From Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko: Best Hotels and Sightseeing Tips
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Lake Kawaguchiko, located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, is the closest of the Fuji Five Lakes to Mount Fuji. The lake's surface showcases different seasonal landscapes: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, fiery red maple leaves in autumn, and a snowy white blanket in winter. Each season offers its own unique natural scenery, attracting visitors from around the world. Lake Kawaguchiko is not only one of Japan's renowned tourist destinations but also the best place to enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and fully immerse yourself in nature without traveling too far, a visit to Lake Kawaguchiko is highly recommended.
This article will explain detailed information on transportation to Lake Kawaguchiko from Tokyo, recommend hotels, and introduce tourist attractions and suggested itineraries around the area. Whether you are planning a trip to Japan or looking for hotels near Lake Kawaguchiko, this article will help you plan the perfect visit to Lake Kawaguchiko.
內容
- From Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko
- Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus
- Recommendable Lake Kawaguchiko Hotel
- Sightseeing Tips for Lake Kawaguchiko
From Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko in Japan attracts visitors not only with its natural beauty but also with its convenient transportation options, making it a popular tourist destination. Traveling from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko is very easy, whether you choose public transportation or rent a car, catering to various types of travelers. Below is a detailed guide on how to get to Lake Kawaguchiko from Tokyo and how to use public transportation within the Lake Kawaguchiko area.
Highway Bus
If you're concerned about getting lost or taking the wrong train when transferring, it's recommended to take a direct highway bus from Tokyo Station to Lake Kawaguchiko. The journey takes about 2.5 hours with no transfers. However, please note that during Japan's national holidays or peak tourist seasons, there might be traffic jams, so it's wise to allow extra travel time.
Book bus tickets from Tokyo Station to Lake Kawaguchiko
Train
The most convenient way to get to Lake Kawaguchiko from Tokyo is by train. From either Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station, take the JR Chuo Line directly to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujikyu Line to Kawaguchiko Station. The total travel time is about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Another option is to take the limited express train "Fuji Excursion" directly from Shinjuku Station, which takes about 1 hour and 53 minutes. This option eliminates the need for transfers and avoids potential traffic jams during peak seasons. However, the downside is the higher fare and limited number of trains, with only four round trips per day. Due to its popularity, it's advisable to book tickets in advance.
Book tickets for the "Fuji Excursion" train
Recommended Website to Book Japanese Train Tickets
The Klook website offers a user-friendly English interface and supports various payment methods. Through the Klook website, you can easily book various Japanese train tickets, including the Shinkansen, Fuji Excursion, JR Pass, JR Tokyo Wide Pass, and Airport Express. Additionally, you can also pre-order tickets up to 90 days in advance, giving you more time to plan your trip to Lake Kawaguchiko. All Japanese train tickets sold on the Klook website come with reserved seats. You can scan the QR code to receive your physical tickets, saving you the hassle of queuing at Japanese train stations to reserve seats. It’s very convenient.
Rental Car
For those who prefer a more flexible and independent trip, renting a car is a great option. Driving from Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchiko takes about 2 hours. Renting a car not only allows you to enjoy the scenic route but also provides more flexibility in your itinerary once you reach Lake Kawaguchiko, without having to rely on crowded public transportation.
A large and reputable car rental website in Japan. The website allows you to choose English at the top right corner, making it convenient for tourists to book a rental car. Service counters are available at major airports across Japan, providing convenient car pick-up procedures, so you can pick up your car directly at the airport upon arrival in Japan. The selection of rental cars is extensive, ranging from compact cars and sports cars to luxury vehicles, catering to various needs and budgets. The rental prices are reasonable, and insurance and compensation plans are also available. Additionally, there is a 24-hour English emergency hotline service. In case of car trouble, traffic accidents, or other emergencies, you can call for immediate assistance.
Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus
The Lake Kawaguchiko sightseeing bus is a convenient way to explore the major attractions around the Fuji Five Lakes area, including Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Saiko, Lake Shoji, Lake Motosu, and Lake Yamanaka. You can purchase a One Day Pass or Two Day Pass at the bus ticket office at Kawaguchiko Station. The One Day Pass allows unlimited rides on all routes for the day, making it both economical and convenient. Below is a brief description of the sightseeing bus routes.
Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus (Red Line)
Starting from Kawaguchiko Station, the bus travels along the eastern side of Lake Kawaguchiko, stopping at major attractions such as the Kawaguchiko Herb Hall, the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, the Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat, the Kawaguchiko Museum of Art, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, the Kawaguchiko Muse Museum (Ichiku Kubota Art Museum), and the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center. Buses depart every 15 minutes from 9:00 AM to 5:45 PM.
Lake Saiko Sightseeing Bus (Green Line)
Starting from Kawaguchiko Station, the bus travels along the southern side of Lake Kawaguchiko, stopping at major attractions such as the Saiko Bat Cave, Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, Fugaku Wind Cave, Ryugu Cave, and Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine. Buses depart every hour from 9:10 AM to 4:10 PM.
Narusawa, Shoji, Motosu Sightseeing Bus (Blue Line)
Starting from Kawaguchiko Station, the bus travels along the southern side of Lake Kawaguchiko, stopping at major attractions such as the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center, Higashi Koiji, Narusawa Ice Cave, and Fugaku Wind Cave, before reaching Lake Shoji. It then continues south to its final stop at Lake Motosu. There are five round trips daily from 9:35 AM to 4:45 PM.
Fujiyoshida, Oshino, Yamanakako Sightseeing Bus (Fujikko-go)
Starting from Kawaguchiko Station, there are clockwise and counterclockwise routes. The bus stops at attractions such as Fuji-Q Highland, Mt. Fuji Station, Oshino Hakkai, Hana-no-Miyako Park, and Benifuji-no-Yu. The clockwise route travels along the northern shore of Lake Yamanaka and then loops back via the southern shore to Benifuji-no-Yu. The counterclockwise route travels along the southern shore of Lake Yamanaka and then loops back via the northern shore to Benifuji-no-Yu. Buses depart approximately every 60 minutes from 6:50 AM to 5:15 PM, with 11 trips daily.
Visit Fujikyu Bus
Check the Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus Schedule
Recommendable Taxi Apps in Japan
Japan's largest taxi-hailing app. It offers both Japanese and English interfaces, making it easy to hail a taxi in Japan even if you don't speak Japanese. After installing the app for free, simply enter your name and phone number to receive a verification code. Once you complete the verification process, you can start using the app to hail taxis. When you open the app, move the location on the map to your desired pick-up point and tap "ここで乗る" (Ride Here). The app will display available taxis nearby. Then, tap "タクシーを呼ぶ" (Call a Taxi) to complete the hailing process. After the process is complete, the estimated arrival time of the taxi will be displayed, and you'll receive a notification when it arrives.
Downloading the app and using it to hail taxis is free, but please note that some taxi companies may charge service fees or pick-up charges, so be sure to check the fee details when hailing a taxi. You can pay the fare via credit card through the app, or you can choose to pay cash directly to the driver upon arrival. Additionally, there is a paid service called "AI Reservation," which allows you to book a taxi from 15 minutes up to 7 days in advance. The GO Japan taxi-hailing app covers a wide area, has many partnered taxi companies, and offers the convenience of credit card payments, eliminating the need to hail a taxi on the street, making it extremely user-friendly.
Recommendable Lake Kawaguchiko Hotel
Affordable Hotel in Lake Kawaguchiko
Dot Hostel＆Bar（ドットホステル アンド バー）
"Dot Hostel＆Bar" is a youth hostel that offers great value for money. It is just a 2-minute walk from Kawaguchiko's "Natural Living Center." The hostel offers seven types of rooms, including double rooms, suites for 2 to 4 people, family rooms for 4 to 8 people, and single bunk beds (shared bathroom), meeting a variety of accommodation needs. Guests can also reserve barbecue equipment in advance, allowing them to enjoy a barbecue on the balcony during their stay.
"Dot Hostel＆Bar" also offers reservations for a canoeing experience on Lake Kawaguchi, with a coach accompanying you throughout the activity, so even first-time participants can join with confidence. Additionally, guests can book a four-wheel all-terrain vehicle (ATV) ride through the forests of Mt. Fuji.
