5 Unique Mt Fuji Photo Spots to Avoid the Crowds
Mt Fuji photo spots have been going viral for all of the wrong reasons but there is still hope for you to get the iconic shot respectfully and sustainably.
Unless you have been living under a rock or a giant black barrier, you have probably seen that Mt Fuji has been hit hard with over-tourism. Most notably, the infamous Lawson which is now barricaded off to deter its bus-loads of disrespectful tourists.
Having seen the chaos for myself only weeks before the barrier was installed, it inspired me to get creative to find Unique Mt Fuji Photo Spots. Asking “Is it still possible to see Mt Fuji without the crowds?”
Lucky for you, we tested everything from the most viral and overrated locations to best surprises and hidden gems to answer it in this Unique Mt Fuji Photography Guide!
What is Mt Fuji
Mount Fuji, aka Fuji-san, is Japan’s highest peak standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its cultural significance and natural beauty.
This stratovolcano has become an iconic symbol for the country with people flocking from all around the world to see its symmetrical cone shape and snow-capped summit.
While it is hidden behind clouds approximately 70% of the time, it is that mystery that adds to its allure. Making it even more special for those who do get to see it peek through.
But Mt Fuji is more than the mountain alone, it is a destination with a loop of surrounding towns popular for hikers, climbers, wellness travellers and adventure seekers.
Mount Fuji is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, as well as a revered site in Japanese culture and spirituality. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its cultural significance and natural beauty.
Where is Mt Fuji
Mount Fuji is located on Honshu Island, Japan. It is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) southwest of Tokyo straddling the border of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures.
The mountain is situated in the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is visible from various parts of the Kanto and Chubu regions.
How to Get to the Best Mt Fuji Photo Spots
Mt Fuji is well connected to Central Tokyo and its major airports with an abundance of transport options available, suitable for any budget and preference.
🚄Taking the TRAIN to Mt Fuji – Shin-Fuji (Shizuoka)
Many people don’t realise (myself included) that there is not one main entry point for Mt Fuji.
While there is a main Mt. Fuji Station, it is not the most popular base. Depending on what your Mt Fuji goals are, accommodation preference and ideal transport style, you will want to double-check your options on how to best get there.
For the purpose of this guide, I will use the main station as the main example as it is the easiest to get to and the perfect launch pad for Mt Fuji Photo adventures!
From Tokyo:
Kodama Line Shinkansen
Tokyo Station → Shin-Fuji Station
Duration: This bullet train takes approximately 1 hour.
From Osaka/Kyoto:
Kodama Line Shinkansen
Shin-Osaka Station → Kyoto → Shin-Fuji Station
Duration: 2hrs 40mins
These routes are covered under the JAPAN RAIL PASS (JR PASS)
Although you can compare individual train prices on Klook!
🚏Taking the BUS to Mt Fuji
For those staying in the most popular area of Fuji Kawaguchiko.
The bus is the cheapest, fastest and best way to travel from Tokyo.
Tokyo to Lake Kawaguchi Shuttle Bus VIP Liner
Departure location can be chosen from Tokyo Station or Akihabara Station direct to and from Lake Kawaguchi
Duration: Approx 1hr
Cost: Adult $25, Child (0-12) $12
Tickets: Book tickets on Klook
🚗 RENT A CAR in Mt Fuji
If you are determined to beat the crowds around Japan’s most Instagrammable destination, a road trip is the way to go. And surprisingly affordable!
We caught the train to/from Shin-Fuji and picked up our rental car across the street. From there it is an easy loop road around the entire Mountain. Taking around 1hr 20minutes to Kawaguchiko.
You will need an international driver’s license and to be confident driving on the left side of the road (easy for my fellow Aussies!)
We booked our car rental through Klook
However, if you are not confident driving yourself, there are private drivers and car charters available at a much higher price.
🏔 Best Mt Fuji Tours
This option may get you right in amongst the crowds as these tour groups tend to stick to peak schedules.
However, it is worth noting that it is a great option for those with less time, confidence and simply want to see those main sights.
Klook.comWhere to stay in Mt Fuji
Kawaguchiko (one of Fuji Five Lakes), is the most popular base for Mt Fuji Photo adventures, yet all around the famous mountain are accommodation options to suit every need/preference.
From cheap hostels and local guesthouses to unique glamping and luxury hotels, but the ones I have narrowed down for you are Mt Fuji Photo Spots of their own. Each with a special view of the famous mountain.
Best Hotels with a view of Mt Fuji
Unique Option: つながるキャンプリゾートQOONEL+ is a specialty glamping stay on the hills overlooking Lake Kawaguchi. This luxury tent is located in a geothermal area, with a variety of hot springs nearby to relax in. Offering a bonus BBQ experience as part fo your stay.
Hostel Option: Fuji Guest House Ao is a highly-rated Hostel in Fujikawaguchiko. With a shared lounge, private parking and a terrace with insane Mt Fuji views. Free bikes are a bonus!
Budget Option: GuestHouse Honobono is a local guesthouse in the heart of Kawaguchiko. With traditional Japanese rooms and towering views of Mt Fuji. Free bikes are available to ride around town and the family invite you in as their own. A home away from home.
Luxury Option: Mt Fuji is a hot spot for Luxury accommodation and Onsen stays. If there is a part of your Japan trip you are willing to splurge on, this should be it! So much so, I couldn’t choose just one…
Klook.com5 Best Mt Fuji Photo Spots to Avoid the Crowds
Okay, okay, okay I don’t want to make you wait any longer. You’ll already be doing that enough in Japan.
Gather your gear and don’t forget your insta-husbands (tripods work just as well and don’t talk back), because I am taking you along to my favourite Mt Fuji Photo spots.
Some are hidden gems, others are unique perspectives of famous locations, each with the opportunity to capture this Japnese icon.
1. Shiraito Falls, Shizuoka
How to Get to Shiraito Falls
BY BUS: Shiraito Falls is accessible by bus from major stations near Mt. Fuji. Running between Shin-Fuji Station, Fujinomiya Station, and Fuji Five Lakes stopping at Shiraito Falls. Then it is an easy walk from the station to landmark.
BY CAR: However, I say it is the ultimate Mt Fuji Roadtip spot if you do rent a car! With parking only around $5 and free entry to the falls.
BY TOUR GROUP: This is becoming a popular stop on those bigger Mt Fuji day tours. It is a positive to have the ease of travel but it comes with the downside of being part of those bigger group with limited time to explore.
Best Time to Visit Shiraito Falls
I am convinced there is no bad time to visit Shiraitos falls so do not stress if you aren’t as flexible with your planning.
In fact, even though we got there in the middle of the day during peak cherry blossom season, tour groups moved through quickly with breaks in between. Leaving plenty of opportunity and space to capture the magic to ourselves.
BEST SEASON TO VISIT
This will vary based on your preferences for example:
🏔Wanting to see more snow on Mt Fuji in the background = winter
🍁Dreaming of vibrant fall/autumn colours taking over the falls = Early October to Late November
🌲Lush greenery and crystal clear waters = summer
BEST TIME OF DAY TO VISIT
For the best lighting on the waterfalls AND to avoid the bulk of the crowds, mornings will be your best friend.
Photo Tips for Shiraito Falls
There are a couple of waterfalls to access at Shiraito Falls each with unique views and platforms. Take your time exploring them all.
For the most iconic viewpoint of the main waterfalls and Mt Fuji proudly in the background, you need to loop down across the main falls and up the stairs on the other side. The path does look a little hidden and steep but it is quick to the top platform.
2. Oishi Park- Kawaguchi Lake
How to Get to Oishi Park
Being ideally located along Lake Kawaguchi, the Park is easily accessible via a range of transport options from buses to bikes.
BY BUS: There is a local bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Oishi Park. Buses such as the Fujisan Bus or other local routes frequently cover this destination. The bus takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
BY BIKE: The most romantic and surprisingly most popular around Lake Kawaguchi as it opens up a lot more flexibility. Plus, it adds to the photos!
BY CAR: There is a free parking lot overlooking the lavender gardens making driving a great option.
Best Time to Visit Oishi Park
BEST TIME OF DAY: the park is a Sunset hotspot but most people have already left before Blue Hour. There is still a glow on the mountain and enough light still left for you to glow in front of it!
BEST SEASON TO VISIT: This park comes to life when lavendar is in full bloom during the summer. These dates slighty vary each year simialr to the cherry blossom season so be sure to check tourist information for updated information.
Photo Tips for Oishi Park
You don’t need to enter the park to get the best photo. Funnily enough, we got our best content in the parking lot and had it to ourselves!
3. Kagizaki Park
How to Get to Yagizaki Park
BY BUS: From Kawaguchi Station you can get the bus to Yagisaki-koen. The Park is less than 100m away from the bus stop
BY CAR: There is plenty of free parking around, however, this may vary during flower festival seasons as the park host major events.
BY BIKE/WALK: Whether you are strolling around the lake or making the 30 minute trek from Kawaguchi station, this is the most scenic way to get around and the perfect opportunity to find hidden gem photo spots along the way.
Best Time to Visit Yagizaki Park
BEST TIME OF DAY TO VISIT: This is the perfect sunrise and sunset spot with what feel like panoramic views across both Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt Fuji. But do not stress, we went ona. gloomy afternoon and it was just as magical.
BEST SEASON TO VISIT: The Parks comes to live with flowers for a couple of major events during the year. You have the Lake Kawaguchiko Sakura Festival Spring and hydrangeas in early Summer.
Photo Tips for Kagazaki Park
What I love about this park is that there are so many unique angle of Mt Fuji. From up on the hills, across the Lake at Rokkakudo, even amongst the trees and blooms.
It is the ideal spot to get creative and be able to find a spot to yourself.
4. The streets of Narusawa
How to Get to Narusawa
To be honest with you, it is not a spot worth catching public transport to. Instead it is ideal for those on bikes or road tripping to stumble across and wander around.
It is a quite town just up the main road from Kawaguchiko. So it has all the same views without the chaos.
If you’re looking to capture a unique take on the iconic Lawson x Mt Fuji, this area offer plenty of alternatives!
Best Time to Visit Narusawa
There is no specific time to visit here, although my personal preference is capturing the afternoon glow.
Photo Tips for Narusawa
We found a lonely pedestrian bridge we dediced the pull over by to check out its view. There was a small carpark for the park nearby that made the stop convient and most importantly respectful to the locals.
The area may have had a few wires and poles in the way however as you can see you can either:
- Work that Lightroom AI or Photoshop magic to clear them or
- Embrace it. I personally love the look because it capture the full experience and blend of old and new that amkes Japan so special.
5. Ramen Kaneyuki
How to Get to Ramen Kaneyuki
BY BUS: Ramen Kaneyuki is right at Oogi Bus stop making it easy to access via public transport within Kawaguchiko.
BY CAR: For those that are on their epic Mt Fuji Road trip, there is parking at the food truck, but I recommend parking across the street at the Lawson Lake Kawaguchi Ohashi store. It is free and way easier to get in and out of
Best Time to Visit Ramen Kaneyuki
The food truck is open daily from 11:30am – 7:30pm.
Mt Fuji will be harder to see in the dark so i’d advise coming anytime before sunset for the best photo ops and less dinner time rush.
Photo Tips for Ramen Kaneyuki
Look I know this isn’t the clearest view of Mt Fuji, nor the clearest day we had to see it but for some of the best ramen we had in Japan + A MT FUJI VIEW, it was too iconic not to include.
Ramen Kaneyuki is a food truck with outdoor tables and for those less than ideal weather conditions, they do have indoor seating available. However, it is those outdoor tables you want to be at!
Mt Fuji Photo Spots to Avoid
Chureito Pagoda
This is the IT spot for almost every Mt Fuji day tour, group trip or road tripper so you already know its going to be busy.
We spent 30 minutes trying to find parking as the Pagoda opened only to get too overwhelemed and give up. From what I have heard, it is even more of a fight to get a photo from up the top.
I still think this one might be worth a visit (at least I would love to go back one day, ideally outside of peak season) but set expectations lower.
Oshino Hakkai
Oshino Hakkai is a traditional village famous for its eight crystal-clear spring ponds, which are fed by the melting snow from Mount Fuji. Not to mention, an impressive backdrop of the mountain itself.
It has become one of the key stops for most Mt Fuji Tours with crowds flooding in all day long. You will be lined up for any photo spot or store on-site. Not even Tokyo Disneyland on a public holiday in the middle of cherry blossom was this chaotic.
Tenku-no Torii
These iconic gates with a Mt Fuji view have become so popular that you have to line up and then are limited to a minute time slot to take your photo.
THE PARK – Mt Fuji fluffy pancakes
Unless you get here an hour+ before they open, you are not guaranteed a seat with the iconic Mt Fuji Views, let alone if it will even be visible during your visit. Unfortunately,, this is not like Universal Studios Japan where you can buy an express pass either…
The famous fluffy pancakes themselves were undercooked, overpriced and overall, disappointing.
Lawson Kawaguchiko
Even before they put the view block up this spot had been overrun.
Having seen it in the peak of cherry blossom season weeks before it was closed, it is no wonder why they needed to tame this beast. Well, more so the beast it brought out in those visiting.
Honcho Street, Fujiyoshida
With swarms of people causing traffic delays, getting hit by cars and littering the streets, I would not be surprised if this gets blocked off soon too.
They have had to hire a traffic controller to monitor people crossing the street for photos.
What You Need to Know Before You Go to Mt Fuji
Best time of year to Visit Mt Fuji
❄️ Winter (December – March): Winter offers snow-covered landscapes and fewer crowds. It’s a beautiful time for photography, but climbing is extremely dangerous due to severe weather conditions, heavy snow, and high winds. Non-climbers can enjoy the views from nearby areas, like the Fuji Five Lakes or Hakone.
🌸 Spring (April – June): Famous for cherry blossoms and spring flower festivals, Mt Fuji is one of the most popular places to see it all. The weather is cooler but not as harsh as winter, with the mountain still covered in snow. Although, it makes the towns covered with people, making ti harder to avoid those crowds… but not impossible!
☀️ Summer Climbing Season (July – September): This is the peak season for climbing Mount Fuji, with the official climbing season starting from early July to early September. The weather is generally clear and stable and the mountain huts are open.
🍂 Autumn (October – November): Autumn is the most underrated with vibrant colours of changing leaves and clearer air making for unique photos.
What is the chance of Mt Fuji Being Visible?
Mt Fuji is known for hiding behind the clouds for most of the year, leaving you with a between 20-30% chance of seeing the mountain clearly.
This varies throughout the year yet remains more unpredictable than ever to plan around.
Mt Fuji Photo Spots Recap: My brutally honest review
I’m not going to lie, I thought Mt Fuji was going to be OVERRATED
after all, it’s just another mountain, right?
I WAS SO WRONG, nothing compares to your first glimpse of this iconic behemoth.
In terms of capturing it though, that is another story…
There is no denying there has been bad press for a reason. It is not simply the overtourism alone that is the key issue but mostly the increase of rude, disrespectful and inconsiderate swarms of tourists that have the biggest impact.
During our 3 weeks in Japan I witnessed everything from people walking in front of cars, putting deers in a headlock at Nara Deer Park to people physically pushing others out of the way for a photo.
Even as a tourist I felt the negative impact so I can not imagine the damage it has caused to local communities and culture. In fact, I say the ‘extreme’ tourist bans in certain locations are completely justified.
If there is anything I hope you take away from this is to be respectful; take the time to learn part of the language, check for updated rules/cultural practices (+ follow them) and be patient.
If you ever have any questions or are feeling extra nosey and want more in-depth insight, do not hesitate to comment below or DM @wanderingdonut ♡
