Lake Yamanaka (Hirano shore)
About this viewpoint
Lake Yamanaka sits at 980 m, the highest of the Fuji Five Lakes and the closest in elevation to the Fuji 5th station. The Hirano shore on the east is the prime spot for Diamond Fuji, when the setting sun aligns directly with the summit, and for the whooper swans that winter on the lake.
Diamond Fuji explained
Twice a year the sun sets directly on the summit, creating a brilliant diamond flare. From Hirano it happens roughly October 13 to 17 and February 24 to 28. Check the exact dates each year as they shift with the orbit.
Beyond photography
SUP and sailing in summer, ice fishing for wakasagi in winter. The Panorama Dai trail on the southern ridge gives an elevated Fuji and lake view in 90 minutes round trip.
Photographer tips
- Diamond Fuji windows are short, plan to be set up 45 minutes before sunset.
- Swans cluster at the Hakucho no Mizuumi observation point in the morning.
- Bring strong tea, dawn temperatures sit below freezing November to March.
Getting there
Practical info
Free
Free lakeside lots, plentiful outside peak weekends.
Flat lakeside path, partly paved, easy for wheelchairs.
70 to 200 mm for Diamond Fuji, 100 to 400 mm for swans.
Where to eat nearby
- Paper Moon cafe
Lakeside cake cafe with Fuji facing terrace, a Yamanaka institution.
Best rail pass for Lake Yamanaka (Hirano shore)
These are the rail passes that actually reach Lake Yamanaka (Hirano shore). Buy your pass before you fly, then collect it at any major Japanese airport or city station.
Mt Fuji Pass (1 to 3 days)Recommended
Unlimited Fujikyu Retro Bus and sightseeing bus rides around the Fuji Five Lakes plus discounts at viewpoints, ropeways and Fuji-Q Highland.
JR Tokyo Wide Pass (3 days)
Direct Fuji Excursion limited express from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko plus all JR East lines around Tokyo. The cheapest way to reach this viewpoint from Tokyo on rails.
Japan Rail Pass (7 days)
Use it if you are also visiting Kyoto. Covers the Fuji Excursion through the JR East section and the full Tokaido Shinkansen.
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