While chasing the light we are always looking for inspiration as part of our Japan Photo Tours, and when we see Mt. Fuji, we understand why the iconic peak of Japan has such a wide impact. Participants and I on our Mt. Fuji autumn tour take thousands of images of Mt. Fuji the majestic peak, and just as many artists and poets have constructed pieces of art with Mt. Fuji as the main motivation.
Poets from all ages of Japan’s history have impassioned responses to the centerpiece of Japanese natural architecture. Reaching as far back as the Heian Period (794-1185), the court lady Ki no Menoto remarked that “even the gods can’t quench/the flames of Fuji.” The images conjured up by such a quote presented our Mt. Fuji Photography Tour Leaders with a challenge to match the perfect photo to the lady’s conception. The Japanese maple trees do seem to catch alight during the Autumn Leaves Photo Tour, so once the season is upon us, we hope to take clients out to witness the unquenchable fire that is Mt. Fuji during the autumn.
Seeing Mt. Fuji during a Japan Photo Tour is much more that the mountain itself. The Fuji Five Lakes are an attraction all by themselves.
The Fuji Five Lakes are comprised of Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosu lakes. Over 95% of Japanese have never visited all the fuji five lakes, but you could be one of the elite 5%. As you stroll the shore, you could see glorious Mt. Fuji reflected in Kawaguchiko, the most famous of the Fuji Five Lakes and immortalize that moment in your photographs. The other lakes are not as accessible by public transportation making them more off the beaten path attractions, but if an up close and personal interaction with all of the Fuji Five Lakes is what you are interested in, then I and my fellow Japan Photo Tour Leaders have an answer. Private transportation in SUVs means that you can experience each lake and turning each one into a mini Mt. Fuji photo workshop.
The Fujigoko (Fuji Five Lakes) were created by Mt. Fuji’s lava flows long ago, and their beauty is unparalleled, but perhaps you are interested in a slightly different vantage point for your photography tour? There are Lake Kawaguchiko pleasure cruises only minutes from the city center, so you can enjoy Mt. Fuji and Kawaguchiko while feeling the brisk embrace of the winter winds as you take spectacular photos. The natural landscapes surrounding Mt. Fuji include the amazing Chureito Pagoda which by itself is worthy of a photo postcard. However, when you can compose the perfect shot of the pagoda in the foreground and Mt. Fuji in the background, you will begin to understand the magic of Japan in the autumn.
