2025 Kofu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

#citydaytours Kofu Castle, located in the Kofu City, Yamanashi prefecture, turned out coincidentally to be one of my favorite day trip during my trip in Japan. It was unplanned trip caused by coincidence as I went to a wrong train stop. Instead of getting back to the planned station, I decided myself to explore this unpopular city. Kofu is a worth visiting since it has something to offer, which is Maizuru Park and Kofu Castle. This mesmerizing park will serve you with its peacefully vibes and the fresh air. This is perfect visiting around Spring season as there will be hundreds of cherry blossom trees blooming on the premises. It is also superb comfy for you to have a relaxing time or stroll around the Castle. 📍Kofu Castle (Maizuru Castle Park, Kofu City, Japan 🇯🇵 #100waysoftravel #japan #maizurupark #kofu

Kusatsu Onsen is well known for its 'Yubatake', which means 'hot water field'. This is a huge area right in the center of the town, where the water is divided and cooled. It is all in the open air, so makes for some great, iconic photos. In fact, this large-scale wooden device is used to allow the material in the spring precipitation and cooling. Next to the Yubatake. there is also free use of foot hot spring, while soaking your foot in the hot spring, while enjoying the Yubatake, come here is to pursue this sense of leisure! Located inside the Netsu-no-Yu Bathhouse, this a special performance -- dancers singing Japanese folk songs while dancing around the hot spring baths. During this performance the water is cooled down using large wooden planks. Some people from the audience are selected to participate, so be ready to dance! Performance times are shown outside Netsu-no-Yu Bathhouse. 草津溫泉，最著名的景觀正是湯畑！這是鎮中心一大片區域，水被分割和冷卻。因為草津溫泉的湧泉溫度非常高，所以一整年都可以看到湯畑白霧蒸騰的景象。湯畑周圍也有很多餐館和酒吧，所以大多數人晚上來這裡。 因為當地溫泉特別高溫的關係，早期會透過攪拌溫泉達到讓溫泉降溫的效果，現在這種被稱為「湯揉」的動作已經在當地發展成特別的演出，由原先的大浴場改建而成的熱乃湯每天都有公演，想在溫泉鄉感受載歌載舞的熱鬧氛圍，或者親自體驗湯揉是怎麼進行的，那你千萬不能錯過這個特別的景點. #tripblazers #mytripvlog #

Ancient castle ruins, engraved with the glory of the past🏰. Grapevines, entwined with the sweet fragrance of harvest🍇. Warm hot springs, flowing with the tranquility of time♨. Cultural museums, telling the long story of civilization📚. 📍Address Kofu is located in the center of Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. Surrounded by mountains, it lies between Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps, and is the political, economic, and cultural center of Yamanashi Prefecture. 🚘Transportation ✈️Airport: The nearest airports to Kofu are Haneda Airport and New Chitose Airport in Tokyo. From Haneda Airport, you can take a bus directly to Kofu, which takes about 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train to Shinjuku Station and then transfer to the JR Chuo Main Line express train to Kofu, which takes about 2 hours in total. 🚅Railway: The JR Chuo Main Line runs through Kofu, providing convenient connections to major cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. There are also local railways such as the Minobu Line, which provide easy access to surrounding areas, such as Minobu Town, where you can visit Kuon-ji Temple. 🚌Bus: The city has an extensive bus network that connects all major areas and attractions. There are also express buses to and from Kofu and other major cities in Japan, such as Nagoya and Kyoto. 🍽Food Recommendations 🍲Shingen Nabe: This is a specialty dish of Kofu, made with beef, tofu, vegetables, and other ingredients. It is said to have been a food of Takeda Shingen's army, and is nutritious and delicious. It can be dipped in raw egg for a more tender taste. 🍲Yamanashi Wine: Yamanashi Prefecture is an important wine-producing region in Japan, and Kofu offers a variety of quality wines. The wines supplied directly from local wineries are rich in fruit aroma and have a mellow taste, making them a unique pairing with local cuisine. 🍲Kamameshi: Rice and various ingredients such as mushrooms, chicken, and carrots are placed in a clay pot and simmered until the rice absorbs the flavor of the ingredients. A layer of crispy rice crust forms at the bottom, filling the air with a delicious aroma. 🍲Candied Chestnuts: Yamanashi Prefecture is rich in chestnuts, which are boiled and marinated in honey and other ingredients. They have a soft, sweet taste and are a popular local dessert and souvenir. 📸Must-visit Attractions 🎬Kofu Castle Ruins: Once the residence of the Takeda clan, most of the castle buildings are no longer in existence, but the castle park retains remnants such as stone walls and moats, giving a sense of the grandeur of the past. The park also has a statue of Takeda Shingen, making it a great place to learn about the history of the Sengoku period in Japan. 🎬Katsunuma Wine Village: One of the oldest wine-producing regions in Japan, with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Visitors can tour the wine-making factories to learn about the wine-making process, and taste a variety of wines in the cellars, enjoying a relaxing time in the countryside. 🎬Yamanashi Prefectural Museum: The museum houses historical artifacts and natural specimens from Yamanashi Prefecture. Through a rich collection of exhibits, visitors can gain an in-depth understanding of the development of Yamanashi Prefecture from prehistoric times to the present, and appreciate the unique cultural charm of the region. 🎬Zenkōji Taira Onsen: A hot spring resort near Kofu, with high-quality water that is good for the skin and body. Soaking in the hot springs at a ryokan and enjoying the surrounding mountain scenery is a great way to relax. 🏠Nearby Attractions 📍Fuji Five Lakes: Located not far from Kofu, the Fuji Five Lakes are made up of Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Sai, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu. This is a great place to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Mount Fuji. Visitors can take a boat tour to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery, or take a walk or camp by the lake. 📍Oshino Hakkai: Known as the "Little Jiuzhaigou of Japan," Oshino Hakkai is made up of eight clear springs formed by the melting snow of Mount Fuji filtering through the ground. The clear spring water, the koi in the ponds, and the surrounding rural scenery create a paradise-like atmosphere. ✨Travel Experience ✅Kofu is a city that combines history, culture, natural scenery, and delicious food and wine. During the day, you can wander through historical sites and feel the echoes of the Sengoku period. ✅Stroll through vineyards and fields to enjoy the tranquility of rural life, or visit museums to explore the past and present of this land. ✅At night, relax in the hot springs to wash away the fatigue of the day, and experience the warmth and leisure of the locals. Whether you are following in the footsteps of history, getting close to nature, or enjoying delicious food, Kofu offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience that will leave you enchanted by its charm.

