Cycling around Lake Kawaguchiko with friends is easily among my top 5 best memories in Japan. Here’s why it’s a great way to see Mt. Fuji!
Nothing beats cycling around Mount Fuji on a cool and clear day. When visiting Fuji for the first time, I had no idea the best part would be cycling around Lake Kawaguchiko with friends. We had our ups and downs, and I was tasked with teaching one of my friends how to ride a bike!
Getting started
There are several bike shops around the Kawaguchiko area where you can rent bikes. My friends and I decided to rent for the day, ensuring that we would see the sunset before returning. Before embarking on the trip, we stocked up on succulent fruits, snacks, and drinks from nearby stores.
Riding through the bike route side-by-side with Lake Kawaguchiko was a truly blissful experience. The cool breeze, the great vibes, and the smooth bicycle track were all contributing factors. Above all, the constantly changing views of Mt. Fuji that can be seen throughout the journey were unfathomable.
Don’t forget to stop for photos!
Of course, photos can never live up to the experience of being there. Nevertheless, the very act of taking photos was a precious memory in itself. Trying to get the best angle of Mt. Fuji was both a worthwhile and enjoyable experience with friends!
There are also many patches of grass and park benches along the way for pit stops. I enjoyed taking a break with my canned coffee and some cool Fuji photos! I suggest taking regular breaks to truly enjoy the scenery and immerse yourself in the pleasant atmosphere of Lake Kawaguchiko.
Grab a feed at the local restaurants
Along the journey, we stumbled across a small restaurant run by an elderly Japanese lady. The vibe was wholesome and comforting, and the staff was kind and welcoming. On the menu, you could find a variety of Japanese dishes and beverages to suit everyone.
Seemingly, the restaurant had an emphasis on their homemade curry dishes. We opted for the chicken katsu curry with rice. For a small establishment in a remote area, the presentation and taste of the food were immaculate!
Spectacular sunsets at Lake Kawaguchiko
The journey back to Kawaguchiko station was an entirely different experience. As the sunset drew near, the vibe changed drastically. The water was sparkling from the reflection of the enormous Japanese sun. Mount Fuji stood before us in all of its mysterious glory, offering strength and inspiration to all those who gazed upon it. The beautiful sunset of Lake Kawaguchiko was the perfect way to wrap up an awesome day of bike riding with friends!
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!