Things To Do
in Kōfu
Kōfu is a city located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, known for its beautiful natural surroundings. It is surrounded by mountains, including the iconic Mount Fuji. The city is also famous for its production of grapes and wine, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts.
Kōfu is a vibrant city with a rich history, featuring historical sites such as shrines, temples, and museums.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Kōfu Castle, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the city. After exploring the ruins and nearby park, grab some local breakfast at a nearby café.
Visit the Yamanashi Prefectural Science Center to engage with interactive exhibits. Follow this with a leisurely walk through the picturesque roads of Kōfu.
Dine at a local izakaya and try some regional meat dishes, such as grilled Yamanashi beef. Enjoy the local nightlife or relax at your accommodation.
Head to the nearby Fuefukigawa Fruit Park for a morning stroll among blooming fruit trees. Sample some fresh fruit for a sweet treat.
Explore the scenic Akeno area, known for its beautiful landscapes and fruit orchards. Enjoy a picnic while soaking up the nature around you.
Return to Kōfu and unwind at a local onsen for a relaxing hot spring experience. Enjoy a quiet dinner at your accommodation.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites such as Kōfu Castle.
- Surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including the Japanese Alps.
- Known for its hot springs and relaxing onsen experiences.
- Offers a variety of local cuisine, including Kōfu's famous meat dishes.
- Good transportation links to Tokyo and other major cities.
- Less urbanized compared to larger cities, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Fewer entertainment and shopping options compared to metropolitan areas.
- Public transportation may be less frequent outside of major routes.
- Could be prone to natural disasters, such as earthquakes.
- Limited international exposure may make it less attractive for foreigners.
Best Activities in Kōfu
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful scenery and nature trails within easy reach of Kōfu.
Explore the historic park and enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque river and enjoy the surrounding countryside.
Discover the history and culture of the region through the park's exhibits and reconstructed buildings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kōfu with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kōfu
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of Kofu and the surrounding mountains.
Known for its beautiful pagoda and picturesque garden, providing great photo opportunities.
Houses a rooftop garden with panoramic views of the city.
Provides a historical backdrop and scenic views of the city.
Food in Kōfu
Kōfu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty noodle soup made with flat udon noodles, vegetables, and miso broth. It's a signature dish of Yamanashi Prefecture, and can be found at local restaurants like Manpuku-tei.
Must-Try!
Raised in the clean air and pristine water of Yamanashi Prefecture, Fujizakura pork is highly regarded for its tenderness and rich flavor. Try it in dishes like tonkatsu (breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet) at places like Tonkatsu Hamano.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kōfu better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide range of fresh produce, snacks, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample seasonal fruits, pickles, and unique snacks like grilled ayu fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kōfu, it is important to show respect for elders by using polite language and gestures such as bowing.
It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments to show respect for cleanliness and the space.
When dining in Kōfu, it is customary to say 'itadakimasu' before eating to express gratitude and 'gochisosama deshita' after finishing to show appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kōfu with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kōfu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Kōfu. It is generally not expected or required to leave tips at restaurants, hotels, or for services. In fact, tipping may even be considered rude in some situations.
In Kōfu, as in Japan in general, cash is the most common form of payment. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in many establishments, especially in urban areas, but it's always good to have cash on hand, particularly when visiting smaller or more traditional businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kōfu.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms and enjoy the mild weather.
Warm and humid with various festivals and events.
Beautiful fall foliage and comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Cold and snowy, ideal for enjoying hot springs and winter sports.
Kōfu at Night
Hiking in Kōfu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful range of mountains offering various trails suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers, with stunning views of the surrounding area.
A tranquil hiking area that features well-marked trails through lush forest and offers panoramic views from the summit.
This area is perfect for day hikes, showcasing a variety of landscapes, flora, and fauna with scenic viewpoints.
Features longer and more challenging trails that take you deep into the heart of the Southern Alps, with breathtaking natural scenery.
A scenic trail that leads to a historic shrine surrounded by nature, suitable for a peaceful day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kōfu through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kōfu by plane.
Located approximately 115 km from Kōfu, Tokyo International Airport, also known as Haneda Airport, is one of the two main airports serving Tokyo and is known for its domestic and international flights.
Located about 140 km from Kōfu, Narita International Airport is the primary international airport serving Tokyo and is a major hub for international travel.
Situated approximately 220 km from Kōfu, Chubu Centrair is an international airport located on an island in Ise Bay, serving the Chubu region of Japan.
About 400 km from Kōfu, Kansai International Airport is located on an artificial island in Osaka Bay and serves the regions of Kansai, including Osaka and Kyoto.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority racial and ethnic group in Kōfu, comprising about 95% of the population, primarily descendants of the Yamato people.
A significant minority group, with historical ties to the region and a small community present in Kōfu.
Another notable minority group, often involved in various trades and businesses throughout Kōfu.
Includes people from various Asian countries such as Vietnam, Philippines, and Thailand, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
A small community of non-Asian expatriates, including Americans and Europeans, often in education or business.
The Soul of Kōfu
Discover the essence of Kōfu through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is extremely popular in Kōfu, with local teams and schools participating in various leagues and tournaments. The sport has a strong following with youth and community engagement.
Football has gained popularity in Kōfu, supported by local clubs and schools. The region actively participates in youth leagues, fostering strong local teams.
Basketball is a popular sport in Kōfu, with many schools and local clubs promoting the game. The community supports basketball events, leading to an active youth league.
Volleyball is widely played in Kōfu, with many schools offering the sport. The city has local competitions and clubs that encourage participation among youths.
Martial arts, including judo and karate, are popular in Kōfu. Many dojos and schools practice these martial arts, which also hold local competitions and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kōfu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Japanese cuisine often features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Kōfu offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes like vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and seasonal vegetable-centered plates.
Diners seeking gluten-free options will find that many establishments in Kōfu are attentive to dietary needs, offering dishes like sashimi, salads, and rice-based dishes that are naturally free of gluten-containing ingredients.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kōfu with these cultural adventures.
