This lake is the smallest among the Fuji Mountain five lakes but the now is astonishing with the surrounding mountains and lake areas. It’s quite peaceful and calming since it’s less commercialized.
I hired a scooter. Really enjoyed my ride too and around lake. I was there in early spring and a cool day. Roads and access good and easy to find and drive circumference. Recommend self driving or one of the tour buses.
Hands down the BEST view of Mt. Fuji in the five lakes area. The whole place feels serene and is not crowded at all like Kawaguchiko. A real gem of a spot. I hope not too many people find out about it 😉
Unlike what some reviewer said, this has got to be the best vantage to shoot Fuji mountain! This is only the point where one can see a baby mountain in front of Fuji. Together with the lake as the foreground, it makes a picturesque shot! Best time to come will be sunsetting time. One do not need to rent a car to come here. Just take the blue line bus. For me, its a MUST to come by if you want to take a great shot of Fuji mountain! Don't miss this spot!!
The optimal time to visit Lake Shoji is in autumn, from late October to early November when the surrounding foliage displays vibrant colors.
Several accommodations are near Lake Shoji, including hotels and traditional inns, particularly around its northern shore.
Swimming is permitted in Lake Shoji; however, due to its high altitude, the water can be pretty cold. It's advisable to check current conditions and follow safety guidelines before swimming.
Lake Shoji can be accessed by bus from Kawaguchiko Station. The Omni Bus Blue Line provides infrequent connections, with a one-way journey taking around 40 minutes. Alternatively, regular buses bound for Shin-Fuji, Shimobe Onsen, or Motosuko run every 1-2 hours from Kawaguchiko Station, taking 25-40 minutes.
Yes, there are several hiking trails around Lake Shoji. One notable trail is the Mikuniyama Hiking Course, which leads to Panorama Dai, offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji, Lake Shoji, Lake Motosuko, and the Aokigahara forest.