Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Lake Yamanakako, located in Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and is the largest of the five lakes in terms of water area. At an elevation of around 980m, it is famous nationwide as a viewpoint of Mount Fuji seen across the lake. The lake is relatively flat and has a well-maintained circular path, making it a popular spot for cycling, walking, and marine sports (boating, SUP, windsurfing, etc.). It is attractive throughout the year, with spring flowers (especially the view from Hana no Miyako Park), summer activities, autumn leaves, and the clear winter air offering outstanding views of Mount Fuji.

Highlights

• View point of Mt. Fuji across the lake: The main viewing spots are the upside-down view of Mt. Fuji in the morning and the view of Mt. Fuji peeking through the clouds. Early mornings with good weather are especially recommended.
• Hananomiyako Park: A park where you can enjoy seasonal flowers and spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. The flower fields from spring to summer are especially popular.
• Circular cyclingThe route around the lake is approximately 13km (approximately). It is easy even for beginners to run, and there are observation benches and photo spots scattered along the way.
• Marine Activities: Boat rentals (motorboats and pedal boats), SUP, windsurfing, etc. It is especially popular in the summer.
• Viewpoints and photo spotsThere are popular spots for photographing Mt. Fuji in various places along the lakeside, and photographers gather here to capture the sunrise and sunset.
• Fishing and bird watching: You can also enjoy freshwater fishing and observing migratory birds (please check fishing rules).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train + Bus
  • The nearest train stations are Kawaguchiko Station or Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyu Railway Line. From the station, take the Fujikyu Bus towards Lake Yamanaka (approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on the line and bus stop).
• Express bus (direct)
  • There are express buses from Tokyo (Shinjuku Bus Terminal, etc.) that run directly and take about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours (depending on road conditions). Some buses stop at various stops within Yamanakako Village.
• car
  • From Tokyo: Take the Chuo Expressway to Kawaguchiko, or the Tomei Expressway to Gotemba IC and then take the national highway. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours without traffic (depending on the departure point and time of day).
  • Parking: There are paid and free parking lots scattered around the lakeside and tourist facilities. They fill up during peak hours, so it's best to arrive early.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Quick scenic view: 1-2 hours (lakeside photography and short walks)
• Main attractions + light activities: half day (3-4 hours)
• Enjoy leisurely activities including marine sports and cycling: 1 day (6-8 hours)
• If you're planning to camp or view Mt. Fuji in the morning and evening: One to several nights is ideal.

Nearby spots

• Lake Kawaguchi (one of the Fuji Five Lakes) — Lakeside sightseeing, souvenir shops, and plenty of dining options
• Oshino Hakkai – A group of springs fed by underground water from Mt. Fuji, perfect for a stroll
• Fuji-Q Highland — Attractions and Amusement Park (Popular with families and young people)
• Narusawa Ice Cave and Fugaku Wind Cave (Aokigahara Jukai Area) — Cave exploration and a cool tourist spot even in summer
• Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine and Arakurayama Sengen Park (Chureito Pagoda/Niomon Gate/Five-Story Pagoda) — A great photo spot
• Gotemba Premium Outlets — Shopping (Easy to access by car)

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: Roads and parking lots will be congested during Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season, and weekends. Please consider using public transportation or leaving early in the morning.
• weather：The weather in the mountains is changeable, with sudden fog and cold weather. Temperatures are particularly low in the early morning and evening, so be sure to bring warm clothing.
• How to see Mount Fuji: It depends on the weather. Even if it is sunny, the sky is often covered by clouds, so it is best to plan your stay accordingly.
• water safety：When using a boat or SUP, be sure to wear a life jacket and check the weather. Follow the instructions of beginners' courses and rental shops.
• Nature Conservation and MannersPlease take your trash with you, and camping, bonfires, and flower picking outside of designated areas are strictly prohibited. Please be mindful not to harm wildlife or vegetation.
• Drones and Filming: Uncontrolled drone flying can be dangerous and a nuisance, so check regulations and ordinances and apply for permission if necessary.
• Winter roads: If there is snow or ice, you will need chains or studless tires. Please check road conditions in advance.

Additional Tip: If you want to capture the "upside-down Fuji" in the morning, the best time to go is early in the morning (when there is no wind and the water is calm). Hana no Miyako Park is a great place to enjoy both seasonal flowers and Mt. Fuji, so it's especially recommended for photography enthusiasts. Please enjoy your stay and be safe.