Best Locations For Cherry Blossoms Near Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is one of the best places for celebrating hanami because it has so many delightful places nearby dedicated to Japan’s sakura tree, also known as the cherry tree. The sakura tree blossoms every spring and is a highly integral part of the hanami celebration each spring.

Cherry blossoms do not bloom on Mount Fuji, but there are many nearby locations with blossoming trees, capturing the gorgeous mountain in the background.

Viewing cherry blossoms near Mount Fuji is a culturally significant experience in Japan. It brings you spiritually closer and helps honor your pilgrimage to see two truly Japanese sites at once.

Mount Fuji is a renowned Japanese landmark that visitors and residents can see from many of the parks, lakes, and mountain peaks nearby such as Mount Takao.

However, only a few places can truly be classified as the best locations for viewing cherry blossoms near Mount Fuji. One of the most popular locations includes Lake Kawaguchiko, among several others lakes in the area.

The Best Places for Viewing Cherry Blossoms Near Mount Fuji

The best places for viewing cherry blossoms near Mount Fuji are secluded and ethereal locations that inspire. Locations such as the Chureito Pagoda or Northern Shores of Kawaguchiko are famous for viewing cherry blossoms that capture the view -and essence- of Mount Fuji in the background.

  • Lake Kawaguchiko (northern and eastern shores)
  • Urui River Area
  • Oshino Hakkai Village
  • Iconic Chureito Pagoda
  • Fuji Shibazakura Festival

Before visiting these lovely locations to view the blossoming Sakura trees, keep in mind that cherry trees only bloom during late winter and early spring. Some years in Japan this event might be less than two weeks.

Cherry blossom trees typically bloom in mid-April, with some blooming in late March. By the end of May, all trees will have lost their bright pink color.

In most cases, there is no fee to visit natural shores or parks. However, be aware that some popular places like Iyashi no Sato will charge a small entrance fee to allow patrons inside. A small fee is worth the compelling experience and unforgettable views.

Chureito Pagoda

Chureito Pagoda is a mountainside pagoda that overlooks Mount Fuji. During spring, cherry blossoms bloom, encompassing the pagoda with the tips of its pink flowers.  One of the most sought-after locations for photographers of Mount Fuji.

The Chureito Pagoda is five stories tall, and the height of the top three floors rises above the treetops. Many people claim that the pagoda appears to float when the sakura trees are in full bloom because of its height. Seeing this in spring creates an ethereal feel.

Chureito Pagoda

The large observation deck points in the direction of Mount Fuji, so you can get a perfect view of the large mountain and the many blossoming sakura trees below. It is great for photographs and general viewing of the mountain and the sakura.

It is also worth noting that the Chureito Pagoda is an extension of the Arkura Sengen Shrine, constructed in 1963. The shrine is a symbol of peace and is surrounded by cherry blossoms as well.

Pathway To Chureito Pagoda

There is no price to visit the Chureito Pagoda, but it can become busy. To avoid large crowds, visit early in the morning or on rainy or cooler weather days. People often avoid visiting when there are no flowers in bloom. It is still a wonderful sight to see Mount Fuji.

Chureito Pagoda Official Website

Northern Shores of Kawaguchiko

The Northern Shores of Kawaguchiko is the best waterside location for viewing cherry blossoms near Mount Fuji because of the cherry trees alongside the pathway and the mountain’s reflection in the water.

Lake Kawaguchiko has one of the best views of Mount Fuji. Around mid-April, the many cherry trees alongside the one-kilometer stone pathway fully bloom. The trail runs in a straight line parallel to the north shore, with a perfect view of Mount Fuji. 

The Northern Shores has a perfect view of Mount Fuji. On clear days it casts a perfect reflection of Mount Fuji on the surface of Lake Kawaguchiko. As the cherry trees bloom, this will create a mystical feeling. 

Iyashi no Sato

Iyashi no Sata is an open-air museum on Lake Saiko that comes to life each year during cherry blossom season. The experience of this open-air museum and the blossoming trees inside is unique.

However, the proximity to Mount Fuji is more considerable than the view, which is essentially non-existent.

Iyashi no Sato Official Website

Visiting Inyashi no Sato during springtime is enjoyable. There are so many artistic things you can do while surrounded by such magical scenery.

In addition to viewing the colorful cherry blossom trees, you may partake in crafts and learn about the cultural heritage of this traditional town and its classic Japanese homes.

