Yamanashi: Must-Visit Places

1. Fuji-San

A Symbol of The Nation

Standing between the border of Yamanashi and Shizuoka, Fuji-san (Mt Fuji) has long enjoyed popularity and is renowned amongst tourists both locally and internationally. Anyone who is familiar with the country in the slightest would be able to recognize its snow-capped peak and beautifully symmetrical slopes as the highest mountain in Japan as well as a popular hiking spot. Every year, the mountain attracts countless hikers, religious pilgrims as well as artists. Fuji-san’s official climbing season begins early July and lasts till mid September. During this period, the weather is kinder and access to the mountain is easier.

2. Fruit Picking

Yamanashi’s Famous Stone Fruits

Dubbed as Japan’s “Kingdom of Fruit”, Yamanashi is the nation’s top producer of peaches, grapes and plums and therefore makes for a popular fruit-picking destination. The strawberries are also worth making a visit for when in town as their cultivation technique is unique to Japan. When in Japan, do as the Japanese do by enjoying the freshly picked berries with sweet condensed milk!

3. Fujigoko

Fuji Five Lakes

Did you know that at the base of Fuji-san lies five serene lakes formed by Fuji-san’s volcanic eruptions? Amongst Lake Yamanaka, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Saiko, Lake Shoji and Lake Motosu, Lake Kawaguchi is the most popular and has the most to offer due to being the second largest in terms of surface area and the lowest in elevation. Easily accessible from Tokyo, the lake’s northern shores offer some of the best views of Fuji-san. Some of the attractions surrounding the lake include hot springs, museums and boat tours.

4. Fuji-Q Highland

Thrill Seeker’s Paradise

If you’re looking for something a little more thrilling than Disneyland or Disneysea, Fuji-Q is perfect for you. Try Takabisha, the steepest roller coaster which drops at a horrifying angle of 121 degrees. Eejanaika is known as a “4th dimension” roller coaster and has the most inversions and spins of any ride in the world. If you are up for it, ride Do-Dodonpa which holds the Guiness World Record for being the fastest there is.

5. Kawaguchiko Music Forest

A Picturesque European Fairytale

Once you are done enjoying the diamond-shaped reflection of Fuji-san in the crystal clear waters of Kawaguchiko, head on over to Kawaguchiko Music Forest nearby. A small European-style museum featuring antique music boxes, it proudly houses one of the largest French Organs in the world which plays ethereal tunes every 30 minutes. On top of live music, performances and DIY music box painting, make sure to visit around June to see the rose garden in all its blooming glory.

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