Things to do in Kofu

2026 Global 50 - Spring Outings

Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Kawaguchi is one of the Fuji Five Lakes and is famous for the classic "Sakasa Fuji" reflection of Mount Fuji. The lakeside scenery has its own highlights in each season: in spring, cherry blossoms bloom around Ubuyagasaki on the east shore, and gazing at Mount Fuji with cherry blossoms in the foreground is a classic composition; in summer, lavender fields spread along the lake around Oishi Park on the north shore, with the purple sea of flowers framed together with Mount Fuji; in fall, hundreds of maple trees, with the Maple Corridor as the highlight, dye the lakeside into a corridor woven with red and yellow; in winter, the snow-capped Fuji reflects on the lake surface, presenting a tranquil scene. Ubuyagasaki is a small cape jutting out into the water on the east shore of the lake. On the cape stands Ubuyagasaki Shrine, which enshrines Konohanasakuya-hime, a deity associated with Mount Fuji. On calm, windless mornings, this is one of the best spots to capture the "Sakasa Fuji" view of Mount Fuji reflected on the lake surface. A boat tour around the lake takes about twenty minutes to complete a full circuit, offering a viewing perspective from the water that is entirely different from the shore. After passing beneath the Lake Kawaguchi Ohashi Bridge, the full panorama of Mount Fuji suddenly unfolds—a wonderful way to experience the scenery of the lake and mountain together.

No. 3 of Hot Springs Attractions in Yamanashi Prefecture

Hottarakashi Onsen

Shushin Onsen in Yamanashi City is a hot spring resort located at the foot of Mount Fuji, renowned for its unique natural landscape and high-quality onsen experience. Enjoying a prime location on a high plateau, visitors can not only enjoy the hot springs but also take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside, particularly the majestic Mount Fuji in the distance. A hallmark of Shushin Onsen is its open-air hot spring pools, where visitors can relax in the warm waters while enjoying the tranquility and tranquility of the surrounding nature. The unique design of these pools creates a sense of immersion in nature, and the warm waters gently flow, easing any fatigue. In addition to the hot springs, Shushin Onsen boasts a comprehensive range of resort facilities. The resort offers traditional Japanese-style inns, offering simple yet comfortable accommodations with rooms decorated in a simple and warm style.

Shingen-Mochi Factory Theme Park

Shingen-Mochi Factory Theme Park is a unique theme park focused on showcasing and experiencing the traditional Japanese sweet, Shingen-mochi. Named after Takeda Shingen, a famous historical figure from Yamanashi Prefecture, this theme park combines local history, culture, and culinary specialties, making it an ideal place for visitors to learn about and taste Shingen-mochi. The Shingen-Mochi Factory Theme Park features a production display area where visitors can personally experience the process of making this traditional sweet. From kneading the dough to wrapping the filling, every step allows visitors to deeply appreciate the charm of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. In addition, the park offers extensive exhibits that tell the history and cultural stories behind Shingen-mochi. Beyond the making experience, the park also has a dedicated tasting area where visitors can try freshly made Shingen-mochi and enjoy its soft, chewy texture and rich sweetness. The surrounding natural scenery also makes this a great place to relax and enjoy delicious food.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Tokai region

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji spans Shizuoka Prefecture and Yamanashi Prefecture. This mountain, revered by the Japanese as the "sacred peak," has been dormant since its eruption in 1707 and remains a major symbol of Japan. Of course, if you want to experience Mount Fuji and the surrounding natural scenery up close, the Fuji Five Lakes area at the foot of the mountain to the north is a great choice. Among these, the reflection of Mount Fuji in Lake Kawaguchi is a classic view well worth seeing, and the nearby Oshino Hakkai is also a famous sight. Heiwa Park to the southeast is an excellent spot for viewing Mount Fuji; on clear, cloudless days you can clearly see the conical peak of Mount Fuji, and in fall or winter you can also see snow on the summit, which is especially beautiful. Mount Fuji has 4 main climbing entrances, namely Fujinomiya entrance, Subashiri entrance, Gotemba entrance, and Fujiyoshida (Kawaguchiko) entrance, with the first 3 all located within Shizuoka Prefecture. The route from the foot to the summit is divided into 10 stages, each called a "station," all equipped with rest areas for visitors, and most visitors take a bus from Kawaguchiko to the halfway point of the mountainMount Fuji fifth station, then start climbing the mountain from here. Upon reaching the summit of Mount Fuji, you can see the beautiful crater lake formed by the volcano, surrounded by eight peaks. As you tour around the crater, there is a weather station—the highest point in Japan—where you may want to take a commemorative photo. There is also a post office at the summit where you can send a postcard to family and friends. Additionally, watching the sunrise from Mount Fuji will be an unforgettable and wonderful experience. In addition to Mount Fuji itself, the scenery around its base is also very beautiful. At the northern foot are caves left by volcanic eruptions, in all kinds of shapes, some of which continuously emit steam. Among them, the walls of the Fugaku Wind Cave are covered with stalactite-like icicles, known as "perpetual snow." The southern foot is a vast highland pasture with beautiful scenery throughout the year, as well as many places for leisure activities; in summer you can go camping, swimming, and fishing, and in winter you can go skiing and ice skating.

