Exploring Yamanashi Prefecture — From Mount Fuji’s Majestic Views to Natural Springs and Historic Sites

Yamanashi Prefecture is located in the heart of Japan, extending to the north side of the iconic Mount Fuji, a World Heritage Site. With excellent accessibility—just 1-2 hours from Tokyo—this region offers a wealth of diverse attractions including majestic mountains, beautiful lakes, pristine springs, and historic hot spring areas. The stunning views of Mount Fuji are particularly popular among international visitors. This guide introduces carefully selected tourist destinations in Yamanashi Prefecture that are especially worth visiting. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of nature, history, and food culture that Yamanashi has to offer.

Scenic Mount Fuji Viewpoints

Arakurayama Sengen Park (Fujiyoshida City)

Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida City has recently become one of the most popular Mount Fuji viewing spots both within Japan and internationally. The view of Mount Fuji together with the five-storied pagoda known as “Chureito” has captivated many photographers and camera enthusiasts.

Located on the slopes of Mount Arakura in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, the park features the “Chureito” or “five-storied pagoda,” a memorial tower for the war dead, and approximately 650 cherry trees. The magnificent “Mount Fuji” and the five-storied “Chureito” pagoda can be seen together, offering what international visitors praise as the quintessential “NIPPON” experience. To reach the park, visitors need to climb 398 steps called “Sakuya-hime Stairs,” a mini-hike that is well worth the effort for the view that awaits.

Highlights:

• Spectacular views of the pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background
• About 650 cherry trees in full bloom during spring, creating a beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot
• Beautiful autumn colors in fall
• Night views that have been selected as one of the “New Three Major Night Views of Japan”

This spot is extremely popular among international tourists as “a place where you can experience Mount Fuji and Kyoto at the same time.” It offers the rare opportunity to enjoy both the grandeur of Mount Fuji and the traditional Japanese aesthetic of the five-storied pagoda in one location.

This view has become world-famous in recent years and has even been featured on the cover of National Geographic’s “Traveler” magazine. In spring, with the park’s approximately 650 cherry trees in full bloom, the view of the symmetrical Mount Fuji rising beyond the striking red pillars and white walls of the five-storied pagoda is exceptional. Mount Fuji with snow remaining on its peak in spring is particularly beautiful.

Access: By car, it takes about 15 minutes from the Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway or about 10 minutes from the Fujiyoshida-Nishikatsura Smart IC. By train, get off at Shimoyoshida Station on the Fujikyu Line, walk about 10 minutes to the shrine entrance, and then climb the 398 “Sakuya-hime Stairs” to the pagoda, which takes about 20 minutes. Note that the observation deck was renovated and reopened on February 1, 2022.

Lake Kawaguchi and Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

Lake Kawaguchi, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, is a popular base for Mount Fuji tourism. The view from the “Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway” (formerly “Kawaguchiko Tenjozan Park Kachi Kachi Ropeway”) heading to Mount Tenjo from Lake Kawaguchi is especially magnificent.

Lake Kawaguchi has the longest shoreline among the Fuji Five Lakes. The view of Mount Fuji from Kawaguchiko Bridge is famously beautiful. The “Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway” connects the Kawaguchiko Station at 856m altitude with the Fujimidai Station at 1,075m altitude in just about 3 minutes. At the summit, there is a 3.5m tall “Kachi Kachi Mountain Scenic Swing” where visitors can enjoy the exhilarating feeling of swinging toward Mount Fuji against a panoramic backdrop (swing usage fee: 500 yen).

Highlights:

• Seasonal views of Mount Fuji and the lake
• The “Kachi Kachi Mountain Scenic Swing” photo spot
• Mount Tenjo, the setting for Osamu Dazai’s novel “Kachi Kachi Mountain”
• The “Bell of Heaven” at the summit where visitors can pray for good health and success in love while receiving Mount Fuji’s energy
• Various tourist facilities and restaurants along the lakeside

The Lake Kawaguchi area was developed for tourism early on, with a hot spring district on the eastern shore, the “Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway” providing access to Mount Tenjo (the setting of the folk tale “Kachi Kachi Mountain”), and the “Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum,” among many other attractions.

