There’s a ropeway right next to our hotel which leads to an ‘observatory’ with incredible views of Mount Fuji.
At 3776 m it’s far from the tallest mountain in the world, but it is Japan’s tallest, and its relative isolation coupled with its symmetry have rightly made it an icon of Japan. It’s always impressive seeing it from a distance, but the views we had today were breathtaking.
It was just below freezing when we went up and since we still have some cold symptoms we had to protect against breathing the freezing air. But the sky was clear and the views were tremendous, not just of Fuji but the lake as well. I’d say this observation area is a contender for one of the best in the world.
Actually climbing Fuji is a big task that requires careful preparation (an old Japanese saying says only wise men climb Fuji but only fools climb it more than once) and I’ll never do it, but I learned today that the first man who ever did apparently completed the task about 1500 years ago when he rode to the top ‘instantly’ on a horse! Since he was a prince, I’m guessing the accuracy of the tale may have elements of uncertainty to it 🙂
After we descended we took a short cruise on the lake to once again view Fuji, this time from the water. The lake is very still and the surface reflective, and apparently at certain times it can also be mirrorlike. Today was not one such time – not least because of the boat wake – but I did my best to capture a reflected image regardless.
The other mountains you see in the above photo are to the north/northwest of Fuji and are less than half of its height. They’re impressive as well, but given you can just turn around and see Fuji I suspect these guys get short shrift. The above photo by the way was taken from the viewing terrace on the roof of our hotel.
It was a relaxing day and we’re both feeling much better, and we’ll repeat this again tomorrow. The hot springs at this hotel are great, so I look forward to several more soaks before we depart.
That’s the night view of the lake from the front of our hotel. And yes, even with all the obvious light pollution it’s still dark enough here to clearly see stars!