Guide to Spectacular Views: Best Spots for Fuji and Cherry Blossom & Hotels
*Peak bloom times can change based on the weather. Be sure to check official websites for the latest updates before you go.
Arakurayama Sengen Park (Yamanashi): The Iconic Trio of Mt. Fuji, Sakura, and the Pagoda
Arakurayama Sengen Park in Yamanashi offers the quintessential Japanese landscape. Here, you can witness a breathtaking trio: the majestic Mt. Fuji, a vibrant vermilion five-storied pagoda, and cherry blossoms in full bloom. The view from the observation deck is iconic—bringing to life the "ideal Japan" that many travelers dream of. It is an absolute must-visit spot that should be on every spring itinerary.
Recommended Hotel
Kaneyamaen Hotel
Located just a 15-minute drive from the park, this hotel offers sweeping Mt. Fuji views from its rooms and open-air baths. Enjoy garden sakura in spring and dynamic Taiko drum shows at night. It is the perfect place to experience majestic scenery, onsen, and traditional culture all in one.
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Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi): Spectacular Views of Cherry Blossoms and Mt. Fuji’s Reflection
Lake Kawaguchi is famous for the stunning harmony of cherry blossoms and Sakasa Fuji—Mt. Fuji’s reflection on the water. On calm days, the lake becomes a mirror, creating a magical scene with the pink blooms. The area is dotted with hotels offering this spectacular view from guest rooms and open-air baths. Here, you can indulge in the luxury of having the ever-changing face of Mt. Fuji all to yourself in total privacy.
Recommended Hotel
Fuji View Hotel
Situated within walking distance of the lake, Fuji View Hotel offers rooms with stunning views of Mt. Fuji and garden sakura. Guests love the natural hot spring baths, designed with unique traditional themes like a rustic Kominka (folk house) and stylish Kyo-machiya (Kyoto townhouse).
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Oshino Hakkai (Yamanashi): Mt. Fuji Springs, Thatched Roofs & Sakura
Oshino Hakkai offers a beautiful blend of Japan’s nostalgic rural scenery and mystical waters. With traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, majestic Mt. Fuji, and cherry blossoms in full bloom, the landscape looks like a scene straight out of a fairy tale.The ponds, famous for their crystal-clear spring water fed by Mt. Fuji’s snowmelt, shine with a deep blue hue and are framed by pink sakura in spring. Enjoy a refreshing stroll in the crisp, pure air as you watch flower petals gently drift onto the water’s surface.
Recommended Hotel
Hotel Mt. Fuji
Situated on a hill just 15 minutes from Oshino Hakkai, Hotel Mt. Fuji was built specifically for viewing the mountain. Guests enjoy commanding head-on views from guest rooms and open-air baths. In spring, the large courtyard becomes a private hanami spot, offering a spectacular collaboration of cherry blossoms and Mt. Fuji.
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Miho-no-Matsubara (Shizuoka): Picturesque Coastline & Distant Mt. Fuji
Miho-no-Matsubara in Shizuoka is a celebrated scenic destination, famously depicted in classic Ukiyo-e woodblock prints. It offers a stunning harmony of deep blue sea, vibrant green pine groves, and distant Mt. Fuji.In spring, cherry blossoms bloom at nearby spots like Miho Masaki Park, adding a splash of vibrant color to this iconic vista. For those seeking a different perspective from the lakeside views of Yamanashi, this expansive view of Mt. Fuji across the ocean is highly recommended.
Recommended Hotel
Hotel Hagoromo
The only ryokan located within the pine groves, this inn sits just steps from the famous "Hagoromo-no-Matsu." Its serene, traditional atmosphere feels like stepping back in time. Dinner features authentic Kaiseki cuisine with fresh seafood from Suruga Bay.
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Oishi Park (Yamanashi): Lakeside Flower Fields & Mt. Fuji Views
Located on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Oishi Park boasts a prime location offering uninterrupted views of both the lake and Mt. Fuji. While renowned for its seasonal flower fields, spring is particularly special as cherry blossoms bloom along the lakeside promenade, adding a vibrant touch to the scenery.The sight of the majestic mountain framed by full-bloom sakura, set against the glittering waters of the lake, captures the very essence of a Japanese spring. We invite you to enjoy this sense of openness and freedom as you stroll through the spacious park, feeling the gentle spring breeze.
Recommended Hotel
La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko
Located on a hill near Oishi Park, La Vista Fujikawaguchiko is a Southern French-style resort. True to its name ("The View"), it offers sweeping panoramas of Mt. Fuji and the lake. You can enjoy these breathtaking views while soaking in private reservable open-air baths or in-room view baths.
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Lake Motosu (Yamanashi): Hidden Gem & The "1000 Yen Bill" View
Lake Motosu is famous as the real-life location depicted on Japan's 1,000-yen bill, featuring the iconic "Sakasa Fuji" (reflection of Mt. Fuji). A true hidden gem with fewer tourists than neighboring lakes, it allows you to leisurely savor the serene beauty of lakeside cherry blossoms.From mid-April, the nearby Fuji Shibazakura Festival also takes place. Unlike traditional tree blossoms, here you will find vast carpets of "moss phlox" dyeing the earth in vibrant shades of pink. The true pleasure of the Lake Motosu area is the chance to enjoy these two contrasting spectacular views—the quiet lakeside blooms and the vibrant flower festival—against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji all at once.
Recommended Hotel
Motosu View Hotel
Nestled in the forest by Lake Motosu, this quiet retreat features open-air hot spring baths. It offers easy access to lakeside strolls and the famous "Fuji Shibazakura Festival" venue.
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