What is Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka? Video Introduction

This video, titled "Diamond Fuji at sunrise on New Year's Day 2020" (初日の出ダイヤモンド富士　令和二年元日), was uploaded by "Hideto Sugiyama" (杉山日出都).
Mt. Fuji sitting in the darkness amid flowing clouds… The morning sun gradually rising from its peak... This phenomenon is called "Diamond Fuji." The video shows this spectacular view that can be seen only a few times each year.

At Lake Yamanaka, you can observe Diamond Fuji at sunset from mid-October to the end of February each year, spanning approximately 4.5 months. Diamond Fuji seen with the first sunrise on New Year's Day, which can be observed at locations like Mt. Ryugadake at Lake Motosu, is considered particularly auspicious and very popular among tourists, as well as Mt. Fuji fans across Japan. Be sure to check out the beautiful video before reading along!

Why is Seeing Diamond Fuji Considered Auspicious?

Photo：Diamond Fuji from Lake Yamanaka

Diamond Fuji is a natural phenomenon that can be seen when the sun rises or sets over the summit of Mt. Fuji. The mountain has a long and sacred history and is considered an auspicious mountain due to its wide shape which is said to represent prosperity.

Diamond Fuji can only be seen when various conditions are met, which is said to make it even more auspicious. For example, Aka Fuji (Red Fuji) is believed to bring good fortune, protect against bad luck, bring prosperity in business, and fulfill wishes. On the other hand, Diamond Fuji is said to bring prosperity when used as the lock screen on one's smartphone.

If you find yourself needing a bit of luck, maybe consider viewing the beautiful Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka or Red Fuji.

When and Where Can You See Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka?

Photo：Sunrise and a sea of clouds at Mt. Fuji

Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka is known as a miraculous view that can be seen over an extended period once a year. There are various conditions that must be met in order to see it, but the main ones are as follows:

・Observation Period: Mid-October to the end of February (approximately 4.5 months)
・Observation Time: Around 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM (varies by season and location)
・The weather must be stable and clear
・On calm days with no wind, you may also see "Double Diamond Fuji" reflected on the lake surface

The best time is from mid-October to the end of February, with February being particularly recommended for its stable weather. In 2025, the "Lake Yamanaka Diamond Fuji Weeks" will be held from February 1 (Sat) to February 22 (Sat), with the Ice Candle Festival taking place at Kirara, Lake Yamanaka Communication Plaza, on February 23 (Sun).

Lake Yamanaka is characterized by Diamond Fuji visible at sunset. This rare and unique sight can only be seen a few times a year. If you'd like to see it in person, be sure to keep the above conditions, timing, and season in mind before you go.
In this video, you can watch footage of Diamond Fuji from Lake Yamanaka starting at 0:00.

Where Else Can You See Diamond Fuji Besides Lake Yamanaka?

Photo：Mt. Fuji reflected on Lake Tanuki

Here are some recommended locations at Lake Yamanaka and surrounding areas for those looking to see and take photos of Diamond Fuji.

・Hirano Lakeside (平野湖畔, Hirano Kohan) - Lake Yamanaka
Lake Yamanaka is famous for its "Sakasa Fuji" (upside-down Fuji), and Hirano Lakeside is one of the most popular spots to photograph this. During the viewing season, photographers come here in droves to photograph it. When there's no wind and surface of the lake is calm, you can see Diamond Fuji both on land and reflected on the surface of the lake. This phenomenon is referred to as "Double Diamond Fuji." Observation period: around October 27 to February 16.

・Panorama Dai (パノラマ台) - Lake Yamanaka
A highly popular Mt. Fuji photography spot with views of Lake Yamanaka below and even the Southern Alps visible on clear days. Diamond Fuji season at Lake Yamanaka begins at Panorama Dai in mid-October and ends here in late February. Observation period: around October 16 to February 25, time: around 4:22 PM to 4:50 PM.

・Asahigaoka Lakeside Green Space Park (旭日丘湖畔緑地公園) - Lake Yamanaka
This is the first location before the winter solstice and the last after it where you can see Diamond Fuji over the lake. Near the park is "Sunset Beach" (夕焼けの渚), one of the 100 Best Beaches in Japan. Observation period: around October 18 to February 22.

・Hana no Miyako Park - Lake Yamanaka
Hana no Miyako Park is one of the most popular spots on Lake Yamanaka. You can see Diamond Fuji here for an extended period from late November to mid-January. In summer, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of sunflowers and Mt. Fuji.

・Lake Tanuki (田貫湖, Tanukiko)
Lake Tanuki, located in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka, offers a good chance to see sunrise Diamond Fuji around April 20th and August 20th in 2025. If the weather is favorable, you can see the "Double Diamond Fuji" at this spectacular viewpoint. In April 2024, the "Tanukiko Fugaku Terrace" was established, winning the 2024 Wood Design Award.

・Mt. Ryugadake (竜ヶ岳, Ryugadake)
This spot is located on the South side of Lake Motosu. It's located on the east side of Mt. Fuji and you can see sunrise Diamond Fuji here. The low elevation and wide, flat summit make it an ideal place for photography and observation. On New Year's Day, you can witness the extremely auspicious sight of Diamond Fuji with the first sunrise of the year.

・Mt. Minobu (身延山, Minobu-san)
Mt. Minobu, selected as one of the Top 100 Mountains of Yamanashi, is a spot where you can view Mt. Fuji and Suruga Bay to the Southeast. Visitors can also take the cable car, which begins running early in the morning, to the top of the mountain. In 2025, Diamond Fuji viewing parties will be held on March 12 (Wed), 13 (Thu), and 14 (Fri), with the ropeway operating early from 5:30 AM.

Since many people visit during the Diamond Fuji viewing season, the car park may be full. It's recommended to go with a group or as a family to the summit. Parking on the street is prohibited, so be sure to abide by the regulations to avoid inconveniencing the local residents, other photographers, or tourists.

Summary: Enjoy the First Sunrise and Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka

Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka can be seen at sunset. The sight of the sun setting over the summit of Mt. Fuji is a spectacular view with the glowing red sun, divine and perfect for Instagram. Fuji's majestic appearance, intertwined with nature, is surely a sight that only those who see it in person can truly appreciate.

For those wishing to see Diamond Fuji with the first sunrise on New Year's Day, Mt. Ryugadake at Lake Motosu is recommended. You can capture the first sunrise of the year rising from the summit of Mt. Fuji, and witnessing Diamond Fuji on New Year's morning will surely make for a wonderful year ahead.

Depending on where you view Mt. Fuji from, you might even be able to enjoy a view of the rare Double Diamond Fuji. Come to Yamanashi and enjoy these breathtaking views of nature!

【TripAdvisor】Mt. Fuji