What to know
Lake Motosuko (本栖湖) is the westernmost of the Fuji Five Lakes and best known for its appearance on the reverse side of the former 1000 yen bill and the 5000 yen bill of the preceding series. The lake is difficult to access by public transportation and largely undeveloped except for a few campsites around its shores. Outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, boating and other water sports can be enjoyed around the lake.
Motosuko was formed when an eruption by Mount Fuji separated a larger prehistoric lake into three smaller lakes in the 9th century. The resulting three lakes, Motosuko, Saiko and Shojiko, remain connected by underground waterways, as they continue to constantly maintain the same water level of 900 meters above sea level.
The Omni Bus Blue Line provides infrequent connections between Kawaguchiko Station, Lake Shojiko and Lake Motosuko. A one way journey from Kawaguchiko Station to Lake Motosuko takes around 50 minutes. Alternatively, regular buses run every 1-2 hours between Kawaguchiko Station and Lake Motosuko. They are bound for Shin-Fuji, Shimobe Onsen or Motosuko. The one way trip takes 30-45 minutes and costs 1470 yen.
How to get to and around the Fuji Five Lakes
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Closed
- Admission
- English name
- Original name
- Lake Motosuko
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.