Fujiyoshida Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Fujiyoshida, Kawaguchiko, and the Fuji 5 Lakes Area (Fujigoko)?
A: Fujiyoshida and (Fuji) Kawaguchiko are two neighboring cities in the Fuji 5 Lakes area of Yamanashi-prefecture, Japan. The population of Fujiyoshida is 52,000 people, and Kawaguchiko is 25,000 people. Located on the Northern side of Mt. Fuji, both cities were historically resting and staging points for pilgrims traveling to view and climb Mt. Fuji from the Kanto (Tokyo and Kanagawa) area. Fujiyoshida continued to develop its community based on traditional pilgrim inns (Oshi no Ie), many of which still remain open for business today, whereas the town of Kawaguchiko developed from tourism of beautiful lake Kawaguchiko. At an altitude of 750-900 meters above sea level, both cities are excellent places to experience Mt. Fuji and the 5 lakes area.

Before becoming Fujiyoshida in 1951 Fujiyoshida was commonly called “Yoshida” (吉田) meaning “lucky field.” Fujiyoshida boasts Fuji-Hongu-Sengen shrine, which houses the yearly Yoshida Fire Festival, one of Japan’s “3 Most Unique” festivals. Sengen shrine is also the traditional starting point of the “Yoshida Guchi” Mt. Fuji climbing trail. Fujiyoshida is well known for its many unique and gourmet restaurants including the local specialty handmade udon noodles “Yoshida udon.” Surprisingly different from typical udon, Yoshida no udon is thick and chewy with a hearty flavor. Fujiyoshida has over 60 family operated, independent "Yoshida No Udon" federation shops.

A short drive from Fujiyoshida, one may easily visit the Fuji 5 lakes; Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko. From each lake, you can enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Fuji, fishing, boating, wind-surfing, and camping. Another main attraction of Fujiyoshida is Fujikyu Highland theme park and hotel resort, which is located just off the Chuo Expressway Fujiyoshida exit. Last but not least is the towering Mt. Fuji, 3776 meters tall, which supplies the 5 Lakes Area with clean delicious water, fertile soil, and beautiful nature. Official climbing season is from July 1st through August 31st every year, and hundreds of thousands of people come to climb every year and enjoy the sunrise from the summit “goraiko” (御来光)

Q: What's the weather like?

A: We enjoy a mild climate with distinct seasonal changes. Being only 100km from Tokyo, the impacting weather systems are similar. However, due to the elevation change, we have a much cooler climate. On average, our temperatures are about 5-7C degrees cooler than Tokyo. This makes the Fuji Five Lakes Area a very desirable tourist destination for Japanese during the summer time.

Q: Aside from Climbing Mt. Fuji, is there a lot to do there?

A: Yes. Although the town's history is very much tied to the history of climbing Mt. Fuji, there are many charming aspects of the community and great places to see. One of the most characteristic features of Fujiyoshida is our historic downtown. The Nishiura and Gekkoji areas thrived as the entertainment districts during the booming textile era of the 1950s-1970s. Yoshida produced high quality silk and textile products that were sought after from people and companies throughout the world. Many remnants of those times remain today. Walking through these areas is like taking a stroll back in time. The shops, cafes, and homes scattered throughout the maze of narrow alleyways and streets are definitely worth exploring. In fact, this nostalgic Showa-Era scene is often filmed by television and movie crews to capture the look and feel of such special times.

Residents also have a variety of entertainment options that include great restaurants and shopping, outdoor activities of all sorts, a great selection of hot-springs, wonderful parks, several historic temples and shrines, museums, and a world-class amusement park.