What to see
Eight ponds with names like Wakuike (the deepest) and Kagamiike (mirror pond). The water has filtered through volcanic rock for decades and stays at around 13 degrees year round.
Heritage village
Oshino Hakkai, the eight ponds of Fuji.
A small village between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka where snowmelt from Mt Fuji rises in eight crystal clear ponds. Thatched houses, koi and Fuji on the horizon.
Access
Fujikko Bus from Kawaguchiko Station to Oshino Hakkai stop in roughly 25 minutes. Free village entry. Wakuike charges a small fee.
Best time
Early morning gives still water and the best Fuji reflection. Winter brings snow on the thatched roofs. Summer ponds stay cold even on hot days.
Tips
It is busy after 10 am. Several free public ponds sit just outside the paid Wakuike enclosure with the same Fuji angle. Try the soba noodles cooked in spring water.
Plan