When to catch the colours in Yamanashi?
Average cherry blossom and autumn foliage dates for Yamanashi, from the Japan Meteorological Agency's 1991–2020 normals — the fortnight to aim for, not a promise for any particular year.
- Cherry blossom
- First flowersMar 25
- Full bloomApr 2
- Autumn foliage
- Leaves turnNov 29
- Peak viewingNov 29 – Dec 13
Where to look next?
The prefectures we've mapped so far, nearest to Yamanashi first.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Fuji Five Lakes: Kawaguchiko's northern shore for the classic reflection, and the Chureito Pagoda for the five-storey-pagoda postcard shot. Mornings are your friend — Fuji tends to disappear behind haze and cloud as the day warms.
Easily — direct buses and the Fuji Excursion train reach Kawaguchiko in under two hours, and full-day tours bundle the lakes, the 5th Station and Oshino Hakkai without transfer stress. Staying a night by the lake earns you the dawn views, though.
The official climbing season runs from early July to early September only — outside it, trails and huts close and conditions turn dangerous. The rest of the year, enjoy the mountain from below; the 5th Station stays reachable much longer.