What other travelers are saying about Oshino Hakkai (the Eight Seas of Oshino)
The place was packed with many tourists, but still managed to impress me. If you get a few meters away from the crowds you could feel the calamity of the small village. The buildings are of nice, traditional architecture. There is a Shinto temple which is beautiful.
★★★★★
Oshino Hakkai is a peaceful and picturesque village with crystal-clear spring water and stunning views of Mount Fuji. 🏞️✨ Each pond is so pure that you can see every stone and fish at the bottom. The surrounding traditional houses, waterwheels, and small shops selling local snacks make it feel like stepping back in time. A perfect spot for photography, relaxing walks, and enjoying Japan’s natural beauty. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays is best to avoid crowds.
Oshino Hakkai is a charming and worthwhile spot to visit. Despite the name “hakkai” meaning “eight seas,” the site actually consists of eight clear, spring-fed ponds of various sizes. The area isn’t very large, but it’s beautifully maintained and full of traditional Japanese atmosphere.
One of the highlights is the view of Mount Fuji in the distance. At the so-called “Mirror Pond,” you can capture stunning reflections of Mount Fuji on a clear day — a perfect photo opportunity.
Many people line up here to collect the famous “sacred water” fed from Mount Fuji’s underground springs. The line is extremely long — easily over an hour wait.
Even on weekdays, the place is packed with visitors. If you want a quieter experience and better photo chances, it’s best to arrive early in the morning.
This place is super duper pack with china tourists. Seems like a most go stop mount fuji area. The are a lot of snakes stall along the road to the central. The place is full of food. The water in the pool is very clear and the kitchen seems to be very healthy.
There are still a lot of local people staying nearby the area with very traditional Japanese house architecture. According to our driver, some local couldn't stand the amount of tourists near their house, they sold the property.
As usual, the place are well maintained and it's an experience to be there.
Beautiful old town with a very beautiful blue crystal lake & river that flows through the town. It is amazing how they still able to kept the place well despite swarm with tourist tour groups.
Kinda a tourist hotspot, be nice to the place guys dont.
I believe it will be much more beautiful to come curing the spring or autumn
