Beni Fuji no Yu Onsen
Soaking in an onsen–a bathhouse fed by natural hot springs–is an unmissable experience while in Japan. Travelers to the Lake Yamanaka area near Mount Fuji should check out the Beni Fuji no Yu Onsen. In the winter there are beautiful views of the mountain, whereas in the warmer months you can revive tired muscles after a hike.
The basics
Beni Fuji means red Fuji; the Beni Fuji no Yu Onsen offers views of Fuji lit up pink, gold, and red in the early morning sun, especially in winter. The onsen uses pure hot spring water and has indoor baths, outdoor baths set in beautiful Japanese gardens, and rooftop baths. All have views of Fuji (weather dependent). Treatments, massages, a sauna, and a Jacuzzi are also available. Some guided tours in the Fuji area stop at the Beni Fuji no Yu Onsen. To spend as much time as you like here, visit independently while staying in the Fuji Go Ko region.
Things to know before you go
- You must be naked to enter the baths. They are gender segregated.
- Carefully follow the onsen rules. Shower thoroughly before entering the baths. The Japanese can be very strict about onsen etiquette.
- There’s an entry fee and towels can be hired for a separate fee, or purchased.
- Bring cash, as cards aren’t accepted and there’s no ATM at the onsen.
- Food and drink can’t be brought inside but there’s an on-site restaurant.
- Visitors with tattoos can’t enter. In Japan, tattoos are associated with gangs.
How to get there
Unless you’re traveling on a guided tour, the easiest way to reach the onsen is to take a Fujikko bus from Fujisan Station, which stops in front of the bath house. Fujisan Station and nearby Kawaguchiko Station are accessible from Tokyo on the Fujikyu Railway line, or by bus.
Trip ideas
When to get there
The onsen is open from mid-morning until late evening, with last admission about half an hour before closing. Between December and February it’s open from early morning until late evening on weekends. It’s closed on Tuesdays but open on Japanese national holidays. The benefits of the hot water are more noticeable when it’s cold outside. The views of Mount Fuji are also clearest in the winter.
Climb Mount Fuji
If gazing at Mount Fuji from a hot bath isn’t exciting enough for you, think about climbing it. It’s open for climbing between early July and mid-September. It’s a moderately challenging climb but requires no technical skills. On clear days, the views from the top spread for many miles across Honshu. After, relieve your tired muscles at the onsen.
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- Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)
- Mt. Fuji 5th Station
- Mt. Fuji (Fuji-san)
- Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
- Aokigahara Forest
- Hakone Ropeway
- Owakudani
- Hakone Open-Air Museum
- Lake Ashi (Ashi-no-ko)
- Mt. Takao Cable Car
- Tama Zoological Park
- Sanrio Puroland
- Daibutsu (Great Buddha of Kamakura)
- Engaku-ji Temple
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine