VILLE DE FUJIYOSHIDA

◎ History

Located at the foot of "Fujisan, a sacred place and source of artistic inspiration", which is listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site, the city of Fujiyoshida has long worshipped Mount Fuji. The history, culture and human activities of the city are marked by its status as a gateway to the mountain; Fujiyoshida offers a privileged view of the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji. The purity of the water from the underground river of Mount Fuji used as running water makes it possible to obtain splendid dyed yarns; the textile industry developed here more than 1000 years ago. The high quality fabrics made with handicraft techniques are famous both in Japan and abroad. The Nishiura area is a shopping district that began to flourish with the arrival of textile workers and is now popular for its many bars and entertainment venues. In recent years, events merging textiles and the arts have been held; the area is known as a place for artistic creation and transmission.

◎ Getting to Fujiyoshida from Tokyo

By bus: Shinjuku Bus Terminal - Yaesu South Exit ⇔ Direction Fuji-Q Highland - Fujisan Station (120 min approx.)

Haneda Airport ⇔ Direction Fuji-Q Highland - Fujisan Station (about 150 min)

By train: Shinjuku Station ⇔ Otsuki Station (Fujikyuko line) ⇔ Shimoyoshida Station - Fujisan Station (about 150 min)

● Nishiura area

This is the bar district of downtown. Dozens of bars and restaurants spread out in a labyrinth of small alleys; for its retro feel reviving Showa era Japan, the area is experiencing a revival. Many bars have opened: some are old houses that have been renovated, others are chic establishments that merge retro and modern. There is no shortage of options: izakaya (Japanese pub), yakiniku restaurants, ramen noodle restaurants, snacks, bars, etc.

● FabCafe Fuji

ideally located in the middle of the shopping district to enjoy the view of the majestic Mount Fuji, this establishment with a high ceiling deploying modern Japanese architecture and large picture windows is characterized by a soothing atmosphere. Outside, there are plants and a wooden terrace where you can drink your coffee outside in the warm season. The cafe showcases handicrafts and environmental initiatives from Yamanashi Prefecture and connects the region and its residents on the theme of creativity; it is also an office and art work space with an art library corner and duplicator. The café provides a real opportunity to learn about the area, and we recommend that you start your exploration of the city here. Located a five-minute walk from Shimoyoshida Station.

● SARUYA HOSTEL

This hotel was built in 2015 to energize the area. Located in a shopping area with a grand view of Mount Fuji, its entrance is made of a white noren curtain woven in Fujiyoshida. Renovated while enhancing the natural materials of the approximately 90-year-old building, the facility has a soothing atmosphere with a back garden featuring a Japanese cherry and pear tree. The main building and the annex make use of an abandoned dwelling, and the hotel allows one to reconsider the value of the building and the area. The rooms are made of tatami; sleep on soft futons, a comforter made of local fabrics and a blanket. Nearby bars, restaurants, views of Mt. Fuji, and the mountainous terrain make it an ideal place to explore the area. The hotel is recommended for those who wish to truly travel. Located a five-minute walk from Shimoyoshida Station.

● Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

this shrine is part of a World Cultural Heritage site. It is a sacred place through which pilgrims preparing to climb Mount Fuji had to pass in order to purify themselves. The entrance gate on the right side of the main building is the starting point of the Yoshida Trail which marks the starting point of the ascent of Mount Fuji. Nowadays, most climbers go by bus to the 5th station, but for those who want to understand the history and culture of Mount Fuji better, it is recommended to climb from the 0 station.

● Kanadorii Gate - Historic oshi house of the Togawa family

these are the symbols of Fujiyoshida. In the Golden Age, the many comings and goings of pilgrims visiting Mount Fuji led to the construction of oshi houses, so Fujiyoshida was nicknamed "the city of oshi". The Kanadorii Gate marked the boundary between the sacred land of Mount Fuji and the secular world. The oshi were priests who guided pilgrims to Mount Fuji, welcomed them to their homes and prayed for their safety. In their heyday, during the Edo period, there were as many as 86 oshi houses; today, of the 5 that are still run by priests, it is possible to stay in 4 of them.

● Fugaku×hitsuki guesthouse and cafe

This guesthouse carries on the cultural and historical heritage of "oshi houses". Located in the area that once housed many oshi priest inns welcoming all pilgrims to Mt. Fuji, this guesthouse allows you to stay while learning about the history. It is a 400 year old oshi house which has been renovated into a modern cafe and guesthouse.

● Yamanashi Hataori Travel Mill Shop

this is a directly run antenna store offering locally produced textiles. High-quality items made with care by artisans residing in the area are on display, and it is possible to purchase original products such as scarves, umbrellas, handkerchiefs, ties, etc. (1F, Q-STA, Fujisaneki Bldg, 2-5-1 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida-shi)