Mount Fuji Area

Introduction – A Local’s Guide to Yamanakako, the Most Lively of the Fuji Five Lakes Lake Yamanakako is the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and one of the best for outdoor activities.On my recent visit, I cycled around the lake, stayed overnight at a local cottage called Perhe Yamanakako, and relaxed in an onsen […]

Introduction Lake Shoji may be the smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes, but it’s also one of the most peaceful.I visited early in the morning when the air was still and Mt. Fuji reflected perfectly on the lake’s surface — it felt almost unreal.Unlike the other lakes, Shoji has no crowds or big cafés, just

Introduction Lake Motosu is one of my favorite places around Mt. Fuji — less crowded, more scenic, and full of hidden charm.On this trip, I hiked up to the Nakanokura Pass, the exact spot that appears on Japan’s 1,000 yen bill, and the view was breathtaking.After the hike, I stopped by a small local restaurant