Traveling from Kawaguchiko Station to other areas in the Fuji Five Lakes region can be done efficiently using a combination of buses, trains, and even boats. The Five Lakes, known in Japanese as the Fujigoko, include Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Sai, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu. Here's how you can explore these areas starting from Kawaguchiko Station.
Fujikko Bus (Retro Bus)
The Fujikko Bus, also known as the Retro Bus, is a popular and convenient way to explore the area around Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Saiko.
- Kawaguchiko Line: This bus line circles around Lake Kawaguchi and stops at various attractions like the Kawaguchiko Music Forest, Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center, and cable car stations. Don’t look beyond this if you’re here just for a day trip!
- Saiko Line: This line takes you around Lake Saiko, with stops at the Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba (healing village), the Bat Cave, and the Wind Cave. Definitely worth it for a long day trip or even a 1-night stay.
Omni Bus
The Omni Bus service offers three lines that cover the areas around Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka.
- Red Line: Covers the Kawaguchiko area and is similar to the Kawaguchiko Line of the Fujikko Bus.
- Green Line: Focuses on the Lake Saiko area.
- Blue Line: Connects Kawaguchiko with Lake Yamanaka, offering a good option to visit the largest of the five lakes.
Fujikyu Railway
For destinations a bit further away, the Fujikyu Railway can be an option. However, it mainly operates between Kawaguchiko Station and Otsuki Station, so its use within the Five Lakes region is limited.
Rental Cars or Bicycles
This was my favorite option! For more flexibility and the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path locations, consider renting a car or a bicycle. Several rental shops are available near Kawaguchiko Station. Just pick up a map, and track your route. Closer to the actual mountain, you tend to lose cell reception, so make sure to download the maps first.
Boat Rides
Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka offer boat cruises, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape and Mount Fuji. The boat terminals are easily accessible by the local bus services.
Travel Tips
- Bus Passes: Consider purchasing a bus pass for unlimited rides on the Fujikko and Omni Buses. These passes are available at Kawaguchiko Station and are very cost-effective for a day of exploring.
- Timetables: Always check the latest bus and train timetables, as they can vary by season.
- Accommodation: If you plan to explore extensively, consider staying overnight in one of the lake areas to maximize your time.
- Eat Matcha Icecream: Don’t ask why, but this is a standard tip.
