After traveling through the lively streets of Tokyo, my journey in Japan takes me to the beautiful town of Fujikawaguchiko. Located near the famous Mt. Fuji, this charming spot is also home to stunning Lake Kawaguchiko, offering breathtaking views that you’ll never forget. Fujikawaguchiko is a wonderful mix of nature and local culture. As you explore the town, you’ll find many restaurants where you can dine on tasty local dishes, like comforting Hoto noodles. And of course, you can’t miss the fresh sushi, a must-try in the area.
With its gorgeous scenery, friendly atmosphere, and delicious food, Fujikawaguchiko promises a memorable experience for everyone. Whether you’re hiking around the lake, enjoying local flavors, or simply taking in the views of Mt. Fuji, this town is a peaceful escape from the busy city life.
Traveling to Fujikawaguchiko
I traveled to Fujikawaguchiko by express bus from Tokyo, which took about 2 hours due to traffic. The fare was around 2,200 yen, or about $16 USD.
Since there’s no subway in Fujikawaguchiko, getting around the town means you either have to walk or take the local bus. You can also rent a bike, with many rental places available.
During my travels to Fujikawaguchiko, I noticed that the weather here is much cooler than in Tokyo. In September, temperatures are in the 60s and 70s, which is a refreshing change from the warmer climate of the city.
Where to Stay
I stayed at the Tokyo Inn Fuji Kawaguchiko Ohashi, which is just a 15-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station. The staff here are super friendly and helpful, and they even have free luggage lockers for travelers.
The hotel also provides a free breakfast with both Western and Asian options, which was nice. Additionally, my room was very clean and comfortable. I highly recommend this place!
If you’re considering a hostel, there’s a highly rated option called Dot Hostel. Originally, I planned to stay at Dot Hostel, but they canceled my reservation without providing a good reason. Fortunately, I ended up booking at Tokyo Inn, and it worked out really well for me!
Dining in Fujikawaguchiko
Fujikawaguchiko has many great restaurants to explore during your travels. One of my favorites is Hoto Tempura Wakana, which I found by chance on my first day. They offer fabulous set menus at a reasonable price of 2,300 yen, about $16 USD.
If you love sushi, be sure to check out Shaw’s Sushi Bar, located right across from Kawaguchiko Station. Their sushi is fresh, and the set menus include an appetizer and dessert. The cost for one meal is about 3,500 yen, around $23 USD, and the portions are definitely worth it!
Another popular spot is Kosaku Kawaguchiko, a well-known Hoto noodle restaurant famous for its delicious dishes. This restaurant is highly rated and features spacious traditional floor seating.
Otherwise, if you’re looking for something quick, there are also several grocery stores where you can grab prepared food to enjoy on the go while traveling in Fujikawaguchiko.
Activities to Enjoy in Fujikawaguchiko
Fujikawaguchiko offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. During my four days there, I had the chance to experience some of the best attractions and adventures this beautiful town has to offer.
1. Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
Experience stunning views of Mt. Fuji by taking the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. Tickets are priced at 1,000 yen (about $7 USD), making it an affordable option for breathtaking scenery. This ride offers a unique perspective of the mountain and the surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing memorable photos during your travels to Fujikawaguchiko.
If you prefer to explore on foot, you can skip the ropeway and hike up and down for free. This easy hike takes about 45 minutes to an hour round trip, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful stroll through the forest while avoiding the crowds. The natural beauty and tranquility of the area make it a great way to connect with nature.
2. Walking Around Lake Kawaguchiko
Take a leisurely walk around Lake Kawaguchiko, where you’ll find picturesque walking paths and bicycle lanes. The area is also perfect for a relaxing day outdoors, and renting a bike is easy and affordable, costing around 1,500 yen (about $10 USD) for a full day. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning views as you cycle around the lake.
3. Mt. Fuji Ice Cave Guided Tour
For those seeking adventure while traveling to Fujikawaguchiko, consider signing up for the Mt. Fuji Ice Cave guided tour in Aokigahara Forest. This tour costs 8,000 yen (about $56 USD) and provides a fascinating glimpse into the unique geological features of the area. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the forest and its natural wonders.
4. Arakurayama Sengen Park
Don’t miss the chance to visit Arakurayama Sengen Park if you’re a hiker. While there are many steps to climb initially, the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji on clear days make it well worth the effort. After exploring the park, you can continue your hike to the summit via a well-maintained trail leading to Goten Summit.
Memorable Travels in Fujikawaguchiko
There are so many wonderful places to explore in the beautiful town of Fujikawaguchiko, and I really wish I had more days to enjoy it during my travels. From the stunning views of Mt. Fuji to the delicious local dishes like Hoto noodles, I enjoyed every aspect of my stay here.
Additionally, the friendly atmosphere and charming surroundings made my visit even more special. Overall, Fujikawaguchiko has captured my heart, and I hope to return soon. It’s definitely one of my favorite places to explore!
Make sure to check out my post about my trip to Shikoku, Japan, where I spent 48 days as an OHenro.
