11 Must-Try Foods in Kawaguchiko: From Hoto Noodles to Fujisan Dango and More!

5 Must-Try Hoto Noodle and Yoshida Udon Spots Near Mount Fuji

1. Yoshida Udon: Menkyo-kaiden

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Menkyo-kaiden is an immensly popular spot in Fujiyoshida City, renowned for serving its signature Yoshida Udon — a local specialty known for its delightfully chewy, firm texture. Their udon is paired with a rich, savory broth made from soy sauce and miso, offering a warm, comforting flavor. The must-try dish here is the “Yokubari Udon,”which comes loaded with flavorful toppings like simmered beef, fried chikuwa (fish cake), tofu skin, and seaweed. The noodles are satisfying, and if the broth seems a little sweet, you can adjust the flavor with the chili flakes provided at the table.

Another highlight is their jumbo tempura, a crispy, perfectly fried delight that’s light on oil and big on flavor. However, quantities are limited, and it often sells out quickly, so arriving early is a must. Best of all, this delicious meal won’t break the bank — one bowl of their signature udon costs under 1,000 yen, making it both affordable and tasty.

The restaurant is about a 10-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line. Look for the shop curtain with its name at the entrance — it’s easy to spot. But be prepared for a line! Crowds often gather before opening, and you’ll need to write your name on the waiting list at the door. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere, Menkyo-kaiden is a beloved spot among tourists and locals alike.

2. Yoshida Udon: Fujiya

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Fujiya is a hidden gem cherished by locals and just a 5-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line. With parking available for up to 30 cars, it’s also a convenient spot for tourists. Specializing in Fujiyoshida’s Yoshida Udon, Fujiya offers more than just standard soy sauce and miso broth. Unique options like curry, cheese black curry, and Yoshida tomato udon set this shop apart.

One standout dish you must try is the “Black Fujiya” udon. Made with charcoal-infused noodles that are both flavorful and health-conscious, it delivers the perfect balance of firmness and aroma. The dish comes generously topped with cabbage, tempura shrimp, fried chikuwa, green onions, and stewed horse intestines. Be sure to try the pickled lotus root side dish, which is both delicious and complimentary, as well as add a dash of “suridane,” a spicy chili condiment considered the soul of Yoshida Udon.

Like many places in the area, Fujiya offers fantastic value — you can enjoy a hearty meal for under 1,000 yen. The black udon is a rare find locally, and while the shop’s exterior may be unassuming, it boasts a loyal following. To avoid long waits, arrive early and sign in at the entrance. While it’s slightly less crowded than other popular spots, Fujiya remains a favorite for its unique flavors and satisfying portions.

3. Hoto: Hotou Fudo

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Hoto is a classic Yamanashi noodle dish, somewhat similar to wide udon noodles, served in a miso-based vegetable soup. It’s typically presented in a rustic iron pot, adding a nostalgic touch to the experience. The chewy noodles and savory broth, with its salty and fragrant notes, make it a must-try specialty around Kawaguchiko.

Hotou Fudo is one of the most famous spots to enjoy this dish, with four locations around Kawaguchiko. The Kawaguchiko Station restaurant is the most accessible, but also tends to be the busiest. For something unique, the Higashikoiji stands stands out with its whimsical cloud-shaped architecture, making it a popular Instagram spot.

Their signature “Fudou Hoto” features a hearty soup made with vegetables, pumpkin, and miso. The broth has a slightly sweet undertone that balances its savory base. While the noodles are on the firmer side, the flavors remain enjoyable throughout the meal and you can add a bit of chili for an extra kick.

For adventurous eaters, the menu also includes horse sashimi, which is lighter and more refreshing than beef while being highly nutritious. Another standout is the black sugar inari sushi, a favorite among both kids and seniors.

Though slightly pricier than Yoshida Udon, Hotou Fudo offers great value with its unique ambiance. Except for the Higashikoiji shop, the other locations have a traditional Japanese farmhouse design. Plus, since it’s open late, it’s a favorite for both locals and tourists. Be prepared for lines, though — they’re always buzzing with hungry visitors!

4. Udon and Hoto: Amano

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If you’re looking to enjoy both hoto noodles and udon in one location, Amano is the place to be! Known for adding silkworm powder to their noodles, Amano’s creations have an irresistibly smooth texture that makes every bite a delight.

For hoto lovers, the pork hoto and the signature mushroom hoto are hearty and flavorful options. Udon fans should try the specialty udon, which comes loaded with tempura and pork for a truly satisfying meal. The menu also offers unique side dishes like horse sashimi, which is light and refreshing, and fried natto rolls, a fun and adventurous flavor experience you’ll only find in Japan.