At the ropeway summit, visitors are greeted by rabbit and tanuki (raccoon dog) figurines, with decorations themed around the Kachi Kachi Mountain story. From the summit, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi, and as far as the Southern Alps, with changing natural scenery through the four seasons—fresh greenery in spring, hydrangeas in summer, autumn colors in fall, and snow scenes in winter.

Operating Hours: Regular season (March-November) 9:00-17:00 (last descent 17:20), December-February 9:30-16:30 (last descent 16:50). Hours may be extended during peak periods.

Access: Take the Lake Kawaguchi Loop Bus (Red Line) from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyu Line and get off at “Cruise Ship/Ropeway Entrance,” or about 15 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway.

Lake Sai and “Child-Holding Fuji”

“Lake Sai” is the smallest of the Fuji Five Lakes surrounding Mount Fuji. Though not as well-known a tourist spot, this makes it an excellent location to enjoy a mystical reflection in a quieter environment.

The main attraction of Lake Sai is the unique composition of Mount Fuji as seen from here. The view from Lake Sai includes a small mountain (Mount Omuro) in the foreground with Mount Fuji behind it, giving it the nickname “Child-Holding Fuji.” This distinctive “Reverse Fuji” reflection cannot be captured at any of the other Fuji Five Lakes.

Highlights:

• The unique “Child-Holding Fuji” view
• Quiet environment to enjoy the reflection of Mount Fuji
• Fewer tourists, creating a peaceful atmosphere

World Heritage Springs and Traditional Japanese Landscapes

Oshino Hakkai (Oshino Village)

Oshino Hakkai is a collection of springs fed by Mount Fuji’s underground water streams that visitors can tour. It has been designated as a Natural Monument of Japan (1934) and one of Japan’s 100 Best Water Sources (1985). In 2013, it was registered as a component asset of the World Heritage Site “Mount Fuji – Sacred Place and Source of Artistic Inspiration.”

Oshino Hakkai, located in Oshino Village in Yamanashi Prefecture, is the collective name for 8 springs where Mount Fuji’s snowmelt water emerges. Rain and snow that fall on Mount Fuji seep into the mountainside, which is covered with volcanic ejecta and lava flows that easily allow water to pass through, and emerge at the foot of the mountain after traveling through underground aquifers for more than twenty years.

Three Elements That Made It a World Heritage Component Asset:

1. Excellent water scenery with Mount Fuji in the background
2. Rich underground and surface water systems originating from Mount Fuji
3. The revival of the Fuji-ko faith and Moto-Hakko (history as a place for purification in Mount Fuji worship)

The Eight Ponds and Their Characteristics:

1. Deguchi-ike: The largest pond in Oshino Hakkai, located slightly away from the other ponds
2. Okama-ike: Named after the way the spring water bubbles up as if water were boiling in a pot
3. Sokonashi-ike: Said to be connected to Okama-ike through an underground water vein
4. Choshi-ike: Holds beautifully clear water with high transparency
5. Waku-ike: With abundant spring water and a depth of 4m, the undulating water surface and deep water scenery are beautiful, making it a representative pond of Oshino Hakkai
6. Nigori-ike: Despite its name meaning “Cloudy Pond,” it has high transparency; legend has it that the pond became cloudy after refusing to give water to a passing ascetic
7. Kagami-ike: Said to have spiritual power to discern good from evil, and was reportedly used in the past to resolve disputes among residents
8. Shobu-ike: One of the most beautiful ponds among the eight

These ponds are said to be arranged in the shape of the North Star (Deguchi-ike) and the Big Dipper (the remaining 7 ponds) according to astrology.

