Hey fellow adventurers! Mark here, your American backpacker buddy, back with another thrilling escapade from the heart of Asia. This time, I tackled the majestic Mount Fuji in Japan during the breathtaking cherry blossom season. From serene lakes to vibrant festivals, this journey was packed with unforgettable experiences. Buckle up, because you're about to discover why you need to add this to your Asian adventure bucket list!
Exploring the "Fountain of Gods" - Oshino Hakkai
After an amazing time at Lake Kawaguchiko, I ventured to Lake Yamanaka, home to the legendary Oshino Hakkai, known to the Japanese as the "Fountain of Gods." Eight crystal-clear ponds, fed by the melted snow of Mount Fuji, are scattered throughout the quaint village of Oshino. The water is unbelievably pure and sweet; I filled up a free bottle (they provide them!) and savored its refreshing coolness. Seriously, don't miss this!
These eight sacred ponds were recognized as one of Japan's top 100 water sources in 1985. Here's a quick guide:
| Pond Name (English) | Pond Name (Japanese) |
|---|---|
| Murky Pond | Nigori-ike |
| Waku Pond | Waku-ike |
| Mirror Pond | Kagami-ike |
| Dipper Pond | Choshi-ike |
| Exit Pond | Deguchi-ike |
| Sweet Flag Pond | Shobu-ike |
| Kettle Pond | Okama-ike |
| Bottom-Draining Pond | Sokonai-ike |
While ideally, you'd visit all eight, Exit Pond is a bit further out. Take your time, soak in the scenery, and browse the charming souvenir shops along the way. And when hunger strikes, grab some dango, roasted corn, or my personal recommendation – kusamochi! This local delicacy, similar to a green rice cake, is filled with a sweet red bean paste and has a subtle, herbal flavor. Trust me, it's a must-try.
Picture-Perfect Views and the Vibrant Waku Pond
Waku Pond, the most popular and photogenic of the eight, is a visual masterpiece. On a sunny day, the green algae at the bottom shimmer, creating a stunning Tiffany-blue hue. It's the perfect spot for capturing that iconic shot of Mount Fuji reflected in pristine waters. Speaking of iconic shots...
Imagine this: a 400-meter stretch of cherry blossoms lining the shores of a tranquil lake, with the majestic Mount Fuji as the backdrop. That's exactly what you'll find at Omiya Bridge. It's like stepping into a postcard! It's the perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of both cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji while indulging in some delicious local snacks.
Fueling the Adventure: From Soba Noodles to Succulent Trout
While the street food scene is fantastic, sometimes you need a proper meal. Enter Ikemoto Chaya, a cozy restaurant serving soba noodles made with – you guessed it – Mount Fuji's famous water. The noodles have a unique sweetness, and I paired them with some crispy, non-greasy tempura. The best part? You can enjoy your meal with a view of both Waku Pond and Mount Fuji!
If you're short on time, grab some grilled fish, shrimp, or squid from the outdoor grill. They'll even pack it up for you in a handy box with chopsticks and seasoning. I opted for the yamame, a type of trout that swims in the pure waters of Oshino Hakkai. At 1000 yen a pop, it's a bit of a splurge, but worth every penny. Seriously, the freshest, tastiest grilled fish I've ever had!
Relax and Rejuvenate at Fujiyama Onsen
After all that exploring, it's time for some relaxation. Fujiyama Onsen, conveniently located near Fuji-Q Highland amusement park, is the perfect place to unwind. This five-story onsen offers panoramic views of Mount Fuji and boasts a unique bicarbonate spring, rich in a special trace element called vanadium, known for its moisturizing properties.
For about 1600 yen, you can enjoy a variety of baths, including Japan's largest wooden bathhouse, constructed from beautiful beech, pine, and cypress wood. The aroma of the wood alone is incredibly therapeutic. For an extra 680 yen, you can access the ganbanyoku (stone sauna) with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
While pricier than your average onsen, it's worth it. Plus, there's a free shuttle connecting Fujiyama Onsen, Fuji-Q Highland, and the Mount Fuji World Heritage Centre, where you can snag a 100-yen discount coupon for the onsen.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Spectacle: The Fuji Shibazakura Festival
The final stop on my adventure was the Fuji Shibazakura Festival near Lake Motosuko. This incredible spectacle is considered a must-see in Japan, and it's easy to understand why. Imagine fields blanketed with over 500,000 shibazakura (pink moss or phlox moss) in a rainbow of colors, with Mount Fuji towering in the distance. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of these delicate blossoms, and there's even a foot bath where you can soak your weary feet while enjoying the view. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Getting there requires a bus ride from Kawaguchiko, which can take over an hour during peak season due to the festival's immense popularity. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
So there you have it – my epic Mount Fuji adventure! From serene ponds and vibrant festivals to delicious food and rejuvenating hot springs, this region offers a truly unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the wonders of Mount Fuji!
