Explore Yamanashi: 33 Popular Sightseeing Spots

The "Arayama Shrine Okumiya" is located at the second station of Mount Fuji and is only accessible from spring to autumn due to winter road closures. A famous management consultant once mentioned that if you don’t want to worry about money, visiting this shrine is beneficial. It quickly became famous as a shrine for financial luck. During the visiting season, luxury cars with out-of-prefecture license plates can be seen lined up, as business executives and politicians come to pray during important times.

Yamanakako is the largest and highest lake among the Fuji Five Lakes. You can enjoy a clear view of Mount Fuji from the lakeshore. From mid-October to the end of February, it is famous as a spot to capture the 'Diamond Fuji', where the sun aligns perfectly with the peak of Mount Fuji at sunset. Recently, the amphibious bus 'YAMANAKAKO NO KABA' has gained attention, allowing for a drive through the forest before diving directly into the lake for an enjoyable experience. The elevation is 1,000 meters, making it an ideal summer resort.

Oshino Hakkai is a natural monument, selected as one of Japan's top 100 springs, and recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. It consists of eight ponds fed by groundwater that has seeped down from rainfall on Mount Fuji. These waters were used by ascetics who considered Fuji to be a sacred mountain. The tranquil reflection of Mount Fuji on the water's surface is both solemn and mystical. The thatched-roof watermills add to the unique rural landscape, creating a serene atmosphere that is calming just to gaze at.

Kofu Castle was built after the fall of the Takeda clan, which ruled over Kai Province. The Shingen-ko Festival is held here grandly in spring. Kofu Castle is also known as 'Maizuru Castle' because of its structure resembling a crane spreading its wings, and it is counted among Japan's 100 Famous Castles. Currently, part of the castle ruins, including the gates and Inari Yagura, have been restored and opened to the public as Maizuru Castle Park, which serves as a place for relaxation for the citizens. In spring, about 160 cherry blossom trees bloom beautifully around the stone walls of Kofu Castle, offering a spectacular view along with the distant Mount Fuji.

Located on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi, the 'Kawaguchi Asama Shrine' features a newly established worship place called 'Tenkū no Torii' in 2019, attracting attention as a viewpoint to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. The view of Mount Fuji towering beyond the vibrant red torii gate is stunningly divine! The magnificent scenery varies by time of day and season, making it a place you will want to visit repeatedly. You will be overwhelmed by the grandeur of the changing landscapes with the seasons and time!

The Takeda Shrine is dedicated to the famous warlord Takeda Shingen of Kai Province. Built on the site of the Tsutsujigasaki Castle, where the Takeda clan ruled for over 60 years, the shrine is designated as a national historic site. It features the 'Hime no Ido' well, from which holy water springs, and the 'Mitsuba no Matsu' tree, said to bring good fortune due to its golden leaves in autumn. It is also popular as a power spot.

The 'Music Box Forest' is a theme park that recreates a European town and allows you to enjoy music boxes. The park is adorned with blooming roses, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll! Don't miss the sound of one of the world's largest dance organs. Live concerts by opera singers are a must-see. You can also create your own original music box as a souvenir, which is something you can only enjoy here.

Located by the shores of Lake Yamanaka, Yamanaka Suwa Shrine is famous for its benefits relating to matchmaking, childbirth, and child-rearing, dedicated to the deity Toyotamahime. The traditional grand festival known as the 'Safe Childbirth Festival' is held every September, where pregnant women and mothers with young children carry the portable shrine, attracting participants from all over the country seeking prayers for safe childbirth.

Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes, is a popular area for tourists to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. While it is highly recommended to experience the changing seasons of the mountain, the surrounding area also features unique art museums, stylish dining options, and commercial facilities.

Climbing the hill of 'Tomi no Oka Winery' reveals a beautiful landscape featuring the majestic Mount Fuji and the expansive Kofu Basin. The winery is named after the hill, which has been referred to as the beautiful 'Tomi no Oka.' With over a century of honed techniques rooted in Japan's terroir, the winery produces numerous award-winning wines. Guests can explore a tasting counter (fee-based) to find their preferred wines and shop for a variety of wines made from 100% estate-grown grapes.

