One of the most enduring symbols of Japan, Mount Fuji is beloved by Japanese and visitors alike. And even if you don't plan to climb the mountain itself, there are lots of scenic places to visit in the area, many with lovely views of Fujisan.
1. Mt. Fuji
©Yamanashi Tourism Organization
A timeless symbol of Japan, Mt. Fuji is a majestic sight to behold, near or far, at any time of the year.
©Yamanashi Tourism Organization
The sacred volcano straddling Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures is a haven for mountain climbers in the summer, and home to some of Japan's most lush nature.
Japan's tallest mountain, Mt. Fuji is easily accessible from central Tokyo, with public transport taking you as far as halfway up the mountain.
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Mount Fuji
Fujiyoshida-shi, Yamanashi
Gotemba
A Virtual Tour: Top 10 Mt. Fuji Scenic Viewpoints at the Fuji Five Lakes Area
2. Takeda Shrine
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Kofu's premier shrine, Takeda Shrine, is dedicated to the master strategist of the Feudal Era, Shingen Takeda.
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This 100-year-old shrine houses many cultural artifacts detailing the life and achievements of the legendary Daimyo Lord.
History mingles with nature when cherry blossoms line the shrine grounds in the spring, making Takeda Shrine a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
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Takeda Shrine
2611 Kofuchumachi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-0014
055-252-2609
3. Kai Zenkoji Temple
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Built on the orders of Takeda Shingen himself, Kai Zenkoji Temple is home to the largest wooden structure in East Japan.
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This temple became a respository of sorts for the fabled warlord, who feared the loss of valuable treasures in his various battles. One such notable example is the statue of Amitabha Tathagata.
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Kai Zenkoji
3 Chome-36-1 Zenkoji, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-0806
4. Erinji Temple
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The family temple of Lord Shingen, Erinji is a sprawling yet calm temple complex on the edge of Koshu City.
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The stunning Japanese gardens were designed by a famous Buddhist priest called Muso-Kokushi, and nowadays are cherished as a national treasure. The imposing Sanmon gate is also an important asset, the original gate having been burned down during the feudal era, but faithfully rebuilt.
Erinji Temple
2280 Enzanoyashiki, Koshu, Yamanashi 404-0053
5. Fuji Sengen Shrine
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Nowadays most visitors to Mt. Fuji head straight to the 5th station halfway up the mountain, but a visit to Fuji Sengen Shrine, Mt. Fuji's true gateway, should not be overlooked.
©Yamanashi Tourism Organization
The breathtaking corridor of cedar trees lining the path up to the shrine resembles a natural cathedral, and the shrine itself is a stunning complex of vermillion surrounded by the verdant greens of the forest.
©Yamanashi Tourism Organization
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja
5558, Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida-shi, Yamanashi
Fujisan
6. Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art
Located just 15 minutes by bus from Kofu Station, the wine-colored complex of the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art is home to over 10,000 works. The star of the show is the Millet collection, works by the French painter who inspired artists including Van Gogh, with some of his most famous works on display, including "The Sow…
