Daisy Hills

INFO

Fujiyoshida sits directly at the northern base of Mount Fuji in Japan's Yamanashi Prefecture. Home to about 45,000 residents, this mid-sized city is a massive tourist hub for those who want to view and climb Mount Fuji. It’s easily one of the most photographed towns globally for this reason. So packed that the 2026 cherry blossom festival was actually canceled to combat overtourism. Spoiler: it didn't work.

You've definitely seen its most famous postcard shots: Chureito Pagoda, the Lawson convenience store (aka Fuji Lawson), and the base of Honcho Street. Every single one of these spots is a permanent busy zone with a constant flood of tourists.. The pagoda sees over a million visitors a year, the view outside Lawson is being blocked off to deter crowds, and Honcho Street faces non-stop traffic hiccups from people piling for the view of Mount Fuji.

When I visit popular areas like Fujiyoshida, I try to do my best to dodge these crowded places. Are the views great? Yes of course! They’re popular for a reason. But as a photographer and someone who prides themselves with being creative and thinking outside the box. I feel like it's my job to find something a bit more unique.

Speaking of… Daisy Hills was captured because of a moment of indecision. Originally I had decided to spend the afternoon of my day trip in Fujiyoshida at the famous pagoda. But upon arrival, I decided to try the Lawson. I had photographed the Pagoda previously so I thought I would try something different as a change. 

But… on the way to the famous Lawson I stumbled upon this view of Mount Fuji with a 7/11. Shocked was an understatement., How had I never seen this before?

This was the spot… Photographing all the way from late afternoon to blue hour arriving at this scene. What a moody photo, a unique view of the mountain. Easily the shot I am most proud of on this particular trip.

Daisy Hills

View of 7/11 with Mount Fuji in backgroundFujiyoshida, Japan