Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare" (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare"?
What makes it 86% Solo-Friendly: The 20-minute cruise is inexpensive, runs frequently, and gives a solo traveler clear Mt Fuji views plus onboard history video, so one person can enjoy without coordination or feeling out of place.
Positives:
- Free Wi-Fi onboard: Share photos instantly via the boat’s network.
- English info on monitor: The large screen displays Mt. Fuji history and highlights in English.
Challenges:
- No restrooms aboard: Use facilities at the pier before boarding.
- Exposed deck: Wind and sun can be strong; bring a jacket or hat.
What is Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare"?
- A Japanese-style sightseeing boat on Lake Kawaguchiko inspired by the Sengoku-period Takeda navy ship Ataka, adorned with red armor accents and the Takeda diamond motif
- A two-deck vessel featuring a tatami-room-style interior with a 50-inch monitor for historical and seasonal information, and an open-air observation deck for 360° lake and Mt. Fuji views
- A floating cultural exhibit combining traditional design elements with modern multimedia displays to showcase the history and natural beauty of the Fuji Five Lakes region
What is so special about Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare" for solo trip?
- Ride a samurai-style boat with tatami cabin.
- Enjoy 360° Mt. Fuji and lake reflections.
- Use free Wi-Fi and English monitor info.
- Combine with ropeway for more views.
- Fits easily into a short solo outing.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: The 20-minute cruise plus a short walk from Kawaguchiko Station and time for photos fits well into a 1–2-hour outing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare"
360° Fuji view on the open deck:
Step onto the 2nd-floor deck for unobstructed views of Mt. Fuji and the lake.
Tip: Go early or late in the day to avoid glare and crowds.
Explore the tatami-style cabin:
Relax on traditional tatami benches and watch the 50″ monitor.
Tip: Sit by a window to catch Fuji views even on cloudy days.
Spot the inverted Fuji reflection:
Circle Unoshima Island to see Fuji’s mirror image on calm water.
Tip: Choose a day with little wind; sit on the lake-side of the boat for best angle.
Combine with Fuji Panorama Ropeway:
Buy a joint ticket for boat, ropeway, and local bus at Kawaguchiko Station.
Tip: Save time by purchasing the combo before boarding the boat.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare"
- Arrive early: Board 10 minutes before departure to claim a window seat.
- Check weather: Use a weather app for clear-sky forecasts and smooth water.
- Show your rail pass: Present a Fujikyu pass for a ¥200 discount on your ticket.
Reviews of Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare"
Vic Antwal
Japanese gentleman was so friendly,probably the best we met so far on this trip. took stops, took pictures of us while watching Mt fuji. Gentle with the kids and had kids soft toys in the boat to make kids comfortable. Definitely worth more than 5 stars
Kausar Butt
Quite a nice ride with opportunities to take some great pictures of the lake and Fuji. It’s only around 20 minutes duration and they charge half price for disabled people
harrish krishna
It was a pleasant experience overall with a great vivid view of mount Fuji. What's not appreciated by tourists is the tour being conducted exclusively in Japanese.
Julie Ho
You can buy the tickets online or go to the machine and buy on the same day. Boat will go around the Lake Kawaguchi. If the weather is good you can see Mt. Fuji. The scenary was nice. We were lucky that we mange to see Mt. Fuji.
Catalin Varvara
A short 20 minutes trip on the lake. The view of Mt. Fuji is breathtaking. I wish they would have stopped the engine after they turned around, maybe for 2 minutes. It would've been nice. Best thing is you can buy the boat tour, the sightseeing rope and the bus pass from them for 2800 yen. 2 days free shuttle busses (red green and blue busses) and one entry for boat and rope. Totally worth it if ...
When is the best time to visit Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare" (Mount Fuji Area, Japan)?
Winter mornings offer the clearest Fuji reflections. Spring brings cherry blossoms along the shore. Autumn colors peak in late October–November. In rainy season use the indoor cabin to enjoy the monitor display.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult boat ticket | JPY 1,000 |
| Combination ticket (boat + ropeway + bus) | JPY 2,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Lake Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Boat "Appare"
Address: 県営船津無料駐車場, 前, Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0301, Japan
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