Fuji Shibazakura Festival

What to know

In 2026, the festival runs from April 11 to May 24.

The Fuji Shibazakura Festival (富士芝桜まつり, Fuji Shibazakura Matsuri) is one of Japan's premier events for viewing shibazakura (pink moss or phlox moss). Held at Fuji Motosuko Resort, about three kilometers south of Lake Motosuko in the Fuji Five Lakes area, the festival offers spectacular views of vast pink moss fields with Mount Fuji rising behind on clear days.

Typically held from mid-April to late May or early June, the peak bloom varies yearly but usually falls in the first three weeks of May. Around 800,000 stalks of five shibazakura varieties create colorful carpets of pink, white, and purple. Festival stalls sell potted pink moss, shibazakura-themed souvenirs, food, and local produce, completing the experience.

Due to its popularity, the festival can get very crowded. Avoid weekends and Golden Week holidays if possible. Visiting early in the morning helps beat congestion and offers good visibility, though afternoon light is often better for photos.

A shuttle bus called the Shibazakura Liner runs roughly hourly from Kawaguchiko Station to the festival venue, taking about 40 minutes. A ticket costs 3000 yen and includes a round-trip bus ride and festival admission.

Regular buses run every 1-2 hours between Fujisan Station, Kawaguchiko Station, Lake Motosuko, and Shin-Fuji Station. During the festival, some stop at the Fuji Shibazakura Matsuri Kaijo bus stop outside the venue. The ride takes 50 minutes and costs about 1450 yen from Kawaguchiko, or 75 minutes and about 1900 yen from Shin-Fuji.