2025 Minamitsuru District Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

It is said that Mount Fuji rewards early risers. Compared to Lake Kawaguchiko, I prefer Lake Yamanaka. Although there was no "reverse Fuji," I was already very satisfied. There was sunrise, swans, and Mount Fuji. 🚗6:30 Hirano Lakeside (Hirano no Hama) Took a taxi to Hirano no Hama. There were swans, sunrise, and Mount Fuji. 🚴10:00 Shiratori-hama After 7:00, there's a bus. Took the bus back to the hotel and rented a bicycle with electric assist. It wasn't tiring. Cycling around the lake took 2 hours. Gave up on "the park" as it opens at 11:00 and there were already many people waiting for viewing spots at 10:00. But actually, just a little bit past "the park," the scenery was also amazing. There's no need to wait specifically. After cycling around the lake, had brunch at Denny's. In the afternoon, took a bus to Lake Kawaguchiko. A perfect day. ❗️Tips The lake bus only starts running at 7:00. To see the sunrise early, you need to take a taxi or stay near Hirano. There are swans in many places, especially at Shiratori-hama, and also at Hirano. Bicycle rentals are available from 9:00 for JPY 2,000 for two hours. Rented from an elderly gentleman near Shiratori-hama. Two hours is enough to cycle around the lake and take photos. You can choose a hotel in Hirano or near a bus stop, which is very convenient.

#tokyo Window shopping was the perfect thing to do when the weather was rainy and gloomy all day long in Kawaguchiko. Head on to Fujisan Station Shopping Centre which is one stop away from Kawaguchiko Station. Store your luggage, if any inside the locker storage at the train station. Go window shopping for cute limited version of Mount Fuji souvenirs like paper weights, kit kat chocolates, peter rabbit tea products and so on. And then indulge yourself in three layer soft cone ice cream (mount fuji version of blue and vanilla swirl) and do try the hot taiyaki pancake (japanese snack) with chocolate or red bean fillings. They are delicious ! #awesomepic #tripblazers #mytripvlog

Famous Berry and Vanilla Softcream in Yamanashi Prefecture🍦 Surrounded by amazing sceneries ❤️#nationalpark

Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, Oishi Park, with its unparalleled lake views and perfect location for viewing Mount Fuji, is extremely popular. The small shop sells Mount Fuji limited products, so don't miss it. Remember to buy fruit-flavored soft serve ice cream before taking photos. Every spring, there are many local fresh strawberries 🍓 to taste, and the price is very low!

📍Address:Yamanakako Panorama-dai 💰Average Price per Person: Free💞 💞Reasons to Recommend: Perfect View of Mt. Fuji

Location: Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako) is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and the largest among them. It offers expansive lake views and unparalleled reflections of Mount Fuji. Whether taking a boat ride, strolling along the lakeside, or riding a tandem bicycle, this is the perfect place for couples to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy peaceful moments. Photos 1 and 2 show the sunrise over Mount Fuji at 6:30 AM. It's incredibly beautiful and super romantic! 💑 Romantic Highlights • Reflection of Mount Fuji: When the lake is calm, you can see the reflection of Mount Fuji in the water, creating a romantic and dreamy scene, especially perfect for photos during dawn or dusk. • Lakeside Walks and Bike Paths: Hold hands and walk along the lakeside, or ride a tandem bicycle around the lake, experiencing the scenic beauty and seasonal changes. 🚶♂️ Transportation and Tips You can reach Lake Yamanaka directly from Shinjuku Station by taking a highway bus, which takes about 2 hours. Driving is even more convenient, allowing you to access various viewpoints around the lake. It is recommended to visit in autumn and winter when the weather is drier and visibility is higher, making it easier to enjoy clear views of Mount Fuji.

After visiting Fuji Haruka Shrine in the morning, return to the hotel to enjoy a buffet breakfast and soak in the hot springs♨️. After checking out, we went for a walk in the Red Leaves Corridor and Koga Masao Memorial Park. Although it’s not the best time to go hiking in early December, I was still able to see the red leaves and take photos of Mount Fuji at the same time. I was really happy. There is a beautiful manhole cover near the Red Leaf Corridor, which is also worth taking a photo of. When the weather is good and the lake is calm, you have a better chance of seeing the inverted Fuji at the shore of Lake Kawaguchi. If you are coming to Kawaguchiko for 3 days and 2 nights and have plenty of time, I highly recommend you take a walk here, it is really comfortable. ——— Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor 📬 〒401-0304 Yamanashi Prefecture Minamitsuru County Fujikawaguchiko Town Kawaguchi #RedLeafCorridor#KogaMasaoMemorialPark#Kawaguchiko#KawaguchikoFreeTravel#MountFuji#MountFujiFreeTravel#KawaguchikoTravel#MountFujiTravel#TokyoTravel#TokyoFreeTravel#Tokyo#JapanTravel#JapanFreeTravel#Japan#JapanSelf-Driving#Japan Self-driving tour #Japan car rental #Tokyo self-driving #Tokyo self-driving tour #Tokyo car rental #Kawaguchiko self-driving #Kawaguchiko self-driving tour #Kawaguchiko car rental #Fuji Mountain self-driving #Fuji Mountain self-driving tour #Fuji Mountain car rental #followmetoTokyo #followmetoJapan #Register for January Hotel Test Sleeper 2025

