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10 Fun Activities & Shopping Spots Around Kawaguchiko & Mount Fuji This May
1. Admire the Shibazakura Flowers
- Location: Fuji Shibazakura Festival (about 30 minutes from the lake)
- Status: Flowers are in full bloom (as of April 29th)
- Highlight: A stunning carpet of pink and purple shibazakura with Mount Fuji as a backdrop – incredibly popular on social media!
- Note: Arrive early to avoid crowds.
2. Kawaguchi Lake Cruise (Ensoleille Cruise)
- Schedule: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM, departures every 30 minutes
- Cost: ~1,000 yen/adult, 500 yen/child (under 12 years old)
- Highlight: Enjoying the view of Mount Fuji from the middle of the lake, especially beautiful on clear days.
3. Kachi Kachi Ropeway
- View: Panoramic views of the lake and Mount Fuji
- Round Trip Ticket: Approximately 900 - 1000 yen/adult, discounts for children
- Note: You can hike down the mountain if you enjoy trekking (takes about 40 minutes).
4. Check-in at Oishi Park
- Hours: Open year-round
- Highlight: Seasonal flower gardens (May usually features tulips, poppies, or early-blooming lavender).
- Photo Tip: Visit in the morning to capture Mount Fuji without the haze.
5. Rent a Bicycle Around the Lake
- Rental Location: Near Kawaguchiko Station
- Suggested Route: Cycle around the lake (~20 km), stopping at various Mount Fuji viewing points.
- May Weather: Cool and pleasant, perfect for cycling.
6. Shopping and Dining at Kawaguchiko Herb Hall
- Highlight: Local specialties, souvenirs, and try treats like grilled mochi and lavender ice cream.
- Tip: Try "Fujiyama Cookie" or "hoto" – a Yamanashi specialty noodle dish.
7. Onsen with Mount Fuji View
- Suggestion: Hotel Konansou, Fuji View Hotel
- Experience: Relaxing in an open-air onsen with a view of Mount Fuji – incredibly relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
8. Fishing or Kayaking on the Lake
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
- Suggestion: Guided kayak tours are available if you want to try a new adventure.
9. Visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum
- Special Feature: Display of stunning handmade kimono art
- Atmosphere: Very peaceful and zen – a profound Japanese cultural experience.
10. Stargazing or Night Photography of Mount Fuji
- Suggested Locations: North shore of the lake, near Oishi Park or Panorama-dai viewpoint
- Tip: May has few clouds. If you like astrophotography, this is the golden time.
