If there’s one place to truly experience the beauty of autumn leaves, I’d highly recommend Lake Kawaguchi, near Mount Fuji! Every year, from mid-October to mid-November, the “Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival” (富士河口湖紅葉まつり) takes place, transforming the landscape into a stunning display of vibrant red and gold.
Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival
Lake Kawaguchi, located at an altitude of around 830 meters in Yamanashi Prefecture, sits to the north of Mount Fuji. As one of the famous Fuji Five Lakes, it offers stunning views of Mount Fuji and its surrounding nature all year round.
During the “Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival” in mid-October, you can witness around 400 to 500 maple trees in full, vibrant color along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. The rich hues of the autumn leaves reflect off the calm waters of the lake, perfectly framing the majestic Mount Fuji and creating a truly stunning, picturesque scene.
- Lake Kawaguchi, Mount Fuji
- From Shinjuku, take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki Station, then transfer to the Fujisan Limited Express to Kawaguchi Station.
- Official Website
Day and Night Beauty of the Maple Corridor
A major highlight of the “Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival” is the stunning “Maple Corridor” along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. This scenic path, lined with vibrant maple trees, becomes an unforgettable sight during the peak of the autumn season!
Around a hundred majestic maple trees line the “Maple Corridor,” their red, yellow, and orange leaves forming a vibrant tapestry of color. This 150-meter-long avenue feels like it’s putting on a breathtaking symphony of nature, offering a delightful and uplifting stroll through the heart of autumn.
As the sun sets and the night falls, the maple leaves are illuminated until around 10 p.m., transforming the scene into a dreamlike, almost otherworldly experience. The glow of the lights creates a magical atmosphere, offering a completely different perspective from the daytime views and making it one of the must-see attractions at Lake Kawaguchi!
I recommend arriving around 3 or 4 p.m. to fully enjoy the daytime beauty of the autumn leaves. After taking in the views, you can relax and grab a bite at the nearby food stalls. There are also plenty of handmade souvenir stalls to explore, giving you time to browse while waiting for the sunset and the enchanting nighttime scenery to unfold.
- Kawaguchi Lake Maple Corridor
- The 2024 Autumn Leaves Festival will run from October 26 to November 20, 2024.
- Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Illumination extended until 10 p.m)
- From Kawaguchi Station, take the Kawaguchi Lake Loop Bus for about 25 minutes and get off at the "Kubota Ichiku Museum" stop. It's just a 3-minute walk from there to reach the festival area.
- Official Website
Discover the Many Faces of Mount Fuji
One of the captivating features of Mount Fuji is how its appearance transforms with the changing seasons and different times of day.
When you visit during the autumn foliage season, be sure to capture the different faces of Mount Fuji and experience its enchanting charm!
Bonus: Charming Pampas Grass at Oishi Park
Oishi Park, a popular spot, features the “Flower Street” walkway where you can enjoy views of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and blooming autumn flowers. It’s a must-see for capturing memorable photos!
In October, the park is adorned with red broom grass every October, spread out across the ground. This creates a fairytale-like scene, adding a unique and magical touch to the autumn scenery around Mount Fuji.
After a leisurely stroll, you can treat yourself to some ice cream and savor it in the cool weather while admiring the view of Mount Fuji. It adds a special touch to the experience.
- Oishi Park
- From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyū Bus "Kawaguchiko Round Bus" for about 25 minutes and get off at "Kawaguchiko Nature Living Center" station. It is a 1-minute walk from there.
- Official Website
Conclusion
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