A Complete Guide to Sightseeing Spots in Kofu: Must-Visit Locations in Yamanashi's Capital City
Mount Fuji, a symbol of Japan, attracts countless tourists who visit Japan specifically to witness its majestic presence. However, given Mount Fuji's massive size and the numerous tourist attractions scattered around its vicinity, we've created this guide to help you explore the Mount Fuji area efficiently.
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The "Mt. Fuji Full-day Nature Guided Tour with a Private Chartered Car & Guide" offers a stress-free experience exploring the Mount Fuji area, complete with private car transportation from Tokyo.
Even if you have limited time to explore the Mount Fuji region, this tour allows you to visit all the must-see spots with detailed guidance from your tour guide.
If you're interested in efficiently experiencing the essential locations while gaining deep insights from a knowledgeable local guide who knows the area inside and out, we highly recommend joining the "Mt. Fuji Full-day Nature Guided Tour with a Private Chartered Car & Guide."
We hope you'll have a wonderful time experiencing everything Mt.Fuji has to offer by joining a Magical Trip tour!
Introduction
Based on my years of experience visiting the Mount Fuji area, I'd like to share the charms of Kofu with you.
Kofu is a historic town that flourished as the castle town of Takeda Shingen, and it's an attractive tourist destination with easy access from Tokyo in about 90 minutes. It boasts rich nature, hot springs, and a unique food culture. From the scenic beauty of Shosenkyo Gorge to the majestic presence of Takeda Shrine, and local specialties like Koshu wine and houtou noodles, there's no end to the attractions.
Indeed, like other regional cities, the downtown area is starting to show signs of vacant stores due to the declining birthrate and aging population. However, this has been turned into an opportunity with new tourist spots emerging, such as renovated traditional house cafes and wineries.
While English support may not be perfect, this presents a valuable opportunity for foreign tourists to experience the true charm of Japan that is still undiscovered.
In spring, cherry and peach blossoms color the mountains, in summer you can feel the refreshing breeze of the highlands, in autumn the foliage of Shosenkyo Gorge enchants visitors, and in winter you can enjoy hot springs and the spectacular view of snow-capped Mount Fuji.
In this article, I'll introduce the charms of Kofu along with the spots I've discovered through my 10 years of experience.
Table of Contents
・What is Kofu?
・How to Access Kofu
・Sightseeing Spots to Visit in Kofu
・Local Cuisine to Enjoy in Kofu
・Recommended Seasons for Visiting Kofu
・Frequently Asked Questions About Kofu Sightseeing
What is Kofu?
Kofu, the central city of Yamanashi Prefecture, is an attractive city where history and nature harmonize beautifully.
This region, which I've been visiting for 10 years, is known as the headquarters of the famous Sengoku period warlord, Takeda Shingen, and his historical heritage can still be found throughout the area. Despite being conveniently accessible from Tokyo in about 90 minutes by express train, it's surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers diverse tourist experiences such as hot springs, fruit picking, and winery tours.
You can view Mount Fuji from various parts of the city, and the view is particularly spectacular in winter under the crisp, clear air. The warm personality of the local people is also one of its charms, and they are friendly towards foreign tourists. Kofu can be described as a city where the charm of Japan is condensed, blending tradition and modernity.
What I particularly like is the seasonal expressions of the mountains surrounding the Kofu Basin. From cherry and peach blossoms coloring the mountainsides in spring, cool gorge beauty in summer, burning autumn foliage, to the spectacular view of snow-capped Mount Fuji in winter, you can enjoy wonderful natural scenery throughout the year.
Moreover, Kofu is famous as one of Japan's leading wine-producing regions, with numerous wineries in the city. Koshu wine, made from locally grown grapes, is highly acclaimed worldwide and popular among wine enthusiasts. Furthermore, as the center of Yamanashi, known as the "Kingdom of Fruits," you can enjoy various fruit-picking activities depending on the season.
Historically, Kofu has been known for jewelry processing since the Edo period and is still known as the "City of Jewels." There's also a jewelry museum in the city where you can learn about the region's traditional crafts. As such, Kofu is a city with deep appeal where nature, history, culture, and industry harmonize beautifully.
How to Access Kofu
Over the past 10 years, I've been visiting Kofu using various means of transportation, but I especially recommend access by train. From Shinjuku Station, you can reach Kofu Station in about 90 minutes using the express trains "Kaiji" or "Azusa." The view of Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps from the train window is worth the trip alone.
Highway buses are also a convenient option. It takes about 2 hours from Shinjuku Bus Terminal to Kofu Station, and it's more affordable than the train. From my experience, if you take the early morning bus, you can start sightseeing from the morning and make the most of your day.
Sightseeing Spots to Visit in Kofu
I'd like to introduce the sightseeing spots in Kofu that I've found truly charming over my 10 years of visits. Each place has its unique appeal woven by history, culture, and nature, and shows different faces depending on the season.
