Lake Tanuki & Mt. Fuji Views – Diamond Fuji, Upside-Down Reflections, and Outdoor Fun

🗻 Lake Tanuki (Tanuki-ko), located in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is one of the most scenic spots to enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

One of its most captivating sights is the “Upside-Down Fuji”, where the mountain’s reflection appears clearly on the lake’s calm surface—creating a perfect mirror image. This breathtaking phenomenon has long attracted photographers and Mt. Fuji enthusiasts alike.

The best seasons to witness this magical view are autumn, winter, and early spring, when the weather tends to be more stable and Mt. Fuji’s snow-capped peak adds to the dramatic contrast of the reflection.

📸 To increase your chances of seeing this rare and beautiful moment, we recommend staying overnight at “Kyukamura Fuji”, a lakeside resort located just steps from the shore. Early mornings—right around dawn—tend to have the calmest winds, making it the perfect time to capture that iconic mirrored image of Mt. Fuji.

On a recent family trip (July 2025), we stayed at Kyukamura Fuji with our two daughters (ages 6 and 3). This article is based on our firsthand experience, including tips for the best timing and photo spots, as well as fun lakeside activities that young kids can enjoy.

Let’s dive in and help you plan a memorable nature escape at Lake Tanuki!

What Is Lake Tanuki?

🗻 A Scenic Spot Known for the “Upside-Down Fuji” and “Diamond Fuji” Phenomena

Lake Tanuki (Tanuki-ko) is a serene, 4-kilometer-circumference lake located in Fujinomiya City, on the western side of Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture. Surrounded by well-maintained walking trails and campgrounds, it’s an ideal destination for peaceful lakeside strolls or outdoor fun with the whole family.

⛰️ Sitting at an elevation of about 650 meters, the lake offers a breathtaking, unobstructed view of Mt. Fuji directly across the water. On calm, windless days, the mountain is beautifully reflected on the lake’s surface—creating the famous “Upside-Down Fuji”, a dreamy, mirror-like view that captivates photographers and nature lovers.

📸 In addition, Lake Tanuki is also known nationwide as one of the rare places where you can witness the “Diamond Fuji”—a magical moment when the sun rises or sets directly atop the summit of Mt. Fuji. This phenomenon can only be seen during specific periods in April and August, making it a sought-after seasonal highlight.

🗻 What Is the “Upside-Down Fuji”?

☀️ On calm, clear days when there’s no wind, the surface of Lake Tanuki turns into a natural mirror—perfectly reflecting Mt. Fuji in breathtaking detail.

This stunning visual is known as the “Upside-Down Fuji”, or “Mirror Fuji”, and it’s a dream shot for photographers from all over Japan and beyond.

🍂 From autumn to spring, the weather tends to be more stable, and Mt. Fuji is often capped with snow—making its reflection even more dramatic. These seasons also offer the best chances to witness the phenomenon in its full glory.

🌄 Early mornings are ideal for viewing, as the wind is usually at its calmest just before and after sunrise.

As the day warms up, breezes often ripple the surface of the lake, making the reflection less visible.

🌄 What Is Diamond Fuji?

💎 Twice a year—around April 20 and August 20—Tanuki Lake offers a rare and breathtaking phenomenon known as Diamond Fuji.

This magical moment occurs when the rising sun aligns perfectly with the summit of Mt. Fuji, making it sparkle like a diamond at sunrise.

✨ If you’re lucky enough to visit on a calm morning when the lake surface is completely still, you might witness the Double Diamond Fuji—a stunning reflection of both the mountain and sun mirrored on the water. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime sight that leaves many speechless.

🎥 Photographers from all over Japan flock to the lakeshore during this period, hoping to capture this spectacular scene. On the morning I took this photo, the area was already buzzing with people setting up their tripods well before dawn.

📸 Best Time to See Upside-Down Fuji? Early Morning at the Lakeside!

To witness the iconic Upside-Down Fuji at its best, aim to be by the lake just before sunrise. When the air is calm and the lake surface is still, Mt. Fuji reflects perfectly on the water, creating a magical and serene view.

This phenomenon is most likely to occur in the early morning, when wind conditions are most favorable and the sky begins to brighten.

To capture this breathtaking moment, you’ll need to arrive well before sunrise—tripod ready.

🗓 Check the Sunrise Time in Advance
The exact sunrise time varies throughout the year. We recommend checking it beforehand using a reliable site like:
→ Sunrise & Sunset Direction Map

That said, keep in mind that accommodation options near Tanuki Lake are very limited. If you’re coming from outside the area, timing your visit for sunrise can be challenging.

Considering these distances, staying at “Kyukamura Fuji”, a lakeside hotel located directly on the shore of Tanuki Lake, is by far the most convenient and comfortable way to enjoy the early-morning scenery.

💡 In the next section, we’ll share our personal experience staying at Kyukamura Fuji with two kids—complete with photos and helpful tips.

