Things To Do
in Yamanashi
Yamanashi Prefecture sits at the foothills of the Central Alps, offering dramatic mountain scenery, hot springs, and excellent fruit growing in its valleys. It is home to the iconic Mount Fuji's western foothills, the Fuji Five Lakes, and Koshu wine that defines the region's winemaking reputation. Kofu, the capital, blends historic sites with modern dining, sake breweries, and easy access to nature.
Whether you seek outdoor adventures, wine tastings, or a tranquil countryside escape, Yamanashi rewards visitors with a calm, nature-filled experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful stroll along the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, where the view of Mount Fuji reflecting on the water creates a serene atmosphere. Enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local ryokan with freshly caught fish and seasonal vegetables. As the sun rises, take in the stunning landscapes while sipping on a cup of green tea from a nearby tea shop.
After lunch, rent a paddleboat to explore the tranquil waters of the lake, allowing you to get up close with the breathtaking scenery. Visit the Kawaguchi Music Forest Museum, where you can enjoy a collection of mechanical music instruments and live performances. As the afternoon progresses, take a leisurely hike along the surrounding trails, offering panoramic views of Mount Fuji and the lake.
As the sun sets, enjoy a kaiseki dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor seasonal dishes crafted with local ingredients. After dinner, take a moment to relax by the lake, witnessing the magical illumination of Mount Fuji against the night sky. End your day by soaking in an onsen with a view of the mountain, allowing the hot springs to rejuvenate your body and mind.
Begin your day at the Kofu Castle ruins, where you can explore the historical site and enjoy panoramic views of the city below. Afterward, visit the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, which showcases local artists and traditional Japanese art forms. Take a break at a nearby café, sampling delicious matcha-flavored treats while soaking in the artistic atmosphere.
In the afternoon, stroll through the charming streets of Kofu, visiting local shops that sell traditional crafts and souvenirs. Don’t miss the chance to taste some of the region’s famous grapes and wine at a nearby vineyard, where you can learn about the winemaking process. Explore the vibrant local markets, where you can find fresh produce and engage with friendly vendors.
As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can savor a variety of small dishes paired with Yamanashi’s exquisite wines. Experience the lively ambiance of the city as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the sights and sounds of Kofu at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (one-way) | $2-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-150 |
| 🍨Ice cream or dessert | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery near Mount Fuji and the Alps
- Excellent local fruit and Koshu wine culture
- Relaxed pace with accessible outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Rural areas can be car-dependent and some shops accept cash only
- Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "はい／いいえ" - Yes / No
- "いくらですか" - How much is this?
- "英語を話せますか" - Do you speak English?
- "おすすめはありますか" - What do you recommend?
Places to Visit in Yamanashi
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic view of Mt. Fuji framed by a red pagoda, especially stunning at sunrise when the mist lifts and the surrounding town is quiet.
One of the best Fuji reflections, especially during early morning or late afternoon light with the lake's calm surface.
Eight natural springs and crystal-clear ponds set against rural scenery and Mt. Fuji in the distance; great for tranquil landscape shots.
Historic castle ruins and parkland offering panoramic city views, especially at golden hour over Kofu.
Food in Yamanashi
Yamanashi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty miso-based noodle stew with thick noodles, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and seasonal vegetables; a staple at many Fuji Five Lakes eateries.
Must-Try!
Lightly seared, thinly sliced Koshu beef served with citrusy ponzu and fresh greens; commonly found at local izakayas and yakiniku spots in Kofu and the Koshu region.
Desserts featuring Koshu grapes or peaches, highlighting the region’s renowned fruit harvests in cafes and dessert shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A daily market by the river where vendors sell fresh fruit, vegetables, and regional specialties, a great place to sample bite-sized street foods.
Seasonal fruit stalls offering locally grown grapes, peaches, and pears, perfect for a quick, sweet snack or a picnic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional accommodations (ryokan) and temples; slippers are provided in most interiors.
Speak softly on trains, avoid talking loudly in sacred spaces, and bow modestly as a sign of respect.
Wash thoroughly before entering the baths; tattoos may be restricted at some onsen; follow posted rules and keep noise to a minimum.
Safety
Tipping in Yamanashi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is standard and not expected to be rewarded with extra cash.
Cash is widely accepted, especially in rural areas; many shops and restaurants in Kofu and tourist spots accept credit cards, and IC cards (Suica/PASMO) are common in larger towns and stations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with high humidity; Mt. Fuji climbing season typically runs July–early September; enjoy lake activities and vineyard tours; bring sun protection and water.
Comfortable temperatures with spectacular autumn foliage in the valleys and around the mountains; ideal for outdoor hikes and forestry photos.
Cold, often snowy in the mountains; cozy onsen towns and wine-tasting experiences are popular; layer up for outdoor activities.
Mild weather with blooming fruit trees and vineyard renewal; great for scenic drives, fruit markets, and photography around Oshino and Kawaguchi.
Yamanashi at Night
Hiking in Yamanashi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of the most popular Fuji routes; starts at several trailheads and offers dramatic summit views with sunrise pacing and proper acclimatization.
Extensive alpine trails with diverse scenery, wildflowers, and panoramic vistas, suitable for multi-day treks or day hikes from base towns.
Airports
How to reach Yamanashi by plane.
Major Tokyo gateway with frequent domestic and international flights; about 2–3 hours by train to central Yamanashi depending on connections.
Another Tokyo gateway with extensive international and domestic links; fastest routes to Yamanashi involve train or airport shuttle connections.
Smaller regional airport closer to the Fuji area; convenient for accessing Kawaguchiko and surrounding sights, though with fewer international options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic; aging population in some rural areas with strong regional traditions and community networks.
Growing presence, especially from Asia, Europe, and North America; English signage is common in major tourist spots, with more limited language support in rural areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favored pastime with local teams and school sports; you may catch a game or practice in regional parks during season.
Winter resorts in the region offer alpine slopes with family-friendly runs and scenic mountain backdrops.
Rural roads and vineyard routes in Koshu Valley attract cycling enthusiasts, especially during spring and autumn.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yamanashi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Japanese eateries can prepare vegetable-focused dishes, but many broths use fish stock. When ordering, specify 'vegetarian (ryōri) with no fish stock' and ask for tofu, vegetables, and miso-based dishes as alternatives.