A visit to the Yamanashi Prefecture is a nature-lover’s dream, complete with stunning Mount Fuji views, shimmering lakes, cliff-lined gorges and fruitful orchards and vineyards. Whether you’re taking a dip at one of the world’s oldest onsen hotels, paddling on Lake Kawaguchiko or learning about Takeda history at the Kai Zenkoji Temple, you’ll find depth and variety in the region.
Mount Fuji is the prefecture’s top attraction. Hike to the top of the iconic peak on the Yoshida Trail, starting from the Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime summit sunrise. To experience the mountain at a lower altitude, stay in the Fuji Five Lakes region, home to popular Lake Kawaguchiko. At the mountain’s northern base, this area offers opportunities to photograph the perfectly shaped volcanic peak. For excellent views, visit during the colder seasons or in early morning or late evening hours.
The Fuji Five Lakes region has numerous hot springs, known as onsens. Bathe in highland onsens, onsens in river gorges, historical onsens and open-air outdoor baths. Soak at Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan, one of the world’s longest-running onsen hotels.
Walk along the Shosenkyo Gorge in Chichibu Tama Kai National Park. Hike beside the Arakawa River to the Senga Waterfall and the gorge’s photogenic Kakuenpo monolith.
Sightseeing continues in this interesting region. Make a dragon weep and touch the key to the treasure at Kai Zenkoji Temple, warding off bad luck. Explore forests, caves and small museums, including Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, devoted to traditional Japanese silk-dyeing art. Pick peaches and cherries and visit Yamanashi’s plentiful vineyards. Sample sake and whiskey that use the region’s pure waters.
Travel to the Yamanashi Prefecture via the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka or Nagoya. Regular JR train and bus routes serve the area as well. Wherever you are in Yamanashi, you’ll discover natural solitude in the shadow of Mount Fuji, on the many lakes and at little-known temples.
