Going up to Honcho dori in the direction of Mt. Fuji, there is a row of historic houses called "oshi no ie "(pilgrim's inns) marked by narrow stone pillars in front of each house. These houses used to be places of purification and worship. In older times, it was there that the pilgrims of Mt. Fuji would stay before climbing.
This city has prospered since ancient times as the area where the famous Kaiki silk is woven, and as a centre for worshipping and climbing Mt. Fuji. Kamiyoshida is considered the "sacred area" of this city where history was born through those who came to worship and pray to Mt. Fuji.
There are 5 routes available to climb Mt. Fuji. From the Yamanashi Prefecture side there are 2 routes: Yoshida guchi and Kawaguchiko guchi. "Guchi" are the starting points to climb Mt. Fuji. The Yoshidaguchi trail is full of history and myths. Climbers need to go through a ceremony before starting to climb in return for purification and protection. Yoshidaguchi is regarded as the best equipped trail of the five Mt. Fuji climbing routes. The trail officially starts at Kitaguchi hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine (left). The Fuji Sengen Shrine became the focal point of worshipping Mt. Fuji and pilgrim activities during the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1608-1868. It served as the entrance to the Yoshidaguchi Climbing Trail. People can still climb from here to the top of the mountain even now!

The Shimoyoshida area may be enjoyed by just walking down the streets or taking a stroll through the shops and houses which bring nostalgic feelings for anyone sightseeing in this area. Many buildings from the Showa period, the 1950s in particular, have remained intact, and now this interesting city has made the choice to preserve the antiques and nostalgic mood of the Showa Era. Even though this helps the area to retain its former charm and atmosphere, this part of city is still contemporary and modern.
When you start walking toward Gekkoji dori, you may face a wooden 3-floored building. The sign is written in “retro font” and the wall painted in dark brown, retaining the mood and atmosphere of earlier days.
“Shinsekai dori” was renowned as a place where men usually used to go to enjoy the city’s “night life”.

Fujiyoshida city is host to an array of restaurants and bars with individual styles and flavours. Fujiyoshida would not be the same without its “teuchi udon”, the hearty dish of homemade thick noodles, and perfect for the traveler’s budget. Each udon restaurant makes its noodles using pure Mt. Fuji water and special kneading techniques. The chefs run their restaurants from home and usually open only for lunch.