Explore Nishiura District: Retro Nightlife and Scenic Mt. Fuji Views in Fujiyoshida
Mt. Fuji is Japan's highest peak at 3,776 meters, and its majestic appearance has made it an object of worship since ancient times. Today, it's also a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world.
The surrounding area is blessed with abundant nature, offering various landscapes throughout the four seasons and unique experiences that can only be found in nature. Among these, spots like the "Fuji Five Lakes" - five lakes located at the foot of Mt. Fuji - and the mystical spring water pools of "Oshino Hakkai" are highly popular as scenic locations where beautiful nature and history harmonize.
Of course, there are other ways to enjoy the Mt. Fuji area beyond appreciating nature. This time, we'll introduce Nishiura District, which features a shopping district with a local atmosphere where you can enjoy bar hopping and shopping while gazing at Mt. Fuji.
Nishiura District: A Nostalgic Town Where You Can Feel Fujiyoshida's Textile Industry Glory Days
Nishiura District is a charming place with nostalgic streetscapes that preserve the legacy of Fujiyoshida, which once prospered through the textile industry.
From around 1955 to 1974, many textile factories operated here, and the region was full of vitality. Remnants of that era can still be seen today in old signboards, buildings with tile decorations, and wooden shops.
When you step into the narrow alleys, you can feel the atmosphere that evokes the bustling activity of the past, and time flows leisurely.
This area is packed with local charm that hasn't been over-touristified, allowing you to feel close to Fujiyoshida's history and the lives of its people while enjoying a pleasant stroll.
It's a fascinating spot where you can experience the sensation of traveling back in time.
Detailed Explanation of Nishiura District's Charm by a Writer Who Loves Retro Towns
Nishiura District is a place with an attractive nostalgic atmosphere. You can feel the lifestyle of local people from bygone days, and for first-time visitors, everything might seem fascinating and unique.
From here, I'll provide a detailed explanation of Nishiura District's charm as a writer who loves retro towns and enjoys exploring different neighborhoods.
Retro Japanese Atmosphere from the Showa Era (Around 1955-1974) Still Remains
Source:Fuji Yoshida City Guide
Walking through Nishiura District gives you the sensation of time-traveling back to Japan from around 1955 to 1974.
This period is called the "Showa era," when rapid economic growth brought prosperity to towns, and shops and restaurants were full of vitality.
In Nishiura, buildings, signboards, and tile decorations from that time still remain, allowing you to experience Japan's nostalgic everyday scenes.
At night, small bars and other establishments light up, creating a nostalgic and warm atmosphere. You can connect with local people's lives, and for those who love retro atmospheres, it's not only photogenic but also creates a relaxing mood.
Rare Bar Hopping Opportunities in the Mt. Fuji Area
Source:Fuji Yoshida City Guide
While there aren't many areas around Mt. Fuji where you can enjoy bar hopping, Nishiura District is well-equipped with dining establishments, allowing you to fully enjoy bar hopping.
This area, which once showed prosperity through the textile industry, had a restaurant district where both locals and people who came from outside for work gathered, making it a lively place.
Over time, it transformed into a quiet neighborhood, but in recent years, the retro charm of the "Showa era" has been reevaluated and is gaining attention again.
This area has been named "Shinsekai Kanpai Street" through revitalization projects by local volunteers, and authentic town regeneration is progressing.
New establishments are opening one after another, including izakaya (Japanese pubs) renovated from old private houses and wine bars that retain old-fashioned charm while adding modern sensibilities.
Said to Resemble Shinjuku's Famous Bar District "Golden Gai"
Nishiura District is sometimes said to have a similar atmosphere to the famous bar district "Shinjuku's Golden Gai District" in Tokyo's Shinjuku area.
Small, unique bars and izakaya are densely packed in narrow alleys, and the enjoyment of bar hopping can be said to be their common feature.
Each establishment has different themes and atmospheres, offering a wide range of options from retro atmosphere bars to modern wine bars.
