Fugaku Wind Cave – Nature’s Cool Hideaway
Overview: Geological Wonder & Refreshing Escape
Fugaku Wind Cave, located near Mt. Fuji in the Japanese countryside, is a natural lava cave famous for its cool temperatures and unique geological formations. The cave’s interior remains around 3°C (37°F) year-round, making it a refreshing retreat in summer. Visitors can explore winding tunnels, see natural ice pillars, and learn about the cave’s history as a natural refrigerator for silkworm eggs.
Fugaku Wind Cave, known for its lava shelves and natural refrigeration used to store silkworm eggs in the past, is located near other top attractions in the Fuji Five Lakes region such as Narusawa Ice Cave, Oshino Hakkai, and Arakurayama Sengen Park, making it easy to create a fun and memorable day exploring Mt. Fuji’s underground wonders and scenic viewpoints.
How to Get to Fugaku Wind Cave
From Tokyo, take the JR Chuo Line to Otsuki, transfer to the Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko, then take a local bus bound for Saiko or Narusawa. Get off at the Fugaku Fuketsu Iriguchi stop. The cave is a short walk from the bus stop.
| Departure | Route | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku (Tokyo) | JR Chuo Line to Otsuki → Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko → Local bus to Fugaku Wind Cave (Fugaku Fuketsu Iriguchi) | ~2 hr 30 min | Approx. ¥2,700 |
| Shinjuku (Tokyo) South Exit (Busta Shinjuku, 4th Floor) |
Take the Keio Highway Bus "Shinjuku–Fujigoko Line (bound for Yamanakako
Hirano)" to Kawaguchiko Station. Transfer to the Fujikyu Bus "Narusawa, Shojiko, Motosuko Blue Line" and get off at the Hyoketsu (Ice Cave) bus stop. From there, it's about a 5-minute walk to Narusawa Ice Cave. |
~2 hr 40 min | ¥2,200 (Highway Bus) + ¥740 (Local Bus) |
| Kawaguchiko (Lake) Station | Local bus bound for Saiko/Narusawa, get off at Fugaku Fuketsu Iriguchi | ~30 min | Approx. ¥800 |
| Note: Bus schedules may vary by season. Check local timetables before your visit. | |||
What to Expect Inside
The cave features lava shelves, ice pillars (especially in spring), and historical displays about its use for silk production. The path is well-lit but can be slippery—wear sturdy shoes and bring a jacket.
Shop & Food Corner: Mori-no-Eki “Kazeari”
The Fugaku Wind Cave shop has been renewed and reopened as Mori-no-Eki “Kazeari.” Here, you’ll find a wide selection of local specialties from Yamanashi and Shizuoka, including famous sweets, Koshu wine, and local sake. The shop also offers hiking goods, jackets, and rain gear—perfect for staying warm and prepared during your visit.
A food corner is now available as well, where you can enjoy regional dishes such as Fujinomiya Yakisoba and Yoshida Udon. Don’t miss the chance to taste these local favorites!
Visit Information
- Location: Near Lake Saiko, Yamanashi, Japan
-
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Hours may vary by season. - Best Time to Visit: All year round, especially refreshing in summer
- Tips: The cave is chilly—bring a light jacket. Wear sturdy shoes. Guided tours available.
- Entry Fee: Adults: ¥350 / Children (elementary school age and under): ¥200