Lake Motosu Fuji Five Lakes
Tranquil Lake Motosu, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, offers iconic Mount Fuji views, camping, and water sports in a serene setting.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear Fuji views, fewer crowds
Lake Motosu Fuji Five Lakes
Best Time
Clear Fuji views, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil Lake Motosu, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, offers iconic Mount Fuji views, camping, and water sports in a serene setting.
"The view of Fuji Mountain is extraordinary with the calming lake."
🚗 Car is King
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Lake Motosu and the Fuji Five Lakes region.
📸 Aim for Nakanokura Pass
For the classic 1000 yen bill view, hike Nakanokura Pass. The lake's edge offers a similar, stunning vista.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Mount Fuji Reflection
Nakanokura Pass viewpoint
Capture the legendary view of Mount Fuji mirrored in the pristine waters of Lake Motosu. A photographer's dream!

Tranquil Lakeside Camping
Lake Motosu Campgrounds
Pitch a tent with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. The clear, deep blue waters offer a serene backdrop for your outdoor adventure.
Submerged Railway Tracks
Northern shore of Lake Motosu
Discover the mysterious submerged railway tracks, a unique and less-known sight in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Motosu.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Lake Motosu
Best Views of Mount Fuji
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is King
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Lake Motosu and the Fuji Five Lakes region.
📸 Aim for Nakanokura Pass
For the classic 1000 yen bill view, hike Nakanokura Pass. The lake's edge offers a similar, stunning vista.
🏕️ Camping Paradise
Lake Motosu campgrounds offer incredible Fuji views. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
🛶 Water Sports Fun
Enjoy kayaking, boating, and fishing on the clear, deep waters of Lake Motosu.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is King
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Lake Motosu and the Fuji Five Lakes region.
📸 Aim for Nakanokura Pass
For the classic 1000 yen bill view, hike Nakanokura Pass. The lake's edge offers a similar, stunning vista.
🏕️ Camping Paradise
Lake Motosu campgrounds offer incredible Fuji views. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
🛶 Water Sports Fun
Enjoy kayaking, boating, and fishing on the clear, deep waters of Lake Motosu.
🚶♀️ Peaceful Walks
The roads around the lake are well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape with fewer tourists.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Motosu is praised for its serene atmosphere, fewer crowds compared to other Fuji Five Lakes, and the extraordinary, calming views of Mount Fuji. Visitors enjoy the clear, deep blue waters and the peacefulness of the area, making it a special place for relaxation and outdoor activities. Some find it less accessible than other lakes, requiring more planning for public transport.
"This is one of the Fuji Mountain five Lakes and it’s further away from all other tourist attraction. The road along the lake is well maintained and quite peaceful with much less tourists. The view of Fuji Mountain is extraordinary with the calming lake."
World Explorer
"Absolutely loving this scenic place. Comfortable and relaxing. Dipping in water while watching the mountains views covered with fog is mesmerizing.
Lots of water related sports was going on here."
Ahmad Faisal Amiry
"Very special place. Had lunch at a super local place thanks to @fujicooltours and then swim in the magical waters!"
Fer Delgado Lizarraga
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tokyo, take a bus to Kawaguchiko Station. From there, you can catch the Blue Line Sightseeing Bus to reach Lake Motosu. Renting a car is also a popular and convenient option for exploring the Fuji Five Lakes area.
Yes, Lake Motosu is accessible via public transport, primarily through the Blue Line Sightseeing Bus from Kawaguchiko Station. However, it's less convenient than other Fuji Five Lakes.
Many visitors find renting a car to be the most efficient way to explore the Fuji Five Lakes, including Lake Motosu, offering flexibility and ease of access to various viewpoints and activities.
The travel time from Kawaguchiko Station to Lake Motosu by bus can vary, but it typically takes around 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the specific route.
The Blue Line Sightseeing Bus from Kawaguchiko Station is the primary public transport option that services Lake Motosu.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lake Motosu itself is a natural attraction and does not typically have an entrance fee. However, specific campgrounds or facilities around the lake might charge fees for usage.
Lake Motosu is a natural lake and is accessible at all times. However, facilities like campgrounds or visitor centers will have their own operating hours.
It is highly recommended to book camping spots at Lake Motosu in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and autumn, to secure your preferred location.
While not as common as for other Fuji Five Lakes, some local tour operators may offer excursions that include Lake Motosu, especially those focusing on photography or less-visited spots.
