Lake Yamanaka (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Lake Yamanaka?
Children 4–12 can splash on the KABA amphibious bus, pedal swan boats, play in Hananomiyako Park fountains and cycle flat paths; toilets and life-jackets exist, but parents must guard lake edges.
Positives:
- Life Jacket Availability: Free life jackets in various sizes are provided on all boating activities.
- Easy Lake Loop: The flat, paved path around the lake is stroller-friendly and ideal for family bike rides.
Challenges:
- Windy Weather: Strong winds can create choppy water; check wind reports before booking boat rides.
- Limited Shade: Few lakeside spots have shade; bring hats and sunscreen for protection.
What is so special about Lake Yamanaka for with kids?
- Hands-on boat rides engage children with swan pedals and splash-down bus tours.
- Shallow water playground and flower fields at Hananomiyako Park provide a safe rest area.
- Calm, paved lake loop suits family cycling and stroller use.
- Mount Fuji backdrop adds memorable photo opportunities at every stop.
- Variety of water sports fit kids aged 4+ for SUP and kayaking fun.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: 2-3 hours lets the family enjoy two water activities and a park visit without tiring out younger kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Lake Yamanaka
Pedalo Swan Boat:
Pedal a swan-shaped boat on the lake for 30 minutes.
Tip: Book morning slots to avoid glare and grab kids’ life jackets before you board.
Family Motorboat Ride:
Enjoy a private 10-minute rib boat ride and feed swans from the boat.
Tip: Buy swan feed at the dock and let kids lean forward to hand-feed under supervision.
KABA Amphibious Bus Tour:
Take a 30-minute land-to-lake bus that “dives” into the water for Fuji views.
Tip: Sit at the front for the best splash moment and reserve tickets online to skip lines.
SUP & Kayak Adventure:
Try stand-up paddleboarding or beginner kayaking on calm lake waters.
Tip: Wear quick-dry clothes and secure little ones in tandem kayaks with life vests.
Hananomiyako Park Water Play:
Let kids splash in the playground water jets amid seasonal flower fields.
Tip: Pack swimwear, towels, and use shaded picnic spots for snack breaks.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Pedalo swan boat (30 min) | JPY 3,000 |
| KABA amphibious bus (2 adults + 2 kids) | JPY 8,400 |
| Bike rental (4 people, 3 h) | JPY 4,000 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 15,400 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Lake Yamanaka?
Summer: cool off with boating and park water play. Spring: walk among tulips and cosmos. Autumn: enjoy crisp air and colorful leaves along the lake path. Winter: check for dome-boat ice fishing and bring warm layers.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Lake Yamanaka
- Online Reservations: Book boat and bus tours online to secure preferred time slots and avoid queues.
- Combine Nearby Activities: Pair a park visit at Hananomiyako with a boat ride from the same dock to cut transit time.
Map of Lake Yamanaka
Address: Lake Yamanaka, Yamanakako, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi, Japan
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Reviews of Lake Yamanaka
S G (エスジ)
The first time I came here was for the fireworks on August 1st, 2025. I arrived around 2 PM and it was already crowded, haha. I ended up just wandering around the whole time. Mt. Fuji was covered by clouds, but it still looked beautiful🤍
Claudia Murayama
Fuji Safari Park is very fun and interesting. You drive past the animals and get to see them up close. The large area is incredible, and you also have a view of Mount Fuji.
Ken Miyakawa
Lake Yamanaka is a calm and scenic spot that’s perfect for a relaxing visit. The area is peaceful, with well-kept walking and cycling paths around the lake, and it offers a variety of outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and picnicking. If you’re lucky and the weather is clear, the view of Mount Fuji from the lake is absolutely breathtaking. But keep in mind—it’s often cloudy, and Fuji can b...
Swadha Gupta
Absolutely breathtaking lake with crystal-clear views. Plan to spend a good 45–60 minutes soaking in the scenery and feeding the swans and ducks. We visited the day after a snowstorm, so Mt. Fuji was hiding behind the clouds—tough luck! Still, the snow-covered surroundings were pure magic.
Syaza
I love the lake its less crowded compared to Kawaguchiko lake and there are a lot of spots where you can capture Mount Fuji photos. You can drive around the lake or cycle around the lake. There are several convenience store and restaurants as well as many parks around the lake too. It is a very enjoyable route to see Mount Fuji.
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