Mount Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone Loop
Japan
A classic Tokyo-to-Tokyo loop through the Fuji Five Lakes and Hakone, combining lakefront viewpoints, volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and framed views of Mount Fuji. The drive is straightforward on paved roads, with the best visibility usually in the cooler, clearer months of spring and autumn.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Lake Kawaguchi Oishi Park
Start on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi with big Fuji views over flower beds. On clear days, the mountain reflection is postcard perfect.
- Chureito Pagoda
Climb to this famous viewpoint for a layered shot of pagoda, town, and Mount Fuji. Spring blossoms and autumn color make it especially striking.
- Lake Saiko
A quieter lake with a forested shoreline and a calmer feel than Kawaguchi. It is a good stop for a slow scenic break and lakeside photos.
- Fujisan World Heritage Center
Learn how Fuji became a sacred landscape and world heritage site. The building itself gives a dramatic, cone-shaped Fuji-themed photo stop.
- Gotemba Premium Outlets
A convenient stop for lunch, snacks, and mountain views near the eastern side of Fuji. It is also one of the easiest places to rest and recharge.
- Lake Ashi
Cruise-side scenery opens up with water, cedar hills, and Fuji on clear days. The lake feels classic Hakone, calm and expansive.
- Owakudani
Steam vents, sulfur, and bare volcanic slopes give this stop a raw, otherworldly look. Try the famous black eggs if the conditions are calm.
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
Sculptures and gardens spread across a wooded hillside with an easy walk. It is a relaxed way to break up the loop before the final leg.
- Odawara Station
Finish at Odawara for an easy return toward Tokyo or a train connection. The route ends with a smooth transition from mountains back to the city.
Where to Eat
- Fuji Tempura Idatentempura
Popular for crisp tempura and an easy lunch near Lake Kawaguchi. Good for a quick, satisfying meal between sightseeing stops.
- Hoto Fudo Kawaguchiko Eastyamanashi noodles
Serves hoto, the hearty local noodle stew of the Fuji area. It is a classic warm meal for cool mountain weather.
- Tonkatsu Aokitonkatsu
A well-known stop for thick, crispy pork cutlets in the Hakone and Odawara area. Handy for a filling meal near the end of the loop.
- Yamanashi Prefectural Fujisan World Heritage Center Cafecafe
A simple stop for coffee, snacks, and a short break after visiting the heritage center. Best used as a light refresh rather than a destination meal.
- Bakery and Table Hakonebakery cafe
Known for breads, pastries, and lakeside views near Hakone. It is a pleasant place for breakfast or an afternoon snack by Lake Ashi.
Things to Do
- Watch sunrise over Mount Fuji at Oishi Parkviewpoint
Arrive early for the clearest light and the best chance of a mirror-like reflection. The flowerbeds add color to the classic Fuji lake scene.
- Climb to Chureito Pagoda for the famous Fuji framelandmark
Walk the steps to the pagoda for one of Japan's most iconic views. The composition works especially well in cherry blossom or autumn foliage season.
- Take the Hakone ropeway over Owakudaniscenic ride
Ride above steaming vents and volcanic slopes for a dramatic aerial view. On clear days, the cable car gives wide views toward Mount Fuji.
- Explore the Hakone Open-Air Museummuseum
Stroll among large sculptures, gardens, and indoor art spaces in a mountain setting. It is one of Hakone's easiest and most rewarding stops.