Home to Mt. Fuji, Yamanashi is easily reachable from Tokyo but feels like a world away. We’ll highlight notable places across the region, from picturesque temples to sophisticated wineries and fresh fruit picking.
This prefecture has everything for travelers seeking to discover a new side of Japan. There are plenty of things to eat, see, and do while you’re here. Keep reading to learn more about the best spots to explore and why it’s a worthy destination.
Where is Yamanashi Prefecture?
Yamanashi Prefecture is located immediately west of Tokyo in the Chubu Region. It includes the northern half of Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lake region. The Yoshida Trail, the main climbing route to the summit of Mt. Fuji, begins in Yamanashi Prefecture. Take the Fujikyu railway for a scenic approach, or hop on a direct bus from central Tokyo for easy access.
Narusawa Ice Cave
The Narusawa Ice Cave is one of the largest lava tubes at the northern foot of Mount Fuji. It was formed around 1150 years ago and was designated a Natural Monument in 1929 by the Ministry of Education. Water trickles and drips from the ceiling, forming ice pillars. The cave’s temperature hovers around zero degrees Celsius year-round, and it was once used to store seeds and silkworm cocoons. Be sure to bring something warm to wear, even at the height of summer. But passing through it makes for a rejuvenating experience, whatever the season.
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Chureito Pagoda
The five-storied Chureito Pagoda in Yamanashi Prefecture is a key part of Japan’s most recognizable landscape—the area around Mount Fuji. It’s part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine and was built as a peace memorial in 1963. Chureito Pagoda resides on a mountaintop, and although saying so doesn’t do it justice, the view is simply spectacular.
It offers an unparalleled view of Mount Fuji, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. To reach the Chureito Pagoda, visitors need to climb a series of 398 stone steps up the hill. Though strenuous, the climb is worth every step for the panoramic view that awaits at the top.
Sadoya Winery
Sadoya Winery is one of Japan’s oldest wineries. Located close to Kofu in Yamanashi, It is one of the many great options for sampling authentic Japanese wine. Sadoya Winery is an easy 10-minute walk from Kofu Station and worth a visit. The wine undergoes a rigorous process to ensure only the finest grapes are used. The winery offers sampling and tours for guests to enjoy and better understand Japanese wine. There is an excellent French restaurant on the premises for those who want a meal to go with their wine. The chefs prepare wonderful meals that pair perfectly with whichever wines are in season.
Nakagomi Fruit Orchard
Yamanashi prefecture is known as the king of fruits, so you can enjoy all the freshest fruits in Japan! Blessed with space and a mountainous climate, Yamanashi’s fruits are incredibly tasty and grow in abundance.
There is something to do at the Nakagomi Orchard all year round. From cherries and peaches in June to grapes, pears, and persimmons in the fall, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a great way to spend a day outdoors with various fruits to pick and eat. Don’t forget your rain gear on a cloudy day; make a reservation before you go!
Maple Corridor
One of Japan’s most popular spots to see red leaves is the Maples Corridor at Lake Kawaguchi. A popular Autumn leaves spot near the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, the corridor stretches for 150m. Filled with red and gold maple leaves, it’s autumn encapsulated.
A momiji matsuri (red leaves festival) is held annually from the end of October to mid-November. There are also road stalls and romantic night illumination from sunset until 10pm, making it a popular spot in November.
What makes Yamanashi Prefecture special?
People visit Yamanashi prefecture because of its breathtaking landscapes and for being renowned as Japan’s fruit producing heartland. Orchards filled with cherries, strawberries, peaches, and other fruit cover the land, while Yamanashi’s vineyards produce much of Japan’s wine. Pack a prized Yamanashi piece of fruit in your camping bag and head for the hills. Discover the peace and solitude of Yamanashi’s little-known temples and shrines set in the mountains. Have you been to Yamanashi, or have any favorite spots there? Let us know in the comments below!
