The best views of Mount Fuji

Viewing Mount Fuji – the highest peak in Japan – is a dream for many.

An almost perfectly symmetrical volcanic cone, Fujisan of all the mountains in Japan, stands out as a unique cultural symbol.

Some flights to or from Haneda Airport in Tokyo, closely pass by Mount Fuji, offering passengers a bird’s eye view. And upon arrival, the Haneda Airport International Terminal has a panoramic terrace (Fujimi dai) that offers a unique view of the fascinating mountain.

Unfortunately Fujisan is notoriously shy and sometimes a vail of clouds and fog shroud the sacred mountain of Japan, covering it totally. To increase your chances of success, try to see the mountain in the early mornings or late afternoon especially during the very cold winter months (visibility is always better than in summer).

The mountain’s famous snow cap is typically visible from around November to around May.

To maximize your chances of several great views, from different angles, in a short period of time, our favorite spots are

Yamanashi

• Chureito Pagoda, known worldwide as a prominent viewing spot of Mount Fuji
• Oishi Park on the north shore of Kawaguchiko
• Lake Motosu, one of the 5 lakes surrounding Mount Fuji

Shizuoka

• Walking through the air at Asagiri Kogen Paraglider School
• Lake Tanuki and its famous “diamond Fuji” at sunrise
• Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine worshiping Mount Fuji
• Miho no Matsubara Beach, along Suruga Bay
• Mishima Sky Walk, the longest suspension bridge in Japan

Kanagawa

• Driving the Hakone Turnpike, now the Mazda Turnpike
• Owakudani’s “Valley of Hell” in Hakone

Our favorites

• The wooden Haraoka pier (Chiba)
• Suruga Bay Ferry (Shizuoka)
• Private tea terraces (Shizuoka)