To truly appreciate the grandeur of Mount Fuji, Japan’s sacred and symbolic peak, Shizuoka Prefecture stands as the prime choice. Located on the southern side of the mountain, this region offers panoramic views that extend from Fuji’s sweeping base to its iconic summit—often framed by the sea, cityscapes, and untouched nature. Here are five carefully selected spots known for offering the most stunning views of Mount Fuji.

1. Miho no Matsubara (Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City)
Designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, this scenic stretch is famed for its seven kilometers of black pine forest along the coast. The silhouette of Mount Fuji rising across Suruga Bay offers a view straight out of a Japanese painting. On clear days, the mountain appears vividly between the pines, accompanied by the sound of waves and a profound sense of calm. At dawn and dusk, the scene transforms into a magical palette of colors.

2. Lake Tanuki (Fujinomiya City)
Renowned for its mirror-like reflection of Mount Fuji, this lakeside gem is a favorite for photographers and early risers. Most notably, during a few days in April and August, you can witness the “Diamond Fuji” phenomenon—when the rising sun aligns perfectly with the summit, casting a jewel-like glow. The surrounding area features walking and cycling paths, making it ideal for a peaceful morning immersed in nature and seasonal beauty.

3. Nihondaira (Shizuoka City)
Located in a hilly area approximately 300 meters above sea level, Nihondaira offers postcard-perfect views of Mount Fuji, Suruga Bay, and Shimizu Port. Accessible via a scenic ropeway to Kunōzan Tōshōgū—a shrine deeply connected to Tokugawa Ieyasu—this site beautifully blends historical depth with natural grandeur. From the observation deck, you’ll enjoy unobstructed vistas that stretch to the Izu Peninsula and even the Southern Alps on clear days.

4. Fujikawa Service Area (Shin-Tomei Expressway, Fuji City)
This service area offers a surprisingly spectacular view of Mount Fuji, making it a hidden gem for travelers on the go. The spacious observation terrace provides a front-row seat to Fuji’s overwhelming presence. Despite being a highway rest stop, it has become a beloved photography spot where visitors frequently pose for unforgettable shots with Japan’s most iconic peak. When conditions are right, sunrise or a sea of clouds adds an even more breathtaking dimension.

5. Ōbuchi Sasaba (Fuji City)
This tranquil location showcases a quintessentially Japanese scene—endless rows of tea fields stretching toward the towering form of Mount Fuji. In spring, fresh green buds brighten the landscape; in summer, deep greens provide a vivid contrast to the snow-capped peak. Carefully preserved by local tea farmers, the area maintains its serene, uncommercialized charm. It is a place where the spirit of traditional rural Japan is still very much alive.