Mount Fuji's cherry blossom season occurs around mid-April, about 10 days later than Tokyo and many other central cities, due to its high altitude and mountainous terrain.
If you travel from the period from April 10 to 20, you are very likely to see the beautiful cherry blossoms around Mt. Fuji.
Where to See Cherry Blossoms at Mount Fuji?
The best places to view the cherry blossoms at Mount Fuji include the Fuji Five Lakes area and Chureito Pagoda. In the Fuji Five Lakes area, you could enjoy lakeshore cherry blossoms set against Mount Fuji and reflected in the water of the lake. Arakurayama Sengen Park offers an iconic view of the red pagoda and Mount Fuji within a picturesque frame. Let's tell you which is the best spot for you based on your interests:
1. Arakurayama Sengen Park
- Blooming date: Mid-April
- Best for: active travelers who are good at walking, as it involves steep steps
On this spot, you have the chance to take photos of the red pagoda amid the cherry blossoms against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. Truly impressive!
To get this breathtaking view, you need to climb up about 400 very steep steps to the observation deck. It is really a challenge for most people. I reached the top in 12 minutes and was out of breath. You may walk up the gently winding slope, but it still requires a fair amount of walking.
The park is very popular, so expect about an hour's wait for the observation deck. When I visited in early April, the cherry blossoms hadn't bloomed and Mt. Fuji was obscured, yet there were still long lines (see the photo below).
The steep steps up to the park topLines on the observation deckArrive early for the best chance to see Mt. Fuji, as visibility is usually better in the morning. During my last visit, I had a clear view from the park's base around 9 a.m., but by the time I reached the top 20 minutes later, it was shrouded in clouds.
2. Lake Kawaguchiko
- Blooming date: Mid-April, around April 15
- Best For: Ideal for all travelers, particularly families seeking a fun and relaxing experience.
I recommend Lake Kawaguchi for all travelers who want to see Mt. Fuji. It is true that the place is crowded; this is definitely the most beautiful place to see Mt Fuji.
This is a large area with a lot of attractions, restaurants, and hotels around the lake. The places I like most are the Oishi Park and the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, and the northern shores for its cherry blossoms. At Oishi Park, you will get some gorgeous photos of Mt Fuji and the seasonal flowers in the park. I really enjoy the tranquil surroundings and the exquisite kimono works at Itchiku Kubota Art Museum.
There are about 200 cherry trees adorning the lakeshore. Along it, you would see the magnificent sight of Mount Fuji in combination with the tranquil lake and cherry blossoms.
Many travelers recommend the Panoramic Ropeway. To me, while it's not that the experience isn't worthwhile, there are better ways to spend your time than waiting in line for over an hour. The scenery is fairly average and not worth the long wait outdoors.
There are plenty of cafés and restaurants alongside the lake. We suggest you enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the picturesque views.
3. Oshino Hakkai
- Blooming date: Around April 20
- Best for: those who appreciate traditional villages and natural scenery
Oshino Hakkai provides a very late chance to see Cherry blossoms around April 20 in 2025. The village seems like a postcard scene with its traditional houses, thatched roofs, and the majestic backdrop of Mount Fuji. it is famous for its 8 clear ponds with reflections of Mt Fuji early in the morning.
A gentle river flows alongside the village, which is lined with cherry trees. One of the most popular spots is a bridge near the Shibokusa Sengen Shrine. Standing on the bridge, you could see Mount Fuji towering behind the cherry blossoms on clear days.
Some travelers complain about the crowds. It is true that this spot is filled with tourists, as it is a very classic stop for Mt Fuji day trips. But trust me, the scenery can fairly beat the crowds. Or you can arrive early in the morning before 10 am to enjoy some quiet, and also enjoy a great chance to view Mt Fuji.
4. Saiko Iyashi no Sato
Cherry blossoms hadn't bloomed yet on April 4, 2025Saiko Iyashi no Sato is a charming village near Lake Sai in the Mt. Fuji area. It is one of the best places to get a glimpse of Japanese rural life close to Tokyo.
The village features 20 thatched-roof houses, most of which have been converted into museums showcasing local arts. This quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination lets you enjoy a leisurely stroll. Explore delightful museums and take in the tranquil surroundings with views of Mt. Fuji.
During the cherry blossom season, the village is surrounded by cherry blossoms. During my visit on April 4, the cherry blossoms had not yet bloomed. I still enjoyed a relaxing time strolling along the paths, taking fabulous photos, and exploring the houses.
When is the Mt Fuji Cherry Blossom Festival 2026?
The general date for the Mt Fuji Cherry Blossom Festival is from late March to mid-April. In 2025, the date is from April 1 to April 13. However, the exact date for 2026 is not yet been released. We will update the information as soon as the date is released.
The Festival is held at the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko （one of the Five Lakes at the foot of the mountain) each year during the Cherry blossom season.
During the festival, travelers can enjoy the gorgeous views of the cherry blossoms on the lake shore, with the background of Mt Fuji and the clear lake. In the evening, the cherry blossom will be illuminated from sunset till 21:00, creating a magical ambiance.
Travel Tips
- The illumination time is from sunset to 9 pm.
- The main event space will take place between Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum and the Maple Corridor.
Tips for Visiting Mt Fuji during the Cherry Blossom Season
1. The Mt Fuji Cherry blossom season is around 7-10 days later than Tokyo's.
In 2025, the full blooms of Mt Fuji arrived around April 15, while in Tokyo, the full blooms are around April 2/3. Plan your itinerary accordingly if you travel during these periods.
2. Avoid weekends if possible.
During weekends, the Japanese will go to the Mt Fuji area, which may cause heavy traffic jams and huge crowds at attractions.
3. Depart early in the morning to avoid crowds and for a better chance to see Mt Fuji
Depart around 8 am from Tokyo if you plan a day trip. A delay of 10 minutes always means more than 30 minutes on the way due to traffic jams.
Mt Fuji is most visible early in the morning. During our visit, we had a clear view of Mt Fuji in the morning, but after our lunch, the weather became cloudy, and it rained; the mountain was not visible. The next day, we had a clear view in the morning, but around 9:20 am, the mountain was partly shrouded by clouds.
4. Expect Mt Fuji views on the highway on clear days
Mt Fuji views on the highway from TokyoDo not sleep on the way. About 15 minutes after leaving Tokyo, you can see Mt. Fuji's snow-capped summit above the mountains ahead of you. The view lasts for around 20 minutes. Very impressive. Do not miss it.
5. Stay overnight to avoid crowds and for the hot springs
By staying overnight at Lake Kawaguchi, you can arrive early at the parks to avoid crowds, and you can also increase your chances of seeing the mountain, as visibility is often better in the early morning. I got a very close view of Mt Fuji from my hotel early in the morning. The hot springs in the Mt Fuji area are very famous; most hotels provide hot springs there.
Is It Easy to See Mount Fuji during the Cherry Blossom Season?
Although April isn't the best time to view Mount Fuji, the chances of seeing it early in the morning are quite high. During our two-day visit in early April 2025, we saw it both mornings.
The weather is changeable, and it may be sunny in the morning and then become cloudy in the afternoon, that why we always recommend you visit early in the morning.
What to Wear in Spring for Mt Fuji?
Given the high altitude of around 1000 meters, the Mount Fuji area remains cold, especially on cloudy days. Therefore, it is advisable to pack a coat or jacket to stay warm during your visit.
During my visit from April 3 to 5, I wore a down jacket, which was fine for the cool mornings and evenings. However, at Lake Yamanaka, it felt quite cold because it was very windy.
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