As you gaze up close at the breathtaking and majestic figure of Mt. Fuji, you’ll slowly make your way through a silent primeval forest. Moss-covered rocks lie underfoot, and gentle sunlight filters down through the leaves overhead. Mt. Kurodake, nestled quietly in Yamanashi Prefecture, is a mountain filled with such mystical charm. Of course, experienced Japanese mountaineers can enjoy it, but even hiking beginners can easily climb it. And for those international visitors who dream of hiking in Japan, it will surely be an unforgettable and wonderful experience. This time, we will delve into the profound魅力 (charm) of Mt. Kurodake and provide detailed information to ensure you can enjoy your hike safely. Now, let’s embark on our exploration of Mt. Kurodake together!
About Mt. Kurodake
Mt. Kurodake is a 1,793-meter mountain located in Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture. It lies on the northwestern foot of Mt. Fuji, within the Aokigahara Jukai (primeval forest), and is enveloped in rich nature and tranquility.
Mt. Kurodake in Yamanashi is covered in a primeval forest with trees hundreds of years old, offering seasonal natural beauty and serenity. From the summit and along the trails, you can gaze upon magnificent panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. With relatively few hikers, you can enjoy a peaceful mountain walk. The rich natural environment is a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, and moss-covered rocks create a mystical landscape. It has been deeply connected to Mt. Fuji worship since ancient times and was also a place for Shugendo (mountain asceticism) practices. Cherished by local residents as a source of water, its history and cultural background provide a valuable opportunity to understand Japan’s nature worship and mountain belief.
~Access from Tokyo~
By Public Transportation:
①Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (approx. 1 hour).
②Transfer to the Fujikyuko Line at Otsuki Station and go to Kawaguchiko Station (approx. 1 hour).
Estimated Cost: Approximately ¥3,000 – ¥4,000 one way (including limited express fee).
Estimated Time: Approximately 2 hours.
③From Kawaguchiko Station to the trailhead:
Take a taxi to the Kawaguchiko Lakeside trailhead (approx. 15 minutes).
Estimated Taxi Fare: Approximately ¥2,000 – ¥3,000.
By Car:
Approximately 15 minutes from the Kawaguchiko Interchange (IC) on the Chuo Expressway.
Parking: Suzuran Gunseichi Parking Area.
Important Note: During the hiking season, the surrounding roads and parking areas will be very crowded. Please depart with plenty of time to spare.
Hiking Route Information
▼Date of Hike
Late April
▼Hiking Level
★☆☆☆☆
Recommended as the mountain trails are easy to climb even for snow mountain beginners.
▼Hiking Schedule
07:30 Suzuran Gunseichi Dai-ichi Parking Lot (Lily of the Valley Colony #1 Parking Lot)
08:15 Mt. Kurodake Trailhead
09:30 Mt. Kurodake Summit
10:30 Start Descent
11:10 Mt. Kurodake Trailhead
11:30 Suzuran Gunseichi Dai-ichi Parking Lot (Lily of the Valley Colony #1 Parking Lot)
★YAMAP Account Please check it out! → Hiking Bear
The Suzuran Gunseichi Dai-ichi Parking Lot has space for approximately 40 cars, but please note that it opens at 8:30 AM. However, there is a parking area dedicated to hikers located just before it, which is open 24 hours, so you can rest assured. Furthermore, I arrived at 7:30 AM and it was open, so arriving too early is not a problem.
Recommended Hiking Season
■Spring (April – June)
Spring is a beautiful season when the new green leaves emerge and the mountain plants begin to sprout. From late April to June, the weather is generally stable, making it an enjoyable time for hiking with pleasant temperatures. The mountain trails are free of snow, and Mt. Fuji is still capped with snow, making it a highly recommended season!
■Clothing
While it’s relatively warm during the day, it can get chilly in the mornings and evenings. It’s best to have layers of clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt, a light fleece, and a windbreaker!
■Summer (July – August)
In summer, alpine plants are in full bloom, and the entire mountain is covered in colorful flowers. It’s also a popular summer retreat, and you can enjoy comfortable hiking in the cool climate. However, please keep in mind that it can get crowded on weekends and public holidays.
■Clothing
As対策 (a countermeasure) against the heat, wear clothing made of breathable, quick-drying material that wicks away sweat. It’s also a good idea to have a hat and sunglasses!
■Autumn (September – November)
In autumn, the autumn foliage colors the mountain, and its beauty is exceptional. The peak of the autumn leaves is from mid-October to early November, attracting many hikers and tourists. There are often clear autumn days with crisp air, providing excellent opportunities to see distant mountains.
■Clothing
Since there are significant temperature changes, be sure to bring warm clothing such as a fleece and a down jacket!
■Winter (December – March)
Winter hiking involves snow mountain climbing and requires proper equipment and experience. However, the snow-covered scenery is magical and particularly appealing to experienced mountaineers. To enjoy it safely, winter mountain gear and checking the weather conditions are essential.
■Clothing
You will need thick winter clothing, a hat, gloves, a neck warmer, etc. Depending on the snow conditions, crampons and an ice axe may be necessary.
