The Fuji region is the best place to get an up-close view of the world-famous, sacred Mt. Fuji. Each season offers a different view of the mountain, so it’s worth the trip at any time of the year. Read on to find out more, not only about the main attractions, but also some of the lesser-known historical spots and local dishes that can only be found in this region that receives the abundant blessings of Mt. Fuji.
Tourist attractions
Known as sacred Mt. Fuji since ancient times, this mountain has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The region is home to many locations that exude the power and gifts of Mt. Fuji. Historical attractions include Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, the head shrine of the approximately 1,300 Sengen shrines across the country. There are also locations to experience the abundance of nature, such as the Shiraito Falls and Asagiri Highland whose lush greenery stretches across the western foot of Mt. Fuji.
You can start by visiting the Mt. Fuji World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka, which is shaped like an upside-down Mt. Fuji and is located near JR Fujinomiya Station. There you can learn about the origins of Mt. Fuji and simulate the experience of climbing the mountain along the 193-meter-long incline extending from the first to the fifth floor.
Families with children can enjoy many great attractions along the eastern base of Mt. Fuji, such as the Fuji Safari Park, where you can see animals from up close, the amusement park Grinpa, which is located at the Second Station of Mt. Fuji, and Mt. Fuji Children’s World, where you can even enjoy camping.
For those who want to relax and take it easy in the vicinity of Mt. Fuji, the Gotemba Kogen Resort Toki no Sumika offers many facilities and amenities, such as the expansive grounds, a restaurant that serves Gotemba Kogen Beer, hot springs, a camp site, and winter illuminations.
In addition, there’s also the art complex Clematis no Oka, where you can come into contact with works of art. The enormous shopping mall Gotemba Premium Outlets is also a popular spot, as visitors can enjoy a view of Mt. Fuji while shopping.
Cuisine
When it comes to the local cuisine in the Fuji area, Fujinomiya Yakisoba noodles are famous as an affordable yet tasty dish, and something that any visitor must try. Made with firm, locally-made noodles, fragrant sauce, and unique toppings consisting of Nikukasu meat residue and sardine shavings, this dish will have you hooked with the first taste. You can find Fujinomiya Yakisoba in the Omiya Yokocho food district beside Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, or at any of the myriad yakisoba noodle shops in the city. Just look for the telltale orange flag.
Dairy farms are thriving in Asagiri Highland at the western base of Mt. Fuji, and you can enjoy soft serve ice cream, gelato, cheese and other specialties made by freshly squeezed milk at facilities such as the Asagiri Food Park adjacent to the roadside station, or Makaino Farm Resort.
Furthermore, the city of Fujinomiya uses spring water from Mt. Fuji to raise rainbow trout, and is the largest producer of rainbow trout in Japan. We recommend you try original dishes such as rainbow trout set meals and trout burgers, which can only be found here. Have your fill of delicious specialties from the Fuji area, nurtured by the blessings of Mt. Fuji.