Mt Fuji is a beautiful mountain not to be missed when visiting Japan. And Fujiyoshida is the perfect place to base yourself without as many of the tourists in nearby Kawaguchiko. Fujiyoshida Youth Hostel is part of the Japan Youth Hostel Association but don't let the word hostel in its name confuse you as it is more of an inn as all rooms are private.
In typical Japanese style rooms are lined with tatami mats and you sleep on futon mattresses on the floor. The mattresses are very comfortable and provide a good night's sleep. The rooms also come with a TV and a small table to sit at. With only 6 rooms it is a very quiet hostel especially when we visited in May and only 1 other guest was staying there. Being a traditional Japanese house does means the walls are a little thin so you can hear if other guests have the TV on loudly but it is not too bad.
The shared bathroom facilities look like they have just been renovated and they were always clean. There is also a small Japanese bathtub that you can have a soak in once you've washed off. There are no common areas outside of the rooms but there is free coffee and tea as well as a fridge and microwave. There is lots of information on the local area and the owner has many recommendations. If you ever need assistance the owner lives downstairs with her family and dog Rabu so she is always around if you need anything.
The location is easy to access being about a 10 min walk from Shimoyoshida Station or Gekkoji Station or a 15 min walk from Fujisan Station which is also where the highway buses from other cities stop. You will find a Lawsons and a 7/11 nearby as well as a few restaurants throughout the town. Don't miss a walk up to Chureito Pagoda which is one of the most iconic photo spots of Fuji if you are lucky enough to see her show her face.
The Fujiyoshida Youth Hostel is a great budget option for all ages when exploring the Mt Fuji area.
