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Lake Shoji

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Lake Shoji

A spot that became famous worldwide as the place offering the most beautiful views of Mt. Fuji.

3.24 1

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Supervised by :  Fujikawaguchiko Town Tourism Federation

The smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes, this dammed lake was formed by the volcanic activity of Mt. Fuji. Its present-day landscape was created when additional lava from a 9th-century eruption flowed into Lake Motosu and Lake Senoumi, both dammed lakes formed by the volcanic activity of Mt. Fuji.

In 1895 (Meiji 28), British-born Harry Stewart Whitworth introduced the lake overseas as “Japan Shoji,” a summer retreat offering beautiful views of Mt. Fuji. This led to an increase in international visitors.

The calm waters are ideal for canoeing, boating, fishing, and other water activities. Viewed from the observation deck, Mt. Fuji appears to be cradling Mt. Omuro and is therefore known as “Kodaki Fuji,” or “Mt. Fuji Cradling a Child.” This view is a popular subject for photographers and visitors. The lake offers distinctive scenery in every season, including cherry blossoms in spring, colorful foliage in fall, and a mysterious frozen surface in winter.

Be sure to try dishes unique to Lake Shoji, including healthy game cuisine such as venison and tender, mild-flavored wakasagi smelt.

Highlights

  • Although it is the smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes, the area remains largely undeveloped and retains its natural scenery.
  • British-born Harry Stewart Whitworth introduced the lake as the summer retreat “Japan Shoji.”
  • Popular among photographers and visitors as a place to photograph Mt. Fuji.
  • Follow the hiking trail to Panorama-dai for sweeping views of Mt. Fuji and the Aokigahara Forest.

Photos

  • Lake Shoji

    Lake Shoji

  • Lake Shoji

    Lake Shoji

  • Lake Shoji and a Lenticular Cloud

    Lake Shoji and a Lenticular Cloud

  • Fall Foliage at Lake Shoji

    Fall Foliage at Lake Shoji

Reviews

1

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • BobbyJenny
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    While riding the bus past Lake Shoji, Mt. Fuji suddenly came into view through the window, and I couldn’t help but be captivated by the scenery. The lake reflected the sky, while Mt. Fuji stood quietly in the distance, its outline clear and graceful, like a natural landscape painting.

    Lake Shoji is less crowded than popular tourist spots, giving it a greater sense of peace and tranquility. As the bus traveled along the lakeshore, the view from the window brought the lake, mountains, and Mt. Fuji together in a captivating scene.

Details

Name in Japanese
精進湖
Postal Code
401-0336
Address
Shoji, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture
Phone
0555-87-2651 (Lake Shoji Tourism Association)
Admission
Free
Closed on
None
Hours
None
Access
From Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyu Railway Line, take a bus bound for Lake Motosu and get off at Lake Shoji. The ride takes approximately 40 minutes.
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa