Things To Do
in Gotenba

Gotenba is a picturesque city located at the base of Mount Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Known for its stunning views of the iconic mountain, Gotenba is a hub for outdoor activities, shopping, and local culture. The city boasts various attractions, including hot springs, golf courses, and scenic parks that draw visitors year-round.

Gotenba serves as a gateway for exploring the surrounding natural beauty and offers a unique blend of traditional and modern Japanese experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Gotenba
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gotenba Premium Outlets for shopping and breakfast at one of the cafes.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park for a scenic hike and enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking in the views of Mount Fuji.

evening
:

Relax at an onsen (hot spring) to unwind after a day of exploration and dine at a local izakaya for dinner.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Gotenba Kogen Brewery for a tour and tasting session of their locally brewed beers.

afternoon
:

Explore the Gotenba Shrine and take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding gardens.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with dinner at a traditional kaiseki restaurant, experiencing multi-course Japanese dining.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
🍵Matcha Tea$5
🏨Mid-range Hotel$100
🚆Train Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning views of Mount Fuji.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Access to outdoor activities year-round.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "助けてください" - Please help me
  • "お会計お願いします" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Gotenba

Visit one of these nice places.

Oshino Hakkai

A set of beautiful ponds with stunning views of Mount Fuji, perfect for landscape photography.

Gotenba Park

A park featuring seasonal flowers and a panoramic view of Mount Fuji, ideal for family photos.

Fujikawa Service Area

A rest area with stunning views of Mount Fuji, perfect for capturing the mountain at sunrise.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gotenba

Gotenba offers a delightful culinary scene featuring local flavors and ingredients, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Gotenba Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yakiniku

Grilled meat, typically beef, served with dipping sauces, popular in the region.

Must-Try!

Katsu Curry

A hearty dish of breaded pork cutlet served with Japanese curry and rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gotenba Morning Market

A vibrant market held every Sunday, offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gotenba experiences a humid subtropical climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F), while winters can be cold, averaging around 0°C (32°F) with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are mild, making them the most pleasant seasons for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

A common greeting in Japan; bowing shows respect and politeness.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering homes and certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintain a low volume in public areas; loud conversations are considered impolite.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gotenba is considered a safe city for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for medical emergencies.

Tipping in Gotenba

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Cherry blossoms bloom, attracting visitors to parks and festivals, with mild temperatures.

Summer

Warm weather with outdoor activities; however, be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Vibrant foliage surrounds the area, making it a picturesque time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall; a great time for hot springs and enjoying winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Gotenba at Night

Gotenba's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a selection of izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it an ideal place for socializing with locals. Live music performances occasionally occur, adding to the cultural experience of the night scene.

Hiking in Gotenba

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fujinomiya Trail

A popular trail leading to the summit of Mount Fuji, offering stunning views and a challenging hike.

Hakone Trail

A scenic trail that allows hikers to explore the beautiful landscapes of the Hakone area, rich in hot springs and views.

Airports

How to reach Gotenba by plane.

Shizuoka Airport

Located about 45 minutes from Gotenba, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gotenba is moderately walkable, especially around the city center where shops and restaurants are located. However, some attractions may require transportation due to the distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are marked, making it safe for walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population primarily consists of Japanese citizens, with a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals.

Tourists

Gotenba attracts both domestic and international tourists, especially those interested in outdoor activities and Mount Fuji.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams and schools hosting games.

Golf

Gotenba has several golf courses, making it a popular sport for both locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gotenba is generally manageable, but can become congested during peak tourist seasons. Public transportation includes buses and trains connecting to nearby cities. The area is also bicycle-friendly, and many locals prefer cycling for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gotenba.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals, but it's advisable to check with staff.

Allergies

Always inform the staff of any allergies, as seafood is common in many dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Gotenba are accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. Emergency medical services can be reached quickly, and most facilities have staff who can speak basic English. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide