Best Places to Stay to See Mt. Fuji

Mt. Fuji, Japan's iconic peak, is a must-see for visitors to the country. Standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet), it’s the tallest mountain in Japan and an active stratovolcano that last erupted in 1707. Whether you're looking for a luxurious retreat, a traditional ryokan, or a budget-friendly option, there are countless places where you can stay to enjoy spectacular views of this majestic mountain. In this article, we'll explore the best locations to stay to experience Mt. Fuji in all its glory.

1. Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)

Overview
The Fuji Five Lakes region is one of the most popular areas for viewing Mt. Fuji. Located at the northern base of the mountain, the area consists of five lakes: Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Motosu, Lake Sai, Lake Shoji, and Lake Yamanaka. This region offers various accommodation options, ranging from luxurious hotels to traditional Japanese inns (ryokan).

Best Places to Stay

• Lake Kawaguchi (Kawaguchiko):
  Lake Kawaguchi is the most developed of the five lakes, offering numerous hotels, ryokan, and guesthouses. Kawaguchiko Hotel and Fuji Lake Hotel are popular choices for their proximity to the lake and stunning views of Mt. Fuji.
• Lake Yamanaka (Yamanakako):
  Lake Yamanaka is the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes and is known for its serene environment. Hotel Mt. Fuji and Yamanakako Shuzanso offer excellent accommodations with beautiful views of the mountain.
• Lake Motosu (Motosuko):
  Lake Motosu is the least developed and most secluded of the five lakes, offering a more peaceful and natural setting. Motosu View Hotel is a good choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the view of Mt. Fuji.

Why Stay Here?
Staying in the Fuji Five Lakes region allows you to experience Mt. Fuji from multiple perspectives. Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of Kawaguchiko or the tranquility of Motosuko, this area offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

2. Hakone

Overview
Hakone, located to the south of Mt. Fuji, is a famous hot spring resort town known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional inns. It’s part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and offers spectacular views of Mt. Fuji, particularly from Lake Ashi.

Best Places to Stay

• Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu:
  A luxurious ryokan offering private open-air hot spring baths with breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
• Hotel Green Plaza Hakone:
  This hotel offers one of the best views of Mt. Fuji from its open-air baths.
• Gora Kadan:
  A traditional Japanese inn that combines modern luxury with authentic Japanese hospitality. The inn offers rooms with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Mt. Fuji.

Why Stay Here?
Hakone is perfect for those who want to combine their visit to Mt. Fuji with a traditional Japanese onsen experience. The area is also known for its art museums, historical sites, and scenic boat cruises on Lake Ashi.

3. Fujinomiya

Overview
Fujinomiya is located to the southwest of Mt. Fuji and is home to the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, one of the most important shrines dedicated to the mountain. This area is less touristy than the Fuji Five Lakes or Hakone, offering a more authentic Japanese experience.

Best Places to Stay

• Fujinomiya Fujikyu Hotel:
  A comfortable and affordable hotel located near Fujinomiya Station, offering easy access to Mt. Fuji and the surrounding attractions.
• Kyukamura Fuji:
  A resort hotel located in the Asagiri Plateau, offering panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and outdoor activities such as hiking and paragliding.

Why Stay Here?
Fujinomiya offers a unique perspective of Mt. Fuji and is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the cultural and historical aspects of the mountain. The area is also a gateway to the southern approach of Mt. Fuji, making it a great base for climbers.

4. Gotemba

Overview
Gotemba is a city located at the southeastern base of Mt. Fuji, known for its premium outlet shopping and stunning views of the mountain. The area is also home to several golf courses and the Gotemba Trail, one of the less crowded routes for climbing Mt. Fuji.

Best Places to Stay

• Mars Garden Wood Gotemba:
  A luxury hotel with spacious rooms offering views of Mt. Fuji. The hotel also features a spa and onsen facilities.
• Hotel Clad:
  Located within the Gotemba Premium Outlets complex, this hotel offers convenience for shoppers and breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.

Why Stay Here?
Gotemba is ideal for travelers who want to combine their Mt. Fuji experience with shopping and leisure activities. The area is also known for its proximity to the Gotemba Trail, making it a convenient base for climbers.

5. Shizuoka City

Overview
Shizuoka City, the capital of Shizuoka Prefecture, offers distant but panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. The city is known for its green tea plantations and beautiful coastline, providing a unique backdrop to Japan's most famous mountain.

Best Places to Stay

• Nippondaira Hotel:
  A luxury hotel located on a hilltop, offering sweeping views of Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay. The hotel is known for its elegant design and serene atmosphere.
• Hotel Associa Shizuoka:
  A modern hotel located in the heart of Shizuoka City, offering convenient access to the city's attractions and views of Mt. Fuji from select rooms.

Why Stay Here?
Shizuoka City is perfect for those who want to enjoy a more urban experience while still being able to admire Mt. Fuji from a distance. The city's rich history, culinary scene, and cultural attractions make it an excellent choice for travelers.

6. Tokyo

Overview
While Tokyo is a bustling metropolis, it also offers some incredible views of Mt. Fuji on clear days, particularly from high-rise buildings and observation decks. Staying in Tokyo allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds: the excitement of city life and the tranquility of Mt. Fuji in the distance.

Best Places to Stay

• Park Hyatt Tokyo:
  This luxury hotel offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji from its high-rise rooms and New York Grill & Bar.
• Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo:
  Located near Tokyo Station, this hotel offers luxury accommodations with views of Mt. Fuji on clear days.
• Hotel New Otani Tokyo:
  A classic luxury hotel with a beautiful Japanese garden and views of Mt. Fuji from select rooms.

Why Stay Here?
Staying in Tokyo gives you access to the vibrant culture, shopping, and dining experiences of Japan’s capital, while still allowing you to catch glimpses of Mt. Fuji. It’s an excellent option for those who want to combine urban exploration with natural beauty.

Conclusion

Choosing the best place to stay to see Mt. Fuji depends on your preferences and the kind of experience you’re looking for. Whether you want to immerse yourself in nature at the Fuji Five Lakes, enjoy the hot springs and culture of Hakone, or catch a glimpse of the mountain from the comfort of a luxury hotel in Tokyo, there’s a perfect spot for everyone. Wherever you choose, waking up to the sight of Japan's most iconic peak is sure to be an unforgettable experience.