Yamanashi

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Yamanashi's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Yamanashi
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Mount Fuji and enjoy a view from the Fujigoko area. Take some time for a walk around Lake Kawaguchi, savoring the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Head to the open-air museum, Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, which showcases stunning kimono art. Take a break for lunch at a local soba restaurant to taste Yamanashi’s famous buckwheat noodles.

evening
:

As the sun sets, relax at an onsen (hot spring) such as Hakone Yuryo. Enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner while soaking up the serene atmosphere.

day 2
Wine and Dine in Yamanashi
morning
:

Begin at the Chateau Mercian Winery for a wine tasting tour, learning about local viticulture. Enjoy a delightful brunch at the winery with seasonal ingredients.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Katsunuma, the heart of Yamanashi's grape production. Visit a local farm for grape picking and sample several varieties directly from the vine.

evening
:

Dine at a gourmet restaurant in Kofu, where you can enjoy a meal focused on local produce and wine pairings. End the day with a stroll through the illuminated streets of Kofu.

day 3
Cultural Immersion in Yamanashi
morning
:

Spend the morning at the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, where you can appreciate local artists' works. Participating in a pottery or calligraphy workshop will enhance your cultural experience.

afternoon
:

Wander through the historic town of Shosenkyo, famous for its picturesque gorge and scenery. Grab lunch at a quaint café, sampling local Yamanashi cuisine.

evening
:

Attend a local festival or cultural event, if available, to immerse yourself in regional traditions. Cap off the night with a quiet walk along the river, enjoying the tranquil ambiance.

day 4
Adventure Awaits in Yamanashi
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hike at the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, where trails suit all levels of adventurers. Admire the flora and fauna while soaking up the mountain air.

afternoon
:

Try outdoor activities such as canyoning or paragliding for an adrenaline rush. Enjoy lunch at a nearby lodge with stunning views of the countryside.

evening
:

Unwind at a local izakaya, where you can sample various yakitori and other Japanese snacks. Engage with locals and share stories of your adventures.

day 5
A Relaxing Retreat in Yamanashi
morning
:

Start your day with a yoga session hosted in a serene environment surrounded by nature. Follow it with a meditation session to re-center your mind.

afternoon
:

Visit a local farm stay for a hands-on experience of Japanese agriculture. Enjoy a healthy, seasonal lunch made from fresh produce harvested from the farm.

evening
:

Participate in a cooking class where you can learn to make traditional Yamanashi dishes. Relish your homemade dinner under the stars in a cozy setting.

day 6
Scenic Views and Local Flavor
morning
:

Take the scenic drive through the Fujikawa River area, stopping at viewpoints alongside the way. Capture stunning photos of the landscape with Mount Fuji in the distance.

afternoon
:

Visit the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art for a cultural experience, followed by lunch featuring local specialties. Don't miss out on sampling Yamanashi peaches, especially in season.

evening
:

Relax at a café with a breathtaking view of the mountains as the sun sets. Savor dessert while soaking up the final moments of daylight.

day 7
Nature and Spirituality in Yamanashi
morning
:

Commence your journey at the highly revered Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine. Admire the spiritual architecture while breathing the fresh mountain air.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic hike around the shrine area, enriched by natural hot springs along the way. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Japanese restaurant near the shrine, featuring local mountain vegetables.

evening
:

Attend a local prayer ceremony at one of the temples to understand regional beliefs. Wind down your day at another nearby onsen to relax and rejuvenate.

day 8
Gastronomy Tour in Yamanashi
morning
:

Start your food journey at the Yamanashi Agricultural Park where you can sample seasonal fruits. Interact with local farmers and get insights into the region's agricultural practices.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a cooking workshop focusing on Yamanashi dishes, like Hoto noodles. Take a break for lunch, relishing the dishes you've prepared with local flavors.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant in Kofu, known for innovative takes on traditional recipes. Savor each dish paired with recommended Yamanashi wines.

day 9
Historical Yamanashi
morning
:

Visit the historic Kofu Castle ruins and enjoy panoramic views over the city. Explore the nearby Kofu's Archaeological Museum to learn about the region's history.

afternoon
:

Head to the small town of Takeda, where you can visit the remains of Takeda Castle. Savor lunch at a local eatery, possibly famous for curry.

evening
:

Stroll through the charming streets of the historical town, absorbing the atmosphere of old Japan. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a traditional ryokan to end your day.

day 10
Family Fun in Yamanashi
morning
:

Start at Fuji-Q Highland amusement park for exhilarating rides with views of Mount Fuji. Delight in some breakfast at one of the park's themed cafes.

afternoon
:

Continue the fun at the nearby Thomas Land, where children can enjoy rides and meet popular characters. Enjoy a casual lunch at the park before heading to your next adventure.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to the Fujisan World Heritage Center to learn more about the iconic mountain. Have a great family dinner at a local restaurant, featuring dishes children will love.

Discover Yamanashi

Read more in our Yamanashi 2024 Travel Guide.

Yamanashi Travel Guide