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Best lake destinations in Asia

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Fujikawaguchiko
Lake town with Mount Fuji views and onsen
8.1
This town lies on the north side of Mount Fuji and includes three of the Fuji Five Lakes. Lake Sai is quieter than Lake Kawaguchi. Its birdsong is listed among Japan's 100 Soundscapes. Lake Shoji is the smallest of the five and has calm water for photographing the mountain.
Highlights:
  • 🚠 Ride the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway for stunning views
  • 🏘️ Explore traditional thatched houses at Iyashi-no-Sato
  • 🏞️ Admire Mount Fuji from scenic Lake Kawaguchiko
Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Fuji, Hakone, Izu and volcanic islands
8.8
Japan created this park in 1936 as one of its first four national parks. It covers 474 square miles and is the most visited in the country. The Fuji Five Lakes and Lake Ashi lie within its borders. The Izu Islands were added in 1950.
Highlights:
  • 🥚 Explore volcanic vents and black eggs at Owakudani
  • ♨️ Relax in Hakone’s renowned hot spring baths
  • 🗻 Climb iconic Mount Fuji for sunrise views
Hakone
Onsen town with Fuji views and lake cruises
8.6
The smell of sulfur drifts across Owakudani, where steam rises from volcanic vents. Lake Ashi formed in a volcanic caldera and lies 723 meters up. Sightseeing boats themed like pirate ships circle the lake in about 90 minutes. Hot spring inns line the shore with Mount Fuji views on clear days.
Highlights:
  • 🚠 Take a scenic ride on the Hakone Ropeway
  • 🖼️ Explore stunning sculptures at Hakone Open-Air Museum
  • ♨️ Soak in relaxing waters of Hakone Onsen hot springs
Maibara
Rail junction below Shiga's highest peak
7.1
Lake Biwa formed more than four million years ago and ranks among the oldest lakes in the world. Maibara lies on its eastern shore and has a Shinkansen stop. The lake is Japan's largest at about 259 square miles. Hikone Castle, built in the early 1600s, is one stop away.
Highlights:
  • 🥾 Explore Mount Ibuki’s hiking trails for panoramic views
  • 🚆 Take a scenic train ride along Lake Biwa
  • 🏯 Visit Hikone Castle, one of Japan’s few original castles
Lake Kawaguchi
Mirror-like lake with the best Fuji views
The Kachi Kachi Ropeway climbs Mount Tenjo for wide views of Mount Fuji across the water. This lake has the longest shoreline of the Fuji Five Lakes at about 12 miles. It is the most visited of the five. Lakeside hotels and boat rides give it the most developed tourist facilities.
Highlights:
  • ♨️ Relax in an onsen overlooking Mount Fuji
  • 🛶 Cruise across Lake Kawaguchi for mountain views
  • 📸 Capture Mount Fuji’s perfect reflection on the lake
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