The best things to do around Mt Fuji in 2026 are the view from Chureito Pagoda, a walk around Lake Kawaguchiko and Oishi Park, the Mt Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, the spring-fed ponds of Oshino Hakkai and the roller coasters of Fuji-Q Highland. In July and August, climbers tackle the summit trails, with a fee and booking on the Yamanashi side.
The Fuji Five Lakes area, around Kawaguchiko, is about two hours from Shinjuku by highway bus or by train via Otsuki. Fuji is often hidden by cloud, so mornings in autumn and winter give the best chance of a clear view.
The postcard view of a pagoda in front of Fuji.
The five-story Chureito Pagoda sits on a hillside above Fujiyoshida, framing Mt Fuji in the classic photograph, especially with cherry blossoms in April.
It is reached by about 400 steps.
Good to know: Go at sunrise to beat the crowds.
3353-1 Arakura, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011
The most popular of the Fuji Five Lakes.
Kawaguchiko is the main base for the Fuji area, with lakeside paths, cruises, museums and onsen hotels facing the mountain.
Its north shore has the best views.
Good to know: Use the sightseeing buses that loop the lake.
Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301
Lakeside flower gardens with Fuji views.
Oishi Park, on Kawaguchiko's north shore, has seasonal flowers, including lavender in summer and red kochia in autumn, in front of Mt Fuji.
It is free.
Good to know: Visit in late June to July for lavender.
2585 Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0305
A short ropeway to a Fuji viewpoint over the lake.
The Mt Fuji Panoramic Ropeway (Kachi Kachi Ropeway) climbs Mt Tenjo from the lakeshore to a deck with views of Fuji and the lake.
It takes about three minutes.
Good to know: Ride up in the morning before clouds build.
1163-1 Azagawa, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0303
Clear spring-fed ponds in a traditional village.
Oshino Hakkai is a village with eight crystal-clear ponds fed by Fuji's snowmelt, with thatched houses and views of the mountain.
It is busy with tour buses at midday.
Good to know: Go early or late in the day.
Shibokusa, Oshino, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0511
Record-breaking roller coasters with Fuji views.
Fuji-Q Highland is a theme park famous for extreme roller coasters, a haunted hospital attraction and kids' areas themed on Thomas the Tank Engine.
The mountain looms over the rides.
Good to know: Buy a pass for unlimited rides.
5-6-1 Shinnishihara, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0017
A restored village of thatched farmhouses.
Iyashi-no-Sato is a restored village of thatched farmhouses by Lake Saiko, housing craft shops and small museums, with Fuji behind.
It is quieter than Kawaguchiko.
Good to know: Rent a kimono for photos.
2710 Saiko Nenba, Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi 401-0332
The most popular route to the summit.
The Yoshida Trail from the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station is the most popular route up Mt Fuji, open roughly July to early September.
Climbers usually overnight in a mountain hut to reach the summit for sunrise.
Good to know: Book the trail and a hut ahead; check Yamanashi's official climbing site for fees and rules.
Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, Narusawa, Yamanashi 401-0320
Chureito Pagoda in Fujiyoshida and the north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, including Oishi Park, are the classic views.
Clear views are most likely on cold mornings from late autumn to early spring. Summer is often hazy.
Yes, during the official season, roughly July to early September. The Yamanashi side charges a fee and requires advance booking for the Yoshida Trail; check current rules.
Highway buses run from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal in about two hours; trains run via Otsuki on the Fujikyu line.
It can be, but staying overnight gives you the morning views.