All shops are homely and welcoming, with the characteristic that even travelers can easily enter. It's a nightlife spot where you can feel the warmth unique to local areas, different from urban settings.
Rich Selection of Historic Izakaya and Restaurants - Enjoyable Even for Non-Drinkers
Source:Fuji Yoshida City Guide
While Nishiura District is known for its many bars and izakaya, it's fully enjoyable even for those who don't drink alcohol.
In addition to historic izakaya that retain the Showa atmosphere, there are many casual cafes and restaurants serving creative cuisine, making it easy to visit just for meals.
Attractive options for travelers whose purpose is dining rather than drinking include menus using local ingredients and set menus.
Some establishments are well-stocked with sweets, and there are bars that serve non-alcoholic drinks, making them recommended when you want to focus on enjoying conversation and atmosphere.
It's a place where anyone can comfortably spend an evening after Mt. Fuji sightseeing.
Daytime Collaboration of Mt. Fuji and Retro Streetscapes
Source:Fuji Yoshida City Guide
While Nishiura District is popular for nighttime bar hopping, daytime strolling is also recommended. Actually, Mt. Fuji can be clearly seen from the depths of Nishiura District's streets.
The scenery created by the streetscapes that retain the charm of the Showa era and the magnificent Mt. Fuji towering in the background offers an appeal that's hard to find elsewhere.
On clear days, the contrast between Mt. Fuji standing out clearly against the blue sky and the nostalgic town is impressive, making it a great photo spot. I also visited during the day, captured this scenery in photos, and then enjoyed the contrast with the nighttime atmosphere.
Leisurely spending time while visiting local cafes and general stores is a way to enjoy Nishiura that's unique to daytime visits.
Recommended Shops in Mt.Fuji Nishiura District by Genre
Mt.Fuji Nishiura District is home to many attractive restaurants, so you might find yourself wondering where to go. Here, we'll explain the recommended shops in Mt.Fuji Nishiura District by genre.
Restaurants Where You Can Enjoy Exquisite Japanese Cuisine
Mt.Fuji Nishiura District is dotted with restaurants where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine that makes use of local seasonal ingredients. While adhering to traditional cooking methods, these establishments have an inviting atmosphere that's easy for travelers to visit, with many restaurants that are welcoming to tourists.
Sushi Toyo
Source:Google Maps
Sushi Toyo is a sushi restaurant with about 40 years of history that has been beloved by locals for many years, where you can enjoy authentic Japanese sushi using fresh seafood. The menu includes sushi made with premium ingredients like medium fatty tuna, white fish, sea urchin, and salmon roe, as well as plates featuring sushi wrapped in seaweed, and assorted sashimi platters, allowing you to fully enjoy seasonal fish throughout the year.
While the sushi is certainly delicious, I also enjoy the grilled fresh fish that they purchase daily. Since the fish varies by day, please ask the staff what's available. They'll also change the type of fish topping on the sushi rice according to your preferences, so you can enjoy it with peace of mind even if you have dislikes.
Address: 2-4-28 Ryugaoka, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours: 11:00-22:00
Closed: Wednesdays
Phone: 0555-23-9009
Official Website: None
Nikonan
Source:Fuji Yoshida City Guide
Nikonan is a popular restaurant where you can enjoy Japanese cuisine centered around soba noodles made with locally sourced ingredients, in a warm space created by renovating a traditional Japanese house. The homemade hand-pulled soba noodles have a firm texture yet smooth throat feel, with excellent compatibility with the aromatic dashi soup.
You can choose between cold and hot soba, and there are plenty of set menus that include tempura, so you can choose according to your hunger level. What surprised me was that apple was included in the tempura assortment. While apple isn't commonly used as a tempura ingredient, the unique apple tempura is a highlight here. The subtly sweet apple paired perfectly with the soy sauce-based soba soup, creating an addictive deliciousness.
