one night stay in Hakone Fuji area

We dedicated 24 hours for Hakone & Fuji area in November. We plan to stay overnight near one of the lakes and wish to get the best impression of the mountain and lakes. Having these facts in mind:
1.Which lake is recomended to stay at?
2.From which one is easier to get to the fifth station?
3. which 5th station is recomended?
4.Is a tour to Ashinoko better than visiting five lakes and mountain?

Hi,

I would recommend Lake Kawaguchiko because:

a) A bus runs from Kawaguchiko (train) station to the 5th station of Fujiyoshida Trail even in November. It takes 50 minutes, and costs you 1,500 yen for one-way or 2,000 for round-trip.

(Reference)
http://www.fujikyu.co.jp/bus2/jikokuhyo/hikingbus_MtF5th_Kaw...

I don't think there's any public transportation for Fujinomiya or Gotemba Trail during off-season (Sept. to June).

b) Kawaguchiko is very English-friendly area. Many people at shops or hotels can speak English to help you.

I can't really say which of Lake Ashinoko or Fuji Five Lakes is better, but if you want to visit the 5th station, Ashinoko is probably too far.

If you have further questions, please feel free to contact me at Mount Fuji Guide.
http://mountfujiguide.com/

I hope you have a wonderful trip to Fuji.