Can You Fly a Drone Around the Fuji Five Lakes? | Drone and Filming Regulations

2026年4月11日

Hi, it’s Daichi from KOKO Journey.

Recently, I had a guest who wanted to fly a drone, so I took a closer look at the regulations.

All drone flights must comply with Japanese aviation laws. Drone registration and a functioning Remote ID are now mandatory in most cases.

The Fuji Five Lakes area is one of the most beautiful regions for photography and aerial footage—but it’s important to understand that the rules vary depending on the specific location.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only. I do not take any responsibility for drone operations, legal compliance, or any issues. Regulations may change, and enforcement may vary depending on the situation. It is your responsibility to confirm all rules with the relevant authorities and obtain proper permission before flying.

TOC

Drone Use on Mt. Fuji During Climbing (Restricted)

Drone use on Mt. Fuji is highly restricted and not allowed.

Check official information here: https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/things-to-know-before-climbing/

Drone and Filming Rules in the Fuji Five Lakes

The Fuji Five Lakes refer to Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Saiko, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu.

The following is a direct quote about filming from official information provided by Yamanashi Prefecture (home to Mt. Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes).

River areas (national land), including the shores of the Fuji Five Lakes, can generally be used freely at any time. However, they are regulated under the River Act, and permission is required for exclusive use of the land or for installing structures such as rails, cranes, or large-scale sets. In addition, for commercial filming, even simple shoots may require a notification. Therefore, if you are planning location filming or photography, please first consult the Fuji no Kuni Yamanashi Film Commission to confirm whether any procedures are necessary.

Translated from and quoted from https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/ysd-kensetsu/kasensabokanri/roke_satsuei.html

Based on the above, commercial filming generally requires prior permission in advance.
Ask for more info here: Yamanashi Commission Film https://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/fc/english/index.html

For photography within the scope of personal hobbies (including drone photography), you do not need to submit a “Notification for Use of Riverbeds and Water Surfaces.” However, we ask that you use the river area responsibly and with moderation, ensuring that you do not cause a nuisance to others or violate public order and standards of decency. Regarding drone photography, please make sure to strictly comply with the Civil Aeronautics Act.

Translated from and quoted from https://www.pref.yamanashi.jp/ysd-kensetsu/kasensabokanri/roke_satsuei.html

In short, personal use may be allowed—but only if you follow the rules and respect others.

Drone Restrictions in Kawaguchiko (Important)

While some lake areas may allow limited hobby use, Kawaguchiko has much stricter rules, especially in public parks. The following is based on official information from Fujikawaguchiko Town.

As urban parks are used by an unspecified number of people, drone flights are prohibited regardless of the flight area or the type of aircraft (including those under 200g). We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Translated from and quoted from https://www.town.fujikawaguchiko.lg.jp/ka/info.php?if_id=790

This means that drone flights are completely prohibited in urban parks.

Affected parks include:

Oishi Park
Kawaguchiko General Park
Sakura Yasuba Park
Kunugidaira Sports Park
Yagizaki Park
Shikkogo Park
Kohai Park
Kaede Park
Kuriyamadai Park

Also, it’s not just around Kawaguchiko—there are actually many other places where drone flights are restricted or not allowed.

Always Check Before You Fly

As you can see, drone regulations in the Fuji Five Lakes and Mt. Fuji area are complex. Even if a place looks open or unrestricted, permission may still be required depending on land ownership, local rules, or the purpose of your flight.

This includes private land, public spaces, river and lake areas, and even areas around Mt. Fuji.

Ultimately, all drone operations are your own responsibility. Keep in mind that much of the official information is only available in Japanese, so be extra careful when checking the rules.

Enjoy your time and fly safely!