Mount Ashiwadayama, Yamanashi, Japan
There was a long line for bus passes at Kawaguchiko Station, and I wasn’t sure I’d make my bus. Luckily, it left a minute late and I just managed to board. I didn’t bring much water but expected vending machines or shops near Koyodai Observatory, so I went with what I had.
I chose this trail to see autumn leaves, Mt. Fuji, and the three lakes (Kawaguchi, Saiko, and Shoji). The Koyodai trailhead was hard to find, and the sandy start made footing tricky. A trail worker even warned me to be careful.
The fall colours were past their peak but still beautiful, I can only imagine what it would be like at its peak. I quickly reached Koyodai Observatory (1,165 m), took a short break to eat my late breakfast, and continued to Sankodai Observatory. On the way, I saw people on horseback—apparently, you can rent horses and take guided rides here.
Sankodai had a stunning view of Mt. Fuji. Many people descend from here, but I had time to continue to Gokodai Observatory and Mt. Ashiwadayama (1,355 m). I passed a lively group of students, whose energy was contagious.
At Mt. Ashiwadayama, the views were less panoramic but still lovely. The descent was slippery with sand and fallen leaves, but I made it down safely.
Route Detail
Distance: 9.33km from Koyodai Trailhead to Okukawaguchiko Trailhead
Total elevation gain: 397m
Time: 2h 30m (total time with breaks 3h 49m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Peaks: Koyodai Observatory 紅葉台展望 1165m, Sankodai Observatory 三湖台 1202m, Mt Ashiwadayama 足和田山 1355m
Transportation & Miscellaneous
Kawaguchiko 2 Days Sightseeing Bus Ticket ¥1700
Koyodai Shop ¥572