Highlights:

• Eight spring ponds with high transparency
• Scenery where fish and water plants swimming in the water appear to be floating in the air
• Traditional Japanese landscape with Mount Fuji in the background
• History as a sacred site for Mount Fuji worship

Around the clear-water ponds of Oshino Hakkai and the small streams flowing from them are traditional Japanese houses, with the symmetrical Mount Fuji with its large skirts spread to the left and right towering in the background. This scenery, reminiscent of Japan from hundreds of years ago, continues to attract visitors from both Japan and abroad. Around the ponds, there are also restaurants serving local specialties and souvenir shops.

Access: Using public transportation, take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (about 90 minutes), then the Fujikyu Railway Otsuki Line to Mt. Fuji Station (about 50 minutes), and then take the “Route Bus [via Fanuc to Hirano]” or “Fujikko-go” and get off at the “Oshino Hakkai (Ohashi)” bus stop. Alternatively, take the “Chuo Highway Bus [to Fuji Five Lakes]” from Shinjuku Station and get off at the “Oshino Hakkai” bus stop (about 140 minutes). By car, it is about 3.5km from the Yamanakako IC on the Higashi-Fujigoko Road.

Lake Sai and Aokigahara Jukai Forest

Lake Sai is one of the Fuji Five Lakes, created by an eruption of Mount Fuji. Surrounding it is the mysterious “Aokigahara Jukai Forest.”

Based at the Lake Sai Nature Center, visitors can enjoy nature guide tours. Regular guide tours cost 500 yen per person (1 hour), and reservation guide tours cost 3,000 yen per hour for groups of 5 or fewer, or 500 yen per person per hour for groups of 6 or more. (Fees may change after summer 2025.)

Highlights:

• The mystical Aokigahara Jukai Forest
• Natural caves of Fugaku Wind Cave and Narusawa Ice Cave
• The Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba, a village of traditional thatched-roof houses
• Saiko Bat Cave

The annual “Lake Sai Ice Festival” held from mid-January to mid-February is a popular winter event. Visitors can see ice art creations made by nature, including giant tree ice formations over 10m tall. During the event, nighttime illumination creates a different magical atmosphere than during the day.

Access: By train, take the bus from Fujikyu Railway’s “Kawaguchiko Station” for about 30 minutes and get off at “Saiko Koumori-ana.” By car, it’s about 20 minutes from the “Kawaguchiko IC” on the Chuo Expressway.

Scenic Hot Springs and Relaxation Spots

Hottarakashi Onsen (Yamanashi City)

When it comes to hot springs in Yamanashi Prefecture, “Hottarakashi Onsen” is a must-visit spot. The view from the open-air baths, located at an altitude of about 700m, is spectacular.

Located in Yamanashi City, “Hottarakashi Onsen” is a day-trip bathing facility renowned for its excellent views from its hot spring baths on a high plateau. From the open-air baths overlooking the Kofu Basin and Mount Fuji, visitors can enjoy the sunrise, night views selected as one of the “New Three Major Night Views of Japan,” and a sky full of stars. The facility opens one hour before sunrise, making it possible to bathe while watching the morning sun.

Hottarakashi Onsen has two bathing areas: “Kocchi-no-Yu” and “Acchi-no-Yu.”

“Kocchi-no-Yu” is the original hot spring, featuring wooden and stone open-air baths and indoor baths with the fragrance of wood. When the weather is good, Mount Fuji can be seen directly in front. It has a tranquil atmosphere that regular customers prefer. Operating hours are 10:30-17:00 (last entry 16:00) on weekdays and 10:30-22:00 (last entry 21:30) on weekends and holidays.

“Acchi-no-Yu,” on the other hand, has baths twice the size of “Kocchi-no-Yu” and opened in 2003. Its grand view overlooking the Kofu Basin is popular. Mount Fuji can be seen diagonally to the right. It opens one hour before sunrise and is where the popular morning bath is enjoyed. Operating hours are from one hour before sunrise to 22:00 (last entry 21:30). Opening times vary by season.

Highlights:

• Open-air baths with panoramic views of the Kofu Basin and Mount Fuji
• Morning baths available from one hour before sunrise
• Night views selected as one of the “New Three Major Night Views of Japan”
• A handmade hot spring with a “left alone” (Hottarakashi) atmosphere

The water is a strong alkaline simple hot spring, characterized by its low irritation and smooth feeling on the skin. The source of “Acchi-no-Yu” emerges from a fracture zone at a depth of 1500m, with a high pH value of 10.1, while “Kocchi-no-Yu” has a pH of 9.68, both making the skin smooth. Benefits include relief for neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, frozen shoulder, motor paralysis, joint stiffness, bruises, sprains, chronic digestive disorders, hemorrhoids, sensitivity to cold, recovery from illness, fatigue recovery, and health promotion.

Culinary Options: After bathing, visitors can enjoy local specialties such as the “Tamago Kake Gohan Set” (600 yen) using “Wine Eggs” native to Yamanashi Prefecture, or the crispy outside, gooey inside “Ontama-age” (hot spring egg tempura). The “Momtaro” food stall also sells miso soup sets with pork, banana juice, stewed pork with daikon radish, and more.

Access: Address: 1669-18 Yatsubo, Yamanashi City, Yamanashi Prefecture TEL: 0553-23-1526 Access: About 25 minutes from “Katsunuma IC” or “Ichinomiya/Misaka IC” on the Chuo Expressway, or about 10 minutes by taxi from Yamanashi Station on the JR Chuo Line. Fee: Adults 900 yen, Children (0 years to elementary school students) 400 yen

Isawa Onsen (Fuefuki City)

Isawa Onsen in Fuefuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a tourist area selected as one of the New Japan 100 Tourist Sites. Visitors can enjoy the open-air bath “Hottarakashi Onsen,” sweets made with peaches and grapes, wine, and leisure activities in a forest park surrounded by rich nature.

Isawa Onsen is the largest hot spring area in Yamanashi Prefecture. The main spring quality is alkaline simple hot spring, which is reputed to make the skin smooth, but many accommodations also have their own hot springs. Many inns offer local cuisine loved by Takeda Shingen, Koshu wines, and fruit picking plans typical of Yamanashi.

Highlights:

• The largest hot spring area in Yamanashi Prefecture
• Skin-friendly alkaline simple hot spring water
• Wine tours at nearby wineries
• Fruit picking experiences

Isawa Onsen originated from the “Open-Air Hot Spring” that became famous when high-temperature water emerged from a vineyard in Isawa in 1961 and flowed into a nearby river. Since then, it has developed as a hot spring resort. The spring quality is alkaline simple hot spring, said to be effective for neuralgia, bruises, chronic digestive disorders, hemorrhoids, sensitivity to cold, and more. The hot spring district has more than 40 ryokans and hotels, from reasonably priced inns to large hotels with pools, each offering bathing in unique baths.

Historic and Cultural Sites

Takeda Shrine (Kofu City)

This shrine enshrines Takeda Shingen, the famous warrior lord of Kai Province. It was founded in 1919 on the site of Tsutsujigasaki Mansion, the residence of three generations of the Takeda family. The mansion site is designated as a National Historic Site.

Highlights:

• The former residence of the famous warrior Takeda Shingen
• The National Historic Site of Tsutsujigasaki Mansion
• A famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn colors in fall
• The site of the Shingen Festival

Kofu Castle (Maizuru Park)

This castle was built after the fall of the Takeda clan, who ruled the province of Kai. Known as “Maizuru Castle” because its layout resembles “a crane spreading its wings,” it is counted as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Castles.

Currently, parts of the castle ruins, including gates and the Inari Turret, have been restored and opened to the public as Maizuru Park, serving as a place of relaxation for citizens. In spring, about 160 cherry trees bloom around the stone walls of Kofu Castle, offering a spectacular view together with Mount Fuji visible in the distance.

