A Day Exploring Mount Fuji: Kawaguchiko, Oshino Hakkai, and Iyashi no Sato Nenba Village

If you want to witness the perfect view of Mount Fuji, experience the charm of traditional Japanese mountain villages, and avoid a rushed itinerary, this guide is perfect for you! 📍 Best Starting Point: Tokyo Shinjuku Station Take a highway bus for about 2 hours to "Kawaguchiko Station." After arriving, you can hop on the "Fuji Five Lakes Sightseeing Bus" to visit various attractions. 📷 Recommended Photo Spots and Itinerary 08:30 Depart from Kawaguchiko Station → 09:00 Capture your first reflection shot of Mount Fuji at Kawaguchiko Stroll along the lakeside trails, and for an added highlight, choose a lakeside restaurant or a hotel room with a view. 10:30 Oshino Hakkai The crystal-clear springs and Mount Fuji reflections make this a must-visit for photography enthusiasts. Sunset hours are especially recommended, as cloud formations can add depth to your photos. 13:30 After lunch, head to Iyashi no Sato Nenba Village (near Lake Saiko) This village preserves the traditional architecture of old Japanese houses, offering a serene atmosphere distinct from Shirakawa-go. The backdrop of Mount Fuji’s full silhouette paired with thatched-roof houses makes for stunning photos. 📌 Practical Tips: • Consider staying overnight at a lakeside hotel in Kawaguchiko to enjoy the changing views of Mount Fuji at dawn and dusk. • Renting a car provides more flexibility (alternatively, use Fuji-Q buses and rent bicycles). • The best season is autumn (October–November), when you can see autumn leaves and Mount Fuji with its snow cap.