Autumn is one of the best times to visit the Mt. Fuji area. The summer haze is gone, the skies are crisp and clear, and the mountain often looks its most photogenic. Add in the fiery foliage, cozy hot springs, and seasonal activities, and you’ve got the perfect Japan escape.
Here are some of the top things to do around Mt. Fuji in autumn:
1. See Mt. Fuji with Autumn Leaves at the Fuji Five Lakes
The Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) region is one of the best spots for leaf-peeping.
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Lake Kawaguchi: Famous for its Momiji Corridor, lined with maple trees glowing red and gold.
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Lake Yamanaka: Wide open views and fewer crowds, perfect for photographers.
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Lake Motosu: Known for the iconic Mt. Fuji reflection that appears on the ¥1,000 note.
2. Explore Chureito Pagoda
One of the most iconic views of Mt. Fuji is from the Chureito Pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park. In autumn, the red pagoda, golden trees, and snow-capped Fuji make a postcard-perfect scene. The climb is about 400 steps, but the view is worth it.
3. Relax in an Onsen with a Mt. Fuji View
Few things feel more Japanese than soaking in a hot spring while gazing at Mt. Fuji. In autumn, the cool crisp air makes the experience extra refreshing. Popular choices include:
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Fuji Yurari
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Benifuji no Yu
4. Stop by Tenka Chaya
Perched on the mountainside above Lake Kawaguchi, Tenka Chaya is a historic tea house with incredible views of Mt. Fuji. It’s known for hearty soba noodles, miso-dengaku, and traditional sweets. The famous author Osamu Dazai once stayed here, adding a cultural touch. In autumn, the colorful foliage around the tea house makes it an unforgettable place to take a break and enjoy a warm meal with a view.
5. Stroll Through Ōishi Park
On the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Ōishi Park offers one of the most scenic lake-and-Fuji views. In autumn, pampas grass and red foliage frame the mountain perfectly. The lakeside walking paths and seasonal flower displays make it a photographer’s favorite.
6. Discover Oshino Hakkai
This peaceful village is famous for its eight crystal-clear spring ponds, fed by Mt. Fuji’s snowmelt. Surrounded by traditional thatched-roof houses and autumn trees, it feels like stepping back in time.
7. Go Grape Picking in Yamanashi
Just a short trip from the Mt. Fuji area, Yamanashi Prefecture is Japan’s top grape-growing region. Autumn is harvest season, so you can visit local orchards to pick and taste fresh, juicy grapes. Many farms in Katsunuma also offer wine tasting, making it a perfect seasonal experience to pair with your Mt. Fuji trip.
8. Visit Minami Inaga Lake
For a quieter, off-the-beaten-path autumn experience, head to Minami Inaga Lake in Yamanashi. Surrounded by dense forest, the lake reflects brilliant shades of red, yellow, and orange during the season. It’s less crowded than Lake Kawaguchi or Oshino, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
🍁 Mid-October to mid-November is the prime autumn season around Mt. Fuji.
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Higher elevations (like the Five Lakes and Minami Inaga Lake) peak in late October.
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Lower areas (like Oshino Hakkai and Katsunuma orchards) often hold their colors into early November.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Mt. Fuji in autumn means breathtaking views, colorful foliage, hot spring relaxation, and seasonal fun. From the Momiji Corridor at Lake Kawaguchi, to a warming soba lunch at Tenka Chaya, the peaceful atmosphere of Ōishi Park and Oshino Hakkai, hands-on activities like grape picking in Yamanashi, and the hidden beauty of Minami Inaga Lake, this is the season when Mt. Fuji feels magical.
If you’re dreaming about an autumn escape to Mt. Fuji but don’t know where to start, I can help! ✨
I offer personalized tour coordination—from arranging the best spots to see the foliage, to local food experiences, scenic drives, and even cozy accommodations. That way, you can just relax and enjoy Furano at its best, without worrying about the details.
