Surrounded by a quiet forest on the shores of Lake Saiko , the Saiko Ice Festival offers a magical scene woven from ice and light. With Mount Fuji in the background, the icy sculptures transform between day and night, quietly captivating all who visit.
This article introduces the highlights, event information, access details, and practical Q&A for first-time visitors to the Saiko Ice Festival. It’s structured to support solo travelers as well, ensuring a fulfilling winter experience in the Fuji Five Lakes area.
Let this guide warm your journey during this special season of winter chill.
Contents
Saiko Ice Festival Access Guide
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Tokyo Station
Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express “Kaiji” or “Fuji Excursion” to Otsuki Station (approx. 80 min)
Transfer to the Fujikyu Railway Line and ride to Kawaguchiko Station (approx. 55 min)
From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Saiko Sightseeing Bus and get off at the “Yachonomori Koen” bus stop near the Saiko Ice Festival venue (approx. 40 min).
A short walk from the bus stop
Total travel time: approx. 3 hours
Shinjuku Station
Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express “Fuji Excursion” directly to Kawaguchiko Station (approx. 2 hr 10 min)
From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Saiko Sightseeing Bus and get off at the “Yachonomori Koen” bus stop near the Saiko Ice Festival venue (approx. 40 min).
A short walk from the bus stop
Total travel time: approx. 2 hr 50 min
Shizuoka Station
Take the Tokaido Main Line to Fuji Station (approx. 30 min)
From Fuji Station, take the Fujikyu Bus to Kawaguchiko Station (approx. 2 hr 10 min)
From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Saiko Sightseeing Bus and get off at the “Yachonomori Koen” bus stop near the Saiko Ice Festival venue (approx. 40 min).
A short walk from the bus stop
Total travel time: approx. 3 hr 30 min
One Point Advice
Event Hours, Admission & Access Info
Admission: Free
Event period: Mid-January to early February (may vary by year)
Light-up hours: 17:00–20:00 (subject to weather conditions)
Closed: Open every day during the event period
Official Travel Guide: https://fujisan.ne.jp/
Saiko Ice Festival Highlights & Itinerary
Saiko Yachonomori Koen｜Ice, Forest & Fuji Views
This park, the main venue of the Saiko Ice Festival , is known for its ice sculpture displays with Mount Fuji in the background. Various sizes of ice sculptures are installed among the trees, sparkling under the sun during the day and transforming into a fantastical world with lights at night. Early morning or just after lighting begins are ideal times for photography. The serene environment lets visitors fully enjoy the winter charm unique to the Fuji Five Lakes area.
Duration: 45–60 minutes
Admission: Free
Iyashi no Sato Nenba｜Thatched Village & Culture
Located about 5 minutes by bus from the festival site, Iyashi no Sato Nenba is a theme village that recreates traditional Japanese rural scenery . Thatched-roof houses line the area, and visitors can try crafts like paper-making or pottery. Even on cold days, the indoor facilities allow for a relaxed experience. With Mount Fuji in the background, the scene resembles a painting, offering a different kind of beauty than the icy world.
Duration: 60 minutes
Admission: Adults 500 yen / Children 250 yen
Fuji View Observatory｜See the Inverted Fuji
This observation area, within walking distance from the ice festival site , is known for offering views of the “Inverted Fuji ” on still mornings or evenings. A little away from the sculptures and crowds, it’s an ideal place to quietly enjoy the contrast of nature and Mount Fuji. Often less visited, this hidden gem is especially popular among solo travelers.
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Admission: Free (within the campsite, open access)
Nearby Spots to Visit After the Festival
Fuji Eco Museum Center｜Mt. Fuji Nature Learning Spot
About a 10-minute walk from Saiko Yachonomori Koen, this facility features exhibits about the nature , geology, and wildlife of the Mount Fuji area. In contrast to the icy art, it provides a scientific perspective on the surrounding environment. It’s enjoyable for both children and adults. The indoor space is warm even in winter, with a rest area perfect for a short break from the cold.
Fuji-Q Highland｜Rides with Mt. Fuji Views
About 5 minutes from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyu Line, Fuji-Q Highland is a famous theme park in Japan known for world-class thrill rides , operating even in winter. You can see snow-covered Mount Fuji from the park, and enjoy a surreal experience of cold air mixed with excitement. Visiting in the afternoon allows for smoother entry with reduced crowds.
Oshino Hakkai｜Springs & Fuji View Village
A great choice for the following day is Oshino Hakkai . About 70 minutes from Saiko via bus and train, this quiet village features crystal-clear ponds selected as one of Japan’s top 100 waters, along with picturesque views of Mount Fuji. Unlike the festival’s icy spectacle, here you’ll find calm, refreshing scenery that makes it a perfect place to end your journey.
Saiko Ice Festival FAQ for Visitors
When is the Saiko Ice Festival held, and what time are the lights on?
It’s held annually from mid-January to early February, with illumination from 17:00 to 20:00 (subject to change).
How much time should I plan for the visit?
Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours at the Saiko Ice Festival. If you’d like to relax and take more photos, allow about 2 hours.
What kind of clothing is recommended for the cold?
As the venue is icy, warm clothing along with anti-slip footwear, gloves, and heat packs are advised.
Are there toilets or food stalls at the site?
Temporary toilets and a simple rest tent are available. Food stalls may appear depending on the year, so it’s best to check in advance.
Where are the best photo spots at the festival?
The central area with ice sculptures and Mount Fuji in the background is the most popular. Sunset and early lighting hours offer especially magical views.
Saiko Ice Festival Summary & What’s Next
The Saiko Ice Festival , with icy art set against Mount Fuji, is a magical winter event representing the Fuji Five Lakes region. The changing beauty of the sculptures from day to night leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
Access from Kawaguchiko Station is simple by bus, and with clear travel times, even first-time visitors can explore with ease. With good preparation for the cold, even solo travelers can fully enjoy this unique winter experience.
Next, why not visit nearby spots like Kawaguchiko Onsen or Oshino Hakkai to enjoy more of winter in the scenic Fuji Five Lakes area?