Must-See Points
Mt. Kurodake is a mountain that even hiking beginners can thoroughly enjoy. Here are three must-see points of Mt. Kurodake!
Overwhelming! A stunning panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji spreads out before you – a sight you can only witness here!
A 3-hour round trip! An easily climbable mountain even for hiking beginners!
A nature-rich mountain trail where you can enjoy a wide variety of plants!
Safety and Risk Management
To ensure safety when climbing, thorough preparation and planning are essential. First, it’s crucial to constantly check weather information and make the decision to refrain from hiking if bad weather is forecast.
Hiking Experiences
Starting later than usual, I finally headed onto the Mt. Kurodake trail. With each step, the sound of rustling leaves underfoot was so pleasant. The path started gently, gradually increasing in incline, but it wasn’t too much at all, so I didn’t get tired at all. Before I knew it, I was at the Mt. Kurodake summit! However, the summit didn’t have an open view, so I walked about 200 meters to the observation plaza! What jumped out in front of me was a vast panorama that far exceeded my imagination! Mt. Fuji standing majestically before Lake Kawaguchiko was truly breathtaking! The instant ramen I ate while gazing at Mt. Fuji was the best!
Fuji from the Chuo Highway is very beautiful!
Mt.Fuji seen at Kawaguchiko before reaching the trailhead was really beautiful! It was a beautiful day for Mt Fuji!
In late April, the snow has already melted and you can drive on normal tyres. There is also more greenery and you can feel a little bit of summer!
07:20 Lily of the valley Climber’s parking lot
It was totally empty even if you arrived after 7am! However, I think it will be more crowded in late May because that is the best season to see the lily of the valley.
07:30 Lily of the valley parking lot 1
From the car park it takes about 10 minutes to reach the Lily of the Valley car park!
This car park only opens at 8.30am, but the toilets are open!
In fact, the opening of the FUJIYAMA Twin Terraceon 25 April 2024 has increased the number of tourists! This is a scenic spot with a panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka and the World Heritage Site Mt!
The shuttle bus service to the terrace is available.
For more information, please visit the FUJIYAMA Twin Terrace website!
08:15 Kurodake trailhead
Now! It takes approximately one hour from here to reach the summit!
The start of the climb is very gentle and easy to walk on the mountain path! You can feel the change of season with the mixture of fallen leaves and new shoots!
I took the wrong path and ended up on a steep climb. In fact, there is a gradual path!
The path is not that steep, although there is a slightly steep climb for about 10 minutes before the summit!
09:30Mt.Kurodake
A little over an hour after starting the ascent, we reached the summit! The view at the summit is not open, so take a photo and you are done!
Aim for a viewpoint 200 m away from the summit of Mt Kurodake!
We have arrived! Great weather and scenery! This is a spectacular spot with a panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchi and Mt Fuji!
We recommend arriving by around 10am, as there are fewer people early in the morning so you can have this spectacular view all to yourself!
Fuji, but also the Southern Alps on the right!
The view spot is open, so I eat my meal while looking at Mt Fuji -!
Recommended places to visit
In fact, the opening of the FUJIYAMA Twin Terraceon 25 April 2024 has increased the number of tourists! This is a scenic spot with a panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka and the World Heritage Site Mt!
The shuttle bus service to the terrace is available.
For more information, please visit the FUJIYAMA Twin Terrace website!
Recommended mountains for beginner climbers.
There are many other recommended mountains for beginner climbers, which you can check out here!
Mountaineering Preparation and Equipment
Before you begin climbing a mountain, it is important to select and prepare the proper equipment. Here is a checklist of essential items and how to choose climbing equipment such as climbing shoes and backpacks. We will also inform you about important but often forgotten items.
⛰ Clothing ⛰
Shoes
Climbing shoes
Climbing shoes with good foot support and non-slip soles are required. Proper size and fit are important for a comfortable climbing experience.
Climbing clothes
T-shirt, shorts (or long tights if you don't want to get hit by grass), outdoor jacket, heavy socks
Hat, spare T-shirt *Adjust according to the season.
Mountaineering backpack:.
You will need a backpack large enough to hold the necessary equipment, food and drink, and warm clothing. Be sure to pay attention to the comfort and adjustability of the backpack.
Protective equipment
Head and limb protection such as helmets, gloves, and sunglasses are important to ensure your safety while climbing.
Warm clothing
In mountainous areas, temperatures can change rapidly, so it is important to have warm clothing. A fleece, down jacket, windproof and waterproof shell jacket, etc. are necessary.
Trekking poles
Trekking poles are useful to support balance on slopes and unstable terrain.
Mountaineering map application "YAMAP
Download a map of the mountain you will be climbing with the mountaineering map application "YAMAP" in advance. You can check your location with GPS even when you are offline.
⛰ Recommended items⛰.
First aid kit
Headlamp
Drink (This is important! You will need a liter! You need at least 1 liter.
Food - Onigiri rice balls and waders to eat on the way
Snacks
Money (It's better to have cash since it's not electronic!)
Insect repellent (you don't have to bring any)
Towel
Sunscreen
Tissues, wet wipes
Charger
Folding umbrella or umbrella