8 Best Natural Wonders in Fujinomiya

Think of Japan and most people picture Mt. Fuji, its name every bit as internationally famous as its beautiful form. Mt. Fuji has served as a motif of classical literature and ukiyoe (Japanese woodblock prints) as well as an object of faith, so it’s no surprise that UNESCO registered it as a World Cultural Heritage site.

If you’ve come all the way to Fujinomiya, chances are that you’re interested in climbing Mt. Fuji. Of course it’s an amazing experience, but it’s quite a climb, so do take the necessary precautions for altitude sickness. Once you reach the summit, you can see the sunrise after watching the star-filled sky and look down on an immense sea of cloud. Expect a sense of accomplishment like no other and a priceless experience. There really is nowhere better on Earth to share a blissful moment with your partner or friends.

Shiraito Falls has been listed as a part of the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Site. It’s also been designated as a National Scenic Spot and a Special National Natural Treasure and has been selected as one of the top 100 waterfalls in Japan. Formerly a site for ascetic Buddhist practices, this is now one of Fujinomiya’s leading tourist hotspots.

The spring water from Mt. Fuji running down the rocks like threads is a sight to behold. As well as a space just in front of the waterfall basin down a long stairway, there are 2 observatories within walking distance from the car park.

Lake Tanuki is a very popular scenic spot with an excellent view of Mt. Fuji. It’s the perfect place for taking pictures of Diamond Fuji (the morning sun perfectly aligned with the summit of Mt. Fuji, Sakasa Fuji (an inverted image of Mt. Fuji reflected on the lake surface), and evening views. Take a pleasant walk or enjoy cycling along the lakeside to fully immerse yourself in this natural wonder.

The area around Lake Tanuki is also popular for water activities such as boating and fishing, as well as for hiking and camping. Lake Tanuki is especially beautiful in the spring when the cherry blossoms and azaleas are in bloom, and later in the year when autumn leaves create a beautiful reflection on the lake surface.

Otodome Falls has a legend: When the Soga brothers were secretly plotting their revenge on Kudo Suketsune, who killed their father, they couldn’t hear properly due to the roaring sound of the waterfall. But when they cried out, the waterfall immediately went silent. The roaring sound they encountered is still there, though, and the sight of these huge falls never fails to impress.

The Otodome Falls are right next to the Shiraito Falls, so why not visit both at the same time? With negative ions in the air, this is a perfect place to refresh yourself.

Mt. Kenashi is known for its hiking trails, from which you can enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Fuji. As you climb surrounded by nature, you’ll quickly leave any worries behind and find an almost spiritual level of refreshment.

After setting off from the starting point of the trail and passing by the observatory at Fudo Falls, if you climb the steep road toward the top, a magnificent view of Mt. Fuji will open up right in front of you. On the way back, head along the Jizo Pass. Or if you prefer, go toward Mt. Takadekki and you’ll be able to enjoy the view of Mt. Fuji from Mt. Amagatake. After going over Hashida Pass, you’ll finally reach the Tokai Nature Trail.

If you’re visiting the area around Mt. Fuji, the picture-perfect Lake Kawaguchi is also a must-see. As well as excellent views, this area has sightseeing boats, ropeways, hotels, restaurants, cafés, sweet shops, bars and museums, so you can easily spend a day or longer here.

If you’re more of an outdoors-y type, there are camping, hiking, cycling, and fishing options galore. This is a gorgeous place that looks amazing in any season.

Aokigahara is famous for Aokigahara Forest in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It’s a deep green primeval forest densely packed with beech and fir trees. You can enjoy forest bathing while walking along the well-maintained Tokai Nature Trail.

Another popular spot is Fugaku Wind Cave, which is known as a natural refrigerator. The cave is full of mysterious sights such as illuminated icicles, luminous moss, and lava shelves. It’s one surprise after another other.

Lake Sai Bat Cave is a 350-metre-long limestone cave. You can enter the cave as long as you’re wearing a protective helmet. The cave feels nice and cool and the expedition vibes are great fun. But you won’t be alone, as the cave is also home to bats.

Everywhere you turn, you’ll find strange natural sights created by lava. It's a magical place. Head further into the cave if you’re feeling adventurous. Later on, you can visit the nearby Kunimasu Museum to learn all about this particular species of trout.