#japantrip Furouen, the “Garden Park of Eternal Life,” is a hidden gem in Japan, offering visitors a serene and meditative escape. The garden’s design reflects the essence of Japanese aesthetics, with winding paths, elegant water features, and seasonal flowers that create a tranquil atmosphere. Its name symbolizes timeless harmony, and the space inspires reflection and peace. Ancient stone lanterns, vibrant koi ponds, and panoramic views of distant mountains add to its allure. Tea houses nestled within the garden provide an opportunity to experience traditional Japanese tea culture. Furouen is a sanctuary of natural beauty and spiritual serenity, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.

#japantrip Furouen, the “Garden Park of Eternal Life,” is a tranquil sanctuary located in Japan, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and serene ambiance. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, the garden blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with a spiritual essence, symbolizing harmony and eternity. Visitors can stroll through lush greenery, koi-filled ponds, and pathways lined with seasonal blooms, creating a calming atmosphere year-round. Scenic views of nearby mountains enhance the garden’s peaceful charm. Thoughtfully placed benches and tea houses invite quiet reflection. Furouen is more than a garden; it’s a meditative escape, offering visitors a profound connection to nature and a sense of timeless beauty.

I went to the Maizuru castle in Kofu, Yamanashi, Japan. Maizuru castle is made in Sengoku period when it around 16 centuries. This castle right now is Restoration officially built. The area around this castle is public park right now and you can go and visit for free. It is quite big and amazing to look around. I would love you to visit here so you can feel more Japan when you come to Japan.

this hotel is very Japanese. if you want to feel and experience true Japanese Ryokan. this is the place. they have many famous person that visiting here such as Japanese emperor, prime minister, etc. the room is superb, the service is max, one thing I think it can be improved is food. I think food is not as good as expected. many Ryokan offer better food compared to the money we paid. overall great hotel, recommended 💰Average Price per Person:

#FuriTabi Kofu Castle, one of Japan's 100 Great Castles, was built at the end of the 16th century after the fall of the Takeda clan. It was once a vast castle covering an area of ​​about 20 hectares, but now part of the castle ruins has been opened to the public as Maizuru Castle Park, and is a place of relaxation for local residents. From the castle tower, you can see a 360-degree view of the Kofu Basin, as well as Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps. Mount Fuji as seen from the park has been certified as one of the "100 Views of Mount Fuji in the Kanto Region." In addition to the view, the stone walls, Inari turret, Yamate Gomon, and other historical assets are also worth seeing. Access 5 minutes on foot from JR Chuo Main Line Kofu Station 20 minutes from Chuo Expressway Kofu Showa IC

