The Value and Importance of Mount Fuji to the Japanese
The majestic Mount Fuji is the most iconic tourist destination in all of Japan. It is the highest mountain and one of the peaks whose shape are almost-perfect. Many people go to the country just to enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty that Mount Fuji has to offer. It is a leisurely place to visit any time of the year. The experience is inspiring and definitely amazing.
Tourists who want to see Mount Fuji must remember that it is usually more visible when the skies are clear during colder seasons. In comparison to spring and summer, the climate is usually cloudy and humid. This means that there are more rain clouds being developed that could potentially cover the view of Mount Fuji. During colder and drier months like December, January, and February, the skies are much clearer because there is less humidity.
For the Japanese, Mount Fuji plays a very important role in their culture. It is the symbol of vitality and beauty. They also take pride in the popularity of Mount Fuji, its snow-covered peaks and smooth slopes. Mount Fuji is truly a sight to behold. In fact, the mountain is considered as a sacred place to visit and many religions have worshipped the gods that are believed to reside in its forests.
All About Fujinomiya Shizuoka Japan
Fujinomiya Japan Map
The city of Fujinomiya is a part of the Shizuoka prefecture located at the foot of Mount Fuji. It is a part of the Tokai (Tokaido) or Chubu region of Japan and it occupies a total area of about 390 square kilometers. Basically, Fujinomiya is a plateau formed from the gentle slopes of Mount Fuji. Its overall altitude is much higher than its neighboring cities at about 35 meters above sea level.
This city is quite popular because it is a well-known starting point for hiking and climbing tours up Mount Fuji. There are tour groups available near the trail’s entry point and there are information centers at the base for first-time travelers.
Even during the earlier times, Fujinomiya is quite popular because of its proximity to the mountain. Ancient civilizations show that it used to be a market town and a popular destination for travelers. This is because it is home to a route connecting with the Kai province. Although there are other hiking trails in other parts of the mountain like Hakone and others, it is still well-known that the first non-Japanese hiker made an ascent to Mt. Fuji from Fujinomiya in the late 1800s.
Fujinomiya Japan Weather
The city of Fujinomiya experiences a temperate climate which means there are four seasons every year. The place experiences very humid summers because of the overall warm climate from the region. This means that there is a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. The average temperature during summertime in Fujinomiya can go as high as 30 degrees Celsius and as low as -5 degree Celsius during the wintertime.
The months of June and July are the wettest month, where the total rainfall can go as high as 200 to 250 mm of precipitation. The months of January and February experience the least amount of rainfall throughout the year.
Fujinomiya Japan Population
This large area is home to about 130,000 individuals making its population density quite low compared to other places in the country. Roughly the population density in Fujinomiya is about 350 persons per square kilometer. This is quite a low number, making it more of a rural area than an urban location.
Perhaps one of the reasons why the population density of Fujinomiya is quite low is the fact that the gentle slopes of Mount Fuji occupy a greater area in the city than residential zones. Some parts of the mountain’s foot are still considered as a danger zone primarily because Mount Fuji is still an active volcano. Although its last eruption was in the 17th century, it will be difficult to tell when the next eruption may be.
Fujinomiya Japan Guide
Fujinomiya Japan Hotels
Since Fujinomiya is one of the places in Japan with the best viewing locations of Mount Fuji, they are very welcoming to tourists and travelers. There are a number of hotels, inns, and bed & breakfasts in the area. What makes it even more interesting is the fact that there are a number of onsens and ryokans that benefit from the hot springs coming from the mountains. Accommodation costs can range from 2,000 yen to about 8,000 yen per night depending on the location and view of the mountain.
One of the popular places to stay in Fujinomiya would be Ogawaso which is a traditional-style ryokan. They have tatami mats, paper windows, wooden furniture and more. Even their kitchenware are all traditional – made from lacquer, wood, and ceramic. Another popular hotel would be the Shibakawaen which is situated right in the mountains. Guests love it here because of the view, the fresh air, and the quiet coming from the surroundings. For those who are after great views, the Kyukamura Fuji might be the best place to go. They have cabins instead of rooms right by the lake. There is an amazing view of Mount Fuji from inside the cabin – an amazing experience and a relaxing vacation.
Access to Fujinomiya
There are different ways to get to Fujinomiya from different parts of Japan. There are bullet trains, local trains, bus lines, and more. For places with a considerable distance like Tokyo, the commute can be quite difficult because there is no direct line connecting Tokyo and Fujinomiya. So, the best way to access Fujinomiya would be getting off at the Shin-fuji station of the Tokaido Shinkansen line bound for Mishima. From Mishima, travelers can take the JR Tokaido line going to Shizuoka and get off at the Fuji station. the Fuji Station, travelers can take the JR Minobu line going to Fujinomiya station. This particular station is already at the city center of Fujinomiya. The trip takes roughly two hours of travel time and about 4,500 yen in travel fees.
