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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Kawaguchi.
Nestled beside the magnificent Mount Fuji, Kawaguchi is a land of enchantment and adventure waiting to be discovered.
From scenic bike rides to breathtaking hikes, and from tranquil boat rides to cultural immersions, Kawaguchi offers a world of wonder for every type of traveler.
Join us as we unveil the top things to do in Kawaguchi and let the magic unfold!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Kawaguchi:
1. Kawaguchiko Lake
Kawaguchiko Lake is one of the five beautiful lakes that surround Mount Fuji in Japan.
It is the most easily accessible of the five, and it is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the stunning views of the mountain.
What to see or do: Take a boat tour around the lake and enjoy the breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
Visit the Oishi Park, which is famous for its cherry blossoms during spring, and the Maple corridor, which turns into a brilliant red during autumn.
Take a ride on the Kachi Kachi Ropeway for a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding area.
Don’t miss: The Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, which is home to a collection of antique music boxes. The Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, where you can admire beautiful kimono designs by artist Itchiku Kubota.
Insider travel tips: Visit Kawaguchiko Lake during the off-season to avoid crowds of tourists.
Try to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji early in the morning or late in the evening when the weather is clear.
Don’t forget to try the local dish, Hoto noodles, which is a hearty and delicious soup dish made with flat noodles and vegetables.
2. Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain and is considered a sacred site by locals and visitors alike. It is situated in the town of Kawaguchi in Yamanashi Prefecture.
What to see or do: – Climb to the summit of Mount Fuji and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the mountains.
Don’t miss: – The Fujikyu Highland amusement park, which offers rides with stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Insider travel tips: – Climb during the official climbing season from July to September when the weather is most stable and access to facilities is most available.
3. Aokigahara Forest
Aokigahara Forest is a dense forest located at the northwest base of Mount Fuji in Japan. Spread across 35 square kilometers, it is known for being the world’s second most popular suicide location.
What to see or do: The forest offers hiking trails that lead to scenic spots with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
Some visitors come for the eerie beauty of the forest, while others come to pay their respects to the many souls lost to suicide in this haunting location.
Don’t miss: The Narusawa Ice Cave located at the base of the forest is a must-see natural wonder. The ice formations inside the cave glitter in the light, creating a surreal atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should always stay on the designated hiking trails and avoid venturing into the forest without a guide.
Additionally, it is important to remember that the forest holds great cultural significance for the locals and should be treated with respect.
4. Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine
Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Kawaguchiko, Japan, located at the base of Mount Fuji.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the large torii gate and walk through the shrine’s traditional entrance. The shrine is surrounded by a forest and there are several walking paths nearby.
Don’t miss: The main hall of the shrine has a beautiful wooden structure and ornate decoration. You can also see a traditional Japanese rock garden and a small pond.
Insider travel tips: – Best time to visit is during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season.
5. Oishi Park
A picturesque park located on the eastern shore of Kawaguchi Lake, in the Fuji Five Lakes region of Japan.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll around the park and enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji. Take a boat ride on Kawaguchi Lake, or hike on one of the nearby trails.
Visit the on-site gallery showcasing artworks by local artists.
Don’t miss: The iconic red pagoda, one of the most photographed landmarks in the area.
Also, be sure to visit during cherry blossom season or in autumn when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and yellow.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it by the lake.
Consider visiting during the annual Fuji Shibazakura Festival held nearby, where thousands of pink and white shibazakura flowers are in full bloom.
6. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum
The Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum is a music museum located in the scenic Lake Kawaguchi region of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the beautiful gardens and admire the collection of antique music boxes and automated instruments.
Don’t miss: The highlight of this museum is the daily musical performances, featuring live musicians playing a range of traditional and modern musical instruments.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the performance schedule ahead of time. Also, keep in mind that the museum can get crowded during peak tourist seasons.
Consider visiting during the off-season for a more relaxed experience.
7. Fugaku Wind Cave
Fugaku Wind Cave is a natural cave located at the foot of Mount Fuji in Kawaguchi, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the unique and mysterious cave that was formed by lava flows from the eruption of Mount Fuji. The cave is approximately 150 meters long and has a constant temperature of 3 degrees Celsius year-round.
Don’t miss: Be sure to see the stunning ice formations inside the cave that are created by the natural flow of water. Visitors can also see a small shrine that was built within the cave.
Insider travel tips: Wear warm clothing and sturdy shoes as the cave can be slippery and cold. It is also recommended to bring a flashlight for better visibility.
There are no facilities inside the cave, so visitors should use the restroom and grab snacks before entering.
8. Saiko Iyashino-Sato Nenba
A restored traditional Japanese village turned open-air museum that highlights rural life in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the preserved thatched-roof houses, see traditional performances such as indigo dyeing and scarecrow making, and participate in workshops to make Japanese crafts like bamboo baskets and pottery.
Don’t miss: The chance to try on a traditional Japanese garment and take a photo in front of the stunning views of Mt.
Fuji.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the schedule for traditional performances and plan your visit accordingly. Additionally, bring cash as some of the workshops do not accept credit cards.
Lastly, if possible, consider visiting during the autumn months when the leaves are changing colors for a picturesque experience.
9. Kachi Kachi Ropeway
Scenic cable car ride in Kawaguchi that offers breathtaking views of Lake Kawaguchi and Mount Fuji.
What to see or do: Enjoy panoramic views of the serene Lake Kawaguchi and the iconic Mount Fuji while taking a leisurely cable car ride to the top.
The ropeway spans 400 meters and takes you up to 1,075 meters above the sea level.
Don’t miss: Sunset views from the top of the ropeway are absolutely stunning. You also get to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the four seasons from the observation deck.
Insider travel tips: It can get extremely crowded during peak seasons, so it’s best to avoid weekends and go early in the morning. We recommend carrying a camera and wearing warm clothes as it can get chilly at the top.
For an elevated experience, book a private chartered cabin or a night-time illumination ride.
10. Fuji-Q Highland
Fuji-Q Highland is a popular amusement park located in Kawaguchi, Japan, known for its thrilling rides and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
What to see or do: Take a ride on the park’s famous roller coaster, Fujiyama, which stands at a height of 79 meters and reaches speeds of up to 130 km/hr.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the Fujiyama Onsen hot springs, located inside the park, where you can relax and soak in traditional Japanese baths after a long day of rides.
Insider travel tips: Avoid visiting on weekends or holidays, as the park can get quite crowded.
11. Itchiku Kubota Art Museum
The Itchiku Kubota Art Museum is a small museum located in the city of Kawaguchi, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum is dedicated to the works of Itchiku Kubota, a famous textile artist who specialized in creating kimono using the Shibori technique.
Visitors can admire a large collection of his works, including elaborate and highly detailed kimono designs.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the spectacular view of Mount Fuji visible from its windows. Make sure to take a moment to appreciate the stunning scenery.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is easily accessible by train from Tokyo, making it a great day trip option.
12. Narusawa Ice Cave
Narusawa Ice Cave is a mysterious cave located near Mount Fuji in Kawaguchi, Japan. The cave is made up of volcanic rock and is known for its stunning frozen waterfalls and ice formations.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the cave and enjoy the unique experience of being surrounded by ice even during summer months. The ice formations are illuminated with gentle blue lights for added ambiance.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the cave is the majestic icefall that stands at the end of the trail. So, don’t miss the chance to witness this incredible natural wonder.
Insider travel tips: – The temperature inside the cave can drop to below freezing, so make sure to dress warmly.
13. Jukai Forest
A dense forest at the base of Mount Fuji in Japan, also known as the Sea of Trees.
What to see or do: Take a hike through the forest and immerse yourself in the thick canopy of trees, which includes a variety of species like maple, oak, and cherry blossom trees.
You can also visit the nearby Narusawa Ice Cave or the Bat Cave.
Don’t miss: The Wind Cave, which is a natural tunnel formed by lava that provides a way into the forest. Expect to hear eerie noises as the wind blows through the tunnel.
Insider travel tips: It is believed that the dense forest is a popular site for suicides, hence the popular moniker Suicide Forest. However, visitors are allowed to explore the forest via designated trails during daylight hours.
It is recommended to go in the company of a guide.
It is also recommended to respect the local culture and customs, and refrain from taking photos of any human remains or personal belongings found in the forest, should you come across them.
14. Lake Saiko
Lake Saiko is one of the five lakes surrounding Mount Fuji, located in the Fuji Five Lakes region of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, boating, and hiking on the surrounding trails. The crystal-clear waters and stunning views of Mount Fuji make it a popular spot for photography.
The area also has several hot springs and traditional Japanese inns that provide a relaxing atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The Wind Cave, a lava tube created by a volcanic eruption over 1,100 years ago, is a unique natural wonder. Visitors can explore the cave and witness its breathtaking formations.
Insider travel tips: For an unforgettable experience, rent a boat and row out to the center of the lake. The view of Mount Fuji from the water is breathtaking.
It is recommended to visit during the week to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the tranquility of the area.
15. Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine
Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine is a small, hidden shrine located at the base of Mount Fuji in Kawaguchi.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk around the lush green forest surrounding the shrine, and admire its stunning architecture, including the painted ceiling and intricate wood carvings.
The shrine also offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness one of the traditional Shinto rituals that take place at the shrine, such as the “Otaimatsu” fire-walking ceremony.
Visitors can also purchase charms and amulets at the shrine to bring good fortune and luck.
Insider travel tips: – Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as some of the paths around the shrine can be steep and rocky.