he area surrounding Mount Fuji is brimming with breathtaking natural landscapes and historical charm. Among these attractions, the “Fuji Five Lakes” are renowned for their deep connection to Mount Fuji, captivating countless visitors. Today, we’ll shine a spotlight on Lake Yamanaka, the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes, and explore its allure and unique characteristics. How does Lake Yamanaka, with its ever-changing faces through the seasons, inspire those who visit? Let’s embark on a journey to discover the world of Lake Yamanaka!
Lake Yamanaka Specifications:
– Elevation: 980.5 m above sea level
– Surface Area: 6.57 km²
– Circumference: 13.87 km
– Maximum Depth: 13.3 m
Lake Yamanaka is part of the World Heritage Site “Mount Fuji” and boasts the largest surface area among the Fuji Five Lakes, as well as the highest elevation. Its elevation ranks third in Japan, following Lake Chuzenji and Lake Haruna. On the other hand, it is the shallowest lake among the Fuji Five Lakes.
The lake was formed by the Taka-Marao lava flow during Mount Fuji’s eruption in 800 CE (the Enryaku Eruption).
Due to its shape, Lake Yamanaka is known by various nicknames such as “Crescent Lake,” “Sleeping Cow Lake,” “Whale Lake,” and “Magatama Lake.” Additionally, because of its large population of swans, it is also affectionately called “Swan Lake.”
In the past, the lake would freeze over during winter, allowing activities like ice fishing for pond smelt. However, in recent years, the ice has not been thick enough to support people standing on it. The last time the lake completely froze was in January 2006.
Lake Yamanaka is also home to **Marimo**, a type of spherical green algae typically found in Hokkaido’s Lake Akan or Sakyo-numa in Aomori Prefecture. The marimo found here are called “Fuji Marimo” because they inhabit the Mount Fuji region. Interestingly, this is the southernmost limit of marimo distribution.
From Lake Yamanaka, Mount Fuji appears with Komitake Volcano and Mount Hoei on either side, resembling broad shoulders. This view has earned it the nickname “Male Fuji” (though perhaps “Heroic Fuji” sounds cooler!).
Another notable feature of Lake Yamanaka is its role as a resort area, with many pensions (small inns) and vacation homes dotting its surroundings.
As one of Mount Fuji’s World Heritage components, Lake Yamanaka has long been associated with Fuji worship and pilgrimage as one of the “Fuji Hakkai” (Eight Sacred Sites). The reflection of Mount Fuji on its surface, known as **”Inverted Fuji,”** is a celebrated sight. Additionally, Katsushika Hokusai’s artwork *Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji: Koshu Mishima Pass* depicts Mount Fuji as seen from Kagosaka Pass on Lake Yamanaka’s southern shore.
The area surrounding Lake Yamanaka offers accessible hiking trails such as Ishiwariyama and Mikuniyama. From these peaks, you can enjoy breathtaking views of both Lake Yamanaka and Mount Fuji. Be sure to take in this spectacular scenery from one of the most iconic spots in the Fuji Five Lakes!
See you next time!
