Narusawa: Lava Tree Molds, Views of Mount Fuji, and Nature Experiences

When planning a trip to Narusawa, it is worth exploring the nature and excursion destinations in the municipality of Narusawa Mura. Here, lava tree molds and woodland flowers meet trails with panoramic views of Mount Fuji, a museum to explore, and seasonal activities. Whether you prefer hiking, outdoor activities, or sampling local specialties, you can shape your stay around your own interests.

Lava Tree Molds, Blossoms, and Sweeping Views

Narusawa’s lava tree molds have been designated a Special Natural Monument since March 29, 1952. You can see these formations along the approximately 1.5-kilometer nature trail at the Narusawa Fuji Museum. The trail combines a manageable distance with a distinctive natural feature: rather than simply seeking a viewpoint, you can follow the traces of lava here.

The Mitsubatsutsuji offer a different natural scene. Numerous shrubs grow along the nature trail, blooming all at once around late April and creating an impressive sight against the backdrop of Mount Fuji. In the Fuji forest area, around 2,000 clusters comprising approximately 10,000 Mitsubatsutsuji plants grow wild in red pine forests. The blossoms along the trail and the larger population in the forest offer different highlights: the shared blooming season against Mount Fuji, and the plant life among the red pines.

For a panoramic view, head to Koyodai: from there, the 360-degree panorama takes in Mount Fuji and the Aokigahara Forest. This expansive view differs from the nature trail, where individual lava formations and plants take center stage. Those interested in both will find different ways to experience the landscape, without limiting the visit to a single viewpoint.

Hiking and Outdoor Activities

The trail from Koyodai via Sankodai to Gokodai follows a gentle ridgeline and is suitable for family hikes. It offers another way to spend time outdoors: the route follows the ridge, while the nature trail has a specific length of about 1.5 kilometers and a focus on observing lava tree molds. When planning, you can decide whether the described ridgeline or the shorter nature trail appeals to you more.

Mountain biking is also among the summer activities at Fujiten Resort. The activity is seasonal, and availability may vary. At Koyodai Kiso Horse Ranch, guests can ride Japanese horse breeds outdoors; the activity is also considered safe for riding beginners. In addition to hiking, there are other active experiences to choose from, each suited to different interests.

Museum, Viewpoints, and Local Specialties

The Narusawa Fuji Museum features a giant transparent model of Mount Fuji and lava exhibits with items visitors can touch. Michi-no-Eki Narusawa is home to tourist information, an observation deck, the museum, the nature trail, and lava tree molds. From the observation deck, you can look out over Mount Fuji and the Aokigahara Forest area. A visit can therefore focus on the museum experience, getting oriented locally, and taking in the view from above.

The snack bar at Michi-no-Eki Narusawa serves Sendo soba, Narusawa-na mixed rice, and Giragonno croquettes. The food selection may change. During the harvest season, visitors can also pick blueberries themselves in the Ōkihara, Usudawa, and Sunaosa areas of Narusawa. Exact dates depend on growing conditions.

Fuji Chobo-no-Yu Yurari offers a natural hot spring bathing experience with a view of Mount Fuji. Since opening hours and booking details may change, it is best to check them before planning your visit. Together, these options offer a range of trip ideas: observing nature and hiking, visiting a museum, outdoor activities, seasonal berry picking, or a hot spring bathing experience.

Choose a Holiday Rental Based on Your Travel Interests

When choosing a holiday rental in Narusawa, your plans can help guide your decision: would you like to experience the landscape along trails, are you particularly interested in lava and plants, or are a museum, horseback riding, and mountain biking more your style? The season also matters for the blossoms, mountain biking, and blueberry harvest.

For the overall travel guide: Minamitsuru District.