Yamanakako Ice Candle Festival: Winter Lanterns & Fireworks at Mount Fuji

About this Experience

Experience the Magic of Mt. Fuji’s Premier Winter Illumination Step into a world of crystalline beauty at the Yamanakako Ice Candle & Sky Lantern Festival. Located at the base of Mt. Fuji at Lake Yamanaka—the highest and closest of the Fuji Five Lakes—this event is a hidden gem of the Japanese winter season. The "Diamond Fuji" Connection February is the peak season for the "Diamond Fuji" phenomenon, where the setting sun aligns perfectly with the peak of the mountain. Our tour timing is designed to capture the transition from this golden sunset into the magical evening illumination. Light Up the Night Sky The evening reaches its crescendo with a spectacular sky lantern release. Watch as hundreds of lanterns drift toward the stars, followed by a vibrant fireworks display that echoes through the crisp winter air. It is the ultimate "bucket list" moment for anyone visiting Japan in February.

Trip Highlights

  • The Glow of 5,000 Ice Candles
  • Mount Fuji’s Winter Silhouette
  • Sky Lantern & Fireworks Display
  • A Winter Fairytale Atmosphere

What's Included

  • Professional Tour Lead
  • Round-trip Transportation
  • Toll and Parking Fees
  • Insurance
  • Reserve now pay later

What's Excluded

  • Sky Lantern Purchase

  • Food & Drinks

  • Candle Lighting Gear

What to Bring

  • Camera
  • Water bottle
  • Cash Money

Itinerary

1

Day 1

6 activities
1

Oshino Hakkai Village

40 Minutes

Explore the 8 sacred ponds fed by Fuji’s melting snow. Perfect for traditional snacks (Tochi-mochi).

2

Arakurayama Sengen Park

40 Minutes

The iconic 5-story Pagoda view. This is the best time for photos as the afternoon sun hits the pagoda.

3

Lake Yamanaka "Diamond Fuji"

1 Hour

Arrive at the lake just in time to see the sun set directly behind the peak of Mt. Fuji.

4

Ice Candle Lighting

1 Hours

Help locals light over 5,000 candles on the snowy lakeshore. A truly immersive experience.

5

Sky Lantern Release

40 Minutes

The visual highlight. Hundreds of lanterns floating against the dark silhouette of Mt. Fuji.

6

Winter Fireworks Finale

1 Hour

A high-impact fireworks show reflecting off the icy lake water.

Know Before You Come

Strict Photography Rules: To ensure safety during the fireworks and lantern release, tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are strictly prohibited inside the main venue. All photography must be handheld. Extreme Cold Warning: Temperatures at Lake Yamanaka drop to -5°C to -10°C (14°F) after sunset. Weather Dependency: Views of Mt. Fuji are subject to weather conditions. The festival and fireworks may be canceled or modified in the event of heavy snowstorms or high winds. Drone Policy: The use of drones is strictly forbidden at the festival site to protect the sky lanterns and the crowd.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it cancelled for bad weather?

The tour runs in rain/snow. We only cancel (with a full refund) if weather makes driving unsafe or the festival is officially called off.

Can I release a Sky Lantern?

Yes, but lanterns are not included in the base price. They must be pre-booked or bought on-site and sell out fast.

What should I wear?

Extreme winter gear is required. Expect -10°C (14°F). Wear thermal layers, heavy coats, and waterproof boots.

Can I use a tripod?

No. Tripods and selfie sticks are banned by the venue for safety during the lantern release. Handheld photography only.

Is there food available?

Yes, local stalls sell hot Japanese snacks (cash only), but vegetarian/halal options are limited.

Guest Reviews

Real experiences from travelers who booked this tour with Karvaan Tours.

Guest reviews will appear here as travelers share their experiences.

Yamanakako Ice Candle Festival: Winter Lanterns & Fireworks at Mount Fuji4 photos available