Yamanashi Prefecture is a nature-rich prefecture surrounded by famous peaks including Mount Fuji, the Southern Alps, and Mount Yatsugatake. The Kofu Basin, with long sunshine hours, spreads across the center and is known as a major production area for grapes and peaches. Wine-making using Koshu grapes has over 140 years of history and is gaining high evaluation domestically and internationally. Scenic spots such as the Fuji Five Lakes, Shosenkyo Gorge, and Kiyosato Plateau are scattered along with hot spring resorts like Isawa and Shimobe, making it popular as a weekend getaway destination from the Tokyo metropolitan area. Many historic sites and festivals related to the warring states military commander Takeda Shingen abound, brimming with charm that fuses history, outdoor activities, and food culture. In the future, improved access is expected with the opening of the Linear Chuo Shinkansen.

Climate Information

Best Season

Spring with fresh greenery and flowers, and early summer through autumn with refreshing fruits and highlands are the best seasons.

Months: 04, 05, 06, 09, 10

Seasonal Highlights

Spring

Fuefuki City's Togengo is dyed entirely pink, where cherry blossoms and peach blossoms can be enjoyed together.

Summer

Mount Fuji climbing season opens, Kiyosato Plateau and Mount Yatsugatake are crowded with summer vacationers.

Autumn

Autumn foliage at Shosenkyo Gorge and Nishizawa Valley, new wine release events are held one after another.

Winter

Optimal for Diamond Fuji and stargazing with high dry weather rates and clear skies.

Basic Information

Capital City Kofu City
Area 4465.27 km²
Region Chubu Region
Anniversary Date Yamanashi Prefecture Citizen's Day (November 20)

Symbols

Flower Cherry Blossom (Sakura)
Tree Maple
Bird Japanese Bush Warbler (Uguisu)
Songs Song of Yamanashi Prefecture
Neighboring Prefectures Tokyo , Kanagawa , Nagano , Shizuoka , Saitama

Access Information

Airports

  • Haneda Airport (HND) - Distance to Capital: 120km

Major Highways

  • Chuo Expressway
  • Chubu Odan Expressway
  • Higashi Fuji Go-ko Road

Extensive highway bus network from Tokyo metropolitan area. Affordable tickets such as 'Fujisan Fuji Five Lakes Gurulin Pass' are also available.

Tags

Mount FujiFuji Five LakesKofuKoshu WineHotoShosenkyo GorgeHot SpringsFruit PickingShingen-ko Festival