Lake Tanuki’s Kyukamura Fuji – Our Family Stay Experience

This summer, our family chose Lake Tanuki as our getaway destination for two main reasons: to witness and photograph the early morning “upside-down Mt. Fuji” reflected on the lake’s surface, and to enjoy lakeside activities with our daughters in a peaceful natural setting.

🏨 We stayed at Kyukamura Fuji, the only lakeside resort directly on Lake Tanuki. Instead of booking a standard Japanese or Western-style room in the main building, we chose a detached cottage. These freestanding private cabins offer a serene atmosphere surrounded by nature, perfect for a relaxing family retreat.

During our stay, we rode a tandem bicycle around the lake path, which was a fun bonding moment with our older daughter. In the evening, we lit sparklers (handheld fireworks)—simple yet unforgettable summer fun for the kids. (We had also planned to rent a boat, but due to the intense heat, we decided to skip that activity this time.)

We’re already thinking about returning again during the cooler months—from autumn to spring—when conditions are ideal for viewing both the upside-down Fuji and possibly even the Diamond Fuji phenomenon.

🏡 Staying in a Cottage with Mt. Fuji Views – A Relaxing Space for Families

The cottages at Kyukamura Fuji are tucked away in a peaceful area just a few minutes’ walk from the main building, which offers traditional Japanese- and Western-style rooms. Each cottage comes with a private parking space, so you can pull your car right up to the door—super convenient when traveling with luggage or small children.

🚿 Inside the cottage, you’ll find a private bathroom, shower room, and sink, as well as a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, microwave, rice cooker, cooking utensils, and dishes. It’s perfect for families who want the flexibility to prepare meals on their own while enjoying the privacy of a standalone cabin—not something you get at a typical hotel.

🍖 There’s also an electric BBQ grill, meaning you don’t need to deal with charcoal to enjoy an outdoor meal. Although we were tempted, we opted for the multi-course dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, which I’ll cover in the next section.

🛏 The wooden interior creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. There’s even a loft space that feels like a secret hideout for kids—it can be used as an extra sleeping area. In our case, though, the two double beds downstairs were spacious enough for all four of us to sleep comfortably together.

🐶 Another highlight is that some cottages are pet-friendly, so dog lovers can bring their furry friends along for the trip. It’s a thoughtful touch that adds to the resort’s family-friendly appeal.

🍽 Kaiseki Dinner in a Relaxing, Family-Friendly Setting

At Kyukamura Fuji, guests can choose between two dining styles for dinner and breakfast: a buffet or a kaiseki (multi-course) meal. We opted for the kaiseki dinner—and it turned out to be an exceptional experience.

👩‍🍳 Each dish was brought out one by one with attentive service, offering a refined, ryokan-style atmosphere that made our evening feel extra special.

🍣 The dining areas are separated by meal style, with kaiseki guests seated in a more spacious section. Tables are arranged to ensure ample space between groups, and seating is semi-private depending on the size of your party.

As parents of small children, we were relieved not to worry about disturbing others.

The meal itself featured beautifully presented dishes made with seasonal and local ingredients, and both taste and appearance exceeded expectations.

👧 For children, buffet options were available even in the kaiseki plan, allowing us to serve dishes tailored to their preferences and pace.

We especially appreciated that the children’s food section grouped together kid-friendly options, staple dishes, and tableware in one area—making it easy to navigate, even with little ones in tow.

🍷 By the end of dinner, we still had time to enjoy a leisurely drink and reflect on the day. Everything—from the flavors and plating to the thoughtful service—made this meal one of the highlights of our trip.

♨️ Scenic Onsen With Mt. Fuji Views – A Relaxing Bath at Lake Tanuki

Kyukamura Fuji features gender-separated large public baths where you can soak while admiring breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. On clear days, the sight of the mountain rising beyond the steam of the bath is truly unforgettable—a perfect way to relax after a day of exploring.

The bath uses natural hot spring water from an on-site source. The water has a rich, smooth texture that leaves your skin feeling soft and moisturized. It’s said to have natural cleansing properties, making it ideal for those who want to keep their skin in great condition even while traveling.

🎇 Sparklers (Handheld Fireworks) – A Safe and Fun Summer Tradition

One of the highlights of a Japanese summer is enjoying sparklers (handheld fireworks) with your family. While fireworks are not allowed in the cottage area, there’s a designated space near the main building at Kyukamura Fuji where guests can enjoy them safely.

🪣 The front desk provides buckets for fire safety, and you can fill them with water from the nearby faucet. With clear rules and a safe location, even families with small children can enjoy this summer tradition with peace of mind.

🌙 It was the perfect way to end a memorable day—sharing quiet moments under the night sky, surrounded by nature and the comfort of staying on-site.

🚲 Family Cycling Around Lake Tanuki – Nature and Fun for All Ages

Our children both agreed: the bike ride around Lake Tanuki was the highlight of our trip! A well-maintained path circles the lake, offering stunning views of Mt. Fuji and a smooth ride with plenty of room to share with walkers.