No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Kōshin'etsu region

Oishi Park

Oishi Park is located in the Oishi area on the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi and is a park facing the shores of Lake Kawaguchi. Like Yagizaki Park on the southern shore, it is famous for its lavender and serves as the second venue for the Lake Kawaguchi Lavender Festival. The lavender begins to bloom in late June, and you can enjoy the beautiful, endless views of lavender until mid-July, making it a popular spot for photographers who frequently visit to capture photos with the theme of Mount Fuji and flowers. The park features facilities such as the Kawaguchiko Natural Living Center, a cafe with views of Mount Fuji, and the Oishi Traditional Craft Museum. While enjoying the natural scenery, you can also visit these facilities, which are sure to be a rewarding experience.

No. 4 of Hot Springs Attractions in Yamanashi Prefecture

Kusatsu Onsen

Kusatsu Onsen, located in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a leisure place centered on hot spring experience. Its spring water is rich in various minerals, such as radon, sodium sulfate, baking soda and salt, and has a moderate temperature, making it suitable for use all year round. The store has multiple indoor and outdoor baths, providing a diverse bathing experience, and some baths also offer views of the carefully designed courtyard landscape, adding to the fun of bathing. In addition to the hot spring facilities, there is also a comfortable rest area for visitors to relax after a bath. Local snacks and drinks are available around the store, allowing visitors to enjoy the flavor of Kofu City while enjoying the hot springs. Convenient transportation conditions make Kusatsu Onsen an ideal choice for short-distance travelers and family tourists. Whether you want to experience traditional Japanese hot spring culture or find a place to relax, Kusatsu Onsen provides a good choice.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Kōshin'etsu region

Fuji-Q Highland

· Experience a variety of thrilling large coasters! · There are also many attractions for families! · Enjoy a spectacular view of Mt. Fuji from a height of 55m! Fuji-Q Highland is a large amusement park located at the foot of Mount Fuji. In addition to thrilling rides like the world's largest coaster "FUJIYAMA," "Takabisha," "Eejanaika," and "ZOKKON," which you can enjoy while viewing the majestic Mount Fuji, there are also immersive attractions like "The Labyrinth of Fear" and "Fuji Airways," as well as VR attractions, so you can enjoy the thrills and spectacular views even in the rain. The park also boasts areas featuring collaborations with various characters from around the world and a food court, making it one of Japan's most popular amusement parks since it opened in 1964. △Enjoy the thrill and exhilaration of riding on a thrilling attraction that holds a world record △You can also enjoy the spectacular view of Mt. Fuji from the FUJIYAMA TOWER observation deck, which is 55 meters high, with a one-day pass. △There are also many indoor attractions available so you can enjoy Mt. Fuji even on rainy days △Enjoy the vast amusement park at the foot of Japan's highest mountain with a one-day pass

Takeda Shrine

Takeda Shrine is a historic shrine dedicated to Takeda Shingen, a famous Japanese general from the Sengoku period. Takeda Shingen was born in 1521 and lived to the age of 53. Between the ages of 21–30, he not only won consecutive battles but also dedicated himself to managing his territory (especially water conservancy), promoted the development of agriculture and commerce, and was deeply loved by the people. Today, Takeda Shingen remains a beloved hero of Yamanashi Prefecture.

No. 5 of Best Things to Do in Yamanashi Prefecture

Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway

The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway connects to a mountaintop at 1,075m above sea level, reaching the summit in just 3 minutes. From the observation deck at the top, you can not only overlook Lake Kawaguchi but also enjoy stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps. This site is also the setting for renowned Japanese author Osamu Dazai's famous novel "KachiKachi Mountain." Following the story's theme, the cable cars and observation decks are decorated with raccoon dog and rabbit figurines throughout, as if welcoming visitors. The observation deck features a tanuki tea house with Mount Fuji motifs, where their signature tanuki mochi dumplings are extremely popular.

Fuefukigawa Fruit Park