Fujnomiya Japan Transportation
Fujinomiya Station
This particular station is probably the only means for an individual to enter and exit the city towards the “outside world”. All train lines going towards Fujinomiya meet at the Fujinomiya station. It is owned by the JR Central (or Central Japan Railway Company). It is one of the major stations of the Minobu line, which is a railway line taking passengers throughout the Shizuoka prefecture.
The facilities of the Fujinomiya station is quite good, with automated ticket machines, automated turnstiles, and high-quality platforms. It is the biggest transportation station in the city. There are no local train lines going around the city of Fujinomiya which is why it is encouraged for individuals to take the public commute like the city bus. Outside of this station would be the terminals for taxis, buses, and rental cars.
Things to do in Fujiyama City
Fujinomiya 5th Station: It’s All About Hiking and Climbing
Fujinomiya Trail
Anyone who climbs Mt. Fuji should know that every trail has a total of 10 stations. The first station is located at the base of the mountains and the 10th station is located at the peak or the summit. Among the most popular out of the 10 stations would be the fifth. This is due to the fact that 5th stations are known to be the last station that could be reached via road. From there, individuals must hike up the summit or ride a ropeway to stations farther up. The fifth station is also where most people start their hike making it the most popular out of all.
In total, there are four 5th stations in all of Mount Fuji and the Fujinomiya 5th station of the Fujinomiya trail is the most accessible and the most popular. Going up the mountain from the Fujinomiya trail roughly takes about four to seven hours and descending takes two to four hours; this makes the Fujinomiya trail the fastest out of the four. It is more popular than the rest because it is the only 5th station located closest to the summit.
Fujinomiya Trail Huts
Trail huts or mountain huts are important rest stations for climbers. Sometimes, people would like to stay in the mountains overnight. It is also a good place to stay for people who suffered minor accidents and in events of unexpected terrible weather. This is why it is always important to check the news for weather reports. Climbers can stay the night in these mountain huts before continuing the trail the next day.
Anyone climbing up the Fujinomiya trail should know that there are about six trail huts located on this route. It is important that it is well facilitated because there are more people taking this southern route than the others. Compared to other trails that split to multiple routes, the Fujinomiya trail is pretty much straight to the point. This makes the trail congested especially during the climbing season.
Fujinomiya Trail Maps
The Fujinomiya trail can be accessed via a toll road known as the Fujisan Skyline. It has been announced that the toll fee is now waived and the expressway is free to use. During the climbing seasons of July to September, this road is opened only to designated shuttles that come from the train station to avoid congestion and traffic. The road is also closed starting the fall season up to spring season.
The Fujinomiya trail is pretty much straight to the point. Other trails up Mount Fuji like the Subashiri trail, Gotemba trail, and Yoshida trail split up into two routes. It also does not coincide with other trails compared to the Yoshida and Subashiri trails.
Enjoying Nature at its Finest
Lake Tanuki
There was a time that it did not exist at all. This lake is actually a water reservoir and was created in the early 1930s. It was developed as an irrigation system by diverting Shiba river water. This particular lake is one of the best places to visit in Fujinomiya as it gives an impressive view of Mount Fuji. The mountain is reflected in the clear, calm water from the lake. This is also why it is a popular destination for camping and fishing.
Shiraito Waterfalls
Located in the mountains of Mount Fuji, the Shiraito waterfalls is a dreamy, magical place to visit. It is actually considered as one of the most scenic and beautiful places in Japan. The waterfall is made up of volcanic spring water that falls from a height of about 20 meters. The Shiraito falls is made up of multiple flows of different sizes. Some are so delicate that they look like silk thread flowing out from the mountains.
Relaxation Vs. Adventure
Sengen Shrine
This shrine is a popular destination which was built more than a thousand years ago. The Sengen shrine is important in the culture and history of Fujinomiya because it is a destination where people pray to the gods of Mount Fuji and prepare their offerings. It is also a traditional starting point before ascending to the summit, where passers-by pray for purification before going to their pilgrimage up the mountains. Interestingly this shrine was built to protect the people from eruptions.
Onsens and Ryokans in Fujinomiya
Among the most popular destinations in Fujinomiya to enjoy hot spring baths would be the Yamanakako Onsen and Hana no yu. For those who wish to enjoy the amazing view while taking a relaxing dip in the hot spring, they can enjoy the Yamanakako onsen. People go here to enjoy the countryside and an unforgettable view of the mountains. However, it is not for the weak of heart as it is a strict nude-only bath.
Hana no Yu offers different kinds of baths and therapies. They have hot spring pools which are great for those who wish to relax through the warm water. On top of that, Hana no yu also offers special and unique pools. It is well known for their tea bath, sulfur bath, salt water bath, and wine bath.
