It is situated at an altitude of approximately 800 metres (2,625 ft), which accounts for its relatively cool summers and frequently icy winters.

[2] The lake has no natural outlet, and flooding of settlements on its shores was a problem until the construction of a canal, completed in 1914, to connect it to a tributary of the Sagami River.

As with the other Fuji Five Lakes, the area is a popular resort, with many lakeside hotels, windsurfing facilities, camp sites, and excursion boats.

Japanese white crucian carp and wakasagi were introduced to the lake in the Meiji period, and sports fishing is also popular.

[3] One of the best ways to visit the lake from Tokyo is the JR operated Limited Express Fuji Excursion.