besides admiring the view or climbing the mountain, there are plenty of activities to enrich your trip on Mount Fuji, such as biking, kayaking, and relaxing in the onsens while enjoying the mountain scenery.

Even if Mount Fuji is hidden by clouds, you could still enjoy hiking or exploring the caves, ensuring that your trip isn't wasted.

In this article, I've handpicked the best 15 things to do in Mount Fuji based on my visits. I'll also share the firsthand tips to experience them, helping you plan a better trip to Mount Fuji.

1. Capture the Best Photos of Mount Fuji

• No need for more words to recommend it, this is a must-do for everyone!
• Recommended places: Lake Kawaguchi, Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, and Lake Yamanaka

Your trip wouldn't be complete if you didn't capture a picture with Mount Fuji! To get the best unobstructed views, Lake Kawaguchi, Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, and Lake Yamanaka are the most recommended.

Lake Kawaguchi is the top pick to see Mount Fuji. It's easily accessible and offers more dining and accommodation options. Oishi Park here provides the best of Mount Fuji. But this famous spot is always crowded, I suggest arriving early to avoid the crowds, like 7-8 am.

Want to enjoy its beauty in a quieter atmosphere with fewer travelers? Lake Yamanaka is a better option! The best perspective to admire Mount Fuji is from Hirano Beach. You could also see Fuji's reflection in the water and take photos with swans around.

Another classic view of Mount Fuji is from Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine. Here, you could capture both Mount Fuji and the five-storied pagoda in one photo. However, getting this photo means climbing over 400 steep stairs. If you have mobility issues, skip it.

The best time of day to take photos of Mount Fuji is in the morning, especially between 6 - 9 am. At this time, there's almost no cloud cover, and the visibility is at its best. After 12 pm, the chances of cloudy conditions rise, and the backlighting can make the mountain appear dark and unclear in photos.

So, I highly recommend that you stay overnight in the Mount Fuji area. This will give you the highest chance to see Mount Fuji clearly and take photos without any crowds.

Moreover, the best visibility of Mount Fuji is from December to February. This period offers frequent sunny and clear days, allowing you to enjoy the mountain peak covered with thick snow.

2. Enjoy the Best Scenery of Mount Fuji with Blossoms and Red Leaves

• Experience the two most iconic views of Japan at the same time!
• Recommended place: Lake Kawaguchi, Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, and Lake Motosu

The most beautiful time to visit Mount Fuji is in cherry blossom season (April) and autumn foliage season (late October to November).

Cherry blossoms at Lake Kawaguchi and Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine usually reach full bloom from mid to late April. The best spot to enjoy both Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms at Lake Kawaguchi is on the northern shore. Oshino Hakkai near Lake Kawaguchi also offers fantastic views.

For the best autumn foliage scenery at Lake Kawaguchi with Mount Fuji, head to the Maple Corridor.

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine gives you the taste of real Japan in these two peak seasons. However, capturing Mount Fuji, the five-story pagoda, and cherry blossoms/autumn leaves in one photo during these times is not easy.

To get that classic shot, be prepared to climb 400 steep steps to reach the pagoda and wait in line for over 30 minutes to take photos. During my visit in early April, the cherry blossoms hadn't bloomed yet, but I still waited 40 minutes in line to photograph! Luckily, the line was well-organized.

Looking to see cherry blossoms even in May? Visit the Shibazakura Festival at Lake Motosu. These pink-purple blooms are unique compared to the usual white or pink colors. The festival in 2025 will be held from April 12 to May 25, but dates vary each year. We'll keep you updated with the exact schedules.

3. Relaxing at the Onsen While Admiring Mount Fuji

• Enjoy the ultimate chill time by soaking in hot springs with views of Mount Fuji.
• Recommended places: Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka

Soaking in hot springs while enjoying the view of Mount Fuji is a highlight of your Japan trip. Thanks to Mount Fuji's abundant geothermal resources, most accommodations in the area offer hot springs.

I still remember the moments when I saw Mount Fuji from the onsen at my hotel.  Nothing can be better or more relaxing than that.

Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka are the top choices. These areas have a variety of hotel options, and most accommodations let you enjoy the best views of Mount Fuji while soaking in hot springs.

I suggested staying in Lake Kawaguchi. It offers more options for accommodations, restaurants, and convenience stores. Additionally, it provides easier access to attractions for seeing Mount Fuji.

