About Yamanashi
Nestled in the heart of Japan's Chūbu region, Yamanashi Prefecture is a breathtaking destination where majestic mountains meet world-class vineyards and ancient spiritual traditions. Dominated by the iconic, snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji—Japan's highest and most sacred mountain—Yamanashi offers unparalleled views and access to this UNESCO World Heritage site, particularly from the scenic Five Lakes (Fujigoko) area. Beyond its natural crown jewel, the prefecture is celebrated as the birthplace of Japanese wine, with the Kōshū Valley producing exquisite local grapes and offering charming winery tours and tastings. History comes alive at the revered Kuon-ji Temple, the head temple of Nichiren Buddhism on Mount Minobu, and at the well-preserved samurai residences in the Kōfu Basin. For outdoor enthusiasts, Yamanashi provides year-round adventure: hiking and climbing in the Southern Alps, relaxing in the therapeutic hot springs (onsen) of Fuji Yoshida, and enjoying water sports on Lake Kawaguchi. The prefecture's unique blend of spiritual heritage, viticultural innovation, and stunning alpine landscapes creates an unforgettable journey into the soul of Japan.
Things to do in Yamanashi
Mt Fuji Area Private Guided Tours in English-Nature up close, quiet, personal
From $320
5.0 (319)
Coffee on a Kayak with Mt. Fuji - Early Morning
From ¥12,000
5.0 (99)
Locally Owned: Private Mt. Fuji Icons & Hidden Gems (Kawaguchiko)
From ¥65,000
5.0 (66)
Private Guided Tour of the Mount Fuji Region (English/French)
From ¥60,000
5.0 (33)
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Kayak Tour on Lake Kawaguchiko
From ¥10,000
5.0 (31)
Private Local Hiking to enjoy the nature and culture of Mt.Fuji
Best of Mt. Fuji Private Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems (English)
From ¥65,000
5.0 (18)
Lake Kawaguchi Explorer: E-Bike Guided Tour
From ¥13,000
5.0 (17)
Fujisan Sushi Making Lesson
From ¥35,000
5.0 (16)
Yabusame Adventure with Mt. Fuji Views
From ¥22,000
5.0 (16)
Private Hiking Tour to View Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji Customized Private Tour: See Top Attractions in 1 Day
From ¥31,000
5.0 (11)
Lake Kawaguchi : Exclusive Private Customized Tour w/ Local Guide
From ¥20,000
5.0 (11)
Mt. Fuji Ukiyo-e Japan Blue Indigo Dyeing Experience
From ¥8,000
5.0 (10)
Samurai Nature Retreat
From ¥13,000
5.0 (8)Places to visit in Yamanashi
雷岩
Kaminari Iwa, 大菩薩峠線, Koshu, Japan
1-2-3 Kofu Shingen Onsen
1-2-3 Kofu Shingen Onsen, 甲府市川三郷線, Kamijoaraimachi, Kōfu, Kokubo 7-chome 409-3866, Japan
展望塔
FUJI VIEWPOINT, Chuo Expressway, Ryuo-shinmachi, Kai, 400-0192, Japan
ドーミーイン甲府丸の内 勝運の湯
Dormy Inn Kofu Marunouchi, 1-3 heiwa street, Wakamatsucho, Kōfu, Chuo 1-chome 400-0031, Japan
城のホテル
城のホテル, Maiduru-dori, Atagomachi, Kōfu, Kitaguchi 2-chome 400-0024, Japan
和穣苑
和穣苑, 市部本通り, Isawacho-Ichibe, Fuefuki, 406-0023, Japan
旅館 深雪温泉
旅館 深雪温泉, 市部本通り, Isawacho-Ichibe, Fuefuki, 406-0023, Japan
勝沼ぶどう郷ユースホステル (Katsunuma Budokyo youth hostel)
勝沼ぶどう郷ユースホステル (Katsunuma Budokyo youth hostel), 林道菱山深沢線, Katsunumacho-Hishiyama, Koshu, 404-0034, Japan
別邸 花水晶
別邸 花水晶, 一宮山梨線, Isawacho-Kawanakajima, Fuefuki, 406-0027, Japan
春日居びゅーほてる
春日居びゅーほてる, 下神内川石和温泉停車場線, Isawacho-Yamasaki, Fuefuki, 406-0023, Japan
ホテル 花いさわ
ホテル 花いさわ, 下神内川石和温泉停車場線, Isawacho-Ekimae, Fuefuki, 406-0021, Japan
ホテル富士
ホテル富士, Onsen Doori, Isawacho-Kawanakajima, Fuefuki, 406-0027, Japan
