Things to do when traveling to Yamanashi Prefecture

Yamanashi is primarily known for being the home of Mount Fuji, but there's actually more to it than just gawking at the beautiful natural scenery in this central Japan prefecture.

Jan 6, 2023 - 09:10
May 17, 2024 - 12:08
Things to do when traveling to Yamanashi Prefecture

1. Visit Itchiku Kubota Kimono Museum
Kimono in Japan may seem very similar but the works of textile artist Itchiku Kubota are some of the most intricate designs in the world. In a museum designed by Kubota himself, where he lived in the shadow of Mount Fuji, his unique tsujigahana dyeing methods are displayed. A captivating video that tells the story of Kubota's life, from the year he was a prisoner of World War II in Siberia who even dreamed of making kimonos, to the years he went into debt because of his passion for art. his art. The museum itself is a work of art – Kubota was inspired by Antoni Gaudi's surreal Barcelona design and he himself oversaw the opening of the museum before his death.

2. Enjoy local wine and fruit

Yamanashi's orchards and vineyards are a must-see when you visit the prefecture – it ranks first in the country for peach, grape, and plum products, and the total production accounts for a third of all wines. in Japan. Follow the locals to the country's largest fruit museum – Fuefukigawa Fruit Park – or simply to snap brilliant photos of the series of dried persimmons drying on the roadside in December and January. Wine lovers will have the chance to try Japan's famous Koshu white wine at the region's many wineries and Sake Brewery.

3. Experience one of Japan's most iconic sightseeing spots
Arakura Sengen Shrine in Yamanashi is perhaps the best view of Japan's iconic sights. The five-story pagoda painted in white and red Chureito is the destination of nearly 400 steps and has a direct view of Mount Fuji. The shrine is surrounded by a seasonal landscape of cherry blossom trees, fall colors and winter snow. So no matter what season of the year you come here, you will be able to take extremely beautiful Instagram photos.

4. Camp at Japan's most luxurious campsite

Located away from the tourist crowds at Lake Kawaguchi, Japan's first resort campsite is the ultra-luxurious Hoshinoya Fuji. Each concrete block of cabins has an identical view of Mount Fuji and the lakes below, and the outdoor balcony has its own bonfire. The lounges are like traditional Japanese kotatsu and you can turn outdoor tables into hot blankets. But this idea is only for guests who have spent most of their time making use of every corner of the resort. Each guest at the resort receives a backpack full of gear upon arrival including a headlamp, water bottle, walkie-talkie, portable chair and even a jacket for cold nights. Daily activities include sunrise canoeing, logging, morning stretching and horseback riding.

5. Rest and soak in the ryokan
Traditional Japanese accommodation has become an important part of any foreigner's visit here. The ryokan comes with very special quality and style. The main room amenities are natural hot spring baths, known as onsen. Ryokan and onsen are available nationwide, but Yamanashi is one of the top destinations for its abundance of hot springs and diverse bathing environments. Most ryokan, like the colorful Kikori in Fuefuki, have both indoor and outdoor baths, tatami bedrooms, and traditional meals included in the room rate. Be sure to remove your shoes at the door, dry yourself thoroughly before showering, and wear yukata robes!

6. Visiting Erinji Temple
Enjoy matcha teas and some meditation sessions at the serene Erinji Temple, home to a famous garden created by abbot Muso Kokushi circa 1330. The temple is a memorial to the local samurai warrior Takeda. Shingen as well as events about his life. A long wooden corridor leads to the temple with sacred wooden pillars in the shape of Shingen. As you walk down the hallway, you won't be able to miss the chirping sounds of birds emanating from the specially designed wooden floor as a way to announce the presence of visitors.

7. Strolling the Nishizawa Gorge
Enjoy easily accessible trails through Nishizawa Gorge to the dramatic Nanatsugama Godan waterfalls, part of a long walk that zigzags through Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park. The trail is closed during the winter months and is open during the months when the azaleas bloom in spring and the forest is golden in autumn.

8. Ride a roller coaster at Fuji-Q Highland
This most popular amusement park in Japan would be nothing if not for a view of the country's most beloved mountain. Although it is still home to a roller coaster that holds four world records – Eejanaika has the largest number of turns, Takabisha has the highest glide altitude and Dodonpa has the fastest acceleration (it now ranks behind Six Flags 'Kingda Ka). )

9. Climbing Mount Fuji
You can absolutely climb Mount Fuji. The climbing season begins in early January and lasts through the summer months each year. Climbers would have to ride the Yoshida train all night if they wanted to reach the mountain at sunrise. The climbing route will be about 6 hours long and rest stops are arranged along the way (reservation is recommended).

Many visitors may want to rush to the starting point of the climb at Station 5. Here you can enjoy the view of the Fuji Five Lakes region, buy souvenirs, visit Komitake Shrine, and go for a walk. on the horizontal Ochudo Trail or dining.

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