-
- USA/Canada 1-800-285-2726
- Australia (02) 8006 4411
Nestled between Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka in the famous Fuji Five Lakes region, Oshino Hakkai is a peaceful village renowned for its eight sacred, spring-fed ponds. These beautiful pools are fed by the melted snow from Mt. Fuji, which slowly filters through layers of volcanic rock over the course of 80 years. The result is water of such stunning clarity and purity that you can see every ripple, pebble, and fish beneath the surface.
Each of the eight ponds has its own name, legend, and character, offering a different view and atmosphere. Surrounded by charming footbridges, lush greenery, and thatched-roof houses, Oshino Hakkai feels like a step back in time. Whether you're visiting in spring with blooming cherry blossoms or in winter when Mt. Fuji glistens with snow, the scenery here is magical year-round.
If you're looking for a tranquil retreat from the hustle of major tourist spots, Oshino Hakkai provides a perfect combination of natural beauty, serenity, and accessibility—just a short ride from Tokyo or Kawaguchiko.
Oshino Hakkai isn’t just visually stunning—it also holds deep spiritual and historical significance. In ancient times, pilgrims on their way to climb Mt. Fuji would stop here to purify themselves in the sacred waters. Today, the area continues to be recognized as part of Japan’s national natural monuments and is included in the UNESCO-recognized Mt. Fuji World Heritage Cultural Site.
The village itself retains a charming, traditional atmosphere. Visitors can wander along cobblestone lanes lined with wooden waterwheels, discover small shrines, and enjoy the sound of flowing water echoing through the village. Artisans sell local handcrafts, traditional sweets, and wasabi products grown in the clean spring waters—offering a real taste of local life in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Nearby, you’ll find small museums and folk culture displays, providing context to Oshino’s role in Japanese history and religion. This peaceful townscape creates a perfect contrast to Japan’s urban sprawl and gives travelers a unique opportunity to connect with a simpler, more sacred side of the country.
Few places in Japan offer the kind of perfect composition that Oshino Hakkai provides: traditional architecture, crystal-clear water, and the iconic silhouette of Mt. Fuji rising majestically in the background. On a clear day, the ponds mirror the snowcapped peak so flawlessly that it feels like a scene from an anime or Studio Ghibli film.
It’s no surprise that Oshino Hakkai is a favorite among photographers and social media travelers. But beyond the lens, the village invites you to slow down and observe—whether it's watching koi fish glide through still water, capturing the reflection of Fuji at sunrise, or savoring a freshly made rice cracker at a nearby shop.
To enhance your experience, try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the lighting is golden and the crowds are fewer. Seasonal beauty is another draw—sakura in spring, maple leaves in fall, and snow in winter—each transforming the village into a new kind of wonder. No matter the season, Oshino Hakkai delivers a connection to both nature and nostalgia, making it a truly unforgettable stop on any Japan itinerary.