About
Oshino is a mountain village in Yamanashi Prefecture, in Japan. It is known for its eight spring-fed ponds, which are fed by water that has filtered down from the slopes of Mount Fuji, and for the views of the mountain that open up across the village.
What a visit is like
Oshino suits a slow, unhurried day rather than a long checklist. Most of the appeal lies in walking between the ponds and in the quiet of a small village set among fields and hills. The water is clear enough to see into, and the surroundings change with the light and the seasons.
- Walk the paths that link the eight ponds at your own pace.
- Look for views of Mount Fuji from the village and its surroundings.
- Enjoy the village atmosphere, which feels far from busy city streets.
Plan around it
Because Oshino is a village in the mountains, it works best as part of a wider day in the area around Mount Fuji. Check ahead how you will get there and what is open on the day you plan to visit, as details for a small place like this can vary. Dress for outdoor walking, and bring something warm if you visit outside the summer months, since the air can be cool near the mountain.
Oshino is a place for those who want to slow down, take in clear water and mountain scenery, and enjoy a village that moves at its own pace.
