Things To Do
in Yamanashi

Yamanashi is a picturesque prefecture in Japan, known for its stunning views of Mount Fuji and its rich cultural heritage. It boasts beautiful vineyards, hot springs, and a variety of outdoor activities that attract nature lovers and adventure seekers. The region is also famous for its local delicacies, including fresh fruits and traditional sweets.

With a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, Yamanashi offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rural charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Natural Wonders
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Mount Fuji 5th Station, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and take a short hike.

afternoon
:

Head to the Fuji Five Lakes area to explore Lake Kawaguchi, where you can rent a pedal boat or simply relax by the water.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya and enjoy Yamanashi's famous Hōtō noodles, a hearty noodle soup with seasonal vegetables.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Delights
morning
:

Visit the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art to appreciate local artworks and exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Explore the charming town of Kofu, where you can visit the historical Kofu Castle ruins and enjoy shopping at local boutiques.

evening
:

Experience a traditional kaiseki dinner, showcasing the best of Yamanashi's seasonal ingredients.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Meal at a Restaurant$10-$30
🍇Local Fruit (Peaches)$3-$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2-$5
🏨Hotel Night Stay$60-$150
🍵Cup of Coffee$3-$6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery, including views of Mount Fuji.
  • Rich cultural experiences and delicious local cuisine.
  • Variety of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be infrequent in rural areas.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Japanese speakers.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Yamanashi

Visit one of these nice places.

Mount Fuji

Capture stunning views of Japan’s iconic peak, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Lake Kawaguchi

A picturesque lake with breathtaking reflections of Mount Fuji, perfect for landscape photography.

Shosenkyo Gorge

A scenic gorge offering dramatic rock formations and vibrant autumn foliage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yamanashi

Yamanashi's culinary scene is rich with local flavors, showcasing its agricultural bounty and traditional dishes.

Yamanashi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hōtō

A hearty noodle soup with flat udon noodles, seasonal vegetables, and miso broth.

Must-Try!

Yamanashi Fruit

Famous for its high-quality peaches and grapes, best enjoyed fresh or in desserts.

Yamanashi Sake

Crafted from locally grown rice and pure mountain water, offering a unique flavor profile.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kofu Morning Market

A vibrant market where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Yamanashi Street Food

Explore local food stalls offering snacks like yakitori, sweet potatoes, and mochi.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yamanashi experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around 0°C (32°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) bring mild weather and beautiful scenery, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting and shows respect; the depth of the bow can indicate the level of respect.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Quiet Public Behavior

Maintain a low volume in public spaces, especially on public transport.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yamanashi is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard precautions such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings. In case of emergencies, know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic, and familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Yamanashi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; good service is expected as a standard.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable, especially in rural areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms in late March to early April, along with mild weather.

Summer

Hot and humid, perfect for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Marvel at the vibrant fall colors in October, making it a prime season for photography.

Winter

Cold with potential snowfall, ideal for enjoying hot springs and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Yamanashi at Night

Yamanashi's nightlife is relatively low-key but charming, with a mix of izakayas, karaoke bars, and wine lounges. Kofu is the main hub for nightlife, offering various entertainment options where you can enjoy local food and drinks. Visitors can also find unique themed bars that reflect the local culture, making for a memorable experience.

Hiking in Yamanashi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fujiyoshida Trail

A popular hiking trail leading up to Mount Fuji, offering stunning views and various rest stations along the way.

Shosenkyo Gorge Trail

A scenic hiking route through the gorge, featuring beautiful rock formations and waterfalls, with varying difficulty levels.

Airports

How to reach Yamanashi by plane.

Narita International Airport (NRT)

Located approximately 2.5 hours from Yamanashi, it serves as the primary international gateway to Japan.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yamanashi is moderately walkable, particularly in urban areas like Kofu, where many attractions are within walking distance. However, in rural areas, public transport or private vehicles are often necessary to reach various sites. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are marked, but visitors should remain vigilant for vehicles.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents engage in agriculture, with a focus on fruit cultivation, particularly grapes and peaches.

Tourists and Travelers

Yamanashi attracts both domestic and international visitors seeking nature and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams and school competitions frequently held.

Skiing

In winter, nearby ski resorts attract many enthusiasts, offering excellent slopes and facilities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yamanashi can be moderate, especially around Kofu during peak hours. Public transportation is accessible, with trains and buses connecting major cities and tourist attractions. Renting a car is recommended for exploring rural areas and reaching more remote locations.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yamanashi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, especially in noodle and rice-based meals.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yamanashi is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 119. Most healthcare facilities have English-speaking staff, especially in urban centers. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses when visiting.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide