Tag: travel

The Best Mt. Fuji Photo Spots

Kawaguchiko: lake life, charming villages, and of course, Mount Fuji – the holy grail of any Japan trip. But with so many spots to see this legendary mountain, how do you choose where to snag the perfect shot? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! This guide spills the tea on the best Mt. Fuji photo spots. Get ready for epic views and serious travel goals.

1. Oishi Park

If there is only one recommendation you take from this list, let it be Oishi Park! The tranquility combined with Mt. Fuji in the background felt like something straight out of a movie. The best part? Oishi Park is all about a serene atmosphere, perfect for a picnic lunch with Mount Fuji as your majestic backdrop. If you visit in the fall you’ll be able to catch the kochia bushes at their brightest red which only adds to the dreaminess.

2. Chureito Pagoda

If you want that quintessential Kawaguchiko-with-Mount Fuji shot, then the Chureito Pagoda is it. This bright red pagoda perched on a hill in Arakura Sengen Park is such an iconic spot for the best Mt. Fuji views. Climbing the 397 steps might test you physically, but trust me, the panoramic views from the top are worth it. Just prepare for some serious posing competition – this spot is popular for a reason!

3. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

The Fuji Panoramic Ropeway is a magic carpet ride to unbelievable views. This scenic gondola whisks you up Mount Tenjo, offering jaw-dropping aerial panoramas of the entire region. I remember thinking the scene looked like something straight out of a Ghibli film. Mount Fuji will be front and center when you get to the top. Tip: Pay a little extra for a turn on the swing that faces Mt. Fuji- the best swing views you’ll ever have!

Bonus Tip: Seasons Matter

Mount Fuji is a stunner year-round, but the way you see it can change depending on the season. Spring brings out the cherry blossoms for a magical pink around the mountain. Summer offers clear skies (perfect for reflection pics in the lake!), while autumn offers fiery reds and oranges throughout. Winter transforms everything into a snowy wonderland, making Mount Fuji look even more beautiful.

Plan Your Fuji Adventure

Here’s the tea on maximizing your chances of scoring that dream Mt. Fuji pic:

  • Check the weather forecast: Clear skies are best for epic views.
  • Sunrise or sunset? Early mornings and evenings often have the best lighting.
  • Plan your travel time: Give yourself enough time to get to your chosen spot. We arrived at Chureito Pagoda just at sunset and we ran out of light before we were truly satisfied with our shots.

I hope this gives you a good starting point for planning the best Mt. Fuji photo spots! If I’m being honest, there truly are no bad views of Mt. Fuji. Some of my favorite photos of Fuji were taken as we were just walking around town. You really can’t go wrong!

Sincerely, Savanna

KAN Tulum: A Hotel Review

Tulum: stunning beaches, trendy restaurants, and ancient Mayan ruins – it’s no wonder everyone’s flocking there. But finding a place to relax that isn’t overrun with tourists can be a challenge. Enter Kan Tulum, my new favorite hideaway. This place wasn’t just a hotel, it was an otherworldly adventure of its own.

Imagine stepping off the bustling main strip into a lush jungle paradise. Talk about a mood switch! From the open-air lobby with its ambient music to the palm trees practically growing into our room, it felt like stepping into a chic treehouse. It was so fun to explore because there was something unexpected around every corner- winding staircases that lead up to the ‘nests’, hidden hammocks made for relaxing, and even a private cenote.

Jungle Sanctuary with Modern Perks: Our room was an extension of the jungle, with floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Each suite also has its own private balcony. Think waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the breeze rustling the leaves – way better than any alarm clock! Plus, the king-sized bed was massive and comfy, and the spacious bathroom with a rainfall shower was like a spa – perfect for pampering after a day of exploring.

But here’s the best part: Even though Kan Tulum felt like a secluded oasis, we were literally steps away from all the Tulum action. Trendy restaurants with killer tacos? Check. Cute little shops to find the perfect Tulum-inspired outfit? Check. And of course, the beach with water so turquoise it looked fake? Absolutely.

Mornings Made Easy: Our days were a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Mornings started with a dip in the pool surrounded by the jungle canopy. Speaking of mornings, Kan Tulum also took care of breakfast. We’re talking delicious, healthy options (think fresh fruit, local ingredients). Plus, the poolside lunches were Instagram-worthy – and tasted even better!

Adventure Awaits (and Relaxation Follows): Afternoons were all about exploring the Mayan ruins, getting lost in the Tulum markets, and soaking up the sun on the beach. But the best part? Knowing that after all that fun, we could retreat back to our little jungle sanctuary for some peace and quiet. There is also a fabulous spa onsite if you want to go the extra mile

Kan Tulum wasn’t just a hotel, it was an experience. It was the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, with a healthy dose of jungle vibes thrown in for good measure. So, if you’re looking for a place to chill in Tulum that’s close to the action but feels a million miles away, this is your spot. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Sincerely, Savanna