湯志摩の郷楽水園
湯志摩の郷楽水園, 甲府韮崎線, Otowacho, Kōfu, Yumura 2-chome 400-0074, Japan
ホテルルートインコート
ホテルルートインコート, bijutsukan street, Kugawahoncho, Kōfu, Tomitake 2-chome 409-3867, Japan
ドーミーイン甲府
Dormy Inn Kofu, 14-3, Kōfu, 400-0031, Japan
Travel Tips for Yamanashi
Getting Around
The primary rail service is the JR Chūō Main Line connecting Kōfu (the capital) to Tokyo and Nagoya. The Fujikyuko Line provides access from Ōtsuki to the Fuji Five Lakes area. Local buses are essential for reaching Mount Fuji trailheads, lakes, and wineries; consider the Fujikko Bus Pass for tourists. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring rural areas, vineyards, and remote temples at your own pace. Taxis are available but expensive. Popular navigation apps include Google Maps and Japan Travel by Navitime. Bicycles can be rented in towns like Kawaguchiko for lake circuits.
Best Time To Visit
Late April to early May for spring cherry blossoms around the Fuji Five Lakes; October to November for stunning autumn foliage and clear views of Mount Fuji; July to September for climbing Mount Fuji (official season) and outdoor activities, though this is also the hottest and most crowded period. Winter (December–February) offers crisp, clear skies for viewing Mount Fuji and winter festivals, but some attractions may have reduced hours.
Local Customs
Bow when greeting. Remove shoes before entering homes, traditional inns (ryokan), and some temple buildings. Be quiet and respectful at religious sites like Kuon-ji Temple. When visiting onsens, wash thoroughly before entering the bath, and do not wear swimsuits; tattoos may be prohibited at public baths. Tipping is not customary and can cause confusion. When tasting wine at local vineyards, a polite appreciation of the host's craft is expected. Dress modestly when away from tourist resorts.
Safety Information
Yamanashi is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise standard precautions in crowded tourist areas like Kawaguchiko Station. When hiking or climbing, especially on Mount Fuji, check weather forecasts rigorously, use proper gear, and be aware of rapidly changing conditions—deaths occur annually due to exposure and falls. Avoid restricted areas on mountains. There are no specific neighborhoods to avoid. Beware of potential overcharging by unofficial taxi operators near major tourist sites; use official taxi stands or ride-hailing apps where available. Natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons can occur; familiarize yourself with local evacuation procedures.
Health Information
Yamanashi has modern medical facilities, including Kofu City Hospital and larger regional centers. Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine ones. Be aware of altitude sickness when climbing Mount Fuji (July–September season) or hiking in the Southern Alps. Tap water is safe to drink. Pharmacies (薬局, yakkyoku) are widely available, but bring any prescription medications in their original containers. For serious emergencies, medical evacuation to Tokyo may be necessary.
Languages Spoken
Japanese
Quick Facts
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
¥
¥
Timezone
Asia/Tokyo +09:00 (GMT)
Calling Code
+81
Electricity
Driving Side
Left
Population
810,000
Area
4465 km²
Government
Prefectural government with a Governor and a Prefectural Assembly
ISO Code
JP-46