This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Fujiyoshida.
The gateway to Mount Fuji, a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Japanese city of Fujiyoshida is a spectacular destination for tourists hoping to experience a variety of cultural attractions – both historic and contemporary.
Your pilgrimage to the summit of the largest of Japan’s three sacred mountains begins in Fujiyoshida, at the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine – the famed entrance to the Yoshida Trail. The city of Fujiyoshida is tucked into the majestic volcano’s northern base, and the unique geological and geographical legacy of the area continues to impact Fujiyoshida’s traditions, lifestyles, and industries.
Hostels are easy to find here, as the area is popular with tourists hoping to explore Mount Fuji for themselves. Visitors to Fujiyoshida can also find more private accommodation options, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, and rental properties not far from the city’s busy hostels. The famous Yoshida Fire Festival, hosted annually to appease the goddess of the volcano, is a busy time of year and attracts spectators from around the world – so travelers planning to visit during this time are advised to book their hostel or hotel well in advance.
Other nearby attractions in Fujiyoshida include Arakurayama Sengen Park, which houses the famous Chureito Pagoda; Fuji-Q Highland, an amusement part at the base of Mount Fuji; and the relaxing hot springs at Kaneyama Onsen. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture to the Fuji Five Lakes to explore hiking and other recreation opportunities, if mountain climbing isn’t your thing.
Getting to Fujiyoshida is fairly straightforward, as the city is only about 100km from Tokyo and buses are fairly frequent. Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi to Fujiyoshida from the airport, or to explore some of the other attractions in the Mount Fuji area. If you plan to visit other cities like Matsumoto, the Japan Alps, Shirakawago, or Toyama, there are visitor passes for tourists that provide unlimited bus services.
Written by local enthusiast for Fujiyoshida hostels
Jakob Lombardi
