The name 'Kaba' means 'hippo' in Japanese, chosen because the vehicle resembles the animal's ability to live on both land and water.
The vehicle's exterior is painted with a distinct hippo motif and features large, oversized tires for land mobility.
The design utilizes a high-clearance chassis allowing it to handle the incline required to enter Lake Yamanaka from the beach.
The vessel is equipped with a water-jet propulsion system, which is safer for lake wildlife than traditional propellers.
The Yamanakako no Kaba is a specialized amphibious vehicle that transitions directly from land to Lake Yamanaka. The tour begins with a driving segment through the wooded areas surrounding the lake before entering the water via a specialized ramp. Once afloat, the vessel acts as a tour boat, offering views of Mount Fuji and the lake's shoreline from a low vantage point. The vehicle features an open-air design with high sides to protect passengers during the water entry splash. Narration is provided throughout the journey, explaining the local geography and the history of the Yamanaka region. The bus is designed to maintain buoyancy and stability while navigating the lake's surface.
From the water, the moment the bus enters the lake, looking forward toward the unobstructed view of Mount Fuji.
Book your reservation online in advance, as tours frequently sell out during weekends and peak travel seasons.
Choose seats near the front or center if you prefer a clearer view of the water entry splash.
Bring a light jacket, as temperatures on the lake can be significantly cooler than on land, even in summer.
Do not arrive late for your designated departure time, as the boarding process involves a safety briefing that cannot be repeated for latecomers.
Operates daily but may be suspended during periods of severe weather, high wind, or freezing conditions in winter.
