Yamanashi Prefecture is located in the central region of Japan and is known for its spectacular natural scenery, including Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan, in the southern part of the prefecture, and the majestic Southern Alps in the northern part. In addition to beautiful natural spots such as the Fuji Five Lakes and the Shosenkyo Gorge, there are many historical shrines and temples, as well as places associated with Shingen Takeda, which are popular among history buffs. The region also produces many fruits such as grapes and peaches, and the wine industry is particularly noteworthy. It is also known as a hot spring resort, and the Ishiwa Hot Springs is popular among tourists. Yamanashi Prefecture is an attractive region where visitors can enjoy nature, history, and gourmet food.

Where is Yamanashi?

Mt. Fuji Area

About 2 hours 10 minutes from Tokyo Station by trains.

Mt. Fuji

Mt Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan, standing at approximately 3,776 meters above sea level. Located on the border between Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures, its beautiful conical shape is known throughout the world as a symbol of Japan. Mt. Fuji is an active volcano, but it has not erupted for a long time, so many people visit the mountain for climbing and sightseeing. Mt. Fuji is an active volcano that has not erupted for a long time, many people visit the mountain for climbing and sightseeing. In 2013, Mt. Fuji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its cultural value is also highly evaluated.

Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Kawaguchi is one of the Fuji Five Lakes in Yamanashi Prefecture, located at the northern foot of Mt Fuji. This lake is famous for its beautiful scenery with Mt. Fuji in the background, and is especially well known as a great spot to see the reflection of Mt. Fuji on the surface of the water on a clear day. Sightseeing and leisure activities are abundant, and boating, fishing, camping, and hot springs can be enjoyed. In addition, there are many tourist facilities in the surrounding area, such as FujiQ Highland, museums, and flower theme parks, which attract many tourists throughout the year. Lake Kawaguchi is one of Japan's representative tourist destinations, where visitors can enjoy the beauty of nature and the grandeur of Mt Fuji.

Oshino Hakkai

Oshino Hakkai is the collective name for eight fresh water ponds where melted snow water from Mt Fuji. This spring water is naturally filtered by passing through the volcanic rock layers of Mt. Fuji, forming extremely clear and beautiful water. Each pond has its own name and unique characteristics, giving visitors a refreshing and cool feeling. Oshino Hakkai is recognized not only for its natural beauty, but also for the efforts of local residents to maintain the purity of the water. With well-maintained walking trails, this popular tourist destination allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons, along with the spectacular view of Mt Fuji.

Hoto

Hoto is a typical local dish of Yamanashi Prefecture, consisting of thickly sliced flour noodles and vegetables cooked in a miso-based soup. This simple yet nutritious and warming dish is especially popular during the cold winter months. Hoto is characterized by the glutinous texture of the noodles and the deep flavor of miso, which intertwines perfectly with the sweetness of the vegetables. Although it is a popular home-style dish, visitors to Yamanashi Prefecture can enjoy the authentic taste of Hoto at restaurants that serve Hoto with local ingredients.

Kofu Area

About 2 hours from Tokyo Station by trains.

Takeda Shrine

Takeda Shrine is dedicated to Shingen Takeda, a famous general of the Warring States period. Located on the site of Shingen Takeda's former residence, the shrine is much visited by those who remember his valor and wisdom. Within the shrine grounds are various monuments and statues commemorating the exploits of Shingen, and especially in spring, many cherry trees are in full bloom, providing a beautiful sight to behold. In addition, the Shingen-ko Festival is held every April, with parades and events commemorating the life of Takeda Shingen, attracting many tourists and locals. Takeda Shrine is well worth a visit for anyone interested in Japanese history.

Shingen-Mochi Factory Theme Park

Shingen-Mochi Factory Theme Park is an interactive facility themed on a factory in Yamanashi Prefecture that produces the popular Japanese confectionery Shingen mochi. At this theme park, visitors can observe the Shingen mochi production process, experience making Shingen mochi, and enjoy tasting sweets made from Shingen mochi. Shingen mochi is a traditional Yamanashi Prefecture wagashi made with soybean flour and brown sugar, and is a well-known specialty of the region. The facility also has a souvenir corner where visitors can purchase Shingen mochi and other Japanese sweets. Recommended for families and wagashi lovers, this is a place where you can learn while having fun.

Isawa Hot Spring

Isawa Onsen is a popular hot spring resort in Yamanashi Prefecture, with many inns and hotels in the hot spring resort area, each offering a rich source of hot spring water. The quality of the hot spring water in Isawa Onsen is said to be good for beautiful skin and relieving fatigue, and has been popular among many people since long ago. The area surrounding the hot spring resort is also rich in tourist attractions, including farms where visitors can enjoy picking grapes, peaches, and other fruits, historical temples, and scenic spots full of natural beauty. Enjoying the different nature of Yamanashi in each season, Isawa Onsen is a place where you can experience the charm of the four seasons not only through the hot springs, but also through the food, scenery, and hands-on activities.

Shosenkyo Gorge

Shosenkyo is a gorge rich in nature located in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. This 10-kilometer-long gorge is surrounded by strange granite rocks and deep greenery, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons. The autumn foliage is especially beautiful in fall, attracting many hikers and photographers. The Shosenkyo Gorge offers scenic overlooks and walking trails along the mountain stream, allowing visitors to walk through nature and observe the beauty of the landforms up close. The valley is also home to waterfalls such as Senga Falls and other spots that are crowded with tourists seeking cooler temperatures in summer. Shosenkyo Gorge, where you can feel the art created by nature, is one of the representative sightseeing spots in Yamanashi Prefecture.

04/12/2024

Explore Yamanashi: Mt. Fuji Views, Historic Shrines, and Vineyard Vistas