Top camping spots near Mount Fuji

Admiring the sunset at the foot of the majestic Mount Fuji, or waking up to watch the sunrise… what a dream! And for adventurous souls, what better than camping and being surrounded by nature for this view? Here are the best campsites near Mount Fuji from which you can enjoy the most unforgettable views.

Heartland – Asagiri Campground and Farm

Located on the grounds of a farm, this camp ground offers amazing unobstructed views of Mt Fuji as well as a rustic atmosphere. You can try handmade cheese and ice-cream from the farm cows, as well as farm activities.

Lake Tanuki-ko Campground

Photographers from all over Japan seek out this campsite to take shots of Mt. Fuji and the lake without any man-made obstructions. Here you can see the so-called “diamond”: the moment when the rising or setting sun aligns with the peak of Mt. Fuji, causing it to shine bright like a diamond. This phenomenon happens the week around April 20th and August 20th at 6am, and the reflexion of the diamond in the lake Tanuki waters actually creates a “double diamond”!

Walk on the boardwalk around the lake, rent a boat or a bicycle. In spring you will see blossoms from 350 cherry trees surrounding the lake, in summer fireflies scintillate around the lake shore, and the autumn foliage is also gorgeous.

It gets busy on weekends and holidays, so make sure to reserve online. But Lake Tanuki is not one of the “5 lakes”, so it doesn’t get as busy.

Asagiri Jamboree Campground

Contrary to many large campgrounds in the area, here you will not find predefined camping compartments, which means that you can come with your car/bike and find a spot that works for you, anywhere in the grassy forested territory. This means it will not feel too crowded, even in the high season. Oh, and of course Mt Fuji literally towers over the campground!

Hottarakashi Camping Ground

This campsite is located a bit further away from Mount Fuji, across a valley. And that means that you get to be on a mountain, overlooking the valley and Mt Fuji beyond it. This small and cozy camping offers a much more intimate camping experience than many other larger campsites. Last but not least: the nearby onsen hot spring opens at 5am so that visitors can admire the sunrise, while soaking in the outdoors bath… Can it get any better?!

Retreat Camp Mahoroba

For an intimate and zen camping experience, try this secluded camping-retreat, offering just a dozen tent sites, two lodges and a yurt. Free yoga classes on Sunday morning, in full view of the Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi…. truly hard to beat!

The simple facilities are inspired by Scandinavian design, and the whole “almost-glamping” experience is surprisingly affordable: only 3000-4000 yen per night for a tent site (accommodates 3-4 people).

Lake Motosu Kouan Campground

From several camping sites around the lake Motosu, this is the most famous one. It offers a direct view over Mount Fuji reflected in the clear lake waters – the exact iconic scene that appears on the back of the 1,000 yen bill.

Come early to choose the best spot right on the lakeshore, or choose a more secluded spot in the woods. Swimming is may not be possible due to cold deep waters, but you can enjoy water activities like canoes, stand up paddle boards, kayaks, and even get the chance to try out lake diving. Several trails lead across the forested area to viewing platforms.

To find more campgrounds wherever you go in Japan, download the Michi Japan app: it’s basically like a CamperMate or Wikicamps for Japan, listing campgrounds, onsens and everything campers in Japan need!

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