Oshino Hakkai (the Eight Seas of Oshino)

Another great place to see Mount Fuji, if you come early it wont be super crowded. There are a lot of people but you can still walk freely. I came here by car, there are a couple of free parking space around the complex but I opt for a closer parking spot which is inside the complex and cost around 300yen. There are a lot of food stalls around the area, and the famous ponds. There's also a cafe and souvenir store in the complex. Additionally you can pay 300yen fee to get access to the museum as well as the bigger lake which is a UNESCO site and there are less people in the area compared to outside. You can climb to the second floor of the ticket building and get a clearer view of Mt Fuji . After sight seeing do grab a bite at the cafe and shop for some souvenirs at the stores.

A very interesting village that houses 8 ponds where each of their names represents a certain feature unique to each. It was so interesting how they were formed. The waters were so clear that the sky was beautifully reflected from them. There's also a ninth pond called Naka-ike, which is an artificial pond unlike the other ponds. It was the most crowded area when we visited since it was situated near the souvenir shops. If in the area it was also recommended to try the Oshino Water. We tried it at the tourist information center for ¥10 which was less crowded. There were several food stalls in the area too. A great place to enjoy a view of Mt. Fuji too but sadly its not always visible.

Oshino Hakkai is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Japan. The village is home to eight stunning ponds, each with its own unique beauty. The ponds are surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Japanese architecture, creating a truly magical atmosphere. It snowed a lot when i visited and it was like stepping into a winter wonderland. The ponds were covered in snow, and the surrounding trees were frosted with white. It was a truly breathtaking sight. I fed the fish in the pond also. The fish were huge and colorful, and they seemed to enjoy the attention. I highly recommend visiting Oshino Hakkai if you have the chance. It will leave you with lasting memories. There are shops for souvenirs and you have delicious local food there. Here are some additional tips for your visit: * Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking. * Allow at least two hours to explore the village and the ponds. * Bring your water bottle from home to carry pure and mineral rich water. You can also buy bottle here in case you miss * If you are visiting in the winter, be sure to dress warmly, as it can be quite cold. I hope you have a wonderful time at Oshino Hakkai!

Absolutely beautiful—I was in awe of Mount Fuji. Drinking the fresh water was refreshing, and the sweet apple and mochi were incredible. A quick reminder: if you visit the koi pond area, please do not throw coins. Some tourists assume it’s for making wishes, but that’s not the case. Being a tourist doesn’t excuse disrespecting local customs—take the time to read the signs, learn, and respect the culture. Overall, an amazing experience—breathtaking views, delicious food, and great vibes!

Try to reach this place as early as possible to avoid the group of tourist. The ponds are so beautiful and clear. With Mt Fuji around everything is perfect. The souvenir shop selling all kind of local marinated vegetables and beautiful Japanese made item like handkerchief, key chain, etc. Matcha ice cream is a must eat item. Highly recommended place to visit.