Menkyo-kaiden is an immensely popular spot in Fujiyoshida City, renowned for serving its signature Yoshida Udon—a local specialty known for its delightfully chewy, firm texture. The udon is paired with a rich, savory broth made from soy sauce and miso, offering a warm, comforting flavor. The must-try dish is the Yokubari Udon, loaded with toppings like simmered beef, fried chikuwa (fish cake), tofu skin, and seaweed. If the broth tastes a bit sweet for your preference, you can easily adjust it with the chili flakes provided at the table.

Another highlight is their jumbo tempura—a crispy, perfectly fried treat that’s light on oil yet packed with flavor. Quantities are limited, and it often sells out quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Best of all, this satisfying meal is very affordable, with their signature udon bowls priced under 1,000 yen.

The restaurant is about a 10-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line. Look for the shop curtain bearing its name at the entrance—it’s easy to find. Be prepared for a line, though: crowds often form before opening, and you’ll need to write your name on the waiting list at the door. With its cozy atmosphere and welcoming service, Menkyo-kaiden is beloved by both locals and visitors alike.

Fujiya is a hidden gem cherished by locals, just a 5-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line. With parking for up to 30 cars, it's also a convenient spot for travelers. Specializing in Fujiyoshida’s Yoshida Udon, Fujiya goes beyond the usual soy sauce and miso broths, offering unique options like curry, cheese black curry, and Yoshida tomato udon.

One standout dish you shouldn't miss is the Black Fujiya udon. Made with charcoal-infused noodles, it strikes a perfect balance of firmness and rich aroma while being a health-conscious choice. It’s generously topped with cabbage, tempura shrimp, fried chikuwa, green onions, and stewed horse intestines. Don't forget to try the complimentary pickled lotus root side dish and add a dash of suridane, the spicy chili condiment considered the soul of Yoshida Udon.

Like many spots in the area, Fujiya offers great value—you can enjoy a hearty meal for under 1,000 yen. The black udon is rare even locally, and while the shop’s exterior is modest, its loyal following speaks for itself. To avoid long waits, arrive early and sign in at the entrance. Though slightly less crowded than other famous shops, Fujiya is a favorite for its bold flavors and satisfying portions.

Hoto, a beloved Yamanashi specialty, features chewy, wide udon-like noodles in a savory miso-based vegetable soup, served in a rustic iron pot for a cozy, nostalgic vibe. Its salty, fragrant broth and hearty texture make it a must-try near Kawaguchiko.

Hotou Fudo, with four locations around Kawaguchiko, is the go-to spot for this dish. The Kawaguchiko Station restaurant is convenient but often packed, while the Higashikoiji location, with its whimsical cloud-shaped design, draws crowds for Instagram-worthy photos.

Their signature Fudou Hoto blends a subtly sweet, savory broth with vegetables, pumpkin, and miso. The firm noodles pair perfectly with a dash of chili for extra zing. Adventurous diners can try the light, nutritious horse sashimi or the crowd-pleasing black sugar inari sushi, loved by all ages.

Slightly pricier than Yoshida Udon, Hotou Fudo’s unique ambiance—traditional Japanese farmhouse vibes at most locations—makes it worth it. Open late and always bustling, expect a wait, but the warm, flavorful experience is well worth it!

Amano is a gem for noodle lovers, serving both hoto and udon with a unique twist—silkworm powder that gives their noodles a delightfully smooth texture. Hoto fans will love the hearty pork or mushroom hoto, bursting with flavor. Udon enthusiasts can dive into the specialty udon, piled high with tempura and pork for a satisfying feast. Adventurous eaters should try the light, refreshing horse sashimi or the quirky fried natto rolls, a bold taste of Japan.

Just a 20-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station, Amano is close to Fuji-Q Highland and Fujiyama Onsen, with easy parking for drivers. Open from lunch until 9:00 p.m., it’s a great spot for a post-adventure meal. Skip the lines by reserving online. For foodies exploring Kawaguchiko, Amano’s creative noodle dishes and regional specialties are a must!

Located within the serene Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, Sengenchaya, run by Kawaguchiko’s renowned Konansou Hotel, feels like stepping into a storybook. Its Japanese farmhouse charm, elegant décor, and inviting garden entrance create a warm, enchanting vibe. Just a 5-minute drive from Mt. Fuji Station, it’s a perfect stop for shrine visitors or forest trail explorers.

Sengenchaya serves both hoto noodles and Yoshida Udon. The hoto, steaming in a rustic iron pot, boasts a rich, savory miso broth with pumpkin and vegetables, elevated by tempura or meat toppings. The lighter, firm Yoshida Udon pairs beautifully with tempura or other sides for a delightful meal. A must-visit for a cozy, flavorful break while exploring the Kawaguchiko area!

