Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Cruise Tours

Sail beneath the majestic Mount Fuji on the legendary 'Appare' boat for Japan's most iconic panoramic views

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20 Minutes (Cruise) | 10-11 Hours (Day Tours)
3 Languages
Boat capacity: 120 | Tours: Small & Large Groups
Free Cancellation
Everything You Need to Know

Complete Experience Guide

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Experience

Experience the Lake Kawaguchiko 'Appare' Sightseeing Boat

Embark on a breathtaking 20-minute voyage across the pristine waters of Lake Kawaguchiko aboard the 'Appare' (formerly Ensoleillé), a magnificent sightseeing vessel modeled after the 'Atakebune' warships of the Takeda Navy from Japan's Warring States period. This cruise offers arguably the most photogenic vantage point of Mount Fuji, allowing you to capture the legendary 'Reverse Fuji' reflection on calm days. Departing from the Funatsuhama Pier, the boat glides under the Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge and circles Unoshima Island, providing 360-degree panoramic views of the Fuji Five Lakes region. Whether you choose the open-air upper deck for unobstructed photography or the sheltered, tatami-style cabin on the first floor, this cruise is an essential experience for any visitor to the region.

4.5/5
Traveler Rating
20 Mins
Cruise Duration
Daily
Departures
All Ages
Suitable

Why Book Your Cruise Experience With Us

Verified Boat Operators

We partner with trusted local providers like Fujigoko Kisen and top-rated tour agencies to ensure safety and reliability on every sailing.

Curated Day Trips

Don't just book a boat ride—find complete day trips from Tokyo that combine the cruise with the Ropeway, Oshino Hakkai, and 5th Station.

Real Traveler Reviews

Make informed decisions with thousands of verified reviews from travelers who have experienced these specific tours and cruises.

Best Price Guarantee

Get the most competitive rates for both standalone boat tickets and comprehensive sightseeing packages.

Instant Confirmation

Secure your spot on popular tours instantly, ensuring you don't miss out during peak cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons.

Flexible Cancellation

Enjoy peace of mind with free cancellation policies on most tour packages up to 24 hours before your experience.

Mount Fuji panoramic views
Kachikachi Ropeway ascent
Traditional tea ceremony
Lake Kawaguchi visit
Southern Alps glimpses

Essential Information

Know Before You Go

Weather & Views
Best visibility in early morning
Winter offers clearest skies
Cruise operates in light rain
Onboard Facilities
Wheelchair accessible (1st floor)
Restrooms available
Heating/AC in cabin
Getting There
10-15 min walk from Kawaguchiko Station
Paid parking nearby
Near Ropeway entrance

Not Allowed

Large bags or luggage
Pets (except service animals)
Food and drinks
Essential Information

Booking Tips

  • Book a combined day tour from Tokyo for best value
  • Check the weather forecast for visibility before booking
  • Arrive at the pier 15 minutes before departure if not on a tour

What to Bring

  • Camera
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Warm Jacket (Winter/Autumn)
  • Cash for snacks

Best Seasons to Visit

Winter (Dec-Feb) for clear Fuji views|Spring (Apr) for Cherry Blossoms|Autumn (Nov) for Fall Foliage

What to Wear

Windbreaker or jacket (lake breeze can be cool)|Sun hat and sunglasses|Comfortable walking shoes|Warm layers in winter

Planning

Historical Context

Lake Kawaguchi formed from volcanic activity thousands of years ago. The area has been a pilgrimage site and artistic inspiration for centuries, famously depicted in Hokusai's '36 Views of Mount Fuji'.

Photography Tips

  • Use a polarizing filter to cut water glare
  • Wide angle lens for landscape
  • Telephoto for Fuji compression
  • Golden hour is best for lighting

Insider Tips

  • Sit on the right side of the boat for best initial Fuji views
  • Buy a combo ticket with the Ropeway to save money
  • Visit the cookie shop near the pier for Fuji-shaped cookies

Our Partners

  • Tours operated by Fujigoko Kisen, Viator, and trusted local partners.

Fun Facts

  • The boat 'Appare' is designed based on 16th-century warships.
  • Lake Kawaguchi has the longest shoreline of the Fuji Five Lakes.
  • The reflection of Mt. Fuji in the lake is called 'Sakasa Fuji' (Reverse Fuji).

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for most tours

Social Media

Share your experience: #Kawaguchiko #MtFuji #JapanTravel #LakeKawaguchiCruise #FujiView

Explore More

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Customer Reviews

What Our Guests Say

Real experiences from real travelers

S
Sarah Jenkins
USA • 2024-11-12

Stunning Views!

The cruise was the highlight of our trip! We booked the day tour from Tokyo and it was seamless. The boat ride itself is short (20 mins) but the views of Mt Fuji are unbeatable. Go up to the top deck for the best photos!

H
Hiroshi Tanaka
Japan • 2024-10-05

Beautiful Autumn Colors

We took the Appare boat during the autumn leaf festival. The contrast between the red boat, the blue lake, and the colorful mountains was breathtaking. Highly recommend going on a weekday to avoid the biggest crowds.

E
Elena Rossi
Italy • 2024-09-20

Great but cloudy

The boat is very cool, looks like a samurai ship. Unfortunately, Fuji was hiding behind clouds, but the lake itself is beautiful. The tour guide was excellent and we enjoyed the ropeway afterwards.

D
David Chen
Singapore • 2024-12-15

Perfect winter day

Went in December and the visibility was 100%. Crystal clear view of Fuji-san with snow on top. It was freezing on the top deck but worth it. The cabin downstairs is warm if you get too cold.

A
Amelie Dubois
France • 2024-04-02

Lovely Cherry Blossoms

A must-do in spring. Seeing the sakura from the water gives a totally different perspective. The boat runs on time and is very clean. A bit crowded but expected during sakura season.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know for your journey

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