Highlights:

• Selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Castles
• Restored gates and Inari Turret
• A famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring
• Venue for the Shingen Festival

Access: About 5 minutes on foot from the south exit of Kofu Station on the JR Chuo Line, or about 15 minutes by car from the Kofu-Minami IC on the Chuo Expressway.

Shosenkyo Gorge

Shosenkyo Gorge, located in the northern part of Kofu City, is one of Japan’s leading gorges formed by the Arakawa River. It is designated as a Special National Scenic Spot.

Highlights:

• Unique rocks and formations with clear streams
• Designated as a Special National Scenic Spot
• Famous spots such as “Kakuenpo” and “Sengataki Waterfall”
• A popular spot for autumn colors

Yamanashi’s Fruits and Food Culture

Yamanashi Fruit Park along the Fuefuki River

As the name suggests, this is an urban park themed around fruits. Located on a plateau in the suburbs of Yamanashi City, it offers a view of Mount Fuji in front and the Southern Alps in the distance. The night view from here, combining the Kofu Basin and the illuminated glass dome inside the park, is so beautiful that it has been selected as one of the “New Three Major Night Views of Japan.”

The all-weather glass dome, unaffected by season or climate and filled with light, houses a fruit plaza, a fruit museum where you can learn about fruits, a wild play dome, and a fruit workshop. There are also outdoor adventure playgrounds and orchards, as well as cafes and restaurants with attractive night views, allowing visitors to enjoy a full day of activities.

Highlights:

• Views of Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps
• Various facilities themed around fruits
• Fruit picking experiences
• Night views selected as one of the “New Three Major Night Views of Japan”

Fruit Picking Experiences

Yamanashi Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading fruit kingdoms. Various fruit picking activities can be enjoyed depending on the season.

Seasonal Fruit Picking:

• Spring: Strawberry picking
• Early Summer: Cherry picking
• Summer: Peach picking, blueberry picking
• Autumn: Grape picking, apple picking

“AGBERRY,” one of the largest strawberry farms in Yamanashi Prefecture, offers a 60-minute all-you-can-eat experience without designated areas, allowing children to run freely throughout the large greenhouse. They also hold special events like nighttime strawberry picking.

Koshu Winery Tours

Yamanashi Prefecture is the birthplace of Japanese wine, with numerous wineries. The Katsunuma area, in particular, is known as the “Village of Wine.”

Winery Tour Points:

• Vineyard tours
• Brewing process tours
• Tasting experiences
• Wine shopping at direct sales stores

Yamanashi’s Local Cuisine and Food Culture

Houtou and Local Cuisine

The representative local dish of Yamanashi Prefecture is “Houtou.” It is a stew of flat noodles with pumpkin, root vegetables, and seasonal vegetables or meat in a miso-based broth.

Houtou is not just a noodle dish but is deeply connected to the lives and history of the people of Yamanashi. There is a theory that it was devised to be eaten easily during breaks in agricultural work. It is highly nutritious, allowing one to consume vegetables and protein in a single dish.

“Tori-motsu Ni,” simmered chicken offal in a sweet soy sauce, is another local dish of Yamanashi with a rich flavor. It pairs well with local red wine and is a popular menu item at izakayas (Japanese pubs). It’s a dish worth trying when visiting Yamanashi.

“Korogaki” (dried persimmons) is a specialty of Koshu City made by drying astringent persimmons. It is named after the practice of frequently turning the persimmons to ensure even drying. It is known as a healthy candy with concentrated natural sweetness.

Yamanashi Wine and Food Culture

Yamanashi Prefecture is known as the birthplace of Japanese wine, with a history dating back to the early Meiji period. At that time, young people from Yamanashi Prefecture learned winemaking abroad, and upon returning, spread the technology. Since then, Yamanashi has developed as the “Wine Kingdom of Japan.”

Currently, there are more than 100 wineries of various sizes in Yamanashi Prefecture, many of which accept tours and tastings. “Koshu Wine,” made from the Koshu grape variety, is receiving increasing international recognition as a unique wine made from a grape variety native to Japan.

Wineries offer tours that allow visitors to see the process from grape cultivation to fermentation and aging, as well as tastings with expert commentary, providing enjoyable programs for both wine enthusiasts and beginners. Recently, wineries with restaurants have increased, allowing visitors to enjoy pairings with local ingredients.

Seasonal Fruits and Sweets

Yamanashi Prefecture is also called the “Fruit Kingdom,” offering various fruits throughout the four seasons. It boasts the highest production of peaches and grapes in Japan. Various sweets using these fresh fruits are also a special treat of Yamanashi.

“Japanese confectionery using Mount Fuji’s famous water,” “Gelato using fruits,” and “Wine cakes” are sold in various places, using local specialties. There are many sweet shops, perfect for souvenirs, especially around the Fuji Five Lakes and hot spring areas.

Jams, juices, and dried fruits made with Yamanashi’s fruits are also popular souvenirs. Especially “Peach Compote” and “Grape Juice” are characterized by their rich flavors that capture the essence of Yamanashi’s sun-blessed fruits.

Seasonal Attractions in Yamanashi Prefecture

Spring (March-May) in Yamanashi

Spring in Yamanashi is spectacular with cherry blossoms and peach flowers. The cherry blossoms and five-storied pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park against the backdrop of Mount Fuji is a must-see scenic spot. The viewing period is typically from early to mid-April.

The Peach Orchards in Fuefuki City and Yamanashi City, known as “Peach Paradise,” are also a spring highlight. From early to mid-April, more than 10,000 peach trees bloom across approximately 60 hectares of vast peach orchards, creating a breathtaking scene of pink flowers. The contrast with the clear blue sky and the white snow-capped Southern Alps is striking.

The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is also a popular spring event in Yamanashi. About 800,000 moss phlox flowers bloom with Mount Fuji in the background, attracting many tourists.

Summer (June-August) in Yamanashi

Summer in Yamanashi offers cool highlands, refreshing caves, and Mount Fuji climbing. Nishizawa Valley and Shosenkyo Gorge are refreshing spots filled with negative ions.

The Mount Fuji climbing season begins in early July and continues until early September. Of the four climbing routes, the Yoshida Route on the Yamanashi side is popular even for beginners. Watching the sunrise (Goraiko) from the summit after staying at a mountain hut is an unforgettable experience.

Lavender fields and Sunflower fields are also summer attractions in Yamanashi. Especially, the sunflower field in Akeno, Hokuto City, with about 600,000 sunflowers blooming, offers a perfect photo spot with the Southern Alps in the background.

Summer is also the season for Peach picking. From July to August, visitors can enjoy the experience of picking and tasting fresh peaches on the spot in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan’s top peach-producing region.

Autumn (September-November) in Yamanashi

Autumn in Yamanashi is the season of autumn leaves and fruits. The autumn colors at Kawaguchiko Momiji Corridor and Shosenkyo Gorge are at their best from mid-October to mid-November. Especially, the autumn colors around Kakuenpo in Shosenkyo Gorge create a beautiful contrast between the unusual rocks and the trees dyed red and yellow, attracting many tourists.

Grape picking is the most popular autumn attraction. It’s in season from September to October, and visitors can enjoy various varieties including Koshu grapes and Kyoho. Yamanashi Prefecture is Japan’s top grape-producing region, with vineyards throughout the area.

Wine Tourism is also recommended in autumn. Various events such as harvest festivals and new wine festivals are held at each winery. There are also many restaurants where you can enjoy pairing local ingredients with wine, perfect for the autumn appetite.

Winter (December-February) in Yamanashi

Winter in Yamanashi offers snowy Mount Fuji views and hot springs. Diamond Fuji at Lake Yamanaka is a popular winter event. This is the moment when the sun aligns exactly with the summit of Mount Fuji, shining like a diamond.

