Things To Do
in Nirasaki

Nirasaki is a charming city located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, known for its breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and proximity to Mount Fuji. The city is rich in history, featuring ancient temples and shrines, as well as a vibrant local culture. With its agricultural roots, Nirasaki is famous for its delicious fruits, especially grapes and peaches.

Visitors can enjoy both outdoor adventures and cultural experiences in this picturesque setting.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nirasaki
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Nirasaki Shrine, a serene place surrounded by beautiful nature. Then, take a stroll through the local fruit orchards to see the famous grape and peach farms.

afternoon
:

Visit the Nirasaki City Museum to learn about the local history and culture. After that, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling local dishes.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a dinner at a traditional izakaya, followed by a walk through the illuminated streets of Nirasaki.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend your morning at the nearby Kiyosato Plateau, where you can enjoy stunning mountain views and fresh air. You can also visit the Kiyosato Farm to learn about local agriculture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local farm-to-table restaurant. Afterward, take a hike on the nearby hiking trails with scenic views of the Alps.

evening
:

After a day of activities, enjoy a relaxing onsen experience at a local hot spring, followed by a casual dinner in the area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$8
🍣Sushi dinner for two$50
🍏Local fruit (1 kg)$5
🍵Coffee$3
🏨Night in a mid-range hotel$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Rich local culture and history.
  • Delicious fresh produce, especially fruits.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may require transfers.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Nirasaki

Visit one of these nice places.

Nirasaki Shrine

A picturesque shrine set amidst lush greenery, perfect for capturing the essence of Japanese spirituality.

Kiyosato Plateau

Offers panoramic views of the Southern Alps, ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.

Local Fruit Orchards

Beautiful landscapes filled with blooming fruit trees, great for seasonal photography, especially in spring and summer.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nirasaki

Nirasaki offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the region's agricultural bounty and traditional flavors.

Nirasaki Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hōtō

A traditional Yamanashi noodle dish made with flat udon noodles, seasonal vegetables, and miso broth.

Must-Try!

Yamanashi Persimmon

Sweet and juicy persimmons are a local specialty, often enjoyed fresh or as dried fruit.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nirasaki Fruit Market

A local market where you can taste and purchase fresh fruits, especially grapes and peaches.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nirasaki experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with occasional snowfall, while summers are warm and humid. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Always respect the natural environment; do not litter and follow local guidelines.

Politeness

Bowing is a common greeting. Use polite language and gestures.

Shoes Off Indoors

It’s customary to remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nirasaki is generally very safe for travelers. However, it's essential to stay alert in crowded areas and be cautious when hiking. Emergency services can be contacted easily via phone, and English-speaking staff is available at most tourist information centers.

Tipping in Nirasaki

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used in Nirasaki, though many places accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry yen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings cherry blossoms, making it a beautiful time for photography and nature walks. Temperatures are mild, ranging from 10°C to 20°C.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C. This is the best time for fruit picking and outdoor activities.

Autumn

Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, especially in the mountains, with temperatures cooling down to around 15°C. It’s a great season for hiking.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C, but it offers opportunities for winter sports in nearby areas and onsen visits.

Nightlife Guide

Nirasaki at Night

Nirasaki's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities. However, visitors can enjoy casual bars and izakayas offering local drinks and dishes. Live music events occasionally take place, and there are a few karaoke spots for a fun night out.

Hiking in Nirasaki

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shirane Mountain Trail

A moderately challenging hike offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, particularly beautiful in autumn.

Nirasaki Nature Trail

This trail is suitable for all levels and leads through lush forests and along rivers, perfect for a leisurely hike.

Airports

How to reach Nirasaki by plane.

Matsumoto Airport (MMJ)

The nearest airport, approximately 1 hour away, offering domestic flights and some international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nirasaki is moderately walkable, with many attractions within walking distance from each other. However, some areas may require transportation to access more remote sites. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, making it a pleasant experience for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Residents

Nirasaki has a significant elderly population, contributing to the city's cultural and community activities.

Young Families

Young families are increasingly moving to Nirasaki for its peaceful environment and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is widely popular in Japan, and local teams often attract enthusiastic crowds. Local parks frequently host friendly matches.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing fan base, with local teams competing in regional leagues. Many young people actively participate in soccer clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nirasaki is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include local buses, which connect different parts of the city and nearby attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nirasaki.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; however, it's advisable to check for fish-based broths in dishes.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available, but it's best to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Nirasaki is good, with several clinics and a hospital available. Emergency services are responsive, and while some medical staff may speak English, it's advisable to have a translation app or phrasebook handy.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide