Blue nemophila in May, yellow mustard flowers in June, fresh green on the willow path and snow still on the mountain. The spring and early-summer photoshoot.
For couples thinking of a Mt. Fuji photoshoot between spring and early summer, here is what the season looks like and what you can photograph. In May the blue nemophila bloom at Hana no Miyako Park, and in June the yellow mustard flowers. Snow still lies on the summit, and the first soft green of the year is on the trees. Spring lets you put the two together in one frame.
What you can photograph in spring and early summer
Blue nemophila fields
From early May to early June, nemophila carpet the park's paid Seiryu no Sato area. Pale blue flowers at your feet, a snow-capped Fuji behind and a spring sky above make a photo that is all blue and white. The tour includes shooting in Seiryu no Sato.
Yellow mustard-flower fields
In mid to late June a relative of rapeseed called kikarashi, or mustard flower, fills the fields with yellow. A white dress stands out crisply against it for a bright, early-summer photo.
Snow on the summit and the lakeshore
In spring the mountain still carries snow from the summit well down its slopes. On the shore of Lake Yamanaka we photograph you against the snow-capped Fuji, with your reflection on the water when the wind drops.
On the long straight boardwalk, a shot from behind of the two of you looking out at the snowy mountain gives the photo real depth.
Fresh green on the willow path
From May into June the new leaves are at their freshest. The willow path at Hana no Miyako Park is wrapped in soft green, and the boardwalk by the lake runs between the water and young grass, a natural setting for photos of the two of you simply walking side by side.
Flowers in bloom from spring to early summer
| Approximate peak | Flower |
|---|---|
| Late April to early May | Tulips |
| Early May to early June | Nemophila (Seiryu no Sato area) |
| Mid to late June | Mustard flowers (kikarashi) |
| Late June to mid-July | Poppies, cornflowers, baby's breath |
Dates shift each year with the weather. The full calendar and every spot are in Hana no Miyako Flower Park.
How Mt. Fuji looks in spring
Spring air carries more haze than winter, so on some days the outline of the mountain is soft. From June the rainy season brings more cloud; Fuji City's long-term record shows the whole mountain visible at 8 a.m. on only about 12% of days in June.
If Mt. Fuji does not appear: the Mt. Fuji Special Retouch, included in the tour, restores the mountain to your favourite 10 photos free of charge. Ask us if you would like more than 10. Details in What if Mt. Fuji is hidden by clouds?
What to plan for in spring
Cool mornings and evenings
Lake Yamanaka is at about 1,000 m and roughly 5–6°C cooler than Tokyo. In April and May the mornings and evenings are chilly and the wind off the lake can feel cold. A layer to put on between shots makes the day comfortable.
- A cardigan or shawl
- Sunscreen
- Something to drink
- Comfortable shoes for walking
Choosing an outfit
A white wedding dress stands out against the blue of the nemophila and the yellow of the mustard flowers. For a coloured dress, the same family as the flowers looks soft, while a contrasting colour makes the outfit stand out. See the Dress & Kimono page.
Rain
Around the rainy season especially, if it rains on your day you can reschedule free of charge by contacting us before noon the day before, as many times as needed.
Questions about spring shoots
When can we shoot with nemophila?
In the Seiryu no Sato area of Hana no Miyako Park, usually from early May to early June. Dates shift a little each year.
Does the tour include the Seiryu no Sato area?
Yes. We can shoot there as part of the tour.
When are the yellow fields in bloom?
The mustard flowers (kikarashi) usually peak in mid to late June.
Are there tulips?
Yes, usually from late April to early May.
Is spring cold?
The lake is 5–6°C cooler than the city and April and May mornings and evenings are chilly. Bring a cardigan or shawl.
What if it rains?
Reschedule free of charge by contacting us before noon the day before, as many times as needed.
A snow-capped Fuji, spring flowers and the softest light of the year. For the other seasons see When to take Mt. Fuji pre-wedding photos, Summer at Mt. Fuji and Winter at Mt. Fuji. The plan and schedule are on the tour page.
Ask us about your Mt. Fuji photoshoot
Send your travel dates and the look you have in mind. We reply in English by email, with no obligation.