Affordable Hotel in Lake Kawaguchiko
Kawaguchiko Station INN（河口湖ステーションイン）
Located diagonally across from Kawaguchiko Station, it’s only an 8-minute walk to Lake Kawaguchiko. The public bath on the fourth floor offers a spectacular view of Mount Fuji, perfect for soothing your travel fatigue. The rooms do not have private bathrooms; instead, shared facilities are available, including individual shower rooms and a public bath. The lounge offers free use of computers, coffee, and tea. The Japanese-style rooms can accommodate 2 to 6 people, making it ideal for family trips or outings with friends. There are convenience stores and restaurants nearby, making it very convenient. It is the most affordable accommodation near Lake Kawaguchiko, recommended for budget-conscious travelers.
Affordable Hotel in Lake Kawaguchiko
Kawaguchiko HAOSTAY
（河口湖 HAOSTAY）
Located at the foot of Mount Fuji, some rooms and the rooftop offer breathtaking views of both Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. One of the highlights of the hotel is the charming watermelon-themed quadruple room, which is perfect for families with children. During the fireworks festivals held in February and August, you can enjoy the dazzling display up close from the rooftop. The hotel staff speaks Japanese, Chinese, and English, so there's no need to worry about language barriers. While dinner is not provided, a complimentary breakfast is available, with a choice of either sandwiches or a traditional Japanese breakfast. The hotel also offers vending machines, a microwave, and free Wi-Fi. Bicycle rentals are available, so you can enjoy a leisurely ride around Lake Kawaguchi during your stay. For guests staying several days, the self-service coin-operated laundry is especially convenient, allowing you to wash clothes and travel light. The hotel offers a variety of room sizes, from triples to rooms that accommodate up to 12 people, making it an excellent choice for small families, large families, or groups of friends traveling together. Kawaguchiko HAOSTAY is an ideal accommodation for a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Mid-range Hotel in Lake Kawaguchiko
Hotel Regina Kawaguchiko
（ホテルレジーナ河口湖）
All rooms offer direct, unobstructed views of Mount Fuji, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery right from your room’s balcony. The rooftop rooms provide an even more stunning experience, with a 180-degree panoramic view of the majestic Mount Fuji and the expansive Aokigahara Forest. The hotel’s meals are crafted by renowned chefs from famous Japanese restaurants, serving traditional Japanese cuisine as well as authentic kaiseki meals. For breakfast, you can indulge in a buffet featuring over 40 types of both Japanese and Western dishes. The hotel is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Kawaguchiko Station and 5 minutes from Fuji-Q Highland Station. It’s also only a 45-minute drive to Mount Fuji’s 5th Station, making this hotel an ideal choice for sightseeing in the Lake Kawaguchi area. Additionally, the hotel features a table tennis room and a tennis court, so you won’t have to worry about being bored in the evenings.
Mid-range Hotel in Lake Kawaguchiko
HOTEL MYSTAYS Fuji Onsen Resort
（ホテルマイステイズ富士山 展望温泉）
The hotel offers rooms with direct views of Mount Fuji, allowing guests to admire the mountain from their rooms. From the hotel's rooftop natural hot spring bath, you can also enjoy a view of Mount Fuji. It's about a 10-minute drive to Arakurayama Sengen Park, and just one stop to Kawaguchiko on the Fujikyu Railway. Even better, Fuji-Q Highland is only a 5-minute walk from the hotel, making Hotel MyStays Fuji Onsen Resort an excellent choice for those planning to visit Fuji-Q Highland. The rooms are small but very clean and modern. The "Mount Fuji View Family Room" can accommodate up to 4 people, making it perfect for families with children, couples, and small groups. Some rooms also offer views of Mount Fuji.
