Exploring Yamanashi: A Journey Through Japan’s Scenic Prefecture

Like most Japanese prefectures, Yamanashi has an independent identity. If you’ve never been there, you need a guide to tell you what to expect on your first trip to Yamanashi Prefecture.

Luckily, we’ve got you covered with our in-depth article covering various aspects of the region, including its geography, attractions, local dishes, unique experiences, and transportation.

Introduction to Yamanashi Prefecture: A Hidden Gem of Japan

Yamanashi Prefecture (or Yamanashi-Ken) is located in the middle of the Island of Honshu, Japan. It’s also part of the Chubu Region, which lies west of Tokyo. There are 5 districts and 27 municipalities in the prefecture.

Yamanashi Prefecture is home to 13 cities. One of the most popular cities is Kofu, the prefecture’s capital and most populated area. Others are Yamanashi, Fuefuki, Minami-Alps, Hokuto, and Koshu.

Yamanashi Prefecture is especially famous for its unique geographical features. It’s landlocked and surrounded by vast mountainous regions. On the southern border lies Mount Fuji, the tallest mountain in the country. The close proximity of this mountain has caused a rain shadow effect, leading to significantly reduced rainfall in the prefecture. For centuries, Yamanashi has served as a historical site and gateway to Mount Fuji. Shizuoka Prefecture also lies on its southern border.

Over three-quarters of Yamanashi contain forests. The region has so many thick forests that the Japanese government designated over a quarter of its area as Natural Parks. It sees a great deal of tourist traffic every year, with most of the visitors looking to explore the natural wonders.

Top Attractions in Yamanashi: Must-See Sights for Every Traveler

The most popular tourist spots in Yamanashi are natural. Every traveler in the prefecture must visit at least one of the following natural attractions:

Mount Fuji

Without a doubt, Mount Fuji is the biggest attraction in Yamanashi. The part of the volcanic mountain that lies in Yamanashi is a popular destination for travelers, hikers, tourists, and campers.

Standing at 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji has Japan’s highest mountain peak. Despite its crazy height, hundreds of thousands of people flock to the southern border of Yamanashi and attempt to climb it.

If you have no interest in climbing Mt. Fuji, there are many other things to do in the vicinity. You can eat local cuisine, bathe in a nearby hot spring, and visit some of the other attractions in the area, like Fujigoko.

Fuji Five Lakes

Fujigoko, or Fuji Five Lake, is a resort located next to Mount Fuji’s northern base. Hence, it’s wholly within Yamanashi Prefecture. Frequent eruptions of the volcanic mountain have created five lakes next to the resort. These lakes are Kawaguchiko, Shojiko, Motosuko,  Saiko, and Yamanakako.

At 1,000 meters above sea level, you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Fuji and the five lakes from the comfort of the resort.

Fujigoko is also a popular destination for camping, hiking, winter sports, and fishing. It’s home to the famous amusement park, Fuji Q Highland. The resort is also a haven for lovers of hot springs and museums.

Lake Kawaguchi

This lake is the second largest and the most accessible of the five lakes near Mount Fuji. You can get there by taking a direct bus or train from Tokyo. When weather conditions allow it, a perfect reflection of the great mountain can be seen on the lake.

Things to do at Lake Kawaguchi include taking a short cruise around it, bathing in a hot spring, spending time at the nearby museums, and bike riding. If you’re around on November 1, you can watch the Fuji-Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival that takes place there every year.

Oishi Park

On the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi lies Oishi Park, a nice recreation spot for kids and adults. It’s one of the best places to enjoy a panoramic view of both Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi.

The park has many other facilities, including a natural living center, a cafe, and a 350-meter-long road lined with all kinds of beautiful flowers.

Aokigahara Forest

This forest lies on volcanic rock made by lava from Mt. Fuji in the 9th century. The entire forest stretches to about 30 square kilometers.

The rocky ground there is so hard that your hiking spikes and axes cannot puncture it. There is an abundance of wildlife in Aokigahara Forest because it has faced almost no human intrusion. Popular sights in the area include Japanese mink, oriental turtledove, Japanese mole, cuckoo, and wild boar. But beware; according to local folklore, a malicious ghost haunts the forest.

Exploring the City of Kofu: The Heart of Yamanashi

Yamanashi’s prefectural capital and largest city, Kofu, has its own set of top attractions. It’s home to several historical sites, vibrant shopping districts, and diverse dining options.

