Stunning Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko, Japan

Just back from an absolutely amazing holiday in Japan, and what an undeniably fascinating and captivating place it is... and perhaps a little bit bonkers too! We were fortunate to be on a guided tour, which meant that while our photography time and opportunities to catch the good light were quite limited, we were able to explore various incredible locations. It quickly became a case of making the best of the time we had available and seizing the opportunities that came our way.

At the very top of my list of things to see was the magnificent and iconic Mount Fuji, but the odds of getting a clear view were quite low. Its visibility is only about 20-30% of the time due to the persistent cloud cover that often envelops its majestic peak. Anyone who visits the beautiful Eryri/Snowdonia area knows all too well about the challenges posed by cloud-covered mountains! Fortunately, when we eventually arrived at the picturesque Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the most renowned spots to catch a glimpse of it, the views were not too shabby at all. A hint of low cloud gracefully drifted past the lower slopes, adding an enchanting touch of mystique to the already stunning scene.

We had a couple of hours scheduled here for food and photographs, which felt like a bit of a rush as we tried to capture something truly worthy of this unique experience. I eagerly set up my camera to frame Mount Fuji, the tranquil lake reflecting its grandeur, and the lush surrounding greenery. The light shifted subtly, illuminating the mountain just enough to highlight its iconic shape and intricate details. With each click of the shutter, I hoped to encapsulate the beauty of this extraordinary moment in time.

Despite the time constraints and the pressure to produce stunning images, I managed to secure a few shots that truly represent the allure and majesty of this legendary landscape. Here’s my best attempt at doing just that.

A view of the stunning Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko