Lake Motosu: Where Yuru Camp Begins

Lake Motosu (本栖湖) is the westernmost of the Fuji Five Lakes in Yamanashi Prefecture, and it's where Rin Shima and Nadeshiko Kagamihara first meet in Yuru Camp (ゆるキャン△, Laid-Back Camp) Season 1, Episode 1.

The view of Mount Fuji from the north shore of Lake Motosu is the same image printed on the Japanese 1,000 yen bill — making it both an anime pilgrimage destination and one of Japan's most iconic scenic views.

Koan Campground (浩庵キャンプ場)

Koan Campground is the real campsite featured in Yuru Camp Episode 1. This is where Rin camps solo and finds Nadeshiko sleeping on a bench. Key details:

  • Campsite fee: ¥1,000-2,000 per person per night (varies by season)
  • Facilities: Toilets, running water, small shop. No electricity at tent sites.
  • Open: Year-round (but facilities may be reduced in winter)
  • Reservations: Required on weekends and holidays. Book via their official website weeks in advance — Koan has been extremely popular since the anime aired.

How to Get to Lake Motosu

From Tokyo

  1. Take the Fujikyuko Highway Bus from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station (about 2 hours, ¥2,200)
  2. Transfer to a Fujikyuko local bus bound for Motosuko (about 50 minutes, ¥1,130)
  3. Walk 10 minutes from the bus stop to Koan Campground

Total travel time: About 3.5 hours from Shinjuku.

By Car

Take the Chuo Expressway to Kawaguchiko IC, then Route 139 south and Route 300 west. About 2 hours from Tokyo without traffic. Free parking at the campground.

🗻 Book Mt. Fuji & Kawaguchiko Tour →

A car is highly recommended if you plan to explore multiple Yuru Camp locations (Fumotoppara, Lake Yamanaka, etc.) in the area.

The 1000 Yen Bill Viewpoint

The famous viewpoint is on the north shore of Lake Motosu, about a 30-minute walk from Koan Campground. Look for the viewpoint marker near the road — it shows the exact angle used for the banknote design.

For the best photo:

  • Time: Early morning (6-8am) for the clearest Fuji view
  • Season: Winter (December–February) offers the sharpest views with snow-capped Fuji
  • Tip: Clouds build up around Fuji by mid-morning most days. Earlier is always better.

When to Visit: Seasonal Guide

Spring (March–May)

Pleasant temperatures, cherry blossoms in April. Fuji views are moderate (spring haze). Campground is busy during Golden Week (late April–early May).

Summer (June–August)

Warm and green, but Fuji is often hidden by clouds. Good for swimming and water activities on the lake. Book camping very far in advance.

Autumn (September–November)

Best overall season. Clear Fuji views, beautiful fall foliage (peak in mid-November), comfortable camping temperatures. This is when many Yuru Camp episodes are set.

Winter (December–February)

Best Fuji views but coldest camping. Temperatures drop below freezing at night. This is the season shown in Yuru Camp Episode 1 when Rin camps solo. You'll need:

  • 4-season tent or well-insulated 3-season tent
  • Sleeping bag rated to -5°C or below
  • Warm layers, hot water bottle, portable gas heater (ventilation required)

In the anime, Rin uses a compact solo tent and bundled herself in blankets — realistic for the real conditions here.

Nearby Yuru Camp Locations

  • Fumotoppara Campsite — The vast open campsite with the iconic Fuji view. 30 minutes by car from Motosu.
  • Lake Kawaguchiko — Hot springs, the ropeway, and the retro shopping street. 50 minutes by bus.
  • Hottarakashi Onsen — The mountaintop hot spring with a Fuji view, featured in Season 2. About 1 hour by car.

Essential Packing List

Based on what Rin and Nadeshiko actually use in the anime (which is surprisingly accurate for real camping):

  • Tent (compact solo tent for Rin-style, or larger for group camping)
  • Sleeping bag appropriate for the season
  • Camping stove and fuel canister
  • Cooking pot and cup (for the essential cup ramen scene)
  • Headlamp or lantern
  • Warm layers (even in summer, nights by the lake are cool)
  • Cash — the campground may not accept cards