Yes, Lake Motosu can be visited as part of a day trip from Tokyo or other nearby cities, though it requires careful planning due to its accessibility.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most iconic view is from Nakanokura Pass, offering a reflection of Mount Fuji. The lake's edge also provides stunning, unobstructed views.
Popular activities include camping, boating, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic beauty. The clear waters are perfect for water sports.
Absolutely! Lake Motosu is renowned for its picturesque views of Mount Fuji, especially during sunrise and sunset, and the unique submerged railway tracks.
Compared to other Fuji Five Lakes like Kawaguchiko, Lake Motosu generally has fewer tourists, offering a more peaceful and serene experience.
Yes, swimming is possible in Lake Motosu, and its clear, deep waters are often described as magical.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Lake Motosu are limited. It's advisable to pack a picnic or dine in Kawaguchiko before or after your visit. Some local eateries might be found in nearby villages.
Halal-friendly options are scarce directly at Lake Motosu. For Muslim travelers, Idaten Bettei Honten near Kawaguchiko Station offers halal-friendly courses and a prayer room.
Campers typically prepare their own meals. Some campgrounds might have basic facilities for cooking, or you can bring portable cooking equipment.
Convenience stores are not abundant directly around Lake Motosu. It's best to stock up on snacks and drinks in Kawaguchiko before heading to the lake.
While not specific to Lake Motosu, Hoto noodles (a hearty miso-based noodle soup) are a popular local dish in the Fuji Five Lakes region.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photographing Mount Fuji, with potential for stunning reflections in the lake.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive lake and mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating Mount Fuji. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions and long exposures.
Yes, the viewpoint that replicates the 1,000 yen bill image (accessible via Nakanokura Pass) is a must. The submerged railway tracks are also a unique photographic subject.
All seasons offer unique photographic opportunities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer offers lush greenery, autumn provides vibrant foliage, and winter showcases snow-capped Fuji.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone to ensure compliance and respect for the environment and other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While direct access to playgrounds might be scarce, the open spaces around the lake provide room for children to play. The unique sight of Mount Fuji can also spark curiosity and wonder in young minds. Remember to bring appropriate gear for outdoor activities and ensure children are supervised near the water.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to photograph the submerged railway tracks, a unique and mysterious subject. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for sweeping vistas and a tripod for low-light conditions. The changing seasons offer diverse photographic opportunities, from spring blossoms to autumn foliage.
🏕️ Campers and Outdoor Adventurers
Beyond camping, the lake is ideal for kayaking, boating, and fishing. The clear, deep waters offer a refreshing environment for water sports. Hiking trails around the lake, including the ascent to Nakanokura Pass, provide further opportunities for outdoor exploration and stunning vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Fuji Five Lakes
While Kawaguchiko is the most developed and accessible, Lake Motosu offers a more secluded and peaceful experience. It's known for its exceptionally clear and deep waters, making it the clearest among the Fuji Five Lakes. This clarity contributes to the stunning reflections of Mount Fuji, a sight that has inspired artists and photographers for centuries.
Visitors often combine a trip to Lake Motosu with visits to other Fuji Five Lakes, creating a comprehensive exploration of the region. The area is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists seeking natural beauty and iconic Japanese landscapes.
The Iconic 1,000 Yen Bill View
Even if you don't make the climb to Nakanokura Pass, the views from the lake's shore are remarkably similar and equally breathtaking. The calm waters of Lake Motosu provide a perfect mirror for Mount Fuji, especially on clear days. This view is a major draw for photographers and anyone wanting to experience a quintessential Japanese landscape.
Experiencing this view is a highlight for many visitors, offering a tangible connection to Japan's natural and cultural heritage. It's a moment of awe that encapsulates the beauty and grandeur of Mount Fuji and its surrounding natural wonders.
Camping and Outdoor Activities
Beyond camping, the lake's clear and deep waters are perfect for a variety of water sports. Kayaking, boating, and fishing are popular activities, allowing visitors to explore the lake from a different perspective. The calm conditions on most days make it suitable for beginners and experienced enthusiasts alike.
For those who enjoy hiking, the trails around Lake Motosu, including the path to Nakanokura Pass, offer beautiful scenery and a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Fuji Five Lakes region on foot. The area is also known for its diverse birdlife, adding to the natural appeal for outdoor lovers.
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