Little-Known Gems!? 20 Must-See Scenic Spots in Yamanashi Prefecture

Surrounded by mountains on all sides, Yamanashi Prefecture offers numerous scenic spots that tourists love to visit. Many people think of Mt. Fuji when they hear "Yamanashi," but there are plenty of breathtaking locations beyond Mt. Fuji. Here, we introduce 20 hidden scenic spots in Yamanashi Prefecture. Be sure to plan a visit and explore them!

1. Mitake Shosenkyo: A Spectacular Spot in Yamanashi Showcasing Nature’s Seasonal Beauty

Located in the outskirts of Kofu, Yamanashi Prefecture, Mitake Shosenkyo is known as one of the most breathtaking spots in Yamanashi. The cliffs of granite, carved over a long period, offer a unique and precious view you can only experience here. These cliffs harmonize beautifully with plants such as pine trees, azaleas, and maples.

During the autumn foliage season, the area bustles with tourists, while summer’s lush greenery and spring’s snowmelt scenery provide a charm that invites repeated visits. Mitake Shosenkyo’s stunning natural scenery is highly acclaimed nationwide, earning the top spot in the “Top 100 Sightseeing Valleys in Japan.” It has also been selected for the Heisei Hundred Scenic Spots and the Heisei Top 100 Water Spots. Here, the majestic rocks coexist with beautiful flora, creating a picturesque scene you’d think could only exist in paintings. Taking the ropeway to view the grand landscape from above is highly recommended.

2. A Sea of Sunflowers: The Spectacular Akeno Sunflower Field in Hokuto City, Yamanashi

Hokuto City in Yamanashi Prefecture boasts over 2,200 hours of sunshine annually. Among its many scenic views, the Akeno Sunflower Field stands out as a summer spectacle. Each year, sunflowers bloom for a month across three nearby venues, within walking distance of one another. The expansive sunflower field, also famous as the filming location for the 2004 hit movie Be with You, is truly breathtaking. The 350-meter-long sunflower maze adds an element of adventure for visitors.

The sunflower art created during the blooming season is a sight to behold. During this period, visitors can also enjoy sunflower-themed foods like sunflower honey, sunflower donuts, and sunflower seed-infused ice cream, which are popular among tourists. To witness the spectacular sunflower scenery, visiting in summer is a must.

3. Oshino Hakkai: A Scenic Spot Sourced by Yamanashi’s Fujino Spring Water

Since ancient times, Oshino Hakkai has been a place of worship and ascetic practice related to Mount Fuji, giving it a spiritual, mysterious allure.

The springs originated from the once-massive Lake Utsu, believed to have formed due to lava flows from Mount Fuji’s eruptions. The collaboration of the water’s reflections with Mount Fuji in the background creates a mesmerizing view. A designated natural monument and part of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Site, Oshino Hakkai attracts numerous visitors yearly. If you’re visiting Yamanashi, it’s a must-see for its enchanting scenery that leaves lasting impressions.

4. Arakurayama Sengen Shrine: A Spectacular Viewing Point of Mount Fuji in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi

At the foot of Mount Fuji, the Arakurayama Sengen Shrine in Fujiyoshida City is an excellent viewpoint to admire the iconic mountain. The scenery of Mount Fuji peeking through cherry blossoms and the vivid red Chureito Pagoda is breathtaking, offering a view like no other. It’s a hidden gem that attracts many visitors, especially during the cherry blossom season. The shrine is located about a 10-minute walk from Shimoyoshida Station in Yamanashi Prefecture, followed by climbing approximately 400 steps.

Though the climb may be challenging, the stunning view that awaits at the top is beyond words. For anyone looking to capture a picture-perfect shot of Mount Fuji, visiting Arakurayama Sengen Shrine is highly recommended. As a shrine, it also draws many worshippers, both locals and tourists. During cherry blossom season, photographers and photography enthusiasts gather in large numbers to take the ultimate shot of Mount Fuji, cherry blossoms, and the pagoda.

5. Fuefukigawa Fruit Park: A Fruit-Themed Park in Kofu City, Yamanashi

Yamanashi Prefecture, known as the "Fruit Kingdom," is famous for its production of grapes, peaches, and other fruits in the Kofu Basin. Fuefukigawa Fruit Park, a fruit-themed park, is located on the outskirts of Yamanashi City. The park offers stunning views of Mount Fuji in front and the Southern Alps in the distance. The nighttime scenery is particularly remarkable, featuring a star-filled sky and the nightscape of the Kofu Basin, earning it recognition as one of the "New Japan Three Great Night Views."