You can get the best view of Mt. Fuji from Oishi Park Cafe , there’s an ice cream shop which offers delicious and unique ice cream flavours . Muscat and Grape flavours are their best sellers

There isn't much you can do at Fuji Remote Worship, but because you can see the Torii and Mount Fuji in the same place, it still attracts many people. When there are a lot of people, you have to queue for about an hour before you can take photos, and the time limit is 3 minutes. To avoid the crowds, we left La Vista at around 7:00 in the morning. I did some research before setting off and knew that the road up the mountain was very narrow. If you encounter an oncoming car, move backward to let the other car pass. In addition, there are only a few parking spaces on the mountain, and there may be no parking space. Since I don’t have good driving skills, I parked the car in the parking lot of Zuohekou Sengen Shrine⛩️ and walked up the mountain for about 25 minutes. The early bird catches the worm. There were no tourists in front of the Torii when we arrived. So after paying 200 yen in cooperation fee, you can spend a lot of time taking photos until you are satisfied! After taking the photos, I bought beautiful goshuin and Mount Fuji stamps at a small shop as souvenirs. ——— Mount Fuji Distant Worship Site (Tenku no Torii) 📬 〒401-0304 Yamanashi Prefecture Minamitsuru County Fujikawaguchiko Town Kawaguchi 1119-2 #Fujisanyaobaisuo#Kawaguchiko#Kawaguchikofreetravel#Fujisan#Fujisanfreetravel#Kawaguchikotravel#Fujisantravel#Tokyotravel#Tokyofreetravel#Tokyo#Japantravel#Japanfreetravel#Japan#Japanself-driving#Japanself-drivingtour#Japan car rental#tokyo self-driving#tokyo self-driving tour#tokyo car rental#kawaguchiko self-driving#kawaguchiko self-driving tour#kawaguchiko car rental#mt. fuji self-driving#mt. fuji self-driving tour#mt. fuji car rental #Register for January Hotel Test Sleeper 2025

Unfortunately covered by clouds but food was delicious around the area. #japan #fuji-san #yamanakako

Stumbled into this cute little cafe at roadside around area of Tenku no Torii, in the direction towards the waterfall. Ordered a cup of coffee, sat down for 20 minutes to enjoy the great view and breeze.

I recently visited **Tenku No Torii**, located mid-hill, and it proved to be a fantastic spot for capturing stunning views of Mount Fuji. The addition of the no torii adds a delightful Japanese flair, enhancing the vibrancy of the entire scene. Upon arrival, I noted that there is a small entrance fee of 200 yen per visitor, which is well worth it for the experience. While tripods are not allowed, I found that it was easy to ask someone in the queue to take photos of me and my travel companion, ensuring we could capture the moment without any hassle. One of the highlights was the presence of three no torii gates, which helped cut down on the queuing time, allowing more visitors to enjoy the view without long waits. If you're planning to drive, do keep in mind that parking can be a bit tricky in the area. I arrived at 9:00 AM, and the soft morning sunlight made for beautiful photos. With only two other groups of visitors around, I had plenty of time to find the perfect angles to capture Mount Fuji in all its glory. Overall, Tenku No Torii is a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy breathtaking views and get some memorable photos. It's a wonderful spot that beautifully combines nature and culture.

Mount Fuji's famous sky torii check-in point We arrived at about 9am, so we only had to wait in line for a while. It is said that if you arrive later, you will have to queue up in a long line. There are two torii gates, both facing Mount Fuji. It seems that the only difference is the color of the floor. The location is on a mountain, and driving up the mountain is rugged and dangerous, with many narrow turns. It takes a little distance to reach the mountain by foot, about 30 minutes. You will need to pay to enter upon arrival Adults JPY200 Children under 18 JPY100 There are many Mount Fuji souvenirs and amulets available for purchase. If you want to check in, it is recommended to shoot at 2-3 times the magnification, Mount Fuji will be larger! #GlobalTravel #MountFuji #MountFujiCheck-in Spots #Japan #TokyoAttractions

💞Reasons to Recommend: Japan’s Mt. Fuji is an active volcano about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. Commonly called “Fuji-san,” it’s the country’s tallest peak, at 3,776 meters. A pilgrimage site for centuries, it’s considered one of Japan’s 3 sacred mountains, and summit hikes remain a popular activity. Its iconic profile is the subject of numerous works of art, notably Edo Period prints by Hokusai and Hiroshige.

