Things to Do in Fujinomiya, Japan

Quick facts: It has served as a gateway to Mount Fuji for over a thousand years, which is why the locals hold it in special reverence. This ancient shrine attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims each year who pray for the protection of the mountain.

Highlights: Around the shrine's courtyard there are 20 special red pines, planted as symbols of Fuji's natural power. The 'Kagura Dance' ritual is unique, during which old traditional melodies are played in honor of the mountain's spirit.

Quick facts: The waterfall is 20 meters high and more than 70 meters wide, with gently filtering streams of water. The water source originates from a cave rich in thermal water, which provides several million liters of water each year.

Highlights: Under the waterfall, the streams of water break into about a thousand fine currents, as if a thousand silk threads were falling downward. Interestingly, the leaves of the trees covering the waterfall turn bright golden yellow in autumn, offering a particularly magical sight.

Quick facts: More than 500 thousand visitors come each year to discover the cultural and natural secrets of the mountain. The building's shape evokes the slopes of the mountain, immediately connecting to the theme.

Highlights: Interestingly, at the interactive exhibitions visitors can explore the inside of the mountain with 3D glasses, as if they were real volcano researchers. In addition, from the rooftop terrace the view of Fuji is particularly stunning in clear weather, and you can even take photos.

Quick facts: The plateau stretches 900 meters above sea level and offers an excellent view of Mount Fuji. Due to its windy, cool weather, it is also often used as a filming location.

Highlights: One unique detail is the morning fog, which is so thick that it can limit visibility to just 30-50 meters. The locals traditionally graze cattle here, evoking the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.

Quick facts: In a zoo-like environment you can encounter rare free-roaming animals, with a 1.2 km long safari route that can be explored by car. More than 70 species, including African lions and giraffes, live together in huge enclosures.

Highlights: A special experience is the "Drive Through Safari," where you can watch the big cats and elephants from your car, moving freely among them. Visitors can feed the animals, allowing you to experience nature up close, which is unique in a wildlife park.

Quick facts: In the village, 8 pure springs feed the water basin; these stone pools have provided fresh water for centuries. The water from the local springs originates from Mount Fuji, which gives it other rich mineral properties.

Highlights: The water of the springs is so pure that it is incredibly transparent, shimmering almost like crystal in the sunlight. In the village, around each stone pool there are small chapels where visitors pray and collect holy water with cups, which they consider healthy.

Quick facts: The lake lies at an altitude of 710 meters and offers a magnificent panorama at the foot of Mount Fuji. Around it, more than 10 hectares of forest and hiking trails await nature lovers.

Highlights: Sunrise here is particularly stunning, as the first rays of sunlight appearing over the peak of Mount Fuji reflect on the water's surface. According to local legends, at one point of the lake, one of the largest crystals was found during the excavation of Fuji, which guards the spirit of the area.