This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Fujinomiya.
Fujinomiya is a city on the Honshu Island of Japan. Initially a settlement in ancient times, the town was founded officially in 1942. Since then, it has annexed several additional villages. It comprises part of Mount Fuji, mostly along the foothill, but even a bit all the way to the peak, with its elevation ranging from 115 feet (35 meters) up to 10,945 feet (3,336 meters). Its lower area houses about 130,000 inhabitants.
Visitors can find many economical accommodations in the city, including hostels and camp sites. The hostels provide dormitory beds as well as traditional Japanese futons. Cleanliness and convenient location are the norm. The price of a hostel bed tends to include some free bonuses such as tea and coffee. For other amenities, including towels, laundry machine usage, and breakfast, guests can expect to pay an extra fee. To locate a hostel in Fujinomiya, visitors should also look for names such as “backpackers” and “guesthouse.” These affordable accommodations will not disappoint since most Fujinomiya hostels and camp grounds provide captivating views of Mount Fuji.
Whether wishing to ascend the famous mountain or just seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, tourists stop by Fujinomiya for many reasons. On the first of July, the Oyamabiraki festival celebrates the opening of climbing season. The city happens to be one of several beginning points for ascending Mount Fuji. A bus or taxi ride can deliver visitors either to the bottom or to another, higher station along the mountain, to begin hiking to the summit, to camp out, or just to enjoy the vistas and take photos from higher altitudes.
For travelers who prefer to stay on lower grounds, they can explore Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and its treasures such as Shiraito Falls, each deemed a Japanese Natural Monument. The latter is a set of several falls that combine to create a waterfall of great width in the midst of the park’s imposing trees.
Another attraction is Lake Tanuki. Although swimming is not permitted in its waters, there is no lack of activities to pursue along its shores. Most visitors walk or bike the two-mile (three-kilometer) trail around the lake. Along the way, tourists find countless opportunities to capture various angles of the impressive Mount Fuji. The double vision of the mountain and its reflection within the lake is especially captivating. Many individuals decide to picnic and camp out overnight in order to witness the sunrise in this stunning setting.
Written by local enthusiast for Fujinomiya hostels
Jakob Lombardi