Located at the foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains, Sun Meadows Kiyosato is a highland resort featuring the Kiyosato Terrace situated at an altitude of about 1,900 meters, accessible via the Panorama Lift. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing sky known as Yatsugatake Blue and take in the magnificent views of Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps. Luxurious furniture such as plush sofas is provided for a comfortable experience, making it a perfect spot to enjoy breathtaking vistas.

Opened in 2022, this is a new landmark in Kawaguchiko. It features a variety of locally sourced fresh fruits and vegetables, a wide selection of wines, pastries, and souvenirs, as well as dining options unique to the area. The facility also offers pet-friendly gourmet products, including healthy game meat for pets, and has an outdoor dog run covered with wood chips, making it a recommended stop for dog lovers. Don't miss the Koshujyu roast beef bowl available for dining inside!

Kikyo Shingen Mochi, a popular sweet that was born in Kofu City about 50 years ago, is now a representative confection of Yamanashi Prefecture. This theme park allows visitors to observe the production line. Attractions include a sweets museum, an outlet shop, and a hands-on packaging experience, where the staff's packaging skills are a must-see. The 'fill-a-bag' experience, where you can fill a dedicated bag for 220 yen, is also very popular. It's so popular that getting a numbered ticket can be quite challenging, so early arrival is recommended.

Located at the eastern entrance of Aokigahara Forest, Narusawa Hyoketsu Ice Cave is a popular destination among the Fuji Five Lakes sightseeing spots. It was formed in 864 during the eruption of Nagao Mountain, a volcanic mountain on the Fuji side, when lava flowed through ancient parasitic volcanoes. The interior maintains a low temperature of about 3 degrees Celsius and is covered in ice throughout the year. In 1929, it was designated as a natural monument by the Ministry of Education.

Budou no Oka is located on a small hill surrounded by expansive vineyards and is a popular destination in Yamanashi for winery bus tours. It's a must-visit spot for wine lovers. It features a wine cave recommended by Kōshi City, showcasing around 200 varieties and about 20,000 bottles of wine. By purchasing a special tasting container called 'Tartvan', visitors can sample all the wines. Why not try to find your favorite wine while feeling like a sommelier? The site also offers a wine restaurant with a view, barbecue facilities, natural hot springs, and accommodations for a full day of enjoyment.

One of Japan's three unique bridges, alongside the Kintai Bridge in Iwakuni and the Kiso Bridge. It has a special structure that does not use any bridge piers, making its appearance interesting, and is supported by four-layered 'hane-gi' that protrude from both banks. The name is derived from a legend that many monkeys crossed the bridge to the opposite shore, inspiring the construction. The view during the hydrangea season is also recommended. Be sure to stop by.

Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nemba is located at the western end of Lake Saiko, overlooking Mount Fuji and the Aokigahara Forest. Almost destroyed in a disaster in 1966, it has been restored over the course of 40 years, with about 20 thatched-roof houses. The restored traditional houses are used for experiences like making 'Tsurushi Hina' dolls and kaleidoscopes, as well as selling local products and refreshments. The beautiful scenery of cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves, and snowy landscapes in winter, along with views of Mount Fuji, are breathtaking. It is also a popular spot for outings with dogs.

Kai Zenkoji is a temple established in Kofu City by Takeda Shingen during the Battle of Kawanakajima, out of fear that the Zenkoji in Nagano would be burned down. It houses numerous cultural properties, including Buddhist statues and architectural elements. Notably, the wooden main hall constructed in the Shumoku style is one of the most impressive wooden structures in Eastern Japan and is designated as an Important Cultural Property by the national government. The ceiling of the main hall features two large dragons painted on it, which resonate when clapped, earning its nickname 'Naki Dragon'.

