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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Lake Shojiko is one of the Fuji Five Lakes, located in Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is a small lake known for its tranquility and the magnificent view of Mount Fuji. It is one of the lakes formed by the eruption and lava flows of Mount Fuji, and as it is the smallest of the five lakes and has not been developed into a tourist destination, it retains a tranquil, natural atmosphere. When there is no wind in the early morning, you can sometimes see Mount Fuji reflected in the lake's surface, creating an "upside-down Fuji," making it popular with photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Highlights
- Inverted Fuji View: On clear, early mornings or on windy mornings, you can see Mt. Fuji reflected on the lake's surface. The best time to take photos is around sunrise or early in the morning.
- Quiet Lakeside Walks: There are peaceful walking paths around the lake, where you can walk around at your leisure or sit on a bench and enjoy the scenery. Compared to touristy lakes, there are fewer people, so you can relax.
- Outdoor Activities: Camping and fishing spots are scattered throughout the area, and you can enjoy camping, bird watching, and boating (check for permits and rentals).
- Seasonal Appearances: Enjoy different scenery with each season, such as the fresh greenery of spring, the autumn leaves, and the clear air and snow-capped Mount Fuji in winter.
- Silence and starry skies: With no high-rise buildings or light pollution in the area, it's ideal for stargazing at night (if you're staying overnight or camping).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train + Bus: The nearest major stations are Kawaguchiko Station (Mount Fuji Station) and Fuji-Q Highland Station on the Fujikyu Railway Line. From Kawaguchiko Station, you can travel to Lake Shojiko by local bus, sightseeing bus, or taxi. Buses run in limited numbers, so we recommend checking the timetable.
- By car: Take the Chuo Expressway to Kawaguchiko IC or the Higashi-Fuji Five Lakes Road via national and prefectural roads. It takes about 20-30 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko area (depending on traffic). There are parking lots on the lakeside and at accommodation facilities, but the number of spaces is limited, so it is recommended to arrive early during peak seasons.
- Expressway bus: Expressway buses run from Shinjuku, Shibuya, and other areas to the Kawaguchiko area. After getting off in the Kawaguchiko area, you can travel by bus or taxi.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short photo shoot/walk: 30 minutes to 1 hour (enough to visit the main photo spots)
- A leisurely stroll or picnic: 1-2 hours (take a break after strolling around the lakeside)
- For outdoor activities (camping, fishing, boating): Half a day to one day or more
- Combining this with touring the surrounding Fuji Five Lakes and sightseeing: Half a day to a full day (combined with Lake Kawaguchiko and Lake Saiko)
Nearby spots
- Lake Kawaguchiko: Easily accessible from Lake Shojiko, it has plenty of tourist facilities, sightseeing boats, and photo spots.
- Lake Saiko and Lake Motosuko: The other lakes of the Fuji Five Lakes. Lake Motosuko in particular is known as a beautiful spot for viewing the upside-down Mt. Fuji.
- Aokigahara Jukai: A forest that spreads across a lava plateau. It is known for nature exploration and cave exploration (tunnels), but caution is advised as it is easy to get lost.
- Oshino Hakkai: A scenic spot dotted with spring-fed ponds. You can enjoy the scenery of underground water from Mt. Fuji gushing forth.
- Fuji-Q Highland: Recommended for families who want to enjoy the amusement park and attractions.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Transportation and Public Transportation: There are few bus services, so if you are planning to travel by public transportation, please check the timetable in advance. Early morning and nighttime bus services are particularly limited.
- Crowds: It is less crowded than Lake Kawaguchiko, but parking lots and popular photo spots can get crowded on weekends, during the autumn foliage season, and during consecutive holidays.
- Drone and photography etiquette: Drone use may be subject to local government rules and aviation law restrictions. Please observe photography etiquette so as not to cause inconvenience to others.
- Nature Conservation/Garbage: The lakeside is a place where the natural environment is valued. Please be sure to take your garbage with you and avoid disturbing the flowers, trees and wildlife.
- Weather and season precautions: In winter, roads may be icy and snowy, and in spring and summer, there may be an increase in mosquitoes and insects. Please prepare your clothing and equipment for the chilly mornings and evenings and sudden changes in weather.
- Safety Measures: When playing near water, fishing, or using a boat, please wear a life jacket and follow local rules, and always put safety first.
Lake Shojiko is a quiet spot on the shores of the lake where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji in a relaxed atmosphere. If you want to see the inverted Mt. Fuji in the early morning or its seasonal changes, it's a good idea to plan an overnight stay or get up early. When visiting, please be sure to pay attention to public transportation times and local rules, and enjoy the natural scenery with care.
