Fuji-Hakone-Izu-National Park

The hot spring resort of Hakone.

Famous Mount Fuji.

Lake Ashi is encircled by volcanic mountains and green forests.

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is home to famous Mount Fuji, rising up to 12,388 feet, and the Fuji Five Lakes that encircle its base.

The area is noted for its wild beauty and extensive network of lakes, waterfalls, forests, ice caves and nearly 2,000 species of alpine plants. It is a great destination for camping, fishing, hiking and swimming in summer and skating and skiing in winter.

Mount Fuji is officially open to hikers from July 1 to Aug. 31. Lodging is available along the route in log cabins or huts.

There are five trails leading to the summit of Mount Fuji. Each is a very long day hike with rest stops and huts along the way. You can also take a bus to the fifth rest stop, which will shorten your hike by four to six hours.

Since Fuji's peak is often obscured by clouds by mid-morning, many hikers overnight at one of the stations. Basic huts, with meals, can be booked in advance through the Japan National Tourist Office.

Lake Ashi-no-ko, surrounded by volcanic mountains and forests, has Mount Fuji in the background and is one of the most-photographed views in Japan.

The park dips southward onto the Izu Hanto peninsula, with its seaside resorts, and includes the Seven Isles of Izu and Ogasawara Islands.

In the center of the park is the famous hot spring resort of Hakone, where you can relax and enjoy views of Mount Fuji.

There are cable car rides, open-air museums, volcanic hot springs and cruises around Lake Ashino-ko.