|Experience Japanese aesthetics. Koshien Meitei Ryokan in Fuefuki, Japan offers a unique traditional Japanese accommodation experience. Here, you can enjoy cozy Japanese-style rooms and authentic Japanese cuisine. The hotel is only 1,000m from JR Ishiwa Onsen Station. There are many nearby attractions, including Thai Maasage 8, Jewelry Garden Shingen no Sato, and Art Jewelry Museum. The hotel is located next to Renchoji Temple, and there are many other attractions nearby, including Sakura Onsen Street and Jojoji Temple, where you can experience the essence of Japanese culture. If you prefer a quiet meal, the hotel can provide room service. If you feel that the hotel's catering cannot satisfy your discerning taste buds, you might want to try Awamori & Okinawa Food Kusuya (Japanese cuisine), Kimisaku Soba Kita Bypass (Asian cuisine), or Hoka. Recommended nearby attractions: Kofu Basin: Enjoy the magnificent mountain scenery, especially at sunset, which is very charming. Shosenkyo: A hiking resort known for its unique rocks and clear streams, it is a paradise for nature lovers. Katsunuma Vineyard: Participate in grape picking and taste fresh fruits and local famous wines. Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art: Explore local art and culture. The museum has a rich collection and is suitable for culture lovers.

#summerdestinations

During my visit to the historical park (Yamate Gomon) in Kofu City, Japan, I spent time immersed in history and the beauty of nature. This park blends rich historical sites with stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal place to understand the history and culture of Kofu City. I captured nineteen photos to document this unforgettable visit. Yamate Gomon is a significant attraction within the historical park, serving as the entrance to an ancient castle and bearing witness to the rise and fall of this land. Walking between the ancient gates and walls, I felt a profound sense of history, as if I had stepped back in time to appreciate the long history and cultural depth of Kofu City. The park's natural scenery is equally breathtaking. The flora and fauna here change with the seasons, each revealing its own beauty. The cherry blossoms of spring, the greenery of summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenes of winter—each season has its unique charm. I captured these beautiful moments, seizing the park's seasonal beauty. What particularly struck me was the tranquility and harmony within the park. The ponds, bridges, and winding paths here convey the serenity and beauty of nature. I strolled around, enjoying the surrounding scenery, and relishing moments of peace and pleasure. My visit to the historical park (Yamate Gomon) in Kofu City not only deepened my understanding of the city's history and culture but also allowed me to experience the beauty and harmony of nature. I will forever cherish these wonderful memories and look forward to returning here in the future to explore more of the historical and natural beauty.

I spent time at Maizuru Castle Park in Kofu, Japan, filled with history and natural beauty. This was once the site of Kofu Castle, an important castle during the Warring States Period, and is now a beautiful park that attracts many tourists. I took twenty photos to record this unforgettable visit. Maizuru Castle Park retains many remains of Kofu Castle, such as the castle tower, stone walls, and castle gate ruins. Walking among these historical relics, I seem to be able to feel the prosperity and glory of the past. The castle tower provides an excellent vantage point from which to overlook the entire park and the surrounding city landscape. The park's natural landscape is equally stunning. In spring, cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the pink sea of ​​flowers makes people intoxicated; in summer, the greenery is lush and the fresh air makes people refreshed; in autumn, the maple leaves are dyed red and the scenery is picturesque; in winter, it is covered with snow, quiet and beautiful. Each season has its own unique charm, and I took photos of these beautiful moments to capture the beauty of the park in all four seasons. I was particularly impressed by the moat and pond in the park, with the sparkling water surface contrasting beautifully with the surrounding trees and flowers. I strolled here and felt an unprecedented tranquility and joy. This visit to the Kofu Castle ruins not only allowed me to appreciate the beautiful natural scenery, but also allowed me to experience Japan's history and culture. I will always treasure this wonderful memory and look forward to returning here in the future to explore more of its history and beauty. #Kofu Castle Ruins #Maizuru Castle Park #Historical Exploration #Natural Beauty #Travel Memories

#2024wish A small zoo that gives you a nostalgic feeling of the good old days. In particular, the Showa era of the attached mini-amusement park is nostalgic and soothing. Although the zoo is small, you can encounter popular animals such as elephants, lions, porcupines, American beavers, and penguins. The park will be closed for approximately 4 and a half years from October of this year due to large-scale renovation work, but I would definitely like to visit again when it opens. Until then, I would like to enjoy the videos posted by the zookeepers.