Luxury Onsen Ryokan in Lake Kawaguchiko
Ubuya（河口湖旅館うぶや）
At "Ubuya" by Lake Kawaguchi, you can enjoy a full view of Mt. Fuji. The inn features a dedicated photography studio that provides colorful balloons and costumes for guests celebrating special occasions, such as a 60th birthday or wedding anniversary. The inn has large public baths with expansive windows, outdoor baths, lying down baths, and sitting baths. While relaxing in the Mt. Fuji Kawaguchiko hot springs, you can enjoy the ever-changing views of Mt. Fuji and the beautiful scenery of Lake Kawaguchi. All guest rooms offer views of both the lake and the mountains, with various options available, including Japanese-style rooms with beds and mixed Japanese-Western rooms with private outdoor baths. For dinner, guests can choose from a selection of seasonal vegetable and seafood tempura, shabu-shabu, and beef kaiseki cuisine. The inn is about a 10-minute drive from Kawaguchiko Station, just the right distance for a comfortable trip.
Luxury Onsen Ryokan in Lake Kawaguchiko
SHUHOUKAKU KOGETSU（秀峰閣湖月）
With its exceptional location, this hotel offers unobstructed views of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji. All rooms face Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji, providing stunning scenery. Although the prices are on the higher side, the superior service and excellent meals make the rooms sell out quickly. If you find a room you like, it’s recommended to book it promptly. The men's and women's large baths and open-air hot springs directly face Lake Kawaguchiko, offering magnificent views of Mount Fuji and the lake. Foot baths are also available, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their time at the hotel. It’s a 5-minute walk from the hotel to the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, the Kawaguchiko Museum of Art, and the Kawaguchiko Monkey Theater, making it convenient for sightseeing.
Sightseeing Tips for Lake Kawaguchiko
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
The cable car spans 460 meters, offering a stunning view of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko from the summit of Tenjozan. Taking the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway to the observation deck at the top, you can enjoy breathtaking scenery. Various events based on local folklore are held periodically. At the summit, there is a small Fujisan Rabbit Shrine, and you can also relax at the raccoon-themed café, where you can savor roasted soy sauce dumplings mentioned in folklore.
Don't miss the Bell of Tenjo. The Bell of Tenjo is set within a heart-shaped frame, and you can get a clear view of Mount Fuji from here on clear days. Two people can stand on either side of the bell and pull the rope together to ring it, wishing not only for a successful romance but also for other wishes to come true.
Reserve Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway Ticket
Arakurayama Sengen Park
Arakurayama Sengen Park offers beautiful scenery, including the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine and a spectacular five-story pagoda, with a magnificent view of Mount Fuji in the distance. Visiting during the cherry blossom season allows you to capture three of Japan's iconic landscapes simultaneously. To get there, take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station, a 40-minute ride, then transfer to the Fujikyuko Line to Shimoyoshida Station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine.
Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is renowned for its scenic view that combines the Chureito Pagoda, torii gate, and Mount Fuji, making it one of the popular attractions in the Lake Kawaguchiko area. The Chureito Pagoda was built to honor the spirits who sacrificed their lives for Japan. To take close-up photos, you need to climb 398 steps, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes to reach the observation deck. Climbing these steps can be challenging for visitors with young children or elderly companions.
Oshino Hakkai
Oshino Hakkai consists of eight crystal-clear ponds formed from the meltwater of Mount Fuji, which filters through the ground before surfacing. These ponds are connected by charming pathways and wooden bridges, and are part of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Site. The thatched roofs of Oshino Village cottages and the surrounding natural scenery are blanketed with thick snow in winter, creating a tranquil snow country landscape. The view of Mount Fuji from Oshino Hakkai is recognized as one of the top 100 views of Mount Fuji in the Kanto region. During sunrise or sunset, the sun aligns perfectly with the summit of Mount Fuji, appearing as if it is being lifted by the crater. This "Diamond Fuji" phenomenon can only be seen in winter.
Fuji-Q Highland
Located at the foot of Mount Fuji in Japan, the world-class Fuji-Q Highland offers thrilling rides that will keep you screaming non-stop. It also features the famous haunted house, "Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear - Fujikyu General Hospital," which spans 900 meters and is considered one of the largest and scariest haunted houses in the world. Only those with a strong heart dare to challenge the haunted house at Fuji-Q Highland. In addition to the adrenaline-pumping rides, Fuji-Q Highland also has Thomas Land, which offers a variety of family-friendly attractions suitable for all ages.