Address: 2-14-27 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours:
11:30-14:00 (L.O. 13:30)
17:30-22:00 (L.O. 20:30)
Closed: Thursdays
Phone: 0555-22-9737
Official Website: None
Tsuruya Shokudō
Source:Fuji Yoshida City Guide
Tsuruya Shokudō is a casual udon restaurant that retains the atmosphere of an old-fashioned popular eatery, where you can easily drop by. Here you can enjoy Fujiyoshida's specialty "Yoshida Udon." Yoshida Udon features thick, firm noodles that are chewy with a rustic yet robust flavor.
The soup is miso or soy sauce-based, and while simple, you can clearly taste the umami. The menu offers a variety of udon dishes, from simple ones with just noodles and soup without ingredients, to meat udon topped with sweet and savory simmered horse meat, all offered at reasonable prices.
There are various toppings available, but among them, I recommend the finely chopped and fried vegetables. The crispy texture combined with the udon noodles and soup creates an exquisite combination that's very satisfying.
This restaurant is recommended for those who want to casually enjoy local flavors.
Address: 2-12-9 Asahi, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours:
11:00-13:45 (closes when noodles run out)
11:00-14:30 (closes when noodles run out on weekends and holidays)
Closed: Mondays
Phone: 0555-22-4137
Official Website: https://tsuruya.client.jp/index.html
Recommended Shops for Bar Hopping
Mt.Fuji Nishiura District is gaining attention as an area where you can enjoy bar hopping, which is rare in the Mt.Fuji vicinity. Here, we'll introduce recommended shops that are easy for beginners to enter and where you can enjoy interactions with locals.
Sumibi Yakitori Megumi
Sumibi Yakitori Megumi is a yakitori specialty restaurant popular with locals, offering a warm atmosphere where you can easily drop by. The menu centers on skewered grilled chicken carefully grilled over charcoal fire, and by grilling over charcoal, you can savor the aromatic fragrance and juicy texture.
The menu features yakitori of various chicken parts. Besides yakitori, there's also a rich selection of side dishes including salad, cream cheese, and fried chicken, offering various menu options so you won't get bored.
While it's a yakitori restaurant, the seasonal fish dishes are also delicious, so I recommend them.
The style of enjoying freshly grilled skewers alongside beer and sake is a culture unique to Japanese izakaya.
Address: 3-16-22 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours:
Monday-Thursday, Sunday: 17:00-23:30
(L.O. Food: 22:30, Drinks: 23:00)
Friday-Saturday: 17:00-25:30
(L.O. Food: 24:30, Drinks: 25:00)
Closed: None
Phone: 0555-24-5523
Official Website: None
Sumibi Yakitori Tobari (Charcoal Grilled Yakitori)
"Sumibi Yakitori Tobari" is a restaurant where you can enjoy high-quality yakitori in a relaxed atmosphere. Each yakitori skewer is carefully grilled over charcoal fire, cooked slowly to perfection.
While the exquisite yakitori is naturally the highlight, what you absolutely cannot miss at this Mt. Fuji Nishiura District establishment is their extensive side menu. Among these, what I particularly recommend you try is their potato galette. There are three varieties available: one with salt and butter, one with tomato sauce, and one with spicy fish roe called "mentaiko." I especially recommend the "mentaiko" flavor, which allows you to enjoy the galette in a Japanese style.
The interior has a stylish, bar-like atmosphere, and you'll notice the attention to detail in the interior design, such as lampshades made from dried flower bouquets.
With a wide variety of alcoholic beverages available, you can take your time and enjoy your visit.
Address: 3-12-56 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours:
Tuesday-Thursday: 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM (L.O. 11:30 PM)
Friday-Saturday: 6:00 PM - 2:00 AM (L.O. 1:30 AM)
Closed: Monday
Phone: 0555-75-0445
Official Website: None
Italian Restaurant Kagishippo
Source:Hotel Kaneyamaen
"Kagishippo" is a spot where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine while being located in the retro-atmospheric Nishiura area.
The interior, renovated from a "Nagaya" (traditional Japanese row house) built over 50 years ago, carefully preserves the essence of traditional Japanese architecture while adding modern touches.
The owner, who previously worked at restaurants in Tokyo, was drawn to the atmosphere of this nature-rich location and moved here to start this restaurant. You can enjoy Italian dishes such as pizza and pasta that make use of local ingredients.
While the exquisite cuisine is naturally appealing, what I especially want you to order is the local wine. Yamanashi Prefecture is famous for grape cultivation and wine production. You can enjoy the marriage of local wines with exquisite Italian cuisine, which is another highlight of dining in the Mt. Fuji Nishiura District.
Address: 3-12-69 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours:
Lunch: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM (L.O. 1:30 PM)
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM (L.O. 9:30 PM)
Closed:
Lunch: Sunday & Monday
Dinner: Sunday
Phone: 0555-73-8858
Official Website: https://www.kagishippo-fujiyoshida.com/
Pink De Flamingos
"Pink De Flamingos" is a stylish bar that stands out with its unique character in the Nishiura District.
The exterior of the restaurant features pink walls, making it highly visible and easy to spot. Inside, the plaster-like walls reflect the light beautifully, creating an atmospheric space.
As a bar, the alcohol selection is naturally extensive, but what's also characteristic is their substantial selection of individual dishes. Among these, what I particularly recommend is their tofu made with mineral-rich underground water from the spring pond "Oshino Hakkai." You can truly taste the original flavor of soybeans, and since it's healthy, you can enjoy it with peace of mind even late at night.
I was also surprised to find that this bar serves ramen. It's perfect as a finishing touch after enjoying alcoholic beverages.
Address: 3-14-8 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours: 7:00 PM - 2:00 AM (L.O. 1:00 AM)
Closed: Tuesday
Phone: 0555-24-5385
Official Website: None
Cafes
The Mt. Fuji Nishiura District has not only dining establishments where you can enjoy alcohol, but also cafes. Here, I'll introduce carefully selected recommended cafes.
FabCafe Fuji
Source:Tabelog
"FabCafe Fuji" is a unique cafe located in a corner of the Nishiura District where you can simultaneously enjoy local textile culture and food.
With Fujiyoshida's proud textile industry history as a backdrop, the interior features textile-themed art exhibitions and other displays, allowing you to experience local craftsmanship while dining. The stylish space, renovated from an old bank, is also an attraction.
It functions as a hub for interaction, with creators from Japan and abroad gathering here for collaborations and coworking spaces.
The menu includes carefully selected single-origin coffee and morning plates. What I particularly recommend is their lasagna made with soy meat.
Address: 3-5-16 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Closed: Tuesday & Wednesday
Phone: Unknown
Official Website: https://fabcafe.com/jp/fuji/
Access to Nishiura District
Address: 3-14 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Access: 3-minute walk from Fujikyu Railway Gekkoji Station
Official Website: None
Experience the Mt. Fuji Nishiura District and Surrounding Mt. Fuji Tourist Spots with Magical Trip's "Mt. Fuji Nature meets Culture Tour with a Private Hire Car"!
For those who want to efficiently explore the Mt. Fuji area, I recommend Magical Trip's day-trip private tour.
An English-speaking local guide and Japanese driver will accompany you, providing guidance from Tokyo to the Mt. Fuji area over approximately 10 hours round trip.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are available within the target area, so you can participate with peace of mind without worrying about transportation.
This tour's route can be flexibly adjusted, so you can freely combine places of interest while consulting with your guide.
You can visit not only Mt. Fuji's Fifth Station and scenic natural spots, but also the Mt. Fuji Nishiura District, where you can enjoy bar hopping in Fujiyoshida's local atmosphere.
This tour is perfect for those who want to experience culture, food, and nature in one trip.
