Things To Do
in Fujiyoshida
Fujiyoshida sits at the foothills of Mount Fuji in Yamanashi Prefecture, serving as a gateway to iconic alpine scenery. The city blends traditional shrines, modern viewpoints, and easy access to the Fuji Five Lakes area. Visitors can ride the thrill-powered Fuji-Q Highland, explore historical streets, and savor regional specialties like hōtō noodles.
With four distinct seasons and dramatic mountain backdrops, Fujiyoshida offers both cultural and natural highlights year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Fuji-Q Highland, an entertainment park known for its thrilling roller coasters and stunning views of Mount Fuji. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at one of the park's cafes before diving into a day of excitement and adventure. Be sure to catch the early opening hours to maximize your time on the rides.
After a morning of adrenaline-fueled fun, take a leisurely break for lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local delicacies like Hoto noodles. Spend your afternoon exploring the various attractions and themed areas within Fuji-Q Highland, including the haunted house and the Ferris wheel. Don’t miss the picturesque photo opportunities against the backdrop of the iconic mountain.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful stroll around the park, where the rides and lights create a magical atmosphere. Treat yourself to dinner at one of the themed restaurants inside the park, where you can reflect on the exhilarating day you've had. End the night with a spectacular view of Mount Fuji illuminated by the fading light.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then head to Lake Kawaguchi for a serene morning cruise. The calm waters provide an excellent opportunity to take breathtaking photographs of Mount Fuji reflecting on the lake. Embrace the tranquility of the setting as you sail across the water.
Disembark for lunch at a local lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh fish and seasonal vegetables sourced from the area. Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding attractions, such as the Kawaguchi Music Forest Museum or the Fujiview Hotel for stunning vistas. Don’t forget to take a leisurely hike along the lake trails to enjoy the flora and fauna.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot along the lakeshore to witness the sunset painting Mount Fuji in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy a picnic dinner with local snacks and beverages while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Spend the night at a ryokan, utilizing the hot spring baths to unwind after a day of exploration.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚇One-way local transit | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🗺️Day trip from Tokyo by train | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Mt. Fuji views and easy access to the Fuji Five Lakes
- Rich cultural sites, traditional cuisine, and friendly locals
- A mix of tranquil onsens, scenic hikes, and family-friendly activities
- Efficient transport options from Tokyo and other major cities
- Quiet nightlife compared with larger cities; fewer late-night options
- Weather can be unpredictable near the mountain; higher elevations may be chilly
- Some smaller shops may prefer cash; English signage can be limited in rural spots
- Popular sites can get crowded during peak seasons
- "こんにちは (Konnichiwa)" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "お願いします (Onegaishimasu)" - Please / I would like
- "ありがとう (Arigatou)" - Thank you
- "すみません (Sumimasen)" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "英語を話せますか？ (Eigo o hanasemasu ka?)" - Do you speak English?
- "おいしいです (Oishii desu)" - It's delicious
- "これをください (Kore o kudasai)" - Please give me this
- "トイレはどこですか？ (Toire wa doko desu ka?)" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Fujiyoshida
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red pagoda framing Mt. Fuji, especially stunning at sunrise or late afternoon with a dramatic backdrop.
Elevated views over Lake Kawaguchiko and the mountain; ideal for wide-angle shots of Fuji and the lake scenery.
Calm waterfront with reflections of Mt. Fuji on clear days; great for sunset photography and long-exposure shots.
Food in Fujiyoshida
Fujiyoshida Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick miso-based noodle stew packed with kabocha, root vegetables, and tofu; a signature comfort dish of the region, best enjoyed in a hot pot during cool evenings.
Must-Try!
Soba noodles served on a heated ceramic tile, often topped with egg, vegetables, and meat; the crisp-edged noodles absorb the savory flavors well.
Soft mochi dumplings covered with roasted soybean flour and served with sweet soy sauce or kinako; a popular local snack to try street-side or at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A cluster of stalls and small eateries along the main shopping streets where you can sample grilled skewers, yaki soba, taiyaki, and seasonal treats from local vendors.
Seasonal street food by the water with options like oden, fried items, and crepes, often paired with views of Mt. Fuji.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak softly on trains and in public spaces; bow slightly on greetings, and remove shoes where required in temples or certain traditional spaces.
Purify at fountains, observe rules about photography, and avoid touching sacred objects without guidance.
Line up calmly for buses, trains, and elevators; be punctual and patient with limited English signage.
Safety
Tipping in Fujiyoshida
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected as standard. A small tip is rarely necessary and can be misunderstood.
Cash is widely accepted, including coins and cards; many shops in town accept major credit cards, but some smaller vendors or markets may prefer cash. Use IC cards or mobile payments where available for convenience.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry blossoms along rivers and parks; comfortable temperatures and seasonal food markets begin to reopen.
Warm and humid days; Mt. Fuji climbs start later in the season; outdoor festivals and lake activities flourish.
Vibrant fall foliage around viewing points and trails; ideal light for photography and pleasant hiking conditions.
Cold with possible snowfall on higher elevations; hot springs and cozy dining options are popular; clear skies offer crisp Fuji views.
Fujiyoshida at Night
Hiking in Fujiyoshida
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular mountain trail with several viewpoints offering sweeping views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape.
Network of mossy, shaded paths at the forested base of Mt. Fuji, ideal for peaceful hikes and nature photography.
Beginner-friendly trails near the 5th Station area; great for short hikes and panoramic Fuji views, especially in clear weather.
Airports
How to reach Fujiyoshida by plane.
Major international and domestic hub; about 2–3 hours to Fujiyoshida by train and bus, depending on connections.
Another major international gateway; typically 2.5–3.5 hours to Fujiyoshida with transfer routes.
Smaller airport closer to Mt. Fuji; reachable by highway or rail transfers to Fujiyoshida, with longer overall travel times but convenient for domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Japanese families and older residents, with a growing number of domestic tourists exploring the area.
Many visitors from Tokyo and other prefectures seeking nature, tea houses, and cultural sites.
Smaller in number but increasing, especially from Asia and Europe, drawn by Mt. Fuji views and outdoor activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in schools and local leagues, with casual games and community events in the region.
Common amateur leagues and city matches; nearby fields host weekend games and youth soccer across the prefecture.
Snow activities and sightseeing near Mt. Fuji in winter, including skiing at nearby resorts and snowshoeing in forested areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fujiyoshida.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dashi-free options or request dashi alternatives; many vegetable-focused dishes are available, such as tofu dishes, vegetable tempura, and miso-based soups without fish stock.