Fujinomiya
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Fujinomiya is a small city on the southwestern base of Mount Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture. It is known as one of the starting points for climbing the mountain, and has historical and cultural significance for climbers.
Travel tip #1: The Fujinomiya Trail is technically the shortest out of all the Mount Fuji trails. However, it is also the steepest trail. This makes the ascent more difficult than other trails.
Places of Interest
Shiraito Falls: Also known as “Shiraito no Taki” in Japanese, this waterfall is located at the southern base of Mount Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture. It has been ranked as one of the most beautiful falls in Japan, and rightly so. The volcano’s spring water cascades down from a 65 foot (20 meter) rocky edge, creating a series of different sized waterfalls over a nearly 500 foot (150 meter) wide wall.
Shiraito Rose Garden: Once you’re done wandering around the waterfall area, you can walk up an unassuming paved road that leads to a small park, community center, and a rose garden which overlook the city of Fujinomiya. Spring is the best time to visit the gardens, as the weather is still cool and the skies are usually clear. Of course, the flowers are in bloom, too.
Mount Fuji World Heritage Center: Recently opened in December 2017, this architecturally stunning building explains the significance of Mount Fuji in an interesting way. Visitors can walk up the spiraled walkway while learning about the mountain’s unique history and cultural importance. It makes you feel as if you’re hiking up Mount Fuji, especially because you’re rewarded with a view of Fujisan at the top.
Fujisan Sengen Shrine: Originally built over 1,000 years ago to protect the city and people from volcanic eruptions, Fujisan Sengen Shrine has become the most important shrine in the region. This shrine is also a traditional starting point for climbing Mount Fuji. Thus, ceremonies are typically held at the beginning and end of climbing season.
Wakutama Pond: Next to Fujisan Sengen Shrine is Wakutama Pond. The pond’s water is fed from Mount Fuji’s springs through underground lava beds and is incredibly clear and cold. Historically, climbers would visit the shrine to pray and purify themselves in the pond’s water before ascending the mountain.
Travel tip #2: Many tourists opt for tours that begin in Tokyo and stop in Fujnomiya to see Fujisan Sengen Shrine as well as Mount Fuji. I would recommend taking a tour that goes to Kawaguchiko, as there is more to see and experience compared to Fujinomiya.
Food
Fujinomiya yakisoba: A popular local delicacy with firm, chewy noodles. The cabbage used in the dish usually comes from the Fujinomiya highland area, and a spicy Worcestershire sauce is also added to give it a unique flavor. It’s definitely the food to try when in Fujinomiya.
Asagiri soft cream: The area around Mount Fuji is known for speciality foods, like fruit and dairy products. Soft cream is the most popular type of frozen dairy-based treat in Japan, and Asagiri Kogen makes theirs with local milk. It’s super creamy and well-balanced—the perfect way to end a day soaking up the city’s culture.
Omiya Yokocho: Omiya Yokocho (お宮横丁) is a small food district located in front of Sengen Daisya, which is near Fujisan Sengen Shrine. The small food court area is lined with trailers and small shops, many that specialize in Fujinomiya Yakisoba. It can get crowded at meal times and there is limited seating.
Transportation
Generally, bus is the easiest way to get around Fujinomiya if you’re relying on public transportation. Fujinomiya Station is the central transportation hub for the city where buses connect to Shiraito Falls, Fujinomiya 5th Station (Mount Fuji climbing point), and the Fujigoko area. The station is conveniently located outside of Fujinomiya JR Station. Bus tickets can be purchased at the ticket window, in which timetables for your trip can be provided upon request.
Climate
The city is mild compared to other parts of Japan, but being at the base of a mountain does create cold and dry winters. It rains frequently throughout the year with June and September being the wettest on average. The best times to visit the city are March and April as well as October and November, which is when the skies are typically a bit clearer and the temperatures are comfortable. If you want to witness snow-capped Mount Fuji, visiting from November through April is recommended.