It is also designated as a "Lovers’ Sanctuary," making it a popular spot for couples, often chosen as a location for memorable proposals. As a city park, it’s also a place where families can enjoy time together. Nearby, you’ll find the Yamanashi Fruit Hot Spring Puku Puku, where visitors can indulge in a luxurious experience of soaking in hot springs while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

6. Nishizawa Gorge: A Mystical Scenic Spot in Yamanashi City

Nishizawa Gorge, located within the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park in Yamanashi City, is a scenic spot featuring breathtaking waterfalls and a 360-degree embrace of nature. It’s particularly stunning in autumn when the foliage of beech, maple, and mizunara trees is at its peak. Known as a trekking paradise, the area is accessible even for beginners, thanks to its well-paved trails. From the observation deck, visitors can marvel at the mystical landscapes surrounded by Yamanashi’s majestic mountains.

The triple waterfall, which cascades in three stages, is a must-see and epitomizes the natural beauty of the area. Another highlight is Nanatsugama Godan Waterfall, a five-tiered waterfall that offers spectacular views from both its upper and lower sections. This dynamic natural scenery, combined with the soothing negative ions of the forest, makes for a rejuvenating experience. Nishizawa Gorge is a must-visit spot for trekking and nature enthusiasts.

7. Yatsugatake Club, Where Sunlight Streams Through the Trees

Yatsugatake Club is located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, near the border with Nagano Prefecture. It is a scenic spot where you can feel the breath of plants up close, featuring a forest cultivated by the actor Hiroshi Yagyu and his family, which is now open to the public. In this forest, you can enjoy a walk surrounded by birch trees and wooden pathways, with seasonal sights all around. In spring, you’ll find pale purple katakuri flowers heralding the arrival of the season on the slopes of Mount Yatsugatake. In summer, there’s a vibrant display of greenery, as well as charming mushrooms like tamagodake.

The best time to visit is in autumn when the fall foliage is at its peak. There’s also a nighttime light-up event during the foliage season. In winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland. After strolling, you can relax at the terrace seats of the restaurant, sipping tea while taking in the forest views—a special treat in this prime location. If you want to experience the changing seasons of Yatsugatake in Yamanashi, this is a must-visit spot. The club also offers delicious sweets, making it a great choice for a girls' day out.

8. Lake Yamanaka: Stunning Views of Mount Fuji Reflected on the Water

Easily accessible from Tokyo, Lake Yamanaka in Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, attracts many visitors. This lake, formed by volcanic activity from Mount Fuji, is the closest of the five lakes scattered across the northern base of Mount Fuji. It offers a picturesque and almost mirror-like reflection of Mount Fuji on its surface, creating an enchanting and artistic scene.

When visiting Lake Yamanaka, don’t miss the “Diamond Fuji.” This phenomenon occurs when the sun aligns perfectly with Mount Fuji’s summit, creating a brilliant diamond-like sparkle. At Lake Yamanaka, this spectacle can be observed from autumn through winter and lasts for a relatively extended time after sunset, making it a popular spot for photographers. Seeing the magnificent Diamond Fuji, a rarity unique to Yamanashi, is an experience you won’t forget.

9. Ojiragawa Gorge: A Beautiful Valley in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture

Located near Nagano Prefecture, Hokuto City in Yamanashi is home to numerous scenic spots rich in natural beauty. Among them, Ojiragawa Gorge stands out for its lush greenery, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear waters. Originating from Mount Kaikoma, this stunning gorge is renowned for its breathtaking views and pristine water, recognized as one of Japan’s 100 famous waters. Notable landmarks within the gorge include Sen-ga-fuchi, Kamija Falls, and Fudo Falls.

This area is ideal for sightseeing or leisurely drives, allowing visitors to refresh both mind and body while basking in the negative ions of the forest. You can admire the gorge’s beauty from a suspension bridge and enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s said that the famous Southern Alps natural mineral water is sourced from the pristine waters flowing through Ojiragawa Gorge, a testament to its purity.

10. Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum with a Charming Forest Landscape

Among Yamanashi Prefecture’s tourist spots surrounding Mount Fuji, the Kawaguchiko Music Forest Museum in Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, stands charmingly. Resembling a stylish European countryside town, the museum features beautiful seasonal flowers and offers a wonderful space that feels like an overseas trip. It is a rare music box museum located on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, where you can appreciate unique music boxes from around the world.