#2024wish 20191228, 2pm Really nice view of Fuji-san. The trek up to the view spot was a nice small trek but be careful as there are no rails or side guards on the trail. Small kids and elderly who don’t have good balance could be a risk. Parking was very convenient and even if the parking lot is full, drive a bit more to see another parking lot on the left (saw this while walking to the waterfall). When you arrive, be cautious as the cable car sways back and forth. Not a big issue but it is something to notice when exiting the car. Even on a cold day, we enjoyed the (blueberry?) soft ice cream while waiting for the cable car back down. Very tasty! The gondola/mountain lift/ cable car is having limited capacity of ~30 folks and every twenty minutes - it’s a nice place to visit and glimpse view Fuji-San and do small treks on the top….The golden koi fish pond in the starting station and the restaurant with soft serve on the top are nice. I wish to go back here in 2024

#2024wish When I went to Minami-Alps City to stay overnight in a car in a camper, I stopped by Shosenkyo. The stone gate on the promenade of Shosenkyo? Even though this much rock is sringing out of the wall, the tip of the other side has a gap of about 5 cm ... Even if it's an earthquake, you're keeping this state. It was worth a look. It is a natural stone gate created by huge granite. The tip of the stone on one side is slightly misaligned, and while feeling a bit of instability, I am overwhelmed by its sculptural beauty. I wish to travel to south korea

Yamanashi kofu

From Kofu Station, go straight down Heiwa-dori. Travel Inn Kofu is located near Central Park and the Bank of Japan Kofu Branch. It's a little way from Heiwa-dori, so it's a quiet residential area. It's not a new hotel, but it has a very simple appearance, but it has a homely atmosphere at the front desk, breakfast is included, and there is a laundry. While many hotels are fully booked, we were able to stay at a reasonable price compared to the surrounding facilities. It's about 800m from Kofu Station, but the walk to the hotel was fun, strolling through the shops and restaurants in the shopping district in front of Kofu Station. The microwaves on each floor were easy to use and very useful. Travel Inn Kofu 3-19-10 Marunouchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture 400-0031 #Yamanashi #Hotel #Kofu #KofuHotel #YamanashiTrip #YamanashiTourism #AccommodationReview

Kofu o have been 6/7 times and always stay in dormy inn , there’s two in Kofu , always clean and tidy and spacious, service is great and location is very convenient

Address - 2-3-2 Marunouchi kofu city Yamanashi prefecture Ambiance/Facilities - free breakfast everyday Highlights - business hotel with food around and malls Avg. Price per Person - ¥7100-8100 Rating - 5 stars

amazing view of Mt Fuji.. #2023旅行願望 #workholiday

Kusatsu onsen one of my favorite natural hot springs bath area in japan (well…near from kanto). It takes me about 3 hours of drive from Tokyo and I still like to go! cause I like the long drive and onsen! Tell me if any natural hot-springs area you know of around kanto. #onsen #kusatsuonsen #kusatsu #gunma #gunmajapan

#dayoff🍜Spicy Tsukemen(Dipping Ramen) 🥟Gyoza(Dumpling) 🍚Chahan(Fried Rice)#comfortfood

So delicious dishes at Kona's coffee-Hawaiian Inspired Place❤️

The drink beverages is so colorful and tastes good at Kona's Coffee....

I have been to travel in Japan winter in January, at Yamanashi Perfect I can looking The Fuji mountain so closely and clearly because have a nice weather . That is not far away from Tokyo, I go by bus around 2 hours . Trip.com always make me have a good Trip with flight and hotel booking.. Thanks #wintergetaway

Shosenkyo Gorge is one of the most scenic river valleys I've ever seen. It runs through forested slopes and dramatic rock formations. We walked along the gorge and climb the hills until we found the waterfall with beautiful landscape. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway

Shengxian Gorge is about 4 kilometers long. The highest part is the concentrated area of maple leaves. It also sees the rainbow in the water. Autumn is arguably the most beautiful season in Japan. The sky is high, the sky is clear, the mountain is covered with snow, the forest and The trees are dyed with brilliant colors of yellow or red. The red leaves of thousands of trees, the deeper the autumn, the more red, far away, just like the flame is rolling. Autumn, the leaves fell in pieces, with a trace of regret, cast into the arms of Mother Earth. They are jumping, spinning, dancing and flying, falling down. There are 4 parking lots P (2 below, one in the middle and one in the middle), because there are a lot of Japanese people on that day, so our car can only park in the parking lot in the middle, along the arrow in the picture Going up, this is a place to watch the maple leaves drunk, due to the time, the following part we gave up. People who have time can park their car at the highest level and go down from the top, which saves effort. It takes 3 hours to complete the journey.