Kofu Castle Ruins (Maizuru Castle Park)
The Kofu Castle ruins are a special place where I make new discoveries every time I visit. This castle, built after the time of Takeda Shingen, is now maintained as Maizuru Castle Park and serves as a relaxation spot for citizens. The view from the castle tower base is breathtaking, offering a panoramic view of the Kofu Basin and even Mount Fuji on clear days.
The cherry blossom season is particularly spectacular, with about 160 cherry trees coloring the castle ruins and attracting many flower viewers. The autumn foliage season is also magnificent, with the golden ginkgo avenue being a popular photo spot. At night, the castle ruins are illuminated, creating a fantastical atmosphere different from daytime.
There's a free history museum inside the castle where you can learn about Kofu's history and the Takeda family. While the explanations are mainly in Japanese, the staff are attentive to foreign tourists.
Takeda Shrine
Takeda Shrine is an absolute must-visit sightseeing spot when in Kofu. Every time I visit this shrine dedicated to Takeda Shingen, I feel a solemn atmosphere and a sense of purification. The extensive grounds create an atmosphere as if you've time-slipped back to the Sengoku period.
The "Furinkazan" flag, which was Takeda Shingen's military flag, flutters in the shrine grounds, and in the treasure hall, you can view valuable cultural assets related to the Takeda family, such as armor and weapons. In spring, the cherry blossoms planted in the grounds come into full bloom, beautifully harmonizing with the majestic atmosphere of Takeda Shrine.
What's particularly impressive is its aspect as a power spot for good fortune. Many students and businesspeople visit to pray for success. I always visit here when faced with important decisions, and it helps me approach decisions with a refreshed mind.
Website: http://www.takedajinja.or.jp/
Koshu Yume Koji
Koshu Yume Koji, located right next to Kofu Station, is a tourist spot that recreates streetscapes from the Edo to Showa periods, and it's my favorite resting place. Here, they've created a space that utilizes historical architectural styles while incorporating modern comfort.
The retro-atmosphere street is lined with local restaurants and souvenir shops offering a wide range of Yamanashi specialties. I often stop by a Japanese confectionery shop that sells seasonal fresh sweets, perfect for a tea break between sightseeing.
At night, it's illuminated, creating a different atmosphere from daytime. Various events are held especially on weekends, making it a place for interaction with locals. This place, loved by both tourists and locals, continues to transmit new charms of Kofu.
Website: https://koshuyumekouji.com/
Shosenkyo Gorge
Shosenkyo Gorge is the place I've visited most frequently during my 10 years of trips to Kofu. The scenic beauty of the gorge, stretching about 4 kilometers, is known as one of Japan's finest scenic spots and shows different faces throughout the four seasons.
Particularly impressive are the unique rock formations like Sengataki Waterfall and Kakuenpo. The natural sculptural beauty created by water over many years is overwhelming. The walking paths are well-maintained, allowing even beginners to enjoy hiking safely. You can also view the entire gorge from above using the ropeway.
The fresh greenery in spring and the autumn foliage are especially magnificent, attracting many tourists every year. My recommendation is an early morning walk; the gorge enveloped in morning mist has a mystical atmosphere.
Near the gorge is the Shosenkyo Shadow-Graph Museum, where you can enjoy a cultural experience after appreciating nature.
Yumura Onsen Area
Yumura Onsen area is a special place I regularly visit to heal my tired mind and body. Known as Takeda Shingen's secret hot spring, this hot spring town is lined with historic inns and is a distinguished hot spring area favored by literary masters.
At the day-trip hot spring facility I often use, you can view the surrounding mountains from the open-air bath, and the scenery at dusk is especially spectacular. There are also several foot bath spots where you can casually enjoy the hot spring.
The combination of seasonal nature and hot springs is also attractive. You can enjoy different experiences each season: open-air baths while viewing cherry blossoms in spring, foot baths feeling the cool breeze in summer, hot springs after autumn leaf viewing, and snow-viewing baths in winter.
Local Cuisine to Enjoy in Kofu
The charm of Kofu lies not only in its tourist spots but also in its rich food culture. I'd like to introduce the numerous delicious dishes and specialties I've encountered over years of visits. These are not just "local specialties" but important elements that tell the history and culture of Kofu.
Houtou
Houtou is one of Kofu's representative local dishes, and it's a memorable dish that I learned about from locals. It's a hearty dish that warms both body and soul, with thick flat noodles and seasonal vegetables simmered in a rich miso-based soup.
This dish, passed down from the time of Takeda Shingen, is packed with seasonal vegetables like pumpkin, taro, and mushrooms, making it highly nutritious. Houtou is especially delightful in cold seasons, and locals often enjoy it during winter. I find it particularly comforting after a long day of sightseeing.
Koshu Wine
Koshu wine is a representative local drink of Japan that I encounter at wineries I always visit when in Kofu. The area boasts a variety of wineries, from traditional ones dating back to the Meiji era to modern facilities incorporating the latest brewing technologies.
What's particularly noteworthy is the wine made from the "Koshu" grape, a variety unique to Japan. It's characterized by gentle acidity and a fruity aroma, pairing excellently with Japanese cuisine. Recently, it has received high praise from Western wine critics and is gaining international recognition. I always make sure to bring a bottle or two home as souvenirs.