The museum boasts legendary exhibits such as the "Titanic Model Orchestrion," "Automatic Violin," the world’s largest "Automatic Dance Organ," and the mechanical automaton doll "Automata," all on permanent display. While the museum’s interior exudes the elegance of medieval Europe, its outdoor scenery is breathtaking, with gardens that showcase the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.

11. Flower Forest Park, a Beautiful Park in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture

The Yatsugatake Mountains, which straddle the border of Yamanashi and Nagano Prefectures, are renowned for their stunning natural beauty. One of the scenic spots in Yamanashi’s Yatsugatake region is the Southern Yatsugatake Flower Forest Park. This park is a year-round destination where seasonal flowers such as daffodils, poppies, and dahlias bloom in abundance, creating a spectacular view of nature’s harmony. A unique highlight is the lift car “Koinobori-go,” which takes visitors up to the park, adding to the fun experience.

At the base of Southern Yatsugatake, the park offers various activities amidst Yamanashi’s vast nature, making it a perfect destination for families. Visitors can also enjoy fruit picking, such as apples and cherries, making it a delightful spot for nature and leisure enthusiasts. If you’re planning a trip to Yamanashi, the Southern Yatsugatake Flower Forest Park is highly recommended for family fun amidst the great outdoors.

12. Fuji Subaru Land, a Fun Spot in Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture

Located at the foot of Mount Fuji in Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture, Fuji Subaru Land is a dog-themed park where visitors can interact with adorable dogs. Known among dog lovers in Yamanashi, this highland park sits at an altitude of 1,000 meters, allowing visitors to enjoy a refreshing breeze while having fun with the dogs. There are plans that let you walk a dog of your choice, creating enjoyable experiences for dog enthusiasts.

The park features nine dog runs, where you can take leisurely strolls with your canine companions surrounded by nature. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own dogs to the park. The on-site restaurant even allows dogs, making it an ideal destination for those wanting to travel with their pets or those looking to find comfort and relaxation with dogs in their busy lives.

13. Explore the Mystical Fugaku Wind Cave in Yamanashi’s Minamitsuru District

For those seeking a mystical and awe-inspiring destination in Yamanashi, the Fugaku Wind Cave in Minamitsuru District is a must-visit. Formed over a thousand years ago by an eruption of Nagao Mountain, one of Mt. Fuji's side volcanoes, this lava cave is a product of the famous Aokigahara lava flow. Stretching more than 100 meters, the horizontal cave is home to fascinating lava formations, including lava shelves. With a constant cool temperature of around 3°C, visitors can marvel at ice formations preserved from winter even during the summer months.

The tranquil, chilly atmosphere of the cave creates an otherworldly ambiance, offering a unique and magical experience. As a designated National Natural Monument, Fugaku Wind Cave is a landmark that deserves a spot on any traveler’s itinerary. Each section of the cave offers distinct features, from intricate lava textures to massive, naturally formed ice pillars that showcase the timeless beauty of nature. This is one of Yamanashi’s unmissable natural wonders.

14. A Vineyard Paradise for Wine Lovers: Suntory Tomioka Winery in Yamanashi

Yamanashi Prefecture, celebrated as Japan’s “Fruit Kingdom,” is especially renowned for its grape cultivation in the Kofu Basin. Among its picturesque vineyards, the Suntory Tomioka Winery stands out as a prime destination for breathtaking views. Nestled on a scenic hill, the winery offers panoramic vistas of rolling vineyards with the iconic Mt. Fuji towering in the background—a setting so enchanting it feels plucked from a fairytale.

Beyond the views, visitors can enjoy winery tours and wine-tasting seminars, making it a perfect stop for wine aficionados. Experience Yamanashi’s exquisite wines while delving into the fascinating craft of winemaking. Don’t forget to explore the wine shop, where you can taste and choose from an extensive range of locally produced wines, ensuring you take home a memorable bottle from your visit.

15. Unforgettable Views from the Kawaguchiko Tenjozan Ropeway

Kawaguchiko Tenjozan Park is one of Yamanashi’s iconic destinations, offering some of the region’s most stunning vistas. The park’s renowned ropeway takes you on a scenic journey, revealing spectacular views of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi—a sight that leaves a lasting impression.

Perfect for those wanting to enjoy Mt. Fuji from above without hiking, the Kachikachi-yama Ropeway delivers an unforgettable experience. At the summit station, panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding landscape create a profound sense of wonder. The journey is family-friendly, ensuring everyone can appreciate the natural beauty.

At the top, visitors can explore a charming shrine featuring two guardian rabbits, which are said to bestow blessings of wisdom and strength. This park is an ideal destination for creating unforgettable memories during your Yamanashi adventure.

16. A Tourist Spot Surrounded by Flowers: Flower Center Heidi’s Village

Located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Flower Center Heidi’s Village is a stunning spot filled with beautiful flowers. One highlight to note is the Rose Corridor, which comes into full bloom from spring to summer, captivating visitors with its breathtaking beauty. Families with children can also enjoy the playground equipment, making this a great spot for a family outing. Another unique experience offered at Flower Center Heidi’s Village is riding a Segway, allowing visitors to explore the spacious park in a unique way.

The winter illumination event, "Heidi’s Village Light Pageant," has become a famous attraction in Yamanashi. The colorful illuminations bring joy to visitors, and the winter fireworks held during this period are another spectacular sight. This is a tourist spot worth visiting year-round with your family.

17. Kanda no Oitozakura: Yamanashi's Beautiful Harbinger of Spring

Cherry blossoms are the quintessential flower of spring. Among the many famous cherry blossom spots in Yamanashi Prefecture, Kanda no Oitozakura in Hokuto City is particularly beloved by both locals and visitors. This rare type of Edohigan cherry tree is approximately 400 years old, with a distinctive weeping shape that creates an awe-inspiring scene. Its blossoms cascade beautifully from its massive trunk, creating a view that is nothing short of breathtaking. On clear days, the blossoms frame views of Yatsugatake and the Southern Alps in the background.

The setting, far from the bustle of urban life, is a picturesque representation of traditional Japan, blending harmoniously with the cherry blossoms. If you’re visiting Yamanashi in spring, this is an unmissable spot. The efforts of generations to nurture this rare Edohigan variant into its current state make this a unique and seasonal spectacle you can’t experience anywhere else.

18. Yamanashi Prefectural Makiba Park: Interact with Animals

Yamanashi Prefecture boasts many tourist attractions that take advantage of its rich natural environment. Among these is the Yamanashi Prefectural Makiba Park, part of the Yatsugatake Ranch, which is free for visitors to enjoy. While interacting with delightful animals, visitors can also take in breathtaking mountain views. On clear days without clouds, even Mount Fuji graces the horizon.

This park is also recommended as a soothing spot to connect with adorable animals, including sheep, rare Tokara goats, Holsteins, and ponies. The Makiba Restaurant, located at an altitude of 1,400 meters, offers popular dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, such as premium local-brand beef, fresh highland vegetables, and wine, which are loved by tourists. The local specialties and exclusive souvenirs available here are also highly popular.

19. Fujishibazakura: A Pink Wonderland at the Base of Mt. Fuji in Yamanashi

Experience a spectacular view that feels like stepping into a postcard or an otherworldly scene at Fujishibazakura, located at Fuji Motosu Lake Resort in Yamanashi Prefecture’s Minamitsuru District. Every April, the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival" transforms this area into a sea of vibrant pink, with around 800,000 moss phlox blooming at the foot of Mt. Fuji. The mesmerizing scenery, where the vivid pinks contrast beautifully with the blue skies and the iconic Mt. Fuji, creates a sight that is nothing short of a masterpiece.

As a seasonal attraction open during the "Fuji Shibazakura Festival," this is a must-visit for anyone exploring Yamanashi in spring. Observation decks are available to capture memorable photos. The site has gained global recognition, attracting countless visitors, including a significant number of international tourists.

20. Fuji-Q Highland: Yamanashi’s Iconic Amusement Park

Fuji-Q Highland is one of Japan's most famous amusement parks and a landmark attraction in Yamanashi Prefecture. Known for its adrenaline-pumping rides, it’s also a gateway to stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including Mt. Fuji. Highlights of this park include its thrilling rides like "Takabisha" and "FUJIYAMA," which are renowned worldwide for their excitement.

Beyond the thrills, the elevated attractions offer incredible panoramic views of Yamanashi and Mt. Fuji. Visitors who prefer a leisurely experience can enjoy the park’s giant Ferris wheel, which offers a slower and more relaxed way to admire the surrounding scenery. Fuji-Q Highland is a perfect destination for families and thrill-seekers alike, blending adventure with breathtaking natural beauty.

◎Summary

Yamanashi Prefecture is rich in picturesque natural beauty, offering numerous breathtaking spots. Famous landscapes include the Southern Alps, Yatsugatake Mountains, and areas surrounding Mt. Fuji. Besides these scenic locations, there are also interactive and recreational spots that make a trip to Yamanashi a fulfilling experience.

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Little-Known Gems!? 20 Must-See Scenic Spots in Yamanashi Prefecture