
2026.08.22Directed by Travel Insider Amy
You can enjoy the view from an observation deck, drive around the lake, or soak in an onsen while gazing at it. But for a truly special experience, how about a sauna session with a view of Mt. Fuji? CYCL, located in Yamanakako, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, combines a sauna with the region's best scenery: Mt. Fuji and the lake. Imagine warming up thoroughly in a hot sauna, then taking a dip in cold water, and finally relaxing in the lounge while admiring the majestic Mt. Fuji.
Finnish Sauna with Mt. Fuji in Sight

At the heart of CYCL is its Finnish-style sauna. You can enjoy self-löyly by pouring water onto the heated sauna stones yourself, allowing you to increase the heat and humidity inside whenever you wish. After a short while, you'll feel the heat rising and sweat beginning to form. However, the true charm of CYCL extends beyond the sauna room itself. The experience becomes even more special the moment you step out of the hot sauna.
The Best Moments Are After the Sauna


There's a place at CYCL where you'll want to linger: the 360-degree viewing lounge. Through the large windows, Lake Yamanaka unfolds, with Mt. Fuji rising majestically behind it. After your sauna session, you can relax here with a drink and some sweets, taking in the breathtaking scenery. You don't need to do anything in particular. Simply taking a sip of a cold beverage, gazing at Mt. Fuji, and then shifting your eyes back to the lake is enough. If you're lucky enough to see a clear view of Mt. Fuji on a sunny day, this moment might just become the most memorable part of your CYCL experience.
Another Reason to Visit Lake Yamanaka

Many travelers planning a trip to Mt. Fuji first think of Lake Kawaguchiko. However, Lake Yamanaka, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, also offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji. The wide-open surroundings around the lake provide an overwhelming panorama of the water and Mt. Fuji on clear days. You can plan a drive around Lake Yamanaka or a trip to Mt. Fuji with CYCL as your destination. It's the antithesis of a fast-paced tour of famous viewpoints; it's a journey designed to create moments of intentional stillness in front of Mt. Fuji.
If you're looking for a unique sauna experience in Japan, remember CYCL in Lake Yamanaka. It offers a slow-paced, yet incredibly special 2.5-hour encounter with Mt. Fuji.