Fuji Shibazakura Festival (Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture)
[Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)]
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is a spring flower festival where colorful moss phlox (shibazakura) bloom all over the place with Mt. Fuji in the background. The venue is Fuji Motosu Lake Resort in Fujikawaguchiko Town (the venue name may vary depending on the year), and it is usually held between mid-April and late May. The moss phlox flowers are spread out like a carpet in shades of pink, white, and pale purple, and on sunny days the contrast between Mt. Fuji and the moss phlox makes for a great photo spot. There are also illuminations, night-time performances, and local gourmet food stalls, making it a popular event for tourists and photography enthusiasts.
[Highlights]
– A large colony of moss phlox overlooking Mount Fuji: This is the main attraction. The sections planted with gradations of color and patterns are beautiful.
- Observation deck and photo spot: You can get the best shots of Mt. Fuji and the moss pinks from the high observation deck within the venue.
- Light-up (held during the event period): A fantastic atmosphere at dusk. Events may vary depending on the year and weather.
- Purely Japanese-style performances and stage events: Local events, traditional performing arts, and music events are sometimes held.
– Local cuisine and specialties: You can buy seasonal snacks and souvenirs at food stalls and shops (e.g., hoto noodles, local beer, local specialties, etc.).
– Panels explaining flower varieties and how to grow them: There may be panels introducing the varieties of moss phlox and explaining how to grow them.
[Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)]
- Train + Bus: Get off at Kawaguchiko Station or Mt. Fuji Station (Fuji-Q Highland side) on the Fujikyu Railway Line. From Kawaguchiko Station, you can access the venue by taking a special shuttle bus or Fujikyu Bus (regular and special routes available). The shuttle only operates during the event period, and the timetable and route change each year, so please check the official information.
- Expressway bus: Expressway buses (Fujikyuko Bus, Keio Bus, etc.) run from Shinjuku and Tokyo to Kawaguchiko. It is convenient to use a shuttle from Kawaguchiko Station or a nearby bus stop.
- By car: Access via the Chuo Expressway Kawaguchiko IC or the Higashi-Fuji Five Lakes Road. Temporary parking lots are often set up at the venue, but they may be full during busy times. Please follow the directions for "temporary parking lots" on your navigation system or official information.
- Taxi: Take a taxi from Kawaguchiko Station to the venue. Waiting times may be long during peak hours.
[Estimated stay (estimated time required)]
- Quick viewing: 1-1.5 hours (enough to visit the main filming locations)
- If you take your time and include meals: 2-3 hours
- If you want to enjoy taking photos and exploring the surrounding area: About half a day
If you plan to visit during busy times or when the area is lit up, it's best to allow yourself some extra time.
[Nearby spots]
- Lake Kawaguchi (Oishi Park): A popular photo spot overlooking Mount Fuji and the lake, it is also a famous flower viewing spot in each season.
– Arakurayama Sengen Park (Chureito Pagoda/Arakurayama Five-Story Pagoda): Famous for its photos of Mount Fuji paired with cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
– Oshino Hakkai: A tourist spot with spring-fed ponds and the atmosphere of an old village.
- Lake Motosu: A crystal clear lake where you can enjoy camping and boating.
– Fuji-Q Highland: An amusement park popular with families.
- There are also cultural facilities scattered around the area, such as the Inoue Museum and the Itchiku Kubota Museum of Art.
[Points to note (crowds, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)]
- Crowds: Weekends and Golden Week are extremely busy. Parking lots tend to fill up quickly, and shuttle buses and surrounding roads can become congested. We recommend using public transportation and the shuttle.
- Flower etiquette: Entering the planting areas and picking flowers are prohibited. Photography should be done in designated areas and follow the fences and signs.
- Weather and clothing: The venue is at a high altitude and can be windy on some days. Even though it is spring, it can be chilly in the mornings and evenings, so please bring a light jacket and rain gear.
-Footing: The venue has many slopes and dirt paths, which may become muddy after rain. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Garbage and toilets: Temporary toilets and toilets within the venue will be crowded. Please separate your garbage and take it home with you, or dispose of it in the designated areas.
- Pets: Some venues may have restrictions on pets. Please check the official information in advance, and even if pets are allowed, please observe proper etiquette, such as keeping them on a leash and cleaning up their waste.
- Drones, etc.: Flying drones without permission is prohibited in principle. Please follow the rules when taking photos.
- Check the information: The event period, opening hours, admission fees, whether or not illuminations will be held, shuttle bus schedules, etc. are likely to change every year, so be sure to check the official website and the latest information before visiting.
Tips for enjoying the view: The early morning light and the slanting light of the evening make for beautiful photos, and there are fewer crowds at these times. Check the weather forecast and aim to go on a day when you can see Mt. Fuji, otherwise you'll be more satisfied.