The restaurant is about a 20-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line, but it’s conveniently close to Fuji-Q Highland and Fujiyama Onsen. If you’re driving, parking won’t be an issue. Open from lunchtime until 9:00 p.m., Amano is one of the few places in the area that stays open late — perfect for a post-Fuji-Q meal!

To avoid waiting in line, you can make online reservations using the link below. Whether you’re craving noodles or curious about regional specialties, Amano is a must-visit for foodies exploring the Kawaguchiko area!

5. Yoshida Udon and Hoto: Sengenchaya

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Located within the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, Sengenchaya is a restaurant operated by the famous Konansou Hotel in Kawaguchiko. With its Japanese-style farmhouse architecture and a charming garden at the entrance, stepping into Sengenchaya feels like walking into a storybook. The elegant décor is especially appealing. It’s about a 5-minute drive from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line.

At Sengenchaya, you can enjoy both hoto noodles and Yoshida Udon. Their hoto, served piping hot in an iron pot, is particularly popular. The rich, savory broth — made with pumpkin, vegetables, and miso — pairs perfectly with tempura or meat toppings, creating a heartwarming meal. The firm-textured Yoshida Udon offers a lighter flavor profile and is equally enjoyable with tempura or other sides.

Although the location is slightly farther from the station, it’s a favorite stop for visitors heading to or from the shrine or nearby forest trails. If your itinerary includes a visit to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, this is the perfect spot to recharge with a delicious local meal before continuing your adventure!

3 Recommended Cafes and Unique Snacks to Try Around Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko

6. Mount Fuji Melon Pan: Amanoya

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At the Fifth Station on Mount Fuji, there are several restaurants and shops where climbers can take a break. Many of the eateries offer special Mount Fuji-themed dishes, such as Mount Fuji-shaped cakes, croquettes, and even Fuji-inspired udon noodles.

One standout is the Amanoya bakery, famous for its Mount Fuji Melon Pan. Shaped like the iconic mountain, the melon pan features a green exterior that resembles Mount Fuji in summer, with cocoa powder and powdered sugar used to create the volcano crater effect. The design is simply adorable! The outer layer is crispy and sweet. Inside, the bread is soft and fluffy, making it a favorite for many bread lovers. It’s a must-try local treat, especially during the summer climbing season when it’s common to see many climbers carrying one. Besides the individual servings, they also offer gift sets with three pieces, making it easy to take a part of Mount Fuji home to share with friends and family.

7. Mount Fuji Dango: Tanuki Chaya

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At Kawaguchiko, you’ll find the Kawaguchiko-Fuji View Ropeway, which connects the lakeside to the Fujimi-dai Station at an elevation of 1,075 meters. The ride offers stunning panoramic views of both Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area.

Once you reach the Fujimi-dai Station and step off the ropeway, you’ll find yourself in Tenjosan Park, which not only has an observation deck but also houses the charming Tanuki Chaya (Raccoon Tea House). This spot is famous for its Mount Fuji Dango, a favorite photo op for many visitors on social media.

There are two varieties of dumplings: one is the sweet soy sauce-flavored Tanuki Dango, and the other is a black honey and soybean powder-flavored Usagi Dango (Rabbit Dumpling). Both are served on skewers with Mount Fuji printed on each dumpling. On a clear day, you can grab some dumplings, relax, and enjoy the view of Mount Fuji while taking a souvenir photo with the iconic mountain in the background.

In addition to dango, Tanuki Chaya also offers other snacks like ice cream and curry bread, making it a perfect stop to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

8. Bakery Cafe: Lake Bake

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Located on the northern lakeside of Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Bake has been a local favorite since it opened in 2009. The highlight of the menu is the bakery’s signature aged bread, made with whole wheat flour and packed with walnuts and raisins. It has a hearty, chewy texture with just the right amount of moisture, making it perfect with butter or jam. Their scone selection is also popular, with unique flavors like classic, chocolate, matcha and black beans, and fig. Whether you’re having them fresh or taking them to-go, they’re a great choice.

Inside, there’s a cozy seating area where you can enjoy a coffee while admiring the stunning lake and mountain views. If you choose to dine in, there’s a minimum order of one drink or one food item (bread cannot be used to meet the minimum). Outside, there are al fresco seats where you can enjoy the lake and Mount Fuji view — perfect on sunny days when you can bask in the fresh breeze and warm sunlight.

