Lake Yamanaka and Mount Fuji
Lake Yamanaka (山中湖, Yamanaka-ko, ‘Lake in the Mountains’) is located in the village of Yamanakako in Yamanashi Prefecture near Mount Fuji, Japan. Indeed, it may well be the best spot from which to observe Fuji-san.
Lake Yamanaka is the largest of the Fuji Five Lakes in surface area and the highest in elevation. It is the third highest lake in Japan, with a mean surface altitude of 980.5 metres.
Carp, dace and smelt were introduced to the lake in the Meiji period, although early efforts to introduce sockeye salmon were not successful.
Why should we make the effort to see Mount Fuji?
Fuji-san is famous for being Japan’s tallest mountain, its nearly perfect conical shape, and its deep cultural and spiritual significance as a national symbol. It is an iconic image that has inspired countless artists, poets, and writers, and it is considered a sacred site for worship and pilgrimages.
In hypernationalistic Japan, the mountain is a powerful symbol of Japan, representing natural beauty, strength, and endurance.
Fuji-san also has spiritual significance. It is considered one of Japan’s three holy mountains and is an object of worship in Shintoism, with shrines located at its base and summit.
Fuji-san has also been a source of artistic inspiration – most famously depicted in Katsushika Hokusai’s woodblock prints.
But Fuji-san could also be dangerous. It is considered an active volcano, though it has been dormant since its last eruption in 1707. While seemingly dormant, Mount Fuji is actively monitored for any signs of future activity.
So enjoy Fuji-san. But please be careful!