Mesmerized by the stunning colors of nature at Momiji Tunnel, Lake Kawaguchiko. The vibrant autumn leaves create a breathtaking frame for the majestic Fujisan, making it a picture-perfect moment in the heart of Japan’s fall season A place where nature and tranquility meet, leaving you in awe of its beauty Truly a masterpiece of nature!#voyagevibes #autumn 🍁🏔️🇯🇵

Houtou is the soul food of Yamanashi Prefecture. There is even a saying in Yamanashi, 'It's as good as pumpkin houtou,' used when things go well, showing how beloved this local dish is. It's packed with nutrients and warms you up, making it especially delicious during the cold winter months. Houtou is a representative local dish of Yamanashi. It consists of flat noodles made from wheat flour, combined with ingredients like pumpkin, potatoes, mushrooms, seasonal vegetables, and meat, all simmered in a miso-based broth. It is said that in ancient times, the warlord Takeda Shingen used to eat it during his military campaigns. At home, it is often made in a large pot, but in restaurants, it is typically served in individual iron pots. The noodles are cooked with the flour still on them, which thickens the broth and allows it to cling to the noodles. The chewy texture of the noodles and the rich flavor of the broth make it an addictive dish once you try it.

Kawaguchi Asama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is one of the Asama Shrines found throughout Japan and is registered as a cultural property under the name Asama Shrine. The shrine is situated at the northern base of Mount Fuji, with the Misaka Mountains behind it and facing Mount Fuji across Lake Kawaguchi. It is part of the World Cultural Heritage site 'Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration.' Within the shrine grounds, there are seven cedar trees that are over 1200 years old, with two of them standing side by side known as the 'Marriage Cedars,' which are popular among visitors. The traditional performing art 'Chigo no Mai,' which has been performed to calm the eruptions of Mount Fuji, is designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and is still performed by young girls during the annual festival on April 25th and the Grand Kagura Festival on July 28th.

I visited the Fuji Shibazakura Festival in Yamanashi Prefecture! Here, you can see a vast expanse of shibazakura (moss phlox) in full bloom! Why not visit during the season to see the adorable pink shibazakura? 📍Location: 212 Motosu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0337

#japan #beautiful_japan #swan

Hi everyone! Today I would like to recommend to you a check-in point near Mount Fuji in Tokyo - Nothe Park Yamanakako! This place is beautifully located on the shores of Lake Yamanaka, offering a stunning view of Mount Fuji. Here, you can stroll around the lake, enjoy the scenery of the lake and mountains, and feel the beauty of nature. In addition to the beautiful scenery, there are many fun activities and restaurants here so you can have a great holiday. If you plan to go to Mount Fuji in Tokyo, be sure to arrange time to go for a walk around Lake Yamanaka in the park, you won’t be disappointed! Remember to bring your camera to capture this beautiful moment and share it with your friends on social media. I hope you enjoy this place and I look forward to seeing your photos! #野thepark山中湖 #FUJI山 #TOKYO TRAVEL #TokyoAttractions

Maple Corridor - Breathtaking Beauty🍁🍂 Fuji-kawaguchiko Autumn Festival is held annually to celebrate Fall foliage. The well-known Maple Corridor is a highlight not to be missed. Time to enjoy the amazing Autumn colours with iconic Mt Fuji in the background. One in a lifetime experience. 📍 Maple Corridor, Kawaguchi, Yamanashi Prefecture #maplecorridor #autumnseason #yamanashi #kawaguchiko #japantourguide #tokyoautumntrip

What to play in Japan in May? If you have a trip around Tokyo, I recommend going to see the shibazakura under Mount Fuji. 🌸🌸🌸 Shibazakura is a kind of low-growing herbaceous plant with white and light pink flowers, which look like cherry blossoms growing on the ground. The shibazakura festival at Fuji has 500,000 plants of different varieties, white, pink, and purple form a 'earth' palette. The colorfully paved natural garden Echoes with Mount Fuji not far away. In the garden, you can not only enjoy the flowers, but also have afternoon tea, coffee shops, and tea houses. If you like the comic character Peter Rabbit, you can also stroll in the English garden, and enter the romantic fairy tale world in a second. When to go? The shibazakura festival this year ends on May 28th. It is recommended to check the weather before going, and cloudy days are suggested for a visit in the afternoon. How to go? Outside the 'Kawaguchiko' station, at bus stop No. 7, there is a shuttle bus directly to the scenic area (about 1 bus per hour); At the 'Shinjuku' bus station, you can join a day tour with a direct bus to the scenic area. How to buy tickets? At the 'Kawaguchiko' scenic area bus ticket office, you can buy round-trip bus tickets and admission tickets, priced at 2400 yen per person. What is worth eating? There are some mobile food stalls at the shibazakura festival site, the most recommended is the Peter Rabbit café, with many theme-limited meals, garden latte, bouquet salad, and bunny ear-shaped ice cream are very cute. What is worth buying? The specialty store has many Mount Fuji limited items, including some snacks, pastries, and teas that are exclusive to the shibazakura festival, as well as a lot of Peter Rabbit limited merchandise.

A delicious ramen shop near Mt. Fuji 🗻 Renge Ramen Kawaguchiko is another famous shop in Yamanashi that anyone who comes to see the view of Mt. Fuji must not miss! The shop offers more than ten ramen menus, starting at only 800 yen. There are also snacks and fried food menus, such as tako, karaage chicken, and gyoza. Let me tell you, it's just as delicious as the main menu. Recommended delicious menus 😋 - Tonkatsu Ramen - Shoyu Ramen - Tom Yum Ramen For those who are going to eat ramen, I recommend you to have some space in advance because the ramen here is very generous. You'll be so full that your belly will burst. Plus, when you're full, you'll be able to see the beautiful view of Mt. Fuji right next to you. It's so beautiful that you'll have to stop and take pictures. 📸 #kawaguchiko #traveljapan #yamanashi #travelabroad #famousramenshop

#2024wish Ninjutsu Shinto no Michi Interesting venue where the bus tour put on a buffet lunch. The food was nice but not amazing and that equally describes the gardens you walk through. The ninja escape house is interesting but they let too many people through at once so you get to see other people solve the tricks before it's your turn........ I wish to travel to south korea in 2024....

#2024wish Beautiful view point of mount fuji with the lake! Came on a weekend with awesome sun and clear weather! However it was windy so the lake wasn't clear enough for a reflection.Tranquil and serene. You can spent hours just sit by the lake, drinking coffee and enjoying the view.Here is smaller than Kawaguchiko lake and not crowd people, nice place to stop off to take a photo of Mt.Fuji if you drive a car 🚗. I visited and has a good atmosphere and quiet place. I wish to go back here in 2024

📍Momiji Corridor Lake Kawaguchi 14/11/2023 The Momiji corridor is a special highlight of our Kawaguchiko trip; we visited in mid-November and it was bustling! The colour is sooo gorgeous! There is an event there and many people take pictures; you can walk up from there and find the best spot for your shot. To get there, we take the red line bus and get off at Itchiku Kubota Art Museum. #freehotelstay

Address: Amano-Ya at Yamanaka-Ko, 3213 Hirano, Yamanakako, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0502, Japan Price: 💰💰 Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Nestled in the picturesque Yamanaka-Ko, Amano-Ya proved to be a serendipitous discovery during a tranquil morning cycle—an experience that etched an unforgettable culinary chapter into my journey. Foodie Adventures: 1. Deer Meat Donburi Set with Raw Egg Yolk (10/10): An unexpected delight, the deer meat exhibited a tender succulence, expertly paired with fragrant rice and a creamy egg yolk—a dish finished in mere bites. 2. Big Breakfast Set (10/10): This classic breakfast was executed with excellence—soft, fluffy eggs and buttery toasted bread created a morning symphony. Early risers, beware of swift sellouts. 3. Banana Chocolate Waffles (10/10): Sinful yet delightful, the waffles were soft and fluffy, adorned with sweet bananas, chocolate, and whipped cream. 4. Maple Syrup Waffles (10/10): A heavenly counterpart to the Banana Chocolate Waffles, the sweet syrup perfectly complemented the waffles. Beverage Bliss: 1. Matcha Latte (10/10): Subtly sweet, balancing the meal experience. 2. Hot Chocolate (10/10): Thick, milky, and perfectly indulgent. 3. Hot Honey Lemon (10/10): A sweet and sour concoction, refreshing and soothing—ideal for a slightly sore throat. In conclusion, Amano-Ya stands as a culinary gem in Japan, offering an extraordinary breakfast experience. This gastronomic haven is a pilgrimage every foodie should embark upon when exploring Yamanaka-Ko. Don't miss the chance to savor the culinary marvels crafted by Amano-Ya—an unrivaled delight in the heart of Japan. #hiddengems

📍Oishi Park Cafe Speciality : Soft base ice cream with Mt Fuji Viewing 💵 : 500 yen They say if you hate ice cream, but come here, you must try it. It's their favourite and speciality at Oishi Park Cafe. Their park is large enough for you to play with your children and pet. They have a small palyground and a beautiful autumnal tree. Mt Fuji viewing is also calming and majestic, with many photographers present to capture the moment. #weekendgetaways