Lake Bake is conveniently located next to Oishi Park and the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center, making it a great stop if you’re exploring the area by car. It’s a must-visit for anyone in the Kawaguchiko region!

3 Recommended Japanese Restaurants for Dining Around Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko

9. Tempura: Idaten

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Idaten is a popular tempura restaurant that serves freshly made, crispy tempura. As you step inside the cozy, dark-wood interior, you’ll see chefs working diligently behind the counter. The restaurant has a total of 61 seats, including counter seats, tatami areas, and regular tables, so large groups won’t need to worry about seating.

The standout dish here is the Mount Fuji Tempura Donburi (served for two), which features six large prawns arranged to resemble towering Mount Fuji, along with tempura peppers that look like a forest, salmon roe that mimics volcanic rocks, eggplant tempura symbolizing the crater, and two bowls of miso soup. The dish is as much about the presentation and creativity as it is about the taste, and many diners enjoy taking pictures of their meal.

They also offer a variety of tempura platters made with ingredients like fugu (pufferfish), vegetables, chicken, and pumpkin, so you can order according to your preference. The tempura batter is thin and light, without any oily aftertaste, and the dipping sauce isn’t overly salty, making it an enjoyable experience. You can also order local specialty Yoshida Udon.

Idaten is just a 3-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station, making it super convenient for visitors. It’s a favorite among international tourists, so if you’re feeling hungry before exploring the area around Lake Kawaguchi, stop by for some freshly fried tempura to fuel up before continuing your adventure!

10. Japanese Teishoku: Aiya

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Aiya is a popular chain of Japanese family restaurants offering a wide variety of dishes. From soba and udon noodles to tempura, sashimi, sushi, and even sukiyaki hot pots, there’s something for everyone, making it an ideal spot for groups with different preferences. Each set meal includes a main dish, miso soup, salad, side dishes, and drinks, with slight variations depending on what you order.

The extensive menu features photos and descriptions of most dishes, making it easy for even foreign visitors to navigate.

Located about a 20-minute walk from Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line, the restaurant is easy to spot thanks to its large sign. The interior has over 100 seats, frequently hosting large tour groups, and there’s parking available for those traveling by car. Open from noon until 11:00 p.m., it’s perfect for a meal after a visit to Fuji-Q Highland, and you won’t have to worry about finding somewhere to eat late!

11. Izakaya: Uotami

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Uotami, is one of the few izakayas (Japanese pubs) in the Fujisan and Kawaguchiko area. It offers all the classic izakaya snacks like edamame, salads, sashimi, sushi, skewers, and fried foods. You can also try horse sashimi, a local delicacy. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, they serve hot pots, fried rice, and stir-fried noodles, so whether you’re looking for a light bite or a full meal, this place has you covered.

The drinks menu is extensive, with a great selection of sake, shochu, umeshu, fruit wines, and of course, draft beer. For highball lovers, there are several variations made with different regional spirits. Non-drinkers aren’t left out, with a variety of non-alcoholic drinks available, including sodas, non-alcoholic cocktails, and vegetable juices.

Located right in front of Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line, the izakaya is impossible to miss. Since most establishments around the area close early, it’s rare to find a restaurant open until midnight, making Uotami a standout. If you’re planning to visit, make sure to reserve a table in advance through the link below!

Make Your Must-Try Mount Fuji and Kawaguchiko Food List!

From uniquely textured Yoshida Udon to hoto noodles similar to gnocchi, the Kawaguchiko area is home to many distinct local dishes that not only attract tourists but are also beloved by locals. If you’re in the mood for a snack, don’t miss adorable Fuji-shaped melon bread or the charming lakeside cafes around Kawaguchiko. Some of the locations offer online reservations, so you can book ahead and avoid wasting precious travel time waiting in line.

Note: The information in this article is accurate as of September 2024, and may differ from the current situation. For the latest details, please visit the official websites of the respective businesses.

Written by:

With a background in mass media, Tiffany pursued studied in Japan and achieved JLPT N1 certification. She now writes for different travel platforms, leveraging her communication prowess with her translation abilities to make Japanese content easily understandable. After residing in Japan for three years and gaining experience from Japanese cosmetic shops and departmental help desks, she’s profoundly acquainted with the cultural nuances between Taiwan and Japan. Her journeys have spanned areas like Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, and Okinawa. A frequent visitor to Japanese tourist destinations, she enjoys the local cuisine so much that she could eat Japanese ramen for every meal without tiring of it.