Before becoming a museum, this former farming village was destroyed by a typhoon. All buildings in the town that have been rebuilt and converted into restaurants, shops, and facilities were previously homes to the residents.

As you wander through this historic town, you will notice there are many sakura trees scattered around. The natural vegetation makes the open-air museum more scenic and enjoyable during spring.

The price of admission to visit the Iyashi no Sato is 350 Yen. There will be additional fees for services, goods, and foods while you stroll through the interesting town.

If you plan to explore the town for a long time, consider bringing extra money. Or, you may bring something to cook for yourself. They have many stoves and grills available for rent and free use.

Hannoki Bayashi (Oshino Hakkai)

Oshino Hakkai is a popular town to view cherry blossoms during spring. This quaint town has a beautiful view of Mount Fuji in the background and plenty of activities to partake in as you experience Japan’s most colorful season by its most iconic landmark.

Oshino Hakkai Official Website

Oshino Hakkai

The tourist location, Oshino Hakkai, is located on the site of Fuji Five Lake’s former sixth lake, which dried out hundreds of years ago. The popular cherry blossom viewing location lies between Lakes Kawaguchiko and Yamanakako.

Several clear-water ponds at Oshino Hakkai make cherry blossom viewing a surreal experience. Photographers and tourists gather from across the world to capture photographs of the crystal clear reflections of these flourishing bright pink trees. In mid-April, you can see blossoming cherry trees inside this small town and in the distance.

The Hannoki Bayashi is an admission-free open-air museum surrounding the largest pond at Oshino Hakkai. This open-air museum represents a pilgrimage site with traditional thatched farmhouses. 

Oshino Hakkai village

It is a different experience from the quaint town of Oshino Hakkai. This museum showcases traditional housing, farming tools, and household items.

The cherry trees blooming in spring and a view of Mount Fuji in the background gives an insight into Japan’s history.

Eastern Shores of Kawaguchiko

The Eastern Shores of Kawaguchiko is a popular area for viewing the blooming sakura trees in mid-April. Many people enjoy this location because of the long, concrete trail that people may walk on. 

The paved trail is not the same as the Northern Shore. It is entirely paved, which means that the pathway on the east shore of Lake Kawaguchiko is more comfortably accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, bikes, and scooters. 

Lake Kawaguchiko Location Via Google Maps

Unfortunately, the curving trail on the Eastern Shore means that Mount Fuji is not always visible. Visibility is not always necessary, though.

Proximity to the mountain will bring you spiritually close as you celebrate the cherry blossoms. Plus, the accessible shoreline means you can enjoy the cherry blossoms on the beach or from the water too. On the beach, your view of the mountain is less obstructed.

Two Icons Of Japan Cherry Blossoms And Mount Fuji

Viewing cherry blossoms near Mount Fuji brings you closer to Japanese culture. The influence of Mount Fuji and the blooming cherry blossoms are very important in Japan. 

Cherry blossom viewing is more than just aesthetically pleasing to the people of Japan. Viewing cherry blossoms also symbolizes the welcoming of spring, a pilgrimage to a new time of year.

Hanami Festival In Japan

Hanami festivities and celebrations occur annually to celebrate the changing season, a time of year that expresses new beginnings. 

Each year, people gather in parks, at temples, and at the peaks of mountains nearby Mount Fuji to view the cherry blossoms. In addition to the love for cherry blossoms, there is a cultural significance of Mount Fuji.

The visibility and proximity of Mount Fuji while viewing the cherry blossoms is important as well. 

Viewing Fuji In Late Winter

Mount fuji represents spirituality in Japan. It has been the source of Shinto religion since the early 7th century. According to the shrines of Mount Fuji, which honor Kami, a cherry blossom viewing close to mount fuji is more spiritually fulfilling than one further away.

Celebrating hanami or viewing cherry blossoms near Mount Fuji is said to influence the likelihood that you will have great luck, and it lets you experience Japan’s traditional culture and its love of nature.

Virtual View Of Chureito Pagoda Cherry Blossom Season

My fascination with Japan began several years back at a roadside bonsai stand while on vacation. I became more interested in the where and why's more than the trees themselves. My love of Bonsai led me to further research my interest in the gardens where they originated from and the places and people that surrounded those little trees. My curiosity was well rewarded upon visiting Saitama where the National Bonsai Museum was located and Omiya Village the bonsai mecca for lovers of this ancient art form. Exploring many towns and villages and even making my way to Japan's furthest southern prefecture of Okinawa. I hope to share my love of this wonderful and exotic place with all those who want to know more about Japan.