If you prefer a quieter environment, Lake Yamanaka is perfect. Plus, it's a 30-minute drive to Lake Kawaguchi, making trips there easy too.

4. Savour the Unique Hoto Noodles

• You can only try Hoto noodles in Lake Kawaguchi
• Recommended place: Lake Kawaguchi

Hoto noodles are a unique dish found only in Lake Kawaguchi. These thick wheat noodles are served in a miso-based soup in an iron pot. The flavorful broth includes pumpkin, mushrooms, and other seasonal vegetables, making it a must-try when visiting the area.

Of course, I couldn't say no to trying Hoto when I was in Lake Kawaguchi. I think it tastes similar to udon, but the soup base is richer. The weather was still cold during my visit, and after enjoying the soup, I felt warm all over.

5. Biking to Explore Mount Fuji from Every Angle

• Perfect for all ages! Ride your bike on a designated trail to enjoy views of Mount Fuji for most of your journey.
• Recommended place: Lake Yamanaka

Biking allows you to see Mount Fuji from all angles at your own pace. The best place for biking is Lake Yamanaka, where you'll find bike trails offering views of Mount Fuji throughout your ride.

I don't recommend biking at Lake Kawaguchi as there are no bike paths. It could be unsafe to share the road with cars, especially for kids. Moreover, you won't get to see Mount Fuji for half of your cycling journey.

6. Kayaking Peacefully on the Lake to See Mount Fuji

• Looking to enjoy the views of Mount Fuji without crowds? Try Kayaking!
• Recommended place: Lake Kawaguchi

Kayaking offers a peaceful way to admire Mount Fuji without the large crowds seen at other spots. Lake Kawaguchi is perfect for kayaking, with more kayaking shops and offering a charming scenic view.

7. Camping Like Locals to Admire Mount Fuji

• Are you a camping enthusiast looking to enjoy Mount Fuji through camping? This is for you!
• Recommended place: Lake Shoji

For a local camping experience with a view of Mount Fuji, head to Lake Shoji. The camping areas and facilities are well-equipped, and the public bathrooms are kept very clean. As most campers are Japanese, you can enjoy Mount Fuji quietly in a serene vibe.

After my visit, it became one of my favorite spots. Here, I can quietly appreciate the beauty of Mount Fuji, unlike other lakes where I was always rushing to different scenic spots.

8. Exploring the Caves in Mount Fuji

• Want to discover hidden gems? Don't miss exploring these caves.
• Recommended place: Lake Saiko

In addition to the regular activities like biking or kayaking, you could also explore hidden gems like the Wind Cave and Ice Cave at Lake Saiko. These caves were created by Mount Fuji's eruptions, and were once used by the imperial family as natural refrigerators.

The Wind Cave is more recommended as it's suitable for most travelers. Because it has flatter paths and a spacious interior.

In contrast, the Ice Cave has many steep stairs, and you need to bend down or crawl through the narrow space. If you're with kids under 8 or anyone who feels uncomfortable in tight spaces, skip the Ice Cave.

9. Admire the Closest View of Mount Fuji Halfway Up

• It feels like Mount Fuji is right above your head!
• Recommended place: Mt.Fuji 5th Station

Mount Fuji 5th Station is located halfway up the mountain and serves as the starting point for hiking Mount Fuji. It provides the closest views of Mount Fuji. However, you won't get the full view.

Despite that, many of our clients still want to visit the Mount Fuji 5th Station. Even though you can't hike to the top, being here feels like standing on Mount Fuji, which is really special.

I strongly recommend you to have a private car to explore Mount Fuji. Public transportation in the area is limited and inconvenient, leading to longer times spent on the road. 

10. Take an Interesting Amphibious Bus to Enjoy Mount Fuji

• When a car transforms into a boat, the child will go crazy!
• Recommended place: Lake Yamanaka

Hop on the KABA Bus for an exciting adventure! This amphibious bus first drives on land and then splashes into the water. The entire ride is super interesting, and kids especially love it!

During the 30-minute KABA Bus ride, the onboard guide shares information about Mount Fuji in an entertaining way. The explanations will be in both English and Japanese.

You could book KABA Bus tickets on their official website. It's best to reserve at least 20 days in advance, as they book up quickly. If online tickets are sold out, you could reserve them on-site. However, popular time slots may still be unavailable even with on-site booking.

