Who doesn’t love holidays? Although most companies established the idea of a Saturday-Sunday off, somehow these days go by with a blink of an eye. In Japan, there is a special holiday more popularly known as the Golden Week. Technically, these are set of holidays that are close to each other creating an almost one week off. It happens in the first week of May and is consider as an official holiday in the country. I’m sure you know where this story is heading. How did I spend my Golden Week? Well, I thought you might ask 🙂 :

You’ve heard this from me a million times – The Lakes of Mt. Fuji. I just couldn’t get enough of this place; it’s spacious, it’s refreshing and it’s quiet. People don’t go running chasing their busy schedules, instead they stop and enjoy the lake, the parks and the beautiful Mt. Fuji above it –and that’s what we did in the Lake of Kawaguchi.

First, we went strolling around the lake side. Even though the cherry blossoms were completely gone, the remains were still admirable as if it will soon bloom once more.

Second, was swan boating. Basically, it’s a swan-looking boat were you can navigate through paddling. It’s one of the most popular activity in the area and seeing these boats from afar, made it all looked like watching a real life swans too (only ten times bigger).

When the sky is clear, you can see a full sight of Mt. Fuji. Paddling the boat towards the direction of the mountain felt like it’s closer than ever –and that’s a moment you sure never want to miss.

After an exhilarating boat ride, the lake’s rope way was also just a distant away. The rope way is only 460 meters long (three-minute ride) but it never failed to amaze. A grand view of Kawaguchiko and the town surrounding it was like a realization that we ourselves are actually living in a paradise, only we neglect to appreciate it.

The scenery from the top was as equally breathtaking! It’s a side of Mt. Fuji you’ve never seen before. There are also open trails if you are up for some hiking. Just be sure to have with you your gears.

You can never run out of things to do and places to see around the foot of Mt. Fuji. It has a tremendously diverse ecosystem and a very adaptable environment. So wherever you come from, whether you are a tourist, a traveler or just generally someone who wants to take that break; this place will sure welcome you with open arms.