Yamanashi’s Popular Resort! Recommended Tourist Spots to Fully Enjoy Kiyosato Highlands

Kiyosato Highlands, one of Yamanashi Prefecture’s most popular tourist destinations, is a stunning highland area located on the southeastern foothills of Mt. Yatsugatake. In summer, it attracts visitors looking to escape the heat, while in winter, it becomes lively with tourists enjoying winter sports.

Thanks to well-developed infrastructure—including national roads, expressways, and JR railway lines—access is very convenient. From the Tokyo area, it takes about 2.5 hours, and from the Nagoya area, around 3.5 hours to reach the region.

Kiyosato Highlands offers many highlights year-round, and in this article, we’ll introduce some of the best recommended sightseeing spots to make the most of your visit.

1. Interact with Animals Amidst Nature – Kiyosato Highlands

◆ Côte de Vert

Located along Makiba Street, Côte de Vert is a recommended tourist spot for families with children and animal lovers. At the Kiyosato Pony Farm within the premises, you can interact with ponies, goats, rabbits, and other animals. Enjoy horseback riding while feeling the refreshing breeze of Kiyosato Highlands and let the adorable animals soothe your soul.

◆ Kosuda Farm

At Kosuda Farm, visitors can enjoy lead horse riding and horseback lessons. The farm is well-maintained, making it safe even for families with small children. A parent-child horseback experience also makes for a memorable photo opportunity.

2. Enjoy the Scenery of the Four Seasons – Mt. Yatsugatake

Yatsugatake refers to a mountain range straddling the border of Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures. The Kiyosato Highlands serve as a popular gateway for Yatsugatake hiking and are well-loved by mountain enthusiasts. This area is also one of the premier sightseeing destinations in Kiyosato, with well-developed trekking courses for beginners, making it accessible to people of all ages. Exploring alpine plants and birdwatching are also fantastic experiences not often found elsewhere.

At Yatsugatake, the landscape transforms beautifully with the seasons—vibrant flowers bloom in spring and summer, while stunning autumn foliage paints the hills in fall. In winter, the region becomes a haven for winter sports. The ski slopes at 1,900 meters elevation offer breathtaking snowy vistas, often with clear weather and perfect powder snow. It’s a beloved destination not just for tourists, but also for local skiers and snowboarders.

3. Relax and Take in the Views of Yatsugatake – Kiyosato Terrace

Kiyosato Terrace is a trending sightseeing spot in the Kiyosato Highlands, offering panoramic views of Mt. Yatsugatake and Nobeyama Highlands. With cozy sofas and seating where you can relax while enjoying the refreshing breeze, it’s especially popular for romantic dates and girls’ trips. While premium seats require a reservation, many areas of the terrace are open to all visitors for free. The paid seats offer a private and spacious experience, making them highly recommended.

On some days, you might even witness a sea of clouds, creating a magical atmosphere. There’s also a café on-site, with the Kiyosato Sky Parfait being a popular menu item. Enjoy this sweet treat along with the stunning views. Please note that Kiyosato Terrace is only open during the summer season, and it can get crowded on busy days, so plan ahead!

4. A Fairytale World – “Moegi no Mura” (Village of Sprouts)

Located about a 10-minute walk from Kiyosato Station, Moegi no Mura is a tourist spot filled with beautiful gardens, cafes, and shops that look like they came straight out of a foreign picture book. There are various hands-on experiences, including a music box crafting workshop where you can make your own music box and a woodworking workshop using thinned wood from the Yatsugatake forest.

The “Natural Garden”, which is grown without pesticides or fertilizers, is filled with the scent of plants and soil. Within the village, you'll find a popular soft-serve ice cream shop and gourmet spots offering hearty curries and locally brewed beer. One of the highlights is that pets are welcome here too.

5. Enjoy the Famous Soft-Serve Ice Cream – “Seisenryo”

Seisenryo is a popular complex featuring a farm, restaurant, lodging facilities, and shops. On weekends and holidays, it’s bustling with tourists enjoying meals and shopping. The shop offers local souvenirs such as dairy products, wine, and tableware from Kiyosato. The restaurant is also a recommended spot for lunch, serving dishes like curry and hamburg steak made with locally sourced vegetables and meats.

The most famous highlight is the soft-serve ice cream served at Jersey Hut. Known for its rich sweetness and fresh milk flavor, it is one of the most beloved treats in the Yatsugatake–Kiyosato area. During the summer vacation season, it draws such crowds that long lines form, sometimes requiring a wait of over 30 minutes. But the taste is so exceptional, you'll forget you even waited! This is a must-try when visiting Kiyosato.

◎ Summary

With its refreshing breeze even in the peak of summer, Kiyosato Highlands offers a very comfortable climate. The stunning autumn foliage not only attracts tourists but also captivates photographers. In winter, visitors can enjoy winter sports at the base of Mt. Yatsugatake, making it a destination that offers something in every season. Be sure to visit this enchanting highland destination!

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Yamanashi’s Popular Resort! Recommended Tourist Spots to Fully Enjoy Kiyosato Highlands