Mount Fuji is one of the most iconic sights in Japan, and the best way to truly experience it is to stay overnight nearby. But where should you stay, Hakone or Lake Kawaguchi?
Instead of simply comparing locations, we break it down based on your travel priorities: from hot springs to summer weather, hotel comfort, and the best mountain views.
1. Stay in Hakone for a Luxurious Hot Spring Experience
Outdoor baths in Hakone in the forestsLove hot springs? You'll love Hakone!
Tucked into the forested hills just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Hakone is Japan's popular hot spring town for a luxurious onsen escape. In Gora, many ryokans are built right into the mountainside. You can soak in a steaming outdoor bath as the mountain mists drift through the trees.
Experience a traditional stay with open-air baths, tatami rooms, and seasonal kaiseki dinners at a Japanese ryokan. Catch glimpses of Mt. Fuji from your garden, your bath, or right from your room.
Stay in a Japanese ryokan in HakoneLooking for that wow moment? Choose a room with a private open-air bath.
Compared to Lake Kawaguchi, Hakone offers more onsen options and a deeper sense of retreat.
Top Stays for Your Onsen Escape
- Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa: spacious rooms, private balconies, and a peaceful onsen—perfect for couples or families looking for a high-end retreat.
- Sanyo-so: A classic ryokan with a tranquil garden, Japanese-style rooms, and indoor/outdoor hot springs.
- Merveille Hakone Gora: Near Gora Station, with natural onsen and great access to local sights.
- Hotel Setsugetsuka: Every room has a private open-air bath
Hakone Area at a Glance
Hakone has three areas: Gora, Yumoto, and Lake Ashi
- Gora: Best for hot spring lovers. Many hotels here have natural outdoor baths.
- Yumoto: Closest to Tokyo, great if you're short on time
- Lake Ashi: More remote, scenic, and good for the occasional Fuji view.
- Private onsen rooms are in high demand, so book 3–6 months in advance.
Want a private onsen with a mountain view? We can help you choose the perfect ryokan based on your preferences.
2. Visiting in Summer or Rainy Season? Hakone's the Smart Choice
Cable car to explore Owakudani, an active volcanoMt. Fuji is often hidden behind clouds in summer. July and August bring heat, humidity, and poor visibility.
That's why we recommend Hakone if you're traveling in summer or during the rainy season. Even when skies are grey, there's still plenty to do.
Rainy day? No problem! Glide above steaming volcanic valleys on a cable car, wander art museums, cruise Lake Ashi on a pirate ship, or hike a misty section of the old Tokaido Road.
Traveling with kids! They'll love the cable cars, boat rides, and easy lakeside walks. Hakone has more family-friendly activities than Kawaguchi when the weather turns wet.
We hiked along the Old Tokaido Trail in 2024Cooler, fresher, calmer. Hakone's higher elevation means cooler temps and forest air, a refreshing escape from Tokyo's summer heat.
Cooler weather: Hakone's higher elevation means cooler temperatures, misty forests, and refreshing nature walks. It is perfect for escaping Tokyo's summer heat.
Want to see Mt. Fuji anyway? Head to the Fifth Station, halfway up the mountain. Even on cloudy days, you'll get a close-up look and a fun stop above the clouds.
Planning a summer family trip? We'll design a flexible Hakone itinerary with weather-proof activities everyone can enjoy.
3. Stay in Lake Kawaguchi for Mt Fuji Views and Photos
Lake Kawaguchiko in springIf your goal is to wake up to a postcard view of Mount Fuji, visit Lake Kawaguchi. Enjoy the clear view and its reflection early in the morning.
Stay on the north side of the lake, and you'll get the best views, whether from your bed, your rooftop terrace, or a soak in an outdoor bath.
Hotel picks:
- Fuji Gran Villa: Near Fuji-Q Highland, private villas with rooftop terraces facing Mt. Fuji, ideal for families
- Hotel Konansou: a stylish ryokan with lakeside hot springs
Tips for Choosing a Hotel in Lake Kawaguchi
- Choose the north bank for the best Mt. Fuji views
- If you can't find a hotel on the north bank, try the east side, where some hotels offer partial views of Mount Fuji
- Avoid hotels on the south side, as they do not have mountain views.
- Hotels in Lake Kawaguchi are in high demand, especially in spring and winter. It's best to book 3 to 6 months in advance.
4. Heading to Kyoto or Osaka next? Hakone Makes It Easy
If you also plan to go to Kyoto or Osaka, choose Hakone. In Hakone, you can easily connect to the bullet train (Shinkansen) via Odawara Station, just 15 minutes away. From there, it's a smooth ride to Kyoto or Osaka.
If you are staying at Lake Kawaguchi, it will take about 1.5 hours to reach the nearest bullet train. This means more driving and tighter schedules.
Want a seamless journey from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji and on to Kyoto? We'll take care of all your connections and bookings.
Plan a Trip to Japan to See Mount Fuji
Every traveler's Mount Fuji dream is unique. Whether you dream of soaking in an onsen with Fuji views, capturing that perfect photo, or exploring Japanese nature and culture, we specialize in creating Mt. Fuji trips tailored to your style.
More articles for Visiting Mt Fuji
- Best Time to Visit Mt Fuji - Mt Fuji Visibility by Month
- Top Things to Do at Mt Fuji
- Mt Fuji Tourist Maps
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