Motosuko Lake, Fuji Five Lakes - Image 1
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Lake Motosu Fuji Five Lakes

4.5
·951 reviews·, Japan

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Clear Fuji views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Motosuko Lake, Fuji Five Lakes - Image 1

Lake Motosu Fuji Five Lakes

Best Time

Early mornings

Clear Fuji views, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.5
(951 reviews)

"The view of Fuji Mountain is extraordinary with the calming lake."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Iconic Mount Fuji Reflection

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!

Instagram+1
Tranquil Lakeside Camping

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.

Instagram+1
Submerged Railway Tracks

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.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Accessing Lake Motosu

Lake Motosu is the westernmost of the Fuji Five Lakes and is less accessible than others. While a car offers the most flexibility, public transport involves taking a bus from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station, then a local sightseeing bus. Plan your connections carefully to avoid long waits. Reddit

Best Views of Mount Fuji

For the iconic view of Mount Fuji reflected in the lake, similar to the 1,000 yen bill, consider climbing Nakanokura Pass for about 30 minutes. However, even views from the lake's edge are stunning. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Clear Fuji views, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇯🇵 More details in our travel blog 🔗 in bio Best Mt Fuji View Spots 1. Lake Yamanaka (swan lake) 2. Lawson kombini Kawaguchiko 3. Tenku-no Torrii 4. Lake Kawaguchiko 5. The Park Cafe 6. Honcho St 7. Chureito Pagoda 8. Hoto Fudo 9. Mt Fuji & Kawaguchiko stations 10. Arakura Shrine #Mtfuji #fujisan #fujisanview #mtfujiview #japantravel #japan #japantok #kawaguchiko #traveltiktok
@lukemcameron
243K likes • 4.3M views

🚗 Car is King

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Lake Motosu and the Fuji Five Lakes region. InstagramReddit

📸 Aim for Nakanokura Pass

For the classic 1000 yen bill view, hike Nakanokura Pass. The lake's edge offers a similar, stunning vista. Instagram+1

คิดถึง Fujisan แล้วววววววว #fuji #fujisan #lakeyamanakako #kawaguchiko #japantravel @FoamV
@phatography
53.4K likes • 520.1K views
The Fuji Five Lake area consist of Kawaguchi, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji and Motosu lakes. 📍Yamanaka lake is the ultimate gem among all lakes surrounding Fuji mountain. 🚌 It’s accessible by bus “Kawaguchiko station loop shuttle bus” from mt.Fuji stn and get off at “Deguchiyama iriguchi” stop. Save it for your trip to Fujiyoshida 💌#japan#fuji#photospots
winnicka
82 likes • 3.4K views

🏕️ Camping Paradise

Lake Motosu campgrounds offer incredible Fuji views. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Instagram+1

🛶 Water Sports Fun

Enjoy kayaking, boating, and fishing on the clear, deep waters of Lake Motosu. Instagram

#毎日富士山 📍本栖湖 - Lake Motosu 🗻Lake Motosu, known in Japanese as 本栖湖 (Motosuko), is one of the Five Fuji Lakes, nestled at the northern base of Mount Fuji, Japan's highest and most iconic mountain. This pristine lake is renowned for its deep blue waters and the stunning, unobstructed view it offers of Mount Fuji, making it a favorite among photographers and nature lovers. 🛶Formed hundreds of years a...
mtfujitimes
32 likes • 579 views

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. InstagramReddit

📸 Aim for Nakanokura Pass

For the classic 1000 yen bill view, hike Nakanokura Pass. The lake's edge offers a similar, stunning vista. Instagram+1

🏕️ Camping Paradise

Lake Motosu campgrounds offer incredible Fuji views. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Instagram+1

🛶 Water Sports Fun

Enjoy kayaking, boating, and fishing on the clear, deep waters of Lake Motosu. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Walks

The roads around the lake are well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape with fewer tourists. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(951 reviews)

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

Extraordinary Fuji views
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Clear, deep blue waters

What People Dislike

Less accessible by public transport

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. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

The Blue Line Sightseeing Bus from Kawaguchiko Station is the primary public transport option that services Lake Motosu. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Instagram+1

Popular activities include camping, boating, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic beauty. The clear waters are perfect for water sports. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Lake Motosu is renowned for its picturesque views of Mount Fuji, especially during sunrise and sunset, and the unique submerged railway tracks. Instagram+1

Compared to other Fuji Five Lakes like Kawaguchiko, Lake Motosu generally has fewer tourists, offering a more peaceful and serene experience. Reddit

Yes, swimming is possible in Lake Motosu, and its clear, deep waters are often described as magical. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Campers typically prepare their own meals. Some campgrounds might have basic facilities for cooking, or you can bring portable cooking equipment. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons often provide the best light for photographing Mount Fuji, with potential for stunning reflections in the lake. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

All seasons offer unique photographic opportunities. Spring brings cherry blossoms, summer offers lush greenery, autumn provides vibrant foliage, and winter showcases snow-capped Fuji. TikTok

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lake Motosu offers a peaceful natural escape for families. Camping is a fantastic option, allowing kids to enjoy the outdoors. The calm lake waters are suitable for gentle boat rides or supervised paddling. Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as amenities are limited. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Lake Motosu is a photographer's paradise, especially for those seeking iconic shots of Mount Fuji. The Nakanokura Pass viewpoint is essential for capturing the classic 1,000 yen bill reflection. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for dramatic landscapes and mirror-like water. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🏕️ Campers and Outdoor Adventurers

For campers, Lake Motosu provides an unforgettable experience with direct views of Mount Fuji. The Lake Motosu Campgrounds are well-regarded for their scenic locations. Be sure to book your spot in advance, especially during popular seasons. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Fuji Five Lakes

Lake Motosu is part of the Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) region, a collection of five pristine lakes situated at the northern base of Mount Fuji. These lakes – Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanaka, Shoji, and Motosu – were formed by volcanic activity from Mount Fuji. Each lake offers unique perspectives and activities, but Lake Motosu stands out for its tranquility and iconic views. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

The Iconic 1,000 Yen Bill View

One of the most famous sights at Lake Motosu is the view that graces the old Japanese 1,000 yen banknote. This iconic image features Mount Fuji rising majestically behind the serene lake. To capture this exact perspective, visitors often hike up Nakanokura Pass, a moderate climb that rewards with an unparalleled panoramic vista. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

Camping and Outdoor Activities

Lake Motosu is a popular destination for camping, offering a chance to immerse yourself in nature with Mount Fuji as your backdrop. The Lake Motosu Campgrounds provide a serene environment for tents and RVs, with many sites offering direct lake access or stunning views. It's an ideal spot for those looking to escape the city and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram