We woke up at the free parking by Kawaguchi Lake, feeling content with our clever choice as it quickly filled up with other travelers at the crack of dawn. To start our day, we made a quick stop at the nearest konbini to grab some breakfast goodies, perfect for enjoying inside the van.

Since it was our last night in the van, we took a moment to tidy up and pack our belongings. Getting everything organised in advance allowed us to fully enjoy the remaining hours of our trip without any worries. With everything neatly taken care of, we were ready for the adventures that awaited us on our final day.

📍 The mount Fuji panoramic Ropeway

We kicked off our day by visiting The mount Fuji panoramic Ropeway. Although it officially opens at 9:30, there was already a long line forming by 9:00. After waiting patiently for about 45 minutes, it was finally our turn to board the small funicular.

The ride lasted only three minutes, and about 15 people could fit inside. The tickets were ¥900 per adult for a round trip, free for children under the age of 6.

The Ropeway opened its doors in 1954 and becomed one of the oldest ropeways in Japan. It has been a popular attraction ever since, drawing visitors from around the world. the cabins rotate, giving everyone a chance to enjoy the views from every angle.

At the top of the Ropeway, we were greeted with an incredible view of Mount Fuji and lake kawaguchi. It was absolutely stunning...

Next to the viewing area, there was a cute bell in a heart shape that you could ring for good luck and make a wish. It was such a fun and charming tradition to take part in.

There was a little shop where we could buy souvenirs. They had all sorts of usual touristy stuff like keychains and postcards, we picked out a few things to take home. When we started feeling a bit hungry, we stopped by the small take away restaurant for some ice creams. It was the perfect spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy the amazing view while treating ourselves of a yummy strawberry/vanilla italian ice cream !

***Superb View Swing***

We also found a couple of swings nearby that added a playful touch to the place.
but our daughter was too small to use them, as the minimum height must be 110 cm.

One other thing we noticed was these little plates scattered around a small shrine. You are supposed to throw them between the poles as an offering, kind of like tossing away any negative vibes and bringing in good luck. It is a simple but meaningful ritual that can add a special touch to your visit.

Even though it was still early, the top of The mount Fuji panoramic Ropeway was buzzing with people. Everyone wanted to catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji and soak in the beauty. We spent around 90 minutes exploring before the sun started to scorch our heads.

As we made our way down, we felt so stoked about the great time we had.

📍 kawaguchi lake

Before hitting the road to our next destination, we decided to take a break by the lakeside. Our little one wanted to dip her feet in the fresh water, so we happily sat there for about an hour, watching her run with the waves, skipping stones in the water with other kids and greeting families having a great time on the swan boats.

dipPING OUR feet in KAWAGUCHI’S fresh water

📍 Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

We then drove for about 15 minutes to reach Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, a place with a fascinating history and a deep spiritual significance. This shrine is where the trail to Mount Fuji begins, making it a famous starting point for those embarking on the whole ascent by foot.

As we approached the shrine, we were greeted by an impressive grove of ancient trees, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. These massive trees added a touch of natural beauty to the surroundings, evoking a sense of connection to the sacredness of the place.

the Shrine holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. It is a spot where people come to pay their respects, seek blessings, and find solace in the tranquility of the surroundings. People visit the shrine to pray for various reasons, such as good health, success in endeavors, and protection during their journeys.

Standing at the entrance of the shrine, we felt a deep reverence for the history and spirituality that enveloped the area. It was a humbling experience to be at the starting point of the trail that leads adventurous souls to the summit of Mount Fuji, a symbol of determination and personal growth.

Whether you are planning to climb Mount Fuji or simply seeking a serene and contemplative space, this shrine is a place where you can connect with nature and experience the spiritual essence that surrounds the mountain.

📍 final clap

After immersing ourselves in the magical ambiance of Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine for around 90 minutes, feeling like characters in a Miyazaki movie, it was time to make our way back to Tokyo.

Surprisingly, our 2-hour drive remained unaffected by the crowds of the Golden Week. Our little one peacefully dozed off during the entire drive, adding a tranquil touch to our homeward journey !

As my husband kept his eyes on the road, our thoughts wandered, still captivated by the memories we had created at the foot of Fuji san. It felt as if we were still under its spell, as if we had been… spirited away.

On this final clap, our road trip had come to an end, but the warmth of those beautiful memories would forever remain with us. We realised that exploring Japan by car or by van can open a world of possibilities, revealing infinite treasures and allowing us to embrace the country's natural and cultural wonders at our own pace.

Our adventure had strengthened our bond as a family and ignited a passion for future road trips. though, As we reflect on our journey, one question still lingers in our minds :

Where shall we go next ?…