While Japan is often associated with cherry blossoms, there’s something about the vibrant autumn foliage that makes it equally stunning. During this season, many people search for a place to admire the autumn hues. This Japanese tradition is called momijigari, which literary translates to “hunting autumn leaves”. Just like hanami or cherry blossom viewing, autumn leaf viewing is a great way to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature.

A Treasure Trove of Autumn Attractions

Undeniably, Fujikawaguchiko is one of the best places to visit during autumn. About 2 hours from Shinjuku, it is reachable by train via Fujikyu Railway Line. If you take the Fuji Excursion limited express train, it will pass through 8 stops before arriving at Kawaguchiko Station, the main transportation hub in the area.  In this station, there are buses that can take you to three different routes—the Red-Line (bound for Lake Kawaguchi), the Green-Line (bound for Lake Saiko), and the Blue-Line (bound for Lake Motosuko). Make sure to visit the ticket office for inquiries or to avail the Unlimited Ride Pass (\1,700). Also, don’t forget to grab the sightseeing map to track your route or to discover other attractions. For more information, check the link below:

https://en.kawaguchiko.net

Ways to Explore Fujikawaguchiko

① Take the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Red-Line Bus and get off at the Sightseeing Boat/Ropeway Entrance bus stop (no. 9). Across the street, you will find the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway set against the backdrop of Mt. Tenjo. To ride the cable car, you can purchase a round trip ticket for \900 or a one-way ticket for \500 (if you prefer to descend the mountain on foot). The cable car will then ascend to an observation deck that offers panoramic views of Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji at an altitude of 1,075 meters. After enjoying the amazing scenery, explore the area by visiting the Usagi Shrine and the Bell of Tenjo. Then, grab a bite at Tanuki Chaya (literally “Racoon Tea House”) which serves usagi dango (rabbit dumplings) and nikumaki (rice wrapped in thinly sliced meat) on stick. Cap off your visit by taking home some freshly-baked Fujiyama cookies at a shop located in front of the ropeway entrance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

② Roam around Lake Kawaguchi

Loosen up and take in some fresh air while wandering around the lake. Admire the mountains shrouded with dreamlike autumn foliage or better yet, sail on a sightseeing boat and soak up the views of Mt. Fuji surrounded by tranquil waters.  For more information, click the link below:

https://www.fujigokokisen.jp/contents/en/

 

③ Visit the Kawaguchiko Konohana Museum

If you’re a cat person or an animal lover, you should include this place in your itinerary. It features the world of Dayan the cat, a character created by artist Akiko Ikeda. Start off by enjoying a strawberry dessert or a savory dish at the restaurant. Then, drop by the art exhibit to see original illustrations, 3D artworks, and interesting dioramas. Finally, head to the souvenir shop for exclusive merchandise such as bags, leather goods, and stationery.

 

 

 

④ Take postcard-worthy photos at Kogamasao Memorial Park

A stone’s throw away from Konohana Museum, this park is one of the best photo spots near Lake Kawaguchi. The view is clear from obstructions and there are plenty of maple trees that you can use as a foreground for your Mt. Fuji shot. It’s also not as congested as the other attractions in the area.

 

⑤ Take a stroll along Nishi River

From Kogamasao Memorial Park, walk towards the Monkey Showman Theater and gaze at the picturesque mountain range. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a free monkey show near the side of the road.

 

⑥ Be entranced by the otherworldly autumn scene at Momiji Corridor

The 150-meter corridor is popular for its crimson and golden maple trees that form an arch above its passageway and cover the ground with fallen leaves. The scene, which is straight out of a fairytale book, attracts both locals and tourists during fall season. Another event to anticipate is the Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival that is held in November. Expect to see food stalls, performances, and night illuminations that will perk up your day.

Note: Momiji Corridor should not be confused with Momiji Tunnel, another popular spot. The latter is located 1.5 km from Oishi Park.

Click this link for the photos: https://www.porta-yp.jp/en/sightseeing/koyo/momijikairo

⑦ Enjoy the Flowers at Oishi Park in Autumn

Witness the beauty of red kochia bushes and Mt. Fuji at Oishi Park, located 2 minutes on foot from Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center (Shizen Seikatsu-kan) bus stop. The flowers displayed in this park change depending on the season. There’s moss phlox in spring, lavender in summer, and kochia in autumn. For a sweet fix, swing by Oishi Park Café and try the soft-serve ice cream that comes in a variety of flavors (grape, plum, and peach—to name a few).

Click this link for the photos: https://sweetripjapan.com/oishi-park/

All the spots recommended in this article are close to Red-Line bus stops. If the duration of your stay is more than 2 days, consider exploring attractions along Green-Line (like Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba/Saiko Healing Village and Saiko Wild Bird Forest Park) and Blue-Line (Lake Shoji and Lake Motosuko).

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