Kofu Castle is the most important historic site in the city and possibly the entire prefecture. The castle has been partially reconstructed, but a lot of it can be considered ruins. Built in the late 16th century, the castle fell under the control of the Tokugawa clan during the Edo period (1603-1868). It was converted into a public park in 1904 and remains one to this day.

Kofu contains a lot of specialty gift shops, art galleries, and department stores. Hence, it’s the ideal city for a quick shopping spree. If you want some fresh local produce and seasonal fruits, go to the Kamiku Fureai Farmers Market or Fudoki no Oka Farmers' Market.

Outdoor Adventures in Yamanashi: Nature Awaits

There are various outdoor activities available in Yamanashi. In this section, we’ll explore the best adventures for tourists in the region.

Fruit Picking

This is your chance to find out why Yamanashi is nicknamed “King of Fruits." Thanks to the climate of its mountains, the region is famous for having an abundance of tasty fruits such as apples, peaches, cherries, and grapes. You can go fruit picking at Hakusan Orchards, Nakagomi Orchard, Uchida Fruit Farm, Yamanashi Fuefuki Fruits Park, and Ono Orchid & Orchard Garden.

Hiking

The mountain ranges in Yamanashi have made it the go-to destination for hikers in Japan. We highly recommend the beautiful Chichibu-Tama Kai National Park.

There are hundreds of hiking trails in the prefecture. Some of them start from popular landmarks to highlands like Mt. Kitadake, Mt. Fuji, and Mt. Mitsutoge.

Cycling

Get your heart pumping with some light exercise in Yamanashi. Many of the popular biking trails in the prefecture allow you to cycle along scenic paths such as Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanashi, and Lake Shoji.

Bathing in Hot Springs

There is an abundance of hot springs in the area. We suggest that you spend time in one of the local hot spring resorts (onsen) in the vicinity.

You’ll find lots of hot spring options near Mt. Fuji, the Fuji Five Lakes area, and other popular tourism-focused areas.

Culinary Delights: Savoring Yamanashi’s Local Specialties

We’ve already talked about Yamanashi’s fresh fruits, which include grapes, peaches, and apples. But we can’t discuss the local food scene without mentioning hoto noodles. These sets of noodles are made from wheat flour. They’re often served in miso soup or soy sauce-based broth and vegetables.

Other regional dishes that reflect the area's rich agricultural heritage include koshu wine beef, chicken offal (innards), shingen mochi, and yuba (simmered soy milk).

Cultural Experiences in Yamanashi: Immersing Yourself in Tradition

Let’s have a look at the different ways to explore Yamanashi history and culture. These places serve as a way to learn more about the region and its natural attractions. You can also meet new people through these experiences.

Visits to Local Museums

Many of the museums in the prefecture showcase the local Japanese history and traditional crafts. The best ones are Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum, and Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art.

Rent a Kimono

There are several kimono rentals in Yamanashi. These services allow you to wear an authentic kimono for a short time. You’re free to take pictures or attend tea ceremonies in them.

Attend Traditional Festivals

You can also attend festivals that celebrate local customs. The following is a list of popular events in the area:

• Mt. Fuji Marathon: November 24

• Lake Kawaguchiko Winter Fireworks: Mid-January to late February

• Yamanakako Ice Candles Festival: Mid-February.

• Fuji-Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival: November 1

• Fuji Shibazakura Festival: Mid-April to Late May

• Cherry Blossoms Festivals: Late March to Mid-April.

Participate in Artisan Workshops

You may join one of the many artisan workshops in the area to learn how to make local crafts and the symbolism behind them. These crafts include Ichii wood carvings, bamboo fishing rods from the Edo era, and wood mosaics.

How to Get to Yamanashi from Tokyo: Your Travel Guide

The most efficient way to get to Yamanashi from Tokyo and other major cities is via train. You can simply take a train from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo heading to Yamanashi City AKA Yamanashi-Shi (Japan Railways Limited Express) or to Kofu Station in Kofu City (JR Chuo Line). The journey lasts about an hour and a half. Don’t forget to get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited train rides across the country.

If you’re coming from Nagoya Station or Shin-Osaka Station, you need to take a bullet train to Shizuoka Station and transfer to a limited express train heading to Kofu Station.

Conclusion: Why Yamanashi Should Be on Your Travel List

Consider Yamanashi Prefecture as a destination for their next Japanese adventure. It’s the perfect place to explore natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights.

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