When traveling to Japan for a longer period, most people will reserve a day or two to visit the outskirts of Tokyo. This time, we introduce an area where you can get up close to Mount Fuji, with unique streets full of Showa-era charm. At the end of the street stretches the magnificent Mount Fuji, which is truly awe-inspiring to see in person!
Many people immediately think of Lake Kawaguchi when they want to admire the beautiful scenery of Mount Fuji. However, this time we want to introduce the city of Yoshida at the foot of Mount Fuji, which is actually only four stops away from Lake Kawaguchi. You can take the JR Limited Express train from Shinjuku to Otsuki Station, transfer to the Fujikyu Line to get to Shimoyoshida Station, or get off at the earlier stop at Tsukiyomi Temple and walk there.
This stunning view of Mount Fuji is actually the shotengai of Honcho Nichome, and the best spot for photography is at the intersection near Hinokawa Clock Shop. Looking from the side of the intersection, you can see the entire Mount Fuji. The street still retains the atmosphere of the Showa era, with old-fashioned signs and eaves making the photos more flavorful. However, please note that Honcho Nichome is a very busy street with frequent car traffic, so everyone should try to stay on the sidewalk for photography, and there are signs posted locally to remind everyone to avoid accidents.
After visiting Mount Fuji, I happened to discover a new FabCafe Fuji at the intersection just ahead. FabCafe is actually a brand originating from Tokyo, with branches in Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagoya, and even around the world. The brand has even opened a store in Hong Kong on a new street in Sheung Wan.
Yoshida City’s latest branch is located right in the heart of the Fuji Mountain street scene, focusing on handmade light meals such as an all-day breakfast, grilled cheese and ham sandwich, as well as sweet cakes and cookies. The space is extremely spacious, with floor-to-ceiling glass letting in warm natural light. In addition to coffee and food, there are also various books and selected items for everyone to leisurely browse through. If you’re not in a rush, you can really relax here for a whole morning!
FabCafe Fuji
3-5-16 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi
https://www.instagram.com/fabcafefuji/
After eating your fill, take a leisurely stroll around the whole Yoshida City. If you like household items, you can go to the grocery store LONGTEMPS, where they sell many exquisite kitchenware items, as well as Japanese-made wooden furniture. Even if you don’t necessarily bring them home, just appreciating them with a joyful heart is already enough to make you happy!
LONGTEMPS
3-12-54 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
https://www.instagram.com/longtemps_est1934/
Finally, let me introduce a Western confectionery shop, Toraya. The storefront looks plain at first glance, but inside, the glass display case is filled with all kinds of cakes and pastries, such as strawberry cream cake, chestnut cake, and more. They may not be very unique styles, but each item is exquisite, and you’ll want to try them all! The store has been in business since 1935, and the pastry chef inside is an elderly man who makes cakes that are soft and fluffy, including the cute Mount Fuji stickered egg pudding!
Toraya
3-1-5 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Some photos from the Fujiyoshida City Tourist Guide