Shingen Mochi
Shingen mochi is a Japanese confectionery that's immensely popular as a souvenir from Kofu. I still remember the excitement when I first tasted it. Part of its charm lies in its unique way of eating - you pour the accompanying black syrup over the kinako (roasted soybean flour) coated mochi. The texture of the mochi, carefully made by craftsmen one by one, is exquisite, and the balance of sweetness between the kinako and black syrup is perfect.
There are facilities where you can tour the factory, allowing you to observe the manufacturing process up close. I've participated a few times, and it's a great opportunity to appreciate the high level of professional skill and learn about the depth of traditional Japanese confectionery making.
Recommended Seasons for Visiting Kofu
From my 10 years of experience, I can say that Kofu has attractions in all four seasons, making it worth visiting at any time of the year. Let me introduce the characteristics and highlights of each season.
Spring (March to May)
Spring in Kofu is the season I recommend to most people. The cherry blossoms blooming throughout the city are spectacular, especially those at Maizuru Castle Park and Takeda Shrine. The cherry blossom tunnel along the approach to Takeda Shrine is breathtakingly beautiful, like a painting, attracting many tourists every year.
Moreover, the peach blossoms blooming on the mountains surrounding the Kofu Basin dye the entire mountain in pale pink petals, creating a scenery that seems like another world. The temperature during this time is comfortable, making it ideal for sightseeing. Every year during this season, I enjoy a drive towards Yamanashi City where I can appreciate both cherry and peach blossoms at once.
Summer (June to August)
In summer, I recommend enjoying the cooler temperatures at higher elevations in Kofu. Hiking in Shosenkyo Gorge is pleasant, with the cool breeze from the valley alleviating the midsummer heat.
The biggest attraction of this season is undoubtedly fruit picking. Peach picking is available from July to August, and grape picking starts from late August. From my experience, I suggest fruit picking early in the morning. The fruits glistening with morning dew are exceptionally delicious. After fruit picking, enjoying wine tasting at a nearby winery is a quintessential summer experience in Kofu.
Autumn (September to November)
The most attractive aspect of Kofu in autumn is the fall foliage at Shosenkyo Gorge. The entire gorge area turns red and yellow, creating a spectacular view that's considered one of the best autumn foliage spots in Japan. I visit around mid-November every year, and each time I'm struck by its breathtaking beauty.
This season also sees many food-related events like "Wine Tourism" and harvest festivals. You can enjoy new wine tastings and dishes made with local ingredients while touring wineries. My favorite way to fully appreciate autumn in Kofu is to enjoy leaf viewing during the day and wine in the evening.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Kofu is a special season when you can view snow-capped Mount Fuji in the crisp, clear air. What I particularly love is soaking in the warm waters of Yumura Onsen while gazing at the winter landscape. It warms you to the core, providing truly blissful moments.
During this season, the mountains surrounding the Kofu Basin are covered in snow, and the whole city takes on a winter appearance. Kofu, known for its many clear days, offers a beautiful contrast between the clear blue sky and the snow-capped mountains, making it ideal for photography. Also, the local warm dish, houtou, is especially delicious during this cold season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kofu Sightseeing
I've compiled answers to questions I often receive based on my years of visiting Kofu. This information provides specific advice based on actual experiences.
Are there places in Kofu where English is understood?
Basic English communication is possible at major hotels and tourist information centers at stations. Also, an increasing number of main tourist spots and restaurants are providing English menus and simple English guidance.
However, to discover the deeper charms of Kofu, it's convenient to have a translation app ready. Local people are kind to foreign tourists and will welcome you warmly even if there's a language barrier.
What's the recommended length of stay in Kofu?
While day trips to Kofu are possible, I recommend a 1-night, 2-day stay. An ideal plan would be to tour the historical spots in the city on the first day, and enjoy hot springs and winery tours on the second day. Especially, combining a night at an onsen and morning sightseeing can provide a deeper travel experience.
What's the best season to visit Kofu?
From my experience, spring and autumn are especially recommended. In spring, cherry and peach blossoms are in full bloom, enveloping the entire city in a festive atmosphere. In autumn, the fall foliage at Shosenkyo Gorge is spectacular, and the climate is mild, suitable for sightseeing. However, each season has its unique charm, so it's best to choose according to your purpose.
What are the particularly popular souvenirs in Kofu?
The classic Shingen mochi and Koshu wine are especially popular. These can be easily purchased in shopping areas around Kofu Station and at various tourist spots. My recommendation is wine purchased directly from local wineries. You can taste before buying, allowing you to choose one that suits your preferences.
Over my 10 years of visiting Kofu, I've been captivated by this city's charms many times. Kofu is a tourist destination where the essence of Japan is condensed, blending historical sites that convey the history of Takeda Shingen, majestic nature represented by Shosenkyo Gorge, and luxurious pleasures like hot springs and wine.
With good access from Tokyo, it's also ideal for day trips. The nature that shows different expressions each season, warm interactions with people, and rich food culture will surely leave a deep impression on visitors. I encourage you to experience the charms of Kofu for yourself!
