A visit to Japan wouldn't be complete without seeing the magnificence of "Mount Fuji" (Mt. Fuji), but to enjoy Fuji to the fullest, experience nature deeply, and not have to worry about train or bus schedules, is to plan a Road Trip in Japan – renting a car to drive around all 5 lakes. In this article, we've curated 10 stunning viewpoint coordinates around Mount Fuji for you, where you can drive and stop to take photos in a laid-back manner, plus we're sharing a travel plan that actually works!
💡 Benefits of driving around Fuji: You can visit unseen viewpoint spots that buses can't reach, carry luggage to the fullest, change plans according to weather (Fuji is shy and requires flexibility!), and it's perfect for family or friend group trips

10 Stunning Viewpoint Coordinates Around Mount Fuji That You Must Visit

1. Oishi Park – Lake Kawaguchiko

The popular starting point of the Road Trip route, drive along Lake Kawaguchiko and park here. You'll see Mount Fuji reflected on the water's surface, along with flower fields that change with the seasons (such as lavender in summer and red kochia bushes in autumn). The parking lot is spacious and free!

Location: 2585 Oishi, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0305, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Free admission / Shops open approximately 09:00–17:00)
Official Website / Source: Kawaguchiko Tourism Website

2. Chureito Pagoda (Red Pagoda)

A landmark remembered by people worldwide – the five-tiered red pagoda standing tall with Mt. Fuji as its backdrop. Driving here is very convenient, with a parking lot below, then walk up the stairs to experience the stunning elevated view that captivates the eyes, especially during cherry blossom season and fall foliage

Location: 3353-1 Arakura, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Free admission)
Official Website / Source: Arakurayama Sengen Park Website

3. Oshino Hakkai (Clear Water Village)

An ancient village with 8 sparkling clear ponds formed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji. The water here is so clear you can see fish and algae below. Driving here allows you to arrive early before tour groups, getting photos with Fuji without crowds

Location: 3353-1 Arakura, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Free admission)
Official Website / Source: Website Oshino Hakkai

4. Lake Yamanakako

The largest and closest lake to Fuji among all five lakes. Driving around this lake gives a more peaceful feeling than Lake Kawaguchiko. Highlights include stopping to photograph a flock of swans on the lakeside, and it's a spot to view "Diamond Fuji" – the sunset on Fuji's peak during winter

Location: 273-1 Kamiide, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0103, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Free admission / Parking approximately 500 yen / Shops open 09:00–17:00)
Official Website / Source: Fujinomiya Tourism Website

5. Shiraito Falls

Cross over to Shizuoka Prefecture – drive and park, then walk just a little to find a waterfall that spans 150 meters wide. The water flowing down is pure mineral water from Fuji. The view of Mt. Fuji seen through the waterfall is something spectacular and refreshing

Location: 273-1 Kamiide, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0103, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Free admission / Parking approximately 500 yen / Shops open 09:00–17:00)
Official Website / Source: Fujinomiya Tourism Website

6. Asagiri Plateau & Makaino Farm

If you love the feeling of driving through wide grasslands, you must come here. This road is beautiful, with an unobstructed view of Fuji. We recommend stopping at Makaino Farm to take photos on a swing or at the camping area with Mt. Fuji as your backdrop

Location: 1327-1 Utsuno, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0104, Japan (Makaino Farm location)
Coordinates: Google Maps

Opening Hours: 09:30–17:30 (Adult admission approximately 800 - 1,200 yen depending on season / May have regular weekly closures in winter)
Official Website / Source: Makaino Farm Website

7. Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha

The oldest and most important shrine for worshipping the deity of Mount Fuji. There's a large red torii gate standing tall that contrasts beautifully with Fuji on clear days. It's an excellent stop to recharge positive energy during your Road Trip

Location: 1-1 Miyacho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0067, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: 06:00–19:00 (Nov. - Feb. closes at 18:00 / Free admission)
Official Website / Source: Fujisan Hongu Shrine Website

8. Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba (Heritage Village)

A restored ancient farming village with thatched-roof houses. Drive around the peaceful Lake Saiko, and you can rent a kimono or samurai outfit to walk and take photos with the backdrop of the ancient village and Mount Fuji

Location: 2710 Saikonenba, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0332, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00 (Dec. - Feb. open 09:30-16:30 / Adult admission 500 yen, children 250 yen)
Official Website / Source: Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba Website

9. Arakurayama Sengen Park

Besides the red pagoda, this park area also has hidden corners for self-drive visitors. You can explore and find driving spots to take stylish photos with your rental car and Mt. Fuji in a unique way

Location: 3353-1 Arakura, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (Free admission)
Official Website / Source: Arakurayama Sengen Park Website

10. Gotemba Premium Outlets

End your road trip with shopping at Japan's largest outlet. The benefit of having a car is that no matter how much you shop, you can just throw it all in the trunk! Plus, this is a place where you can shop and view Mount Fuji at the same time

Location: 1312 Fukasawa, Gotemba, Shizuoka 412-0023, Japan
Coordinates: Google Maps
Opening Hours: 10:00–20:00 (Dec. - Feb. closes at 19:00)
Official Website / Source: Gotemba Premium Outlets Website

3-Day, 2-Night Fuji Road Trip Plan

Day 1: Head to Fuji & Sightseeing Around Lake Kawaguchiko

• Pick up rental car from Tokyo, drive on Chuo Expressway heading to Kawaguchiko (approximately 1.5 - 2 hours)

• Stop to take photos at Chureito Pagoda

• Have lunch featuring Hoto Noodles, a local specialty

• Drive along the lakeside and visit Oishi Park

• Check into lakeside accommodation and soak in an onsen while viewing Mt. Fuji

Day 2: Nature on the Shizuoka Side & Ancient Village

• Drive to Oshino Hakkai clear water village early in the morning

• Drive around Lake Yamanakako and take photos with swans

• Drive across to the prefecture to see the beauty of Shiraito Falls

• Stop for coffee and stylish photos at a farm in the Asagiri Plateau area

  Day 3: Fuji area & Shopping before returning

• Pay respects and make a wish at Fuji Sengen Shrine, Hongu

• Drive to Gotemba Premium Outlets for shopping

• Drive back to Tokyo (via Tomei Expressway) and return the rental car

Recommended rental cars suitable for Japan Road Trips

Choosing the right type of car that fits the number of people and luggage is the key to a successful Road Trip. If traveling with 2-3 people, a compact eco car is sufficient. However, if going as a larger family of 4-6 people, we recommend an MPV with comfortable seating and ample luggage storage space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about driving to Fuji

• Q: Is it difficult to drive in Japan? Which side is the steering wheel on?
  A: In Japan, the steering wheel is on the right side and you drive on the left, just like Thailand. Traffic rules are clear and Japanese drivers are courteous. As long as you follow the speed limits and stop completely at "Tomare" (stop) signs, driving is very easy.

• Q: What type of international driving license do I need?
  A: Thai citizens need to obtain an "International Driving Permit" from the Department of Land Transport (Geneva Convention 1949 format, 1 year validity) and must carry it together with your actual passport when picking up the rental car.

• Q: Is the expressway (ETC) necessary?
  A: It is very important for cross-city Road Trips. We recommend renting an ETC card (Electronic Toll Collection) when you rent the car for convenient passage through expressway toll gates without having to stop and pay cash. Usually, you'll also get a discount on expressway tolls.

• Q: What is the best time to drive and visit Fuji?
  A: You can drive and visit year-round, but winter (November - February) is when Mount Fuji shows itself most frequently and looks most beautiful. If you're traveling during harsh winter conditions, don't forget to request "Snow Tires" from the rental car company for safety.

Ready to experience the grandeur of Mount Fuji?

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