Mount Fuji is more than just Japan’s most famous peak. Rising 3,776 meters, this nearly symmetrical volcano symbolizes the country’s beauty and cultural heritage. While its majestic slopes draw admiration, the surrounding areas offer a wealth of attractions for adventure seekers, history buffs, and those craving tranquility. From stunning lakes and ancient shrines to hot springs and cultural museums, here are 17 destinations you shouldn’t miss when visiting Mount Fuji.
1. Chureito Pagoda
One of Japan’s most photographed landmarks, Chureito Pagoda provides a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji. Set within the Arakura Sengen Shrine complex, this five-story pagoda looks stunning year-round, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage framing the mountain.
2. Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko)
Among the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Kawaguchi is the most accessible and offers postcard-perfect reflections of Mount Fuji. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, scenic walks, or explore the nearby Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum for a unique blend of nature and music.
3. Hakone Open-Air Museum
Art lovers will find inspiration at the Hakone Open-Air Museum. Set amidst lush mountains, the museum features modern sculptures, interactive exhibits, and a dedicated Picasso Pavilion, all complemented by the surrounding natural beauty.
4. Oshino Hakkai
This charming village, home to eight crystal-clear ponds fed by Mount Fuji’s melted snow, exudes old-world charm. Traditional thatched-roof houses and wooden water wheels add to its picturesque appeal, making it a favorite for photographers and cultural enthusiasts.
5. Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine
Dedicated to Mount Fuji’s guardian deity, this historic shrine has been a spiritual site for over a thousand years. Climbers often visit to seek blessings before their ascent, reinforcing the deep cultural ties between Mount Fuji and Japan’s heritage.
6. Fuji-Q Highland
Adrenaline junkies flock to Fuji-Q Highland for its record-breaking roller coasters. With Mount Fuji towering in the background, this amusement park combines thrilling rides with breathtaking views.
7. Aokigahara Forest
Known as the Sea of Trees, Aokigahara Forest is a dense and mysterious woodland at Mount Fuji’s base. While legends surround its eerie silence, the forest attracts nature lovers with its fascinating lava caves and hiking trails.
8. Shiraito Falls
Fed by Mount Fuji’s melted snow, Shiraito Falls captivates visitors with its delicate, thread-like streams cascading over cliffs. This natural wonder offers a serene, dreamlike atmosphere.
9. Gotemba Premium Outlets
Shoppers looking for designer brands at discounted prices will love Gotemba Premium Outlets. The mall, set against the backdrop of Mount Fuji, makes retail therapy even more rewarding.
10. Iyashi no Sato (Healing Village)
This reconstructed Edo-period village sits at Mount Fuji’s foothills, featuring traditional thatched-roof houses turned into museums, craft workshops, and souvenir shops. It’s a perfect spot to experience Japan’s past.
11. Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako)
The largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Yamanaka offers outdoor activities like canoeing, fishing, and cycling. In winter, migrating swans gather here, earning it the nickname “Swan Lake.”
12. Fuji Shibazakura Festival
Every spring, over 800,000 pink moss phlox flowers bloom at the base of Mount Fuji, creating a stunning contrast against the snow-capped peak. The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is a must-see seasonal spectacle.
13. Narusawa Ice Cave & Fugaku Wind Cave
These lava-formed caves offer an underground adventure. Narusawa Ice Cave remains frozen year-round, while Fugaku Wind Cave features a tunnel-like structure historically used as a natural refrigerator.
14. Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
For the best aerial views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, take a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway. The breathtaking scenery makes it a dream location for photographers.
15. Hoto Fudo Restaurant
No visit to Mount Fuji is complete without trying Hoto, a hearty noodle soup. Hoto Fudo serves this local delicacy, featuring thick wheat noodles in a rich miso-based broth with fresh vegetables.
16. Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba
Once destroyed by a landslide, this village has been restored into a cultural heritage site. Visitors can dress in samurai armor or kimono, explore traditional crafts, and immerse themselves in local history.
17. Mishima Skywalk
Japan’s longest suspension bridge, Mishima Skywalk, offers stunning panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the surrounding forests. At 400 meters long, it provides a thrilling yet scenic experience.
Beyond the Peak: Exploring Mount Fuji’s Wonders
Mount Fuji is more than a majestic mountain—it’s a gateway to a diverse range of unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural insights, or relaxation, these 17 destinations will complete your journey. Pack your bags and explore beyond the peak!
