A perfect getaway and great views of Mount Fuji
Our first stop on our trip to Japan was the Fuji Five Lakes region, particularly Fuji Kawaguchiko. It's a quick bus ride away, and one of the times I think it's wortwhile to take a bus vs a train in Japan. Once we arrived, we headed to our ryokan and enjoyed a very luscious experience being fed delicious food and walking amidst beautiful scenery and views of Mount Fuji. What a treat to stay in a gorgeous spot in a comfortable hotel! I'd definitely recommend a ryokan experience in Fuji Kawaguchiko any day.
Where to go
Things to do
- Lake Kawaguchi is just a wonderful place to stay. Walking all along the lake, or riding a bike along the beautiful bike path, is a perfect activity for any time in Fuji Kawaguchiko
- Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center ブルーベリーの里 河口湖自然生活館 for one of the coolest spots in all of Fuji Kawaguchiko. It's got a great shop full of souvenirs like amazing muscat grape jellies and socks, but also the most decadent and wonderful soft serve with flavors such as green and purple grape and caramel.
- Tenjoyamagokoku (天上山展望台) was a great little hike up to see a bit of the Fuji Kawaguchiko layout, and up further, the Mt. Fuji Ropeway from Tenjozan Park/Tenjoyamagokoku Shrine
- Momiji Corridor (Momiji Corridor Lake Kawaguchi 河口湖もみじ回廊) is a pretty stop along the walk around the lake. In the fall, the colors are apparently amazing here.
- Rokkakudo (六角堂) was a fun little island to walk over to. During "low tide", it's a pretty easy walk, although a bit muddy. There's a pretty little shrine to get to which is mostly a spot for birds to hang out now.
Where to stay and eat
- Fuji Kawaguchiko Onsen Hotel Konansou (富士河口湖温泉郷 湖南荘) did a wonderful job with beautiful buffet breakfasts and kaiseki dinners. We did not eat lunch any day as we were full all day until dinner. Would highly, highly recommend staying here.
- MONO was a nice shabu shabu spot we went to upon first arriving, and where I first discovered my love of shimeji mushrooms.
