Mount Fuji is not only Japan’s highest mountain but one of the country’s most sacred places. From ancient times to now, the famous mountain has been the subject of much artwork and has been admired by those who are lucky enough to see it.
Although there are many different spots to see the famous mountain from, one of the best areas to go is Kawaguchiko. In Kawaguchiko you will find a rather unique spot where you can get a great glimpse of Fuji-san.
The Famous Lawson
If you are an avid user of Tiktok and Instagram and like watching Japan-related content, you might have come across what people are calling ‘Japan’s most famous Lawson’.
This iconic Lawson is located only 3 minutes away from Kawaguchiko Station. Given its newfound popularity on social media, you won’t be surprised to hear that the outside of the store is full of people trying to snap the perfect picture. During the day, there are a lot of people standing there but it does seem to get a bit quieter by the late afternoon. It is definitely a spot worth visiting as the view is simply breathtaking and does provide an impressive backdrop for a photo. Note that when you do visit, you need to be mindful of not crossing the busy road just to try and get a good photo.
It is also worth going into the Lawson itself, not only to top up on some conbini snacks, but to see some of the Fuji-themed souvenirs on offer. From Fuji-themed biscuits to Fuji-inspired alcohol, to even Fuji-shaped plushies, there is a unique range of goods to choose from.
- LAWSON Kawaguchiko Station
- 〒3495-2 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
- 3 minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station
- Open 24 hours
- Cash, card and electronic payment
- akiko_lawson
- https://www.lawson.co.jp/index.html
What time of year is best to see Fuji?
For the best chance of seeing Fuji in all its glory and getting that perfect picture, it is good to keep in mind the best times in the year to go. Typically, you will have a better chance of seeing Fuji during the months of November to February as the sky tends to be clearer. In the other months, you are more likely to just get a partial view. Even on the days you don’t get a clear view of Fuji, you can still get an interesting view.In terms of the time of day, your best bet is early morning to midday.
How to get to Kawaguchiko
There are a few different ways to get to Kawaguchiko. Most people choose to take the train as it is the fastest option. You should know that there are actually a few different trains you can take to Kawaguchiko which include the Fuji-Excursion, Limited Express and the regular trains.
Out of these three, the Fuji-Excursion is the fastest and most comfortable, getting you to Kawaguchiko in under 2 hours. Unsurprisingly, this train is the most expensive out of the three options, with a one-way ticket costing around ¥4,000.
If you want to save money, you can instead opt to take the JR limited express or local train from Shinjuku to Otsuki Station. The JR limited express train takes over 2 hours and it costs roughly around ¥3,000. Whereas, the local train takes just under 3 hours from Shinjuku but costs around ¥2,000. From Otsuki Station, you will then need to tackle the Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko. Note that these trains don’t run too regularly and that the fare starts from ¥1,170.
An even more affordable option is to take the bus from Shinjuku. This bus journey takes just under two hours and costs around ¥2,000. It even stops off at Fujisan Station and Fuji Q Highland.
Since Kawaguchiko is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Japan, the train and buses do get booked up quite quickly. It is recommended that you either book online, at the JR ticket office, or the Expressway Bus Terminal a few days in advance.
