Lake Motosu's water quality is consistently ranked among the highest of the Fuji Five Lakes, sometimes achieving 'AA' status in transparency.
The lake is an oligotrophic water body, meaning it has low nutrient content and high oxygen levels, supporting its extreme clarity.
It is the only one of the Fuji Five Lakes that remains completely free of ice during winter.
The iconic image on the Japanese 1,000 yen note, featuring Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms, is based on a photograph taken at Lake Motosu by Koyo Okada.
The lake occupies a volcanic depression created by ancient lava flows from Mount Fuji.
Lake Motosu is the westernmost and deepest of the Fuji Five Lakes, reaching a maximum depth of 121.6 meters. It is renowned for its exceptional water clarity, often cited as one of the clearest lakes in the Fuji Five Lakes region. The lake is famously featured on the reverse side of the Japanese 1,000 yen banknote and the old 5,000 yen note, showcasing a perspective of Mount Fuji. Formed by volcanic activity, the lake is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The water remains ice-free year-round, even in the coldest winter months, due to its depth and thermal properties. It serves as a popular site for windsurfing, diving, and kayaking during the warmer months. The shoreline is less developed than the other Fuji Five Lakes, maintaining a more rugged, natural landscape. The specific view of Mount Fuji from the lake's northern shore, known as the 'Nakanokura Pass' view, is considered the quintessential representation of the landscape.
The Nakanokura Pass observation point on the northern shore.
Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to better capture the reflection of Mount Fuji on the water's surface.
Plan for rapid weather changes, as mountain conditions near Mount Fuji can shift from clear to misty in minutes.
The shore terrain can be rocky, so wear sturdy, comfortable footwear if you plan to walk along the water's edge.
Do not rely on finding extensive dining or shopping infrastructure immediately at the shoreline, as it is much quieter and less developed than Lake Kawaguchiko.
Practice 'Leave No Trace' principles; carry out all trash and respect the quiet nature of the waterfront areas.
