Hello! This is Interpreter Takezawa.
Today, we continue learning about Mount Fuji.
In the last post, we explored Lake Shoji. This time, we’ll conclude the Fuji Five Lakes series by focusing on the fifth and final lake: Lake Motosu.
Lake Motosu: The Deepest of the Fuji Five Lakes
Lake Motosu is located across Fujikawaguchiko Town in Minamitsuru District and Minobu Town in Minamikoma District, Yamanashi Prefecture. It is the deepest of the Fuji Five Lakes and holds a special place in both nature and history.
Lake Motosu Specifications:
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Elevation: 900 meters above sea level
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Surface Area: 4.7 km²
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Circumference: 11.6 km
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Maximum Depth: 121.6 meters
As part of the “Mount Fuji Region,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lake Motosu is not only the deepest of the Fuji Five Lakes but also ranks as Japan’s ninth-deepest lake. It has the largest water volume among the five lakes and maintains a water temperature of at least 4°C year-round. The lake is also renowned for its exceptional water clarity, making it one of Japan’s most transparent lakes.
Formation and Connection to Other Lakes
Lake Motosu was formed by lava flows from Mount Fuji’s massive eruption in 800 CE (Enryaku Eruption), which divided the ancient “Se no Umi” lake. Later, during the Jogan Eruption of 864 CE, further lava flows split Se no Umi into three separate lakes: Lake Motosu, Lake Saiko, and Lake Shoji.
Interestingly, these three lakes still share the same elevation (900 meters), leading to theories that they are connected through underground waterways. Observations show that when water levels rise in one lake, they also increase in the other two.
Iconic Views: “Inverted Fuji” and “Diamond Fuji”
Lake Motosu is perhaps most famous for its stunning views of Mount Fuji:
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Inverted Fuji: The reflection of Mount Fuji on Lake Motosu’s calm surface is featured on Japan’s old ¥5,000 bill and current ¥1,000 bill. This iconic image was inspired by photographer Koyo Okada’s work Lakeside Spring, taken from Nakanokura Pass on the western shore of Lake Motosu. The beauty of this view has contributed significantly to Mount Fuji’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Diamond Fuji: From the summit of Ryugatake Mountain on Lake Motosu’s southern side, visitors can witness the sunrise aligning perfectly with Mount Fuji’s peak during New Year. The phenomenon creates a dazzling effect resembling a diamond at the mountain’s summit.
Historical Artifacts and Legends
Archaeological finds at Lake Motosu’s bottom include pottery and stone tools from the Jomon and Kofun periods, evidence that people lived in this area thousands of years ago.
The lake is also steeped in mythology:
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One legend tells of a dragon that lived in Lake Motosu and fled to Ryugatake when lava from Mount Fuji poured into the lake during an eruption.
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Another story claims that this dragon predicted future eruptions and delivered warnings to villagers from atop Ryugatake.
These legends reflect how closely tied local life has been to Mount Fuji’s eruptions and natural changes throughout history.
Reflections on the Fuji Five Lakes
Having now explored all five lakes—Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Saiko, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu—it’s clear that each has its own unique characteristics and cultural significance. While names like Yamanaka or Kawaguchi may come to mind quickly for most people, learning about all five reveals their individual beauty and importance as part of Mount Fuji’s World Heritage designation.
Each lake offers a distinct perspective on Mount Fuji through its history, culture, nature, and connection to local life. This understanding inspires me to revisit all five lakes with fresh eyes, appreciating their roles as treasures of both Japan’s natural landscape and cultural heritage.
This translation simplifies complex cultural references while emphasizing key details about Lake Motosu’s natural beauty, historical significance, and connection to Mount Fuji for an international audience. It highlights iconic views like “Inverted Fuji” and “Diamond Fuji,” which are likely to resonate with readers interested in photography or travel experiences near Mount Fuji!
