🌊 A Family Escape to Lake Yamanakako: Swans, Fuji Views & Lakeside Serenity

There’s something magical about Lake Yamanakako. Nestled at the base of Mount Fuji, this tranquil lake offered us three days of family adventure, laughter, and quiet moments we’ll always cherish. Here’s how our journey unfolded.

Day 1: From Tokyo Buzz to Lakeside Calm

Leaving behind Tokyo’s fast pace, we made our first stop at Gotemba Premium Outlet. With Fuji’s silhouette in the distance and a long list of brands to explore, it turned into a full-on shopping spre where it ended up with our car boot was filled with shopping bags before we even reached our villa by the lake.

By evening, we arrived at Rakuten Villa, our home for the next two nights. The self check-in was quick and easy, thanks to pre-registration. The villa surprised us with its space and amenities, complete with a fully equipped kitchen, cozy living area and everything we needed to cook a warm family dinner together. It instantly felt like home.

Day 2: Swans, Cycling & Cultural Gems

Our morning began with an unforgettable scene where there were swans gracefully gliding on the lake as the sun rose over Mount Fuji. Feeding them was simple yet mesmerizing, especially for the kids. We launched our drone soon after and captured aerial views that looked like postcards brought to life.

Late morning, hunger called and we headed to Sanam Curry House, a halal restaurant just opposite the lake. Delicious curries, hearty portions, and the lake view made it a perfect brunch spot for Muslim travelers.

The afternoon was packed with family-friendly fun. The children loved riding the swan boats, pedaling across the calm waters. Later, we rented bikes and cycled around the lake’s peaceful paths, breathing fresh air, clear skies and Fuji watching over us.

In the late afternoon, we drove to Oshino Hakkai, a traditional village famed for its spring-fed ponds and thatched-roof houses. A UNESCO-recognized gem, it felt like stepping into old Japan.

Day 3: Farewell Yamanakako, Onward to Kyoto

On our final morning, we couldn’t resist another round of swan feeding before strolling down Honcho Street, browsing local shops and soaking in the small-town charm. With hearts full and bags packed, we bid farewell to Lake Yamanakako and continued our journey to Kyoto.

🏨 Where We Stayed

Rakuten Villa, Lake Yamanakako
Spacious, modern, and family-friendly. Perfect for travelers who enjoy self-catering and privacy with a kitchen that made us feel at home.

🍴 Where We Ate

Sanam Curry House: Halal-friendly, right across the lake, serving comforting curries and rice dishes.

Convenience Stores : Family Mart and 7-Eleven nearby the villa for snacks, essentials and quick meals.

📌 Travel Tips

Check-In: Pre-register all guests’ names online for smooth self check-in at Rakuten Villa.

Getting Around: A rental car is best for flexibility, though biking around the lake is also highly recommended.

For Families: Swan boats and cycling paths are safe and enjoyable for children of all ages.

Final Thoughts:
Lake Yamanakako is more than just a stop near Mount Fuji, it’s a destination where families can slow down, connect with nature, and experience a blend of tradition and modern comfort. From swan encounters to cultural explorations, every moment felt like a memory in the making.

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