Concluding our Photo Tour: Cherry Blossoms and Mt. Fuji at Fuji Five Lakes

Our 2023 Cherry Blossom Photography Tour culminated at our final destination, Fuji Five Lakes. This region contrasts the geography of our previous Fuji stop, Shizuoka, offering distinct views and experiences of Japan’s most revered peak, Mt. Fuji. Nestled in the northern foothills of the mountain, the Five Lakes area provides a tranquil, picturesque setting, with the lakes reflecting the majestic beauty of Mt. Fuji.

We based our stay in Kawaguchiko, the most accessible and developed of the Five Lakes. Our mission? To find and capture the elusive Mt. Fuji framed with vibrant cherry blossoms. The mountain, as is its wont, was a bit shy, revealing itself sporadically amidst the changing weather. However, patience rewarded us with stunning views from Lake Tanuki and Kawaguchiko, where the iconic peak, flanked by blooming sakura, was mirrored in the serene waters.

In addition to our photographic pursuits, we immersed ourselves in local festivities, attending a cherry blossom festival bustling with local vendors and food stalls. The atmosphere was lively, filled with the joyous spirit of the season, a celebration of spring’s arrival, and the transient beauty of the cherry blossoms.

We also paid a visit to the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, dedicated to the work of Itchiku Kubota, a master of kimono design. The museum showcased a stunning collection of his intricate kimono designs, each piece a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into traditional Japanese textiles.

After nearly two weeks of exploring and tasting the wide variety of Japanese cuisine, we took a slight detour on the culinary front. Cravings for a taste of home led us to one of my favorite burger joints in Japan, and it’s safe to say that everyone enthusiastically approved. It was a comforting slice of familiarity amidst our exotic journey, a reminder of the balance between exploration and comfort.

Our time at Fuji Five Lakes brought the 2023 Cherry Blossom Photography Tour to a fitting close. As we looked back on the unique experiences, the vibrant cherry blossoms, the stunning landscapes, and the unforgettable portraits, we were reminded of the beauty of Japan and the power of photography to capture these transient moments. As we bid farewell to Mt. Fuji, we carried with us not just photographs but stories, experiences, and memories that would last a lifetime.

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Japan’s cherry blossom season in 2024! Reach out now to secure your spot on our guided photography tour, or explore our 2023 cherry blossom tour of Japan posts to get a glimpse of the unforgettable experiences that await you.

2015 Cherry Blossom Tour of Japan | Fuji Five Lakes

Before evening returning from the the 2015 Cherry Blossom Tour of Japan, I received a few inquiries about the 2016 Cherry Blossom Tour of Japan!  If you are looking for that information, the details of the 2016 Cherry Blossom Tour of Japan can be found here.

After part of the group returned home after the main group tour, for the extension tour of 2015 cherry blossom tour of Japan, we headed to Yamanashi Prefecture to take photos of Mt. Fuji from the Fujigoko or Fuji Five Lakes.  We stayed at Kawaguchiko, but also took photos of Mt. Fuji from all five of the lakes, including, Lake Motosu, Lake Shoji, Lake Saiko and Lake Yamanaka.  We spent 3 nights and 4 days in the Mt. Fuji area but 2 of them we had rain and clouds all day and 2 we had views of Mt. Fuji.

Believe it or not, seeing Mt. Fuji for 50% of the days is actually ahead of the average for this time of year!  It’s well known in Japan that Mt. Fuji is “shy” and I’ve been told that during April, it’s estimated that you can see Mt. Fuji completely clear on only about 1/3 of the days.  So even though 2 days gave us nothing, I think we were lucky to see Mt. Fuji half the time we were there!  In general, you have a better chance of viewing Mt. Fuji in the Winter months and also earlier in the morning, but of course, anything can happen!

Want to see more photos from the 2015 Cherry Blossom Photography Tour of Japan?  The group tour also went to Tokyo, Miyajima, Hiroshima, and Kyoto.  Stay tuned for more photos from the escorted tour of Japan!