One of the largest natural caves in the Aokigahara Forest formed by the lava flow of Mount Fuji. It has a total length of 201 meters and a height of 8.7 meters, allowing for a walk of about 15 minutes. Inside the cave, a fantastical world unfolds, and it remains cool even in summer with an average temperature of 3 degrees Celsius. Once used for silkworm storage and seed preservation, it serves as a natural refrigerator. The natural ice columns that form every year are famous. The basalt walls have sound-absorbing properties, creating a mysterious space where sound does not echo.

A picturesque park surrounded by peach orchards, offering stunning views of the Kofu Basin and the snow-capped Southern Alps with blooming pink peach blossoms in early April. The park features a natural observation pond and a firefly pond, where fireflies are nurtured, allowing for firefly viewings from mid to late June. There are also grassy areas, playground equipment such as slides and athletic facilities, as well as spaces for water play in the summer, making it a popular spot for families to enjoy for long hours.

Minobu Mountain (Kuonji) is popular as a viewing spot for Diamond Fuji! The entire mountain is a sacred site of the Nichiren sect, where visitors can experience sutra copying and participate in training sessions (mini training). Every spring, people from all over the country flock to see the beautiful weeping cherry tree, said to be over 400 years old. It is also popular as a beginner-friendly hiking destination, with two types of hiking courses available. Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy the stunning views of the Southern Alps.

The museum-type facility opened in 1997 in conjunction with the running tests of the Yamanashi Linear Experiment Line. Visitors can see the actual test vehicle that set the world record in 2003, as well as exhibits explaining the principles of superconducting linear technology. Since 2013, running tests have been conducted using the new L0 series vehicles. On running test days, you can witness the moment the linear train passes right in front of you, eliciting cheers from the crowd.

Located at an altitude of approximately 670 meters, this open-air hot spring offers a very open atmosphere with a broad view of the Kofu Basin below. Depending on the weather, you can even see Mount Fuji. It opens an hour before sunrise, allowing visitors to soak in the hot spring while watching the sun rise. The name comes from the fact that it was left 'untouched' after the hot spring was discovered. It provides a great view of the basin and beautiful night scenery.

Oshino Shinobi no Sato is a ninja-themed village that opened in 2015. Visitors can fully immerse themselves in the ninja experience through attractions such as the 'Ninja Trick House', 'Ninjutsu Mastery Path', and 'Ninjutsu Shuriken Dojo'. The authentic ninja performances by the group 'Raifujin' are also highly praised. The village features a beautiful Japanese-style garden and offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, allowing guests to enjoy the magnificent combination of the majestic mountain and the world of ninjas.

Sakana Park is a water and forest theme park where visitors can learn about the beautiful spring water of Mount Fuji and the nature of Oshino Village. It features the Yamanashi Prefectural Fuji Spring Water Aquarium, which focuses on freshwater fish, a 'Grass Park' with a splash pool, slides, and athletic playground equipment, and a 'Forest Learning Center' to discover the relationship between people and the forest. Surrounded by rich greenery, it is also recommended as a forest bathing spot and is perfect for small children to play freely.

Koshuyumekouji is a tourist spot located about a 3-minute walk from the north exit of JR Kofu Station, which recreates the historic Kofu castle town. The area features shops built in traditional architectural styles, including relocated old houses and storehouses. Visitors can enjoy various local products, including wine, jewelry, and Yamanashi traditional crafts, as well as restaurants offering local ingredients, providing a taste of Yamanashi's industries, culture, and culinary delights. The prominent brown tower is a replica of the 'Toki no Kane,' which has been announcing the time for over 200 years. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll in a retro atmosphere.

