Yamanashi
Chubu
Offers the iconic Fuji Five Lakes, world-class wine country, and Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
Capital
Kofu
Best Time to Visit
February for snow-covered Fuji reflection in Kawaguchiko; late March to April for cherry blossoms with Mt. Fuji backdrop; autumn (October–November) for foliage.
Getting There
From Shinjuku, the Ltd. Express Azusa reaches Kofu in 1h 30min (~¥4,000). The Fuji Five Lakes area is 2h by highway bus from Shinjuku (~¥2,000).
Top Highlights
Fuji Five Lakes
Five volcanic lakes around Mt. Fuji offer the classic Fuji reflection views, particularly stunning at Kawaguchiko and Yamanakako.
Katsunuma Wine Country
Japan's leading wine region in Kofu Basin, with over 30 wineries producing domestic varietals from Koshu grapes.
Mt. Fuji Climbing
The official climbing season runs July 1 to September 10, with four trails leading to Japan's highest peak at 3,776m.
Narusawa Ice Cave
Ancient lava tube cave with permanent ice formations, cool year-round at 0°C — eerie and beautiful in equal measure.
Local Cuisine
Hoto Noodles
Flat, wide wheat noodles simmered in rich miso broth with pumpkin and root vegetables — Yamanashi's soul food, especially warming in winter.
Koshu Wine
Wines made from the ancient Koshu grape variety, unique to Japan — typically light, dry, and subtly aromatic, pairing well with Japanese cuisine.
Shingen Mochi
Soft kinako-dusted rice cakes served with kuromitsu (black sugar syrup) — Yamanashi's most beloved souvenir confection.
Stay Connected in Yamanashi
Yesim eSIMs activate on arrival — no SIM swap needed. Japan data plans from $5.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best lake for viewing Mt. Fuji?+
Kawaguchiko offers the most accessible and iconic views, with many photo spots along its northern shore. Motosu-ko has the clearest reflections — the view on the ¥1,000 note was taken here.
Things to Do in Yamanashi
12 sustainable experiences
Mt Fuji Private Tour from Shin Fuji Station
■ ABOUT Escape the crowds and experience a more authentic side of Mt. Fuji. Starting from Shin-Fuji Station, explore Mt. Fuji with a local guide, away from busy tourist spots. This tour fits easily into your travel plans, whether you’re continuing to Tokyo, Kyoto, or returning the same way. This i
From US$269.58
Mt Fuji Private Tour from Shin Fuji Station
■ ABOUT Escape the crowds and experience a more authentic side of Mt. Fuji. Starting from Shin-Fuji Station, explore Mt. Fuji with a local guide, away from busy tourist spots. This tour fits easily into your travel plans, whether you’re continuing to Tokyo, Kyoto, or returning the same way. This i
From US$271.36
Private Mt. Fuji Hoei Crater Hiking and Sightseeing Tour
This is the perfect alternative to the exhausting 10 hour Mt Fuji summit climb. A balanced Mt Fuji hike that lets you experience volcanic landscapes, powerful crater views, and quiet Shizuoka nature. Recommended for ・Families with children ・Travelers looking for a flexible and safe Mt Fuji hike
From US$303.67
Private Mt. Fuji Hoei Crater Hiking and Sightseeing Tour
This is the perfect alternative to the exhausting 10 hour Mt Fuji summit climb. A balanced Mt Fuji hike that lets you experience volcanic landscapes, powerful crater views, and quiet Shizuoka nature. Recommended for ・Families with children ・Travelers looking for a flexible and safe Mt Fuji hike
From US$301.67
Fuji Nature Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Step into the serene nature of Mt. Fuji's western foothills on this relaxing 6-hour private tour. Discover two stunning waterfalls—one famous and grand, the other peaceful and hidden—before diving into a local culinary experience at a spring-fed trout farm. This tour offers a refreshing escape into
From US$259.25
Fuji Nature Customized Private Tour by Car with Licensed Guide
Step into the serene nature of Mt. Fuji's western foothills on this relaxing 6-hour private tour. Discover two stunning waterfalls—one famous and grand, the other peaceful and hidden—before diving into a local culinary experience at a spring-fed trout farm. This tour offers a refreshing escape into
From US$515.09
Fuji Forest Half-Day Hike with Nature Guide & Transfer
Join us on a 4-hour guided tour featuring a 2-hour trek through the Fuji Forest Trail in Nishiusuzuka, nestled on the side of Mt. Fuji. You'll walk among towering 300-year-old trees, explore an ancient crater, listen to birdsong echoing through the forest, and breathe in the refreshing scent of nat
From US$277.5
Fuji Forest Half-Day Hike with Nature Guide & Transfer
Join us on a 4-hour guided tour featuring a 2-hour trek through the Fuji Forest Trail in Nishiusuzuka, nestled on the side of Mt. Fuji. You'll walk among towering 300-year-old trees, explore an ancient crater, listen to birdsong echoing through the forest, and breathe in the refreshing scent of nat
From US$275.68
Shizuoka: Ashitaka Canyoning near Mt. Fuji
Hotel pickup service is not included in this tour. Need hotel pickup service? You can choose our private tour option directly on our website. For large group bookings or special requests, more options available on our official website 'Fujiyama Canyoning Japan' Our Story Yuki (husband) – Born in
From US$158.3
Shizuoka: Ashitaka Canyoning near Mt. Fuji
Hotel pickup service is not included in this tour. Need hotel pickup service? You can choose our private tour option directly on our website. For large group bookings or special requests, more options available on our official website 'Fujiyama Canyoning Japan' Our Story Yuki (husband) – Born in
From US$158.35
Mt Fuji Hidden Gem & Gotemba Premium Outlets with Local Driver
Our tour is fully organized and operated by local Japanese experts. As one of the pioneers in offering private tours around Mt. Fuji, we combine extensive experience and local insight to deliver a refined, fully customized one-day tour that stands above the rest. Enjoy a full-day private tour to M
From US$625.81
Mt. Fuji Hidden Gems & Gotemba Outlets with Local Guide & Driver
Our tour is fully organized and operated by local Japanese experts. As one of the pioneers in offering private tours around Mt. Fuji, we combine extensive experience and local insight to deliver a refined, fully customized one-day tour that stands above the rest. Enjoy a full-day private tour to M
From US$629.95