On clear days, Japan's most iconic mountain can be seen all the way from Tokyo or the hot spring town of Hakone. If you're dreaming of exploring its slopes on foot, following scenic cycling trails and soaking up uninterrupted mountain views from restful onsens, however, the Fuji Five Lakes region is your best bet. Formed by previous eruptions of Mount Fuji, the lakes are dotted with charming ryokans, stylish hotels and restful waterside retreats. Lake Kawaguchi, home to the town of Fujikawaguchiko, is a particular favourite of ours.
Come as a couple or with friends and family for trekking, mountain biking and wildlife-spotting trips. Boat rides, canoeing and fishing on the lakes are also wonderful. Summer travellers can expect warm weather and plenty of sunshine, but we'd suggest visiting Mount Fuji in spring or autumn. The annual cherry blossom is magical, as is the sight of the mountain's forested slopes changing from green to red, orange and gold in September and October. Winters are cold but striking — making steaming onsen baths all the more appealing!
Fujikawaguchiko (Minamitsuru-gun Yamanashi )
A luxury ryokan boasting epic views of Mount Fuji. Rooms mix traditional and contemporary styles and are in every way indulgent: private hot spring baths, paper shutters, sink-into beds and endless space. Dine in Japanese style (in room) and spend days exploring the region. Fabulous.
Fujikawaguchiko (Kawaguchi)
A chic property perched on a hill with spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Rooms are traditional in style with tatami mats, roll down futons and the best have outdoor foot spas. Indulgent hot spring baths and a spoiling spa are utterly pampering. The ideal spot to completely unwind.
Fujikawaguchiko (Minamitsuru-gun,Yamanashi-ken )
A luxury property sat on the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko and overlooking Mount Fuji. Light, airy rooms are a mix of Western and Japanese styles; each room boasts its own hot spring bath. Complete with restaurant serving regional dishes, spa and observation deck to admire the spectacular views.
Fujikawaguchiko (Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi)
A contemporary ryokan boasting spectacular views of Mount Fuji. Offering both Western and traditional Japanese rooms complete with hot spring baths, private terraces and chic clean design, this is a real gem. Feast on traditional Japanese cuisine made with seasonal produce. Utterly relaxing.
Fujikawaguchiko (Yamanashi)
A contemporary Japanese inn on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi and overlooking Mount Fuji. Design is both sleek and modern, while being heavily influenced by traditional styles. Rooms are mainly Japanese with roll down futons, floor level tables for dining and tatami mats. Fabulous.
Fujikawaguchiko (Fujikawaguchiko)
A striking design hotel offering an unbeatable location deep in the woodlands with views of Mount Fiji. Interiors are spacious and contemporary with the minimalist design highlighting the epic views. Rooms are individual cabins giving complete quiet and privacy. A luxury nature escape.
Fujikawaguchiko (Fuji-Kawaguchiko-Machi, Minamitsuru-Gun, Yamanashi)
A luxurious all-suite hotel set amidst the forest of Kawaguchiko. Vast suites are minimalist in design with the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows taking centre stage. All have balconies and the best have private onsens. With a spoiling spa and very good restaurant, this is a rejuvenating stay.
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