Image credit: IMDb
The Hot Spot is the latest Japanese drama that has hooked audiences with its engaging plot and stunning backdrop of Mount Fuji. Also known as ‘Hotto Supotto’, the show offers a unique twist on the sci-fi drama genre, presenting a fresh take on aliens through its simple yet entertaining storyline. What truly sets the show apart is its picturesque setting, featuring Japan’s most iconic mountain. Discover the scenic filming location of The Hot Spot by exploring the top things to do in Fujiyoshida, the Japanese city where the series was filmed.
Also, explore this guide to soaking and steaming in Sento, Japan’s communal bathhouses.
The Hot Spot Japanese drama: Plot, release and where to watch
The sci-fi show revolves around a single mother, Endo Kiyomi, who happens to meet an alien through her work. But rather than teaming up with the alien to fight injustice in the world, the woman takes the alien’s help to solve minor problems in her work and personal life. The plot is set in a hotel at the foot of Mount Fuji, Fujiyoshida, where the alien has been residing in secrecy, healing with the help of the hotel’s hot spring, where Endo Kiyomi works.
The Japanese drama has 10 episodes, each lasting 45 minutes, and was released on Nippon TV in January 2025. It is available to stream on Netflix, Hulu and TVer.
Things to do in Fujiyoshida, the filming location of The Hot Spot
Fujiyoshida | Image credit: Huu Huynh/Pexels
Fujiyoshida, located in Yamanashi Prefecture, is the closest city to Mount Fuji, offering unparalleled opportunities to admire the mountain’s beauty. This prime location makes it a magnet for tourists seeking iconic Mount Fuji views and climbers eager to ascend its slopes. Travellers can reach the city via Haneda Airport, located about 117 kilometres away, or by taking a scenic ride on the Fujikyuko Line from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo.
Witness the cherry blossoms of Arakurayama Sengen Park
Arakurayama Sengen Park | Image credit: Rafael Hideki Tamanaha/Pexels
This famous park, on Mount Arakurayama, covers an area of 4.3 hectares and is home to the iconic Chureito Pagoda. The park begins at the base and extends up the mountain, providing a stunning view of the cityscape in Fujiyoshida. It allows visitors to capture three of Japan’s iconic attractions: cherry blossoms, the Chureito Pagoda, and Mount Fuji. Additionally, the park hosts an annual Cherry Blossom Festival in April.
Address: 2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011, Japan.
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Shop and dine at Honcho Street, a viral hot spot
Honcho Street | Image credit: Acres of Film/Pexels
Honcho Street gained popularity on social media as one of the most Instagrammable spots in Japan. It is a popular shopping and residential area in Fujiyoshida, running through the city centre. The street offers a picture-perfect frame of Mount Fuji, leaving visitors in awe with its stunning views. It’s also lined with charming cafés serving authentic Japanese delicacies.
Address: 3 Chome-13 Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0004, Japan
Enjoy rides at the Fuji-Q Highland
Fuji-Q Highland | Image credit: Jeremy Thompson/Flickr
Imagine an amusement park with views of Mount Fuji — that’s precisely what Fuji-Q Highland promises! Ride Fujiyama, Arrogant, Zokkon, and other thrilling roller coasters, or climb the Fujiyama Tower, another great place to view Mount Fuji.
Address: 5 Chome-6-1 Shinnishihara, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0017, Japan.
Timings: 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays and 9 am to 7 pm on weekends. Operating hours are subject to change, so it’s best to check their official website for updates.
Entry: Entry to the park is free, but each ride has a separate admission fee.
Soak in the thermal waters of local onsens
An onsen | Image credit: Fujiyama Onsen
Fujiyoshida has several onsens, the traditional Japanese hot springs, which are ideal spots for a dip. Fujiyama Onsen, Hot Spring Inn and Mt Fuji Lava Hot Spring Sensui are great spots to experience the authentic onsen.
Before dipping into one of these hot springs, go through this guide on Onsen etiquette.
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine | Image credit: Sakaori, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
This Shinto shrine is located in southeastern Yamanashi near the border of Shizuoka and was once the starting point of the Mount Fuji hike. It was a popular spot, where followers of the Fujiko faith would begin the hike from the small gate at the back of the shrine.
Address: 5558 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0005, Japan.
Shop the best travel experiences here
(Feature image credit: IMDb)
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Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I visit the filming locations of ‘The Hot Spot’?
Yes, you can visit the filming locations of ‘The Hot Spot’ in Fujiyoshida, Japan.
Did ‘The Hot Spot’ film in any iconic locations?
Yes, the show often features Mount Fuji.
Written By
Priyaja Bakshi
Digital Writer – Growth, Travel
Priyaja took her love for reading to the next level by majoring in English and minoring in Journalism ..Read Moreat Lady Shri Ram College For Women (DU). She is extremely curious about the world and wishes to visit all the countries once in her life. She identifies as a foodie and loves to spend her free time exploring different cuisine and curating new dishes. As a former Food Writer at NDTV, she can help you find the best places to eat in Delhi! Read Less
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