If you're looking to explore World Heritage Site Mt. Fuji by car, the 'Fuji Subaru Line' drive is highly recommended. This mountainous drive spans approximately 30 km from Lake Kawaguchi to the Fifth Station. As you progress through forests of Akamatsu (red pines), you'll encounter dynamic panoramic views, culminating at the Fifth Station, which is located at an elevation of 2,305 meters. Here, you can enjoy a stunning landscape overlooking the Fuji Five Lakes, as well as distant views of the Southern Alps, Yatsugatake, and Chichibu Mountain Range. Whether you drive or hike, it's Japan's highest mountain!

For a better enjoyment of the stunning beauty of Shosenkyo, the ropeway is highly recommended. You can enjoy a 5-minute aerial walk to the mountain summit. The view from the gondola overlooking the valley below is spectacular, especially during the autumn foliage season when many tourists flock here. The view from the top is even more breathtaking, showcasing a panoramic view with Mount Fuji to the south, the Southern Alps to the west, and the Chichibu Mountain Range to the east. In addition to the views, visiting the power spots at the summit is also a highlight. Many people come to visit the sacred tree, over 350 years old, known as the deity of childbirth, and the Yakumo Shrine, believed to bring good fortune in relationships. Before heading back, take a break at the restaurant and enjoy the local specialty, Hoto, while soaking in the stunning scenery.

The Fujisan Museum is a fun place to learn about the faith and history surrounding Mount Fuji. It features a stunning large-scale model of Fuji at a 1/2000 scale, showcasing powerful projection mapping and interactive touchscreen displays. Visitors can also explore the important cultural heritage site and UNESCO World Heritage asset, the 'Oshi Old Tokukawa Residence.' The museum shop offers exclusive Mount Fuji-themed products and traditional textile goods. Additionally, the 'Fujisan Lounge' provides a beautiful view of Mount Fuji!

Nishizawa Valley, located within the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, boasts one of Japan's most stunning gorge landscapes. Featuring the famous Nanatsugama Five-Stage Falls, which has been selected as one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, the valley is adorned with various cascades such as the Triple Falls, Dragon God's Falls, Love Thread Falls, and Seisen Falls, creating an awe-inspiring sight. Well-maintained trekking courses attract many visitors during the early summer for rhododendrons, fresh greenery, and autumn foliage. Additionally, Nishizawa Valley has been recognized for its relaxation effects through forest bathing and has been designated as a 'Forest Therapy Base' and one of the '100 Forest Bathing Forests.'

Fuji-Q Highland is an amusement park that boasts world-class attractions, including 'FUJIYAMA', known for its height and top speed, and uniquely named thrill rides like 'Ee Janai Ka' and 'Takahisha'. The park also features popular spots for children, such as 'Thomas Land' and 'Lisa and Gaspard Town'. A new landmark, 'FUJIYAMA Tower', opened in the summer of 2021, offering stunning views of the lush Aokigahara forest and Mount Fuji from a height of 55 meters. Visitors can communicate with riders on the 'FUJIYAMA' as it passes right in front of the observation deck! While it is a treasure trove of thrill rides, the park also has plenty of attractions for children to enjoy.

A spot where you can enjoy various fruits, flowers, and trees throughout the year. With a spacious lawn, playground equipment for children, and a 'Road Train' that takes you around the premises, it is very popular among families. The park is situated on a hillside, offering panoramic views of the Kofu Basin's night scenery from various locations within the park, earning it the designation as one of the 'New Three Great Night Views of Japan.' It's also recommended as a date spot for couples at night. In summer, the free water play area, 'Aqua Athletic,' is particularly popular among children.

A theme park that recreates the world of the popular 1970s anime 'Heidi, Girl of the Alps.' It features a large 4-meter diorama showcasing the picturesque views from the fictional village of Dorfli to Frankfurt. The traditional alpine hut, complete with 'hay beds' and 'Grandfather's kitchen,' is also recreated. Within the park, visitors can enjoy a bakery selling 'white bread' reminiscent of the anime and a restaurant serving fondue made with authentic Swiss cheese. The facility also includes 'Clara House,' a lodging with hot springs. Beautiful seasonal flowers bloom against the backdrop of the mountains, making it a recommended spot for flower viewing.