At Mount Fuji’s Fifth Station, climbers can refuel at various eateries and shops serving unique Mount Fuji-themed dishes, from mountain-shaped cakes to Fuji-inspired udon. A highlight is Amanoya bakery, renowned for its Mount Fuji Melon Pan. This adorable treat mimics the iconic peak with a green summer-inspired exterior, dusted with cocoa powder and powdered sugar to form a volcano crater. Its crispy, sweet outer layer and soft, fluffy interior make it irresistible for bread lovers. A summer climbing season favorite, it’s often spotted in climbers’ hands. Available solo or in gift sets of three, it’s the perfect souvenir to share the Fuji magic with friends and family!

The Kawaguchiko-Fuji View Ropeway whisks you from Lake Kawaguchi’s shore to Fujimi-dai Station at 1,075 meters, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji and the lake below—a must-do for visitors. At the top, Tenjosan Park awaits with its observation deck and the delightful Tanuki Chaya (Raccoon Tea House), a social media hotspot known for its Mount Fuji Dango.

These skewers come in two flavors: sweet soy sauce Tanuki Dango and black honey-soybean powder Usagi Dango, each dumpling stamped with a Mount Fuji design. On clear days, snap a souvenir photo with your dango and the majestic mountain backdrop. Tanuki Chaya also serves treats like ice cream and curry bread, making it a cozy spot to relax and soak in the serene surroundings.

Tucked along Lake Kawaguchi’s northern shore, Lake Bake has been a local gem since 2009. Its star is the signature aged bread, crafted from whole wheat flour and studded with walnuts and raisins. This hearty, chewy loaf, with just the right moisture, shines with butter or jam. The scone lineup—classic, chocolate, matcha with black beans, or fig—is equally tempting, perfect for enjoying fresh or taking to-go.

Inside, a cozy seating area pairs coffee with stunning lake and Mount Fuji views, requiring a minimum order of one drink or food item (bread excluded). Outside, al fresco seats invite you to savor the breeze and sunshine on clear days. Next to Oishi Park and the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center, Lake Bake is a must-stop for a scenic, delicious break while exploring Kawaguchiko by car.

Idaten, a beloved tempura spot near Kawaguchiko Station, delights with freshly fried, crispy tempura in a cozy dark-wood interior. With 61 seats—counter, tatami, and tables—it easily accommodates groups. Chefs behind the counter craft each dish with care, blending artistry and flavor.

The star is the Mount Fuji Tempura Donburi (serves two), a visual masterpiece featuring six large prawns shaped like Mount Fuji, tempura peppers as forests, salmon roe as volcanic rocks, and eggplant mimicking the crater, paired with two miso soups. It’s as photogenic as it is delicious. Other tempura platters, featuring fugu, vegetables, chicken, or pumpkin, boast a light, non-greasy batter and balanced dipping sauce. You can also savor local Yoshida Udon.

Just a 3-minute walk from the station, Idaten is a favorite for international visitors. Drop by for a flavorful, fresh tempura meal to fuel your Lake Kawaguchi adventures!

Aiya, a popular Japanese family restaurant chain, serves a diverse menu perfect for groups with varied tastes. From soba and udon to tempura, sashimi, sushi, and sukiyaki hot pots, there’s something for everyone. Each set meal comes with a main dish, miso soup, salad, sides, and a drink, with slight variations by order. The photo-filled menu makes ordering a breeze, even for international visitors.

Just a 20-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station, Aiya’s large sign is hard to miss. With over 100 seats, it welcomes tour groups, and parking is available for drivers. Open from noon to 11 PM, it’s a great spot for a hearty meal after Fuji-Q Highland, ensuring a delicious late-night option in Kawaguchiko!

Uotami is one of the few izakayas (Japanese pubs) in the Fujisan and Kawaguchiko area, offering a full range of classic izakaya dishes like edamame, salads, sashimi, sushi, skewers, and fried foods. You can also sample horse sashimi, a local specialty. If you're after something more filling, they serve hot pots, fried rice, and stir-fried noodles, making it a great spot whether you want a light snack or a full meal.

The drinks menu is just as extensive, featuring sake, shochu, umeshu (plum wine), fruit wines, and of course, draft beer. Highball lovers will appreciate the range of regional variations, while non-drinkers can enjoy sodas, non-alcoholic cocktails, and vegetable juices.

Located right across from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line, Uotami is hard to miss. With most restaurants in the area closing early, its late hours—open until midnight—make it a standout choice. If you’re planning to visit, be sure to reserve a table through the link below!

From chewy Yoshida Udon to gnocchi-like hoto noodles, Kawaguchiko’s local dishes delight both tourists and locals. For a sweet treat, grab the adorable Fuji-shaped melon bread or relax at a charming lakeside café. Many spots offer online reservations, letting you skip lines and savor more of your trip.