More Than Just Mount Fuji: Things to Do Around Kawaguchiko

Kawaguchiko is famous for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, but beyond the iconic mountain, there are plenty of attractions worth exploring. Here are some of our stops from our trip.

Walk Through Momiji Corridor (Maple Corridor)

Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0304, Japan

If you're visiting in autumn, a stroll through the famous Momiji Corridor (Autumn Leaves Corridor) is a must. We visited slightly before peak foliage season, so the leaves had not fully turned yet, but it was still a pleasant walk.

The corridor is lined with maple trees that transform into shades of red, orange and gold later in the season. There is also a art museum along the way if you're interested in making a stop. Even without peak colours, it was a nice slow stroll and a good way to enjoy the cooler autumn weather.

Shop Till You Drop at Gotemba Premium Outlets

1312 Fukasawa, Gotemba, Shizuoka 412-0023, Japan

We couldn't come this close without visiting Gotemba Premium Outlets, so we headed there for a serious shopping session.

The plan was simple: shop till we drop.

We spent most of the day wandering through the outlet, browsing everything from luxury brands to sportswear and Japanese labels. It's the kind of place where you think you'll only spend a few hours, but somehow an entire day disappears before you know it.

When our feet finally needed a break, we headed to the food hall for lunch and grabbed Shake Shack. After hours of shopping, a burger, fries and milkshake felt especially satisfying.

We eventually wrapped up our shopping spree around 6pm before heading to Dormy Inn Gotemba for the night. Tired but happy, we left with a few shopping bags and zero regrets. If shopping is your thing, it's very easy to spend an entire day here.

Stop by the Famous Lawson Convenience Store

3495-2 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301, Japan

Who knew a convenience store could become a tourist attraction?

The famous Lawson combini near Kawaguchiko has become one of the most photographed spots in the area thanks to its iconic Mount Fuji backdrop. It's a quick stop but can yield some fantastic photos if the weather cooperates.

One thing to note: the restroom at this Lawson may be closed, so don't count on making a toilet stop there.

Climb 398 steps to Chureito Pagoda

2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan

Next, we headed to Chureito Pagoda, one of Japan's most recognisable viewpoints.

Getting there is no joke. There are 398 steps to the viewing platform, though you can alternatively use the sloped pathway instead of taking the stairs the entire way.

For me, the climb was challenging. I probably needed a break every 50 steps or so before continuing upwards.

Once at the top, the view was beautiful, but I was surprised by how small the viewing area actually was. There were also many people waiting for a glimpse of Mount Fuji, so it felt quite crowded.

Was it worth visiting? Yes.

Would I do the 398 steps again? Let's just say I'd need to mentally prepare myself first.

Explore Oshino Hakkai

Shibokusa, Oshino, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0511, Japan

We leisurely departed around 1pm for Oshino Hakkai (富士八海).

This charming area is known for its spring-fed ponds and traditional village atmosphere, but honestly, one of the highlights for us was the food.

We took a slow stroll through the area all the way to the last spring. At the main gathering point, there are plenty of food stalls and snack vendors.

The standout item was definitely the grilled fish, which tasted amazingly fresh and delicious.

We also sampled several local snacks along the way, including:

• Fish cakes
• Mochi
• Various side dishes from the food stalls

It turned into an unplanned mini food tour, and we thoroughly enjoyed it.

After a final walk around the springs and a few last snacks, it was time to leave the Fuji area behind and make our way back to Tokyo.

Final Thoughts

If you're spending a few days in Kawaguchiko, don't just focus on Mount Fuji. Some of our most enjoyable memories came from wandering through Momiji Corridor, indulging in a shopping spree at Gotemba Premium Outlets, struggling up the stairs at Chureito Pagoda, and snacking our way through Oshino Hakkai.

And if Mount Fuji decides to hide behind the clouds? Well, at least there will always be grilled fish, mochi and shopping to soften the disappointment.