Oshino Hakkai is also a winter highlight. The sight of snow-covered Mount Fuji reflected in the highly transparent water surface is exceptionally beautiful. You can enjoy the traditional Japanese landscape in a quiet and calm atmosphere.

Hot springs are even more attractive in the cold winter. Enjoying a snow-viewing bath at Isawa Onsen or Hottarakashi Onsen is recommended. Especially from Hottarakashi Onsen, you can enjoy two spectacular views: snow-covered Mount Fuji and the night view of the Kofu Basin.

For skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, Fujiten Resort and other ski areas are well-equipped. Enjoying winter sports while viewing the majestic Mount Fuji is a special experience.

Access Information

Access to Yamanashi Prefecture from Tokyo

By Train:

• Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express “Azusa” from Tokyo Station to Kofu Station, about 1 hour and 30 minutes
• From Otsuki, take the Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko/Mt. Fuji Station, about 1 hour

By Highway Bus:

• From Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko/Fuji Five Lakes, about 2 hours
• From Tokyo Station to Kofu Station, about 2 hours
• Many routes operate from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal, with relatively easy reservations

By Car:

• Via the Chuo Expressway from Tokyo to Kofu, about 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Access to the Fuji Five Lakes area via the Higashi-Fujigoko Road
• Early morning departure is recommended on holidays to avoid traffic jams

Transportation Within the Prefecture

Renting a car is recommended for efficient sightseeing around Yamanashi Prefecture. A car is especially convenient for visiting the Fuji Five Lakes area and enjoying fruit picking.

For public transportation, Fujikyu buses operate routes around the Fuji Five Lakes area. Sightseeing loop buses also operate during tourist seasons, so it’s good to check in advance.

Route buses also depart from Kofu Station, but the frequency is limited, so it’s advisable to check the timetable carefully when sightseeing.

Sightseeing Tips and Recommended Model Courses

2-Day, 1-Night Model Course (Fuji Five Lakes Area)

Day 1:

• Morning: Enjoy the spectacular view of Mount Fuji and the five-storied pagoda at Arakurayama Sengen Park
• Lunch: Savor Fujiyoshida Udon
• Afternoon: Explore around Lake Kawaguchi (Panoramic Ropeway, museum tours)
• Evening: Check into a lakeside hotel, relax in the hot springs
• Night: Enjoy the lakeside night view and cuisine using local ingredients

Day 2:

• Morning: Stroll around Oshino Hakkai
• Lunch: Enjoy the local dish Houtou
• Afternoon: Seasonal fruit picking or winery tour
• Evening: Return journey

3-Day, 2-Night Model Course (All Around Yamanashi Prefecture)

Day 1:

• Explore the history around Kofu (Takeda Shrine, Kofu Castle)
• Walk through Shosenkyo Gorge
• Stay at Isawa Onsen

Day 2:

• Tour wineries in Katsunuma
• Experience fruit picking
• Enjoy the spectacular view at Hottarakashi Onsen
• Stay in the Fuji Five Lakes area

Day 3:

• Explore the Fuji Five Lakes area (Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Sai, Aokigahara Jukai Forest)
• Visit Oshino Hakkai
• Visit Arakurayama Sengen Park
• Return journey

Conclusion

Yamanashi Prefecture offers not only the world-famous tourist attraction of Mount Fuji but also beautiful lakes, springs, historic hot springs, fruit picking, and many other diverse attractions. You can also enjoy the changing scenery through the four seasons, so please visit multiple times to discover the charms of Yamanashi in each season.

For international visitors in particular, the combinations of Mount Fuji with the five-storied pagoda, cherry blossoms, and springs create an attractive “Japaneseness.” For those interested in Japanese culture, historical sites associated with Takeda Shingen and hot spring culture are also highlights.

The rich nature and culture of Yamanashi Prefecture, as well as the warm hospitality of its people, will surely create unforgettable travel memories. Enjoy an experience that will remain in your heart in Yamanashi, which can be called the spiritual homeland of Japan.