Based on my experience in Lake Yamanaka, I suggest taking the KABA Bus first upon your morning arrival. If it's full, book a midday slot before enjoying other activities like biking. You could then return for your KABA experience later.

11. Explore the Rural Village at Lake Saiko

• The major highlight is the traditional Japanese farmhouses shaped like praying hands.
• Recommended place: Lake Saiko

If you're interested in exploring Japan's gassho-zukuri farmhouses (thatched roofs shaped like praying hands), visit Iyashi no Sato Nenba in Lake Saiko. These traditional farmhouses are well-preserved, and some are open for exploration inside. It's a quieter alternative to the famous Shirakawa-go village.

You'll also find perfect photo spots with Mount Fuji as your backdrop here. The place is particularly beautiful in mid-April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom.

12. Immerse Yourself in the Kimono Art Museum

• Enjoy the kimono collections crafted by a master and learn about their creation process.
• Recommended place: Lake Kawaguchi

The Kubota Itchiku Art Museum collects extremely exquisite kimonos inspired by Mount Fuji, all made by the kimono master named Kubota Itchiku.

You could get a close look at them and learn about their crafting through a video. The well-designed Japanese garden on the first floor is especially charming during the autumn foliage season.

13. Attend the Firework Displays with Mount Fuji as the Backdrop

• Enjoy the fireworks displays with Mount Fuji as the backdrop at a specific time.
• Recommended place: Lake Kawaguchi

With many firework displays across Japan, the one at the foot of Mount Fuji is one of the most favorite among both locals and travelers due to its unique backdrop of the iconic mountain.

I highly recommend watching the Kawaguchigo Fireworks Festival on August 5th every year. It's the largest display in this area, with around 10,000 fireworks lighting up the sky for nearly an hour.

If you can't make it during this time, don't worry. You could catch a smaller fireworks display at Lake Kawaguchi on the first Saturday of July (July 5th in 2025), or every Saturday and Sunday from the end of January to February. This display includes about 2,000 fireworks and lasts for around 20 minutes.

14. Have Fun at the Thrilling Fuji-Q Highland

• Experience the world's fastest roller coasters and Japan's most terrifying haunted houses.
• Recommended place: Lake Kawaguchi

Fuji-Q Highland is an amusement park located at the foot of Mount Fuji. You could experience two of the world's fastest roller coasters, explore one of Japan's top-rated haunted houses, and enjoy other thrilling rides.

This place is perfect for families with kids, especially teenagers. Younger children can enjoy gentle water rides, explore Thomas Land, and visit the Lisa and Gaspard themed village. If you're a Naruto fan, don't miss the Naruto anime zone.

15. Explore Hakone During the Summer

• A great alternative when you can't see Mount Fuji during the summer or the rainy season.
• Recommended place: Hakone

If you visit Japan during the rainy season or summer (June to September), Mount Fuji is often hidden by clouds, making it hard to see. During this time, Hakone is a better and smarter choice than the Fuji Five Lakes area.

Although the chance of seeing Mount Fuji from Hakone is low, there's more to enjoy than just the mountain view. You could explore the volcanic valley of Owakudani, visit various art museums, and hike along the ancient Tokaido trail.

What's more, Hakone is a famous onsen town close to Mount Fuji and Tokyo. You have a range of hotels or ryokans with hot springs to choose from. Staying in the Lake Ashi area might even offer distant views of Mount Fuji from your room.

I suggest visiting Lake Kawaguchi first for the best views of Mount Fuji, then staying overnight in Hakone. This is because Hakone easily connects to Osaka or Kyoto via the Shinkansen, with Odawara Station nearby.

Let's Plan Your Mount Fuji Trip Now!

Ready to admire Mount Fuji and experience these top activities? Our experienced Japan travel advisors can help you create your itinerary to suit your needs, and handle all the details for you. Contact us now!

Check out our two popular Japan tours that include exploring Mount Fuji.

• 12-Day Japan Magical Winter Tour
• 12-Day Classic Japan Tour to Enjoy Japanese Rural Life

More articles for Visiting Mt Fuji

• Best Time to Visit Mt Fuji - Mt Fuji Visibility by Month
• Where to Stay at Mt. Fuji
• Mt Fuji Tourist Maps