🚴‍♂️ The bike rental options are fantastic, including:

• Standard bikes

• Tandem bikes for riding with kids

• Small-size children’s bikes

• Electric-assist bikes for those who want an easier ride

💴 Pricing is also very reasonable: ¥300 for 30 minutes or ¥500 for an hour. (The electric-assist bikes cost a bit more)

Even during midsummer, the shaded lakeside path made the ride comfortable with regular breaks.

🚣 If you’re visiting between June and November, boat rentals are also available on the lake. It was too hot during our stay, so we passed this time—but it’s high on our list for the next visit!

👜 Packing Tips – For a Comfortable and Enjoyable Stay

To make your stay at Lake Tanuki even more comfortable and enjoyable, it’s a good idea to pack according to the season and planned activities.

Since the area is surrounded by nature, be sure to prepare for insects and sun exposure, especially in the warmer months.

🦟 Bug Protection & Nature Readiness

• Bug Spray: A must for lakeside strolls during the day, evening fireworks, or early morning walks.

• Long Sleeves and Pants: Especially helpful in the evening when mosquitoes are more active.

• Sneakers or Walking Shoes: Ideal for cycling or exploring the grassy lakeside paths—better than sandals for safety and comfort.

Note: From March to October, biting bugs like gnats (bu-yo in Japanese) are commonly reported.

🍖 For BBQ or Cooking in the Cottage

• Seasonings & Sauces: Bring your favorites like salt, pepper, or yakiniku sauce for added flavor.

• Paper Plates, Chopsticks & Wet Wipes: While some tableware is provided, disposable items make cleanup much easier.

• Cooler Box: Helpful if you’re bringing a lot of food—especially if the cottage fridge is limited in size.

💡 Other Handy Items

• Hat & Sunscreen: Essential for outdoor activities on sunny days.

• Flashlight or Lantern: Useful when walking around the cottages at night.

• Extra Towels: Great for wiping sweat, drying off after lakeside fun, or sudden weather changes.

These essentials will help you make the most of your time in the great outdoors. If it’s your first time visiting Lake Tanuki, we hope this list serves as a helpful reference for a smooth and memorable stay.

Capture Reflections of Mt. Fuji at Sunrise – Best Spots & Tips at Lake Tanuki

Lake Tanuki is one of the most scenic places in Japan to view the famous “Upside-Down Fuji”—a clear reflection of Mt. Fuji mirrored perfectly on the surface of the lake.

Also known as “Mirror Fuji,” this stunning view can be seen when the water is calm and the sky is clear.

💡 The early morning hours around sunrise are the best time to catch this magical moment. That’s when the lake often becomes still like glass, offering the highest chance to see Mt. Fuji reflected with breathtaking clarity.

🕔 Check the Sunrise Time in Advance

The best time to photograph the Upside-Down Fuji is just before and after the sun rises. Be sure to check the local sunrise time in advance.
→ Sunrise & Sunset Direction Map

At the main hotel building, you’ll find a special “sunrise board” with Mt. Fuji illustrations that show the direction and timing of the sunrise—don’t forget to check it during check-in.

💡 The sun usually appears from behind Mt. Fuji a few minutes after the official sunrise time.

Allow yourself plenty of time to walk to the best photo spots and set up your camera in advance.

📸 Best Photo Spots – Just a Short Walk Away

The best locations are along the west side of Lake Tanuki’s walking path. These areas are about a 10–15 minute walk from the main hotel and 15–20 minutes from the cottage area.

Look for open lakeside spots without trees blocking your view. These locations offer the clearest view of Mt. Fuji and its upside-down reflection on the water.

👜 What to Bring – Sunrise Photography Essentials

To make your early morning photo session more comfortable and enjoyable, here’s what we recommend:

■ Tripod: Choose a lightweight but stable tripod—even for smartphones.

■ Warm Clothes: Mornings at Lake Tanuki can be chilly, even in summer, due to its elevation (over 600 meters).

■ Insect Repellent: Spray and wear long sleeves, pants, and sneakers to stay bite-free.

😴 The Night Before Matters – Sleep Well for a Fresh Start

Since this activity starts early, how you spend the night before is just as important. Getting a good night’s sleep helps you feel more energized the next day—for the photo session and for the rest of your trip.

♨️ Pro tip: Take a relaxing soak in the hot spring after dinner.

A warm bath raises your core body temperature. As your body cools down afterward, it naturally helps you feel sleepy—making it easier to fall into a deep and restful sleep.

😪 The soothing effect of the hot spring, combined with the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Tanuki, creates the perfect setting for a good night’s rest. If you’re traveling with kids, try putting them to bed a little earlier so you can also wind down and rest up.

A Place We’ll Always Remember

🗻 Lake Tanuki offers more than just the stunning Upside-Down Fuji—it’s a peaceful, nature-rich destination filled with family-friendly fun.

From lakeside cycling and rental boats to handheld fireworks at night, BBQs under the stars, and early morning photography sessions, every moment here becomes a cherished family memory.

🏨 For accommodations, we recommend staying at Kyukamura Fuji, right by the lake. It’s the kind of place where kids will say, “Let’s come back again someday!”

Take a break from your everyday routine, and enjoy quality time with your loved ones at the scenic and soothing Lake Tanuki.