Going to bed with an amazing view of Mt Fuji then waking up to cloudy skies in the Fuji Five Lakes region felt disappointing — we wanted Mt. Fuji fully visible, majestic and serene, its snowy crown gleaming in the morning sun. So I checked the weather app, partly cloudy in the morning with rain in the afternoon, we knew we had to make the most of it. Full belly from a great breakfast, personal omelettes, sweet strawberries and fresh squeezed orange juice, our iPhones charged and hearts full of anticipation, we set off for a day packed with stunning views, peaceful moments, and a deeper connection to Japan’s most iconic peak.
We started our morning with the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, a quick ride up Mount Tenjo from the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko. We were directed to our parking spot then he did the kindest thing; asking us if we were going up, if so get going as in about 30 seconds it will be a half hour wait. Sure enough, three bus loads of the crazies entered the lot. We went to the tickets asap! The gondola slowly lifted us above the treetops, and the higher we went, the more Fuji dominated the horizon — massive, serene, and impossibly symmetrical.
At the top, the views were jaw-dropping. Fuji stood proud beyond the lake, framed by clouds that looked like they were painted into the sky. We lingered at the observation deck, took a million photos (because how could you not?), and even spotted the famous “heart-shaped bell” where couples ring for good luck. Here are all the poses:)
From the ropeway, we headed to Oishi Park where Fuji is framed in flowers, just a short drive along the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko. This park is the kind of place where every angle looks like it belongs on a postcard. In spring, the garden bursts with tulips, lavender, and other blooms — all perfectly arranged with Mt. Fuji rising in the background like a watchful guardian. We were so fortunate again to have the mountain out and alive. As you will see this afternoon, the views soon diminished:(
We strolled slowly through the park, taking in the fresh air and peaceful vibe. Locals sipped coffee from the nearby café, while kids ran down the paths with the lake sparkling beside them. Fuji never left our sight — a constant, calming presence. With so much lavender in the gardens it was impossible to deny our tastebuds the Lavender ice cream, so we indulged even though it was morning.
Next, we drove over to Saiko Iyashino-Sato Nenba, also known as the Healing Village — and it truly lives up to its name. Nestled on the shores of Lake Saiko, this reconstructed thatched-roof village feels like stepping into a quieter, simpler time.
Each house is now a small gallery or workshop, where we tried on samurai armor, sipped herbal tea, and watched artisans craft paper and pottery. The setting is incredibly tranquil — lush forest behind, Mt. Fuji peeking through in front. We stayed longer than planned, soaking up the slow rhythm and peaceful energy.
We made our way to the Urui River near the Ryugenbuchi Bridge, a lesser-known but magical spot where Mt. Fuji reflects perfectly in the water on calm days.
We walked along the riverbank, the air cool and still, and there it was — the image of Fuji, snow-capped and glowing, shrouded in clouds:). Cherry blossoms lined the water, gently swaying in the breeze. There were only a few other people around, and we all just stood quietly, wishing Fuji would appear. It did not but we still imagined what an amazing site it would have been and enjoyed the cherry blossoms raining down.
This day wasn’t about rushing from place to place. It was about finding moments of stillness, of awe, and of quiet connection to the landscape. Mt. Fuji isn’t just a mountain here — it’s a constant companion, a source of pride, a piece of art painted into daily life. We literally encompassed its radius today, seeing all moods whether we were floating above the lake, wandering a healing village, or watching its reflection ripple in a sleepy river, Fuji was always there — calm, powerful, and unforgettable.
Tomorrow we return our trusty transportation and bullet train it to TOKYO!