Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest (3,776 meters) and most famous natural landmark. Mount Fuji and the surrounding region offer adventurous activities for travelers, attracting visitors from all around the world.

Located on Honshu Island, approximately 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, Mount Fuji is seated within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, showing a picturesque backdrop against the surrounding landscape.

Location of Mount Fuji

<h3>Golden Time for a Visit</h3>

Visitors flock to Mount Fuji year-round, but the best time to experience its beauty depends on the activities you wish to engage in. For those seeking to summit the mountain, the climbing season typically runs from early July to early September, when the weather conditions are most favorable and the trails are officially open. During this time, the snow has melted, making it safer to ascend the mountain. However, hikers should still be prepared for unpredictable weather and temperature changes, as conditions can vary rapidly.

Alternatively, if you prefer to admire Mount Fuji from a distance or explore the surrounding area, the spring and autumn months offer stunning views with pleasant weather. In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom, painting the landscape with vibrant hues, while autumn showcases the fiery colors of the changing leaves, creating a picturesque contrast against the mountain's serene silhouette.

<h3>Top 7 Things to Do</h3>

There are incredible things to do around Mount Fuji. Here are the top 7 things that you will enjoy when you pay a visit to Mount Fuji.

<b>Climb Mount Fuji</b>

Climbing Mount Fuji to see the sunrise from the summit is a popular activity. The official hiking season is from July 1 to early September, when the trails and mountain facilities are open. Fit hikers can complete the climb in about 5–8 hours. Be prepared for a challenging ascent up steep trails. Bring warm layers as temperatures drop sharply at higher elevations. Time the sunrise perfectly for awe-inspiring views from the top.

<b>Visit the Fuji Five Lakes</b>

The Fuji Five Lakes area, located at the northern base of Mount Fuji, offers magnificent views of the mountain from its calm blue waters. Lake Kawaguchi is the most popular lake to visit. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, enjoy a boat cruise, or snap photos from scenic lookout points. The lakes provide mirror-like reflections of Mount Fuji on clear days.

<b>Relax in Onsen Hot Springs</b>

After an active day, relax tired muscles in the therapeutic waters of an onsen hot spring bath. The volcanic activity of Mount Fuji has created many natural hot springs around the area. Try popular hot spring resort towns like Hakone, Lake Kawaguchi, and Yamanakako for open-air and indoor baths.

<b>Visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine</b>

This picturesque shrine dedicated to the goddess Konohanasakuya-hime is one of the most important shrines at the base of Mount Fuji. Its towering vermilion torii gate perfectly frames the mountain. Views are especially breathtaking during the fall foliage season. The shrine’s main hall dates back to the 17th century.

<b>Go on a Tea Ceremony Experience</b>

Participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a tea house with a scenic view of Mount Fuji. Watch a tea master perform a choreographed preparation of matcha green tea for guests. Savor the bitter matcha and traditional Japanese sweets. Ideal spots for tea ceremonies include Gotemba and Oshino.

<b>Tour the Chureito Pagoda</b>

This elegant five-story pagoda is located in Arakurayama Sengen Park, overlooking Mount Fuji. The bright red pagoda, contrasting with the green mountainside and often snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji, creates a picture-perfect scene. Hike through the park’s cherry blossom and maple trees to reach the pagoda.

<b>Ride the Mt. Fuji</b>

Panoramic Ropeway For spectacular aerial views, take a ride on this scenic gondola. The ropeway runs from Umagaeshi up to an observation station near Mount Fuji’s 5th station, halfway up the mountain. Admire the dramatic vistas of Fuji and surrounding lakes as you ascend. At the top, enjoy a relaxing meal while gazing out at Fuji.

With its striking beauty and many natural attractions, Mount Fuji offers boundless opportunities for exploration and adventure. Conquer the mountain climb or admire it from below while experiencing hot springs, scenic viewpoints, and cultural encounters. Visitors will come away awestruck by Japan’s majestic symbol of natural wonder.