There are many interesting places to visit. We have selected 8 recommended sightseeing spots in Otsuki City

Have you heard of Ōtsuki City, located in the eastern part of Yamanashi Prefecture? With the JR Chūō Line providing direct access from Tokyo, and the Chūō Expressway running through it, the city is easily reachable by both train and car.

Ōtsuki City is full of historic attractions, nature-filled destinations for play and relaxation, and spots that show different expressions with each season. It’s also a popular destination for tourists who enjoy trekking and hiking.

This time, we’ve selected 8 tourist spots in Ōtsuki City that are worth checking out.

1. Katsura River Wellness Park

Katsura River Wellness Park is divided into three zones: West Zone, Central Zone, and East Zone. Since each zone offers a different kind of experience, it’s a spot you’ll want to take your time enjoying.

The picnic area in the East Zone allows for barbecuing. The barbecue area is free to use, but reservations are required in advance. There are also many playgrounds scattered through nature, making it a great spot for sightseeing in Ōtsuki City with children. Plus, there’s a dog run, so you can even enjoy sightseeing with your pet.

Events are also held in the park at times, so be sure to check when you’re planning a visit to Ōtsuki City.

2. Koyasu Miyazawa Shrine

Koyasu Miyazawa Shrine has long been cherished by locals in Ōtsuki City as a guardian for safe childbirth and childrearing. If you visit, don’t miss the “Koyasu Kosodate no Sugi” (cedar tree of safe childbirth and childrearing) in the shrine grounds.

This is because it is believed that peeling the bark of the cedar and keeping it as a charm brings fertility, and for pregnant women, ensures a safe delivery. As such, many of the visitors to this shrine are women. If you are hoping for such blessings, consider visiting this shrine when sightseeing in Ōtsuki City.

3. Chūjusan Jōshō-ji Temple

Chūjusan Jōshō-ji Temple is said to have been founded in 1275 by the monk Ryōkai. Records show that it was relocated to its current site in the 3rd year of Kanpō (1743). Although many years have passed since then, the main hall and temple quarters have undergone repeated restorations and still largely retain their original appearance. When you step inside, you will surely feel the depth of its history.

There is also the Meoto Kame-ishi (married turtle stones), which are believed to bring longevity if touched. If you visit Chūjusan Jōshō-ji Temple while sightseeing in Ōtsuki City, make sure to check them out.

4. Iwadono Castle Ruins

Iwadono Castle once stood in Ōtsuki City. It was built on Mount Iwadono, which stands at an elevation of 634 meters, and is said to have used large natural stones to form its castle gates to prevent enemy intrusion. Today, the site of Iwadono Castle has been designated a historic site by Yamanashi Prefecture.

Because it offers views of Mount Fuji, it is also a popular tourist spot for trekking. If you plan to visit, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes! And don’t forget to enjoy the spectacular scenery unique to Ōtsuki City.

5. Hoshino Residence

The Hoshino Residence, once the honjin (main inn) of the post town of Shimohanasaki on the old Kōshū Kaidō, is now open to the public. In April, a Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) event is held, showcasing many traditional dolls.

Currently, a reservation is required for viewing, so be sure not to forget to contact them in advance.

6. Kanjō

Designated as a cultural property of Ōtsuki City, the maple tree of Kanjō (Yurugi) is also recognized as a natural monument of the city.

Standing before this large and magnificent maple tree is sure to leave you in awe. If you visit Ōtsuki City in the autumn, this is one spot you’ll want to visit to view the fall foliage.

7. Yatsuzawa Power Station No. 1 Aqueduct Bridge

Built in 1912 using water sourced from the Katsura River, the Yatsuzawa Power Station was Japan’s first large-scale regulating reservoir-type power plant. Its No. 1 Aqueduct Bridge is a reinforced concrete open-spandrel arch bridge measuring 63.6 meters long and 5.5 meters wide. This bridge has been designated as a tangible cultural property by the Japanese government.

In addition to this, there are also No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 aqueduct bridges, with the No. 2 and No. 3 bridges also being selected as national tangible cultural properties. Such a valuable tourist site is right here in Ōtsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture.

If you visit Ōtsuki City, be sure to stop by. The view during the autumn foliage season is particularly stunning, so visiting in the fall might be a great idea.

8. Ōtsuki Lohas Village

Popular for offering yoga sessions in the forest, “Ōtsuki Lohas Village” is a must-visit. The event dates are listed on the official website, so check in advance and make a reservation. Doing yoga while breathing in fresh air is sure to be a unique and refreshing experience, even for those who don’t usually practice yoga.

In addition to yoga, a variety of other programs are available. These include guided forest walks, camping that you can enjoy with your pet, and day-trip barbecues—all of which sound intriguing. Equipment rentals are also available, so you don’t need to worry even if you come empty-handed.

◎ Summary

What did you think of the tourist spots in Ōtsuki City, Yamanashi Prefecture? Did you find any that caught your interest? The city offers a wealth of attractions, from historical sites to trekking destinations.

Its accessibility via public transportation or car is also a major draw. Make the most of this convenience and enjoy a fulfilling trip to Ōtsuki City.