Tunes Under Fuji: The Magic of Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum

Mount Fuji emerges through the veil of maple trees at the Museum

Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum (河口湖 音楽と森の美術館) ⭐⭐is a unique and charming destination that offers a delightful blend of music, art, and stunning scenery.  The museum is definitely worth a visit.

Here's Why

• Unique Collection: The museum houses a fascinating collection of antique music boxes, mechanical organs, and other automatic musical instruments from around the world.
• European-Inspired Setting: The museum itself is beautifully designed with a charming European aesthetic, creating a delightful atmosphere.
• Live Performances: You can often enjoy live performances of music box melodies and other enchanting music.
• Beautiful Views: The museum offers picturesque views of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji, enhancing the overall experience.
• Family-Friendly: The museum is a fun and engaging experience for both adults and children.

Spectacular Fountain Show with a Mechanical Doll Conductor  (YouTube link)

Sand Art Meets Live Music  (YouTube link)

Photo Gallery

On 11/23/2024, a sunny day, I visited Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, an enchanting European-themed architectural and landscape design. Here are the photos I took on that day.

Savor Mount Fuji's splendor from the restaurant's outdoor terrace

Concert Hall: Experience a Timeless Performance by Rare Automatic Instruments

Carillon Square: Spectacular Fountain Show with a Mechanical Doll Conductor

河口湖音楽と森の美術館 (YouTube link)

The Enchanting Melodies of the Savoyard Music Box (YouTube link)

A Timeless Duet: Opera Singers &Automatic Musical Instruments (YouTube link)

Fuji's Foothills: The Five Lakes Region

Loop bus guide map (pdf link)

Witnessing Mt Fuji from Chureito Pagoda (04/02/2024)  (YouTube link)

The Fuji Five Lakes region, nestled at the base of Mount Fuji, offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Here's a breakdown of some of the highlights:

Key Attractions:

• Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine: A revered Shinto shrine dedicated to Mount Fuji, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
• Chureito Pagoda: The pagoda is a five-story red pagoda and is famous for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, especially during cherry blossom season. It is a popular spot for photography and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• Oshino Hakkai: Eight interconnected springs formed by groundwater filtering through the volcanic layers of Mount Fuji.
• Highland Resort: A popular amusement park with thrilling rides, including the record-breaking "Dodonpa" roller coaster.
• Lake Kawaguchiko: The most accessible of the five lakes, offering scenic boat cruises, museums, and stunning views of Mount Fuji.
• Lake Yamanakako: The largest of the five lakes, known for its peaceful atmosphere and opportunities for fishing and camping.

Activities and Experiences:

• Hiking: Enjoy scenic trails and hikes through the surrounding forests and mountains.
• Camping: Set up camp in one of the many campsites near the lakes and experience the tranquility of nature.
• Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the crystal-clear waters of the Fuji Five Lakes.
• Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs (onsen) found in the region.
• Cultural Exploration: Visit local museums, shrines, and temples to learn about the region's history and culture.

The Fuji Five Lakes region offers something for everyone, from nature lovers and history buffs to adventure seekers and families. With its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and diverse activities, it's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Japan.

Oshino's Hidden Gem: Hannoki Bayashi Folklore Museum (YouTube link)

Unveiling Mount Fuji at the Kawaguchiko Museum of Art (YouTube link)

References

1. 御殿場～山中湖～富士急ハイランド～河口湖駅(富士河口湖温泉郷) 道志～平野～旭日丘（山中湖）～富士山駅 内野～忍野八海～富士山駅 (Bus Timetable link)
2. 富士急モビリティ株式会社 路線バス時刻表② 【A-line C-line 河口湖線・富士学校線】 2024年9月1日改正 (Bus Timetable link)
3. 箱根登山バス
4. Hakone area route map (pdf)