How to Get to Mount Fuji on a Budget & Best Sakura Fuji Spots

If you’re a fan of the breathtaking beauty of cherry blossoms, then look no further than Fuji Five Lakes near Mount Fuji! Whether it’s the sight of sakura blooming along the lakes or against the magnificent Mount Fuji backdrop, this destination is guaranteed to steal your heart. In this article, Gother will introduce you to the best spots for experiencing the full bloom of sakura in Fuji Five Lakes, along with various travel tips to ensure your trip is as enjoyable and memorable as possible. No matter how you choose to travel, you'll get a unique and stunning view of sakura at Fuji!

Fuji Five Lakes consists of five beautiful lakes around Mount Fuji, each offering a unique atmosphere. If you want to fully experience the beauty of sakura near Mount Fuji, make sure to visit these lakes!

Kawaguchiko Lake is one of the most famous spots for viewing cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji. Here, you can enjoy sakura from all angles—whether you're strolling along the lake or taking a boat tour, where you’ll feel like you’re in a painting! Oishi Park, a well-maintained cherry blossom garden, offers the perfect view of sakura and Fuji together. Getting there is easy by bus from Kawaguchiko Station (about 15-20 minutes). For added convenience, you can also rent a car to enjoy the scenic route.

Located on the northwest side of Mount Fuji, Saiko Lake offers a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by untouched nature. The open areas around the lake provide fantastic opportunities to view sakura against the mountain backdrop. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in nature, this is a must-visit. You can take a bus from Kawaguchiko Station (about 20-30 minutes) or rent a bike to cycle around the lake.

Yamanakako Lake, the largest of the five lakes, offers the most spectacular views of both sakura and Mount Fuji up close. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with activities like cherry blossom viewing, boating, and hiking, allows you to fully experience the serenity of nature. You can easily reach Yamanakako Lake from Kawaguchiko Station by bus or car.

Shoji Lake is the smallest of the five lakes, yet its beauty is hidden in its quiet charm. The unique view of sakura with Mount Fuji in the distance makes this a special spot to visit. The lake remains largely undeveloped, allowing visitors to truly feel like they’ve escaped the crowds. Shoji Lake is accessible by bus from Kawaguchiko Station (about 20-30 minutes), or you can rent a car to experience the beauty at your own pace.

Motosu Lake offers a distinct view of sakura and Mount Fuji, and because it's less crowded, it’s perfect for those seeking peace and quiet. The scenery here is especially stunning when the sakura is in full bloom. You can get to Motosu Lake by bus from Kawaguchiko Station or rent a car to explore the area.

The ideal time to see sakura at Fuji is from late March to early April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. This is when the delicate pink hues of the sakura trees cover Mount Fuji and the surrounding lakes, creating an unforgettable view. If you want to witness sakura in its full glory, this is the perfect time to travel!

Boat Rides: Take a relaxing boat ride across the lakes, surrounded by sakura blossoms. It’s an enchanting way to experience the peacefulness and beauty of the area, all while gazing at Mount Fuji.

Hiking: Enjoy the peace and quiet as you hike through the trails of Fuji Five Lakes, soaking in the sights of sakura blossoms in full bloom. The view of the lakes and Mount Fuji will make your hike even more enjoyable.

Photography: Fuji Five Lakes is a paradise for photographers, especially for capturing sakura reflecting in the lakes with Mount Fuji in the background. It’s the perfect spot to snap some unforgettable shots.

Local Food: After taking in the cherry blossoms, don't miss out on sampling delicious local Japanese dishes like sushi, ramen, and fresh seafood at restaurants around the lakes. Enjoy a cup of tea while soaking in the view of the sakura.

Visit Shrines: Be sure to visit Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while admiring the sakura in bloom. For stunning panoramic views of Mount Fuji, head to Chureito Pagoda near Kawaguchiko Lake, where you'll witness the breathtaking sight of Mount Fuji framed by sakura blossoms.

Fuji Five Lakes is an all-year-round destination, but visiting during the sakura season makes for a truly magical experience!

There are various ways to get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo or nearby areas, depending on your preferences. No matter which option you choose, you’ll be treated to scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere!

If you have a JR Pass or Metro Pass, here’s how to get to Mount Fuji from Tokyo:

You can also take a bus from Shinjuku Station to Kawaguchiko Station, which takes about 3-4 hours. During cherry blossom season, make sure to book your seat in advance, as the buses can get quite full.

Driving is a great option if you want flexibility and the ability to stop along the way. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Tokyo to Fuji Five Lakes via the Chuo Expressway or Kofu-Showa IC. Both routes offer stunning views of the surrounding area, and the roads are easy to navigate. If you’re looking for a reliable rental car to make your trip more comfortable, you can easily book a rental car through Gother for a hassle-free experience!

During cherry blossom season, Fuji Five Lakes can get crowded, especially on weekends. To avoid the crowds, we recommend traveling early in the morning or afternoon. Prepare for cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings, and wear comfortable clothing for walking. If you plan to do outdoor activities like boating, don’t forget sunscreen and water.

Seeing sakura at Fuji Five Lakes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with stunning cherry blossoms and beautiful landscapes. If you’re ready to experience the beauty of sakura and Mount Fuji, don’t forget to check out the great deals on flights, accommodations, and activities at Gother to make your trip even more unforgettable!

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