If you feel like you have already seen enough of what Tokyo has to offer, it would probably be a great idea to go to the neighboring areas and explore their sights. How about Yamanashi Prefecture? Famous for its views of Mt. Fuji, Yamanashi is about a two-hour drive from Tokyo, making it perfect for a short trip! In this article, we will feature the charms of Yamanashi in summer, which you can enjoy while cruising around the prefecture.
What Sort of Place Is Yamanashi Prefecture?
If there's one thing that symbolizes Yamanashi, though, it would have to be Mt. Fuji! There are five famous lakes (Lake Yamanakako, Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Saiko, Lake Shojiko, and Lake Motosuko) on the north side of Mt. Fuji that are collectively called the Fuji Five Lakes, which draw in throngs of visitors from Japan and overseas. You can marvel at the mesmerizing Mt. Fuji from any of these lakes, so when you look up from whatever spot, you are guaranteed a spectacular view.
Another thing Yamanashi is famous for is being the birthplace of Japanese wine, which has been attracting worldwide attention. With more than 90 wineries, the prefecture accounts for about 30% of Japan's total wine production. Koshu wine, which is one of the prefecture's most famous wines, is a white wine that is usually dry and characterized by its fresh taste and aroma of Japanese citrus fruits. But Koshu wine is not the only wine in Yamanashi, as there are many other wines produced in the prefecture. It probably need not be said that you cannot drink wine if you are driving, but you still have to buy a bottle or two as they are great souvenirs!
Why Yamanashi Is a Great Summer Destination
Behold Stunning Scenery as Far as the Eye Can See! Best Spots for Flower Viewing in the Summer
[California Poppies at Lake Yamanakako Hana no Miyako Park]
Hana no Miyako Park is a sprawling 300,000 m² park on the banks of Lake Yamanakako, the lake closest to Mt. Fuji. Located on a plateau at an elevation of 1,000 meters, this park promises visitors a view of vast flower fields that change color from season to season, with the magnificent Mt. Fuji in the background.
Here, summer is the peak season for California poppies, and there are also zinnias and sunflowers in full bloom. The flowers in this park paint the landscape in yellow, orange, and red hues that are guaranteed to brighten your day. You can even rent unique two or four-seater bicycles to explore the park. Take in the view at a leisurely pace while enjoying the fresh breeze on your face.
At Lake Kawaguchiko, lavender is synonymous with summer. If you feel like gazing at lavender flowers, then you must visit Oishi Park, as it is famous as a spot where you can admire the stunning view of lavender, Lake Kawaguchiko, and Mt. Fuji in a single frame. Here, you can enjoy the scenery as you breathe in the refreshing scent of lavender while strolling along the Flower Street promenade. The scent of lavender is said to be relaxing, so you are sure to feel a sense of peace while exploring the park.
Don't forget to check out the store in the park, where you can find homemade jams and soft-serve ice cream made from the region's very own blueberries. It also offers blueberry jam-making lessons, so give that a try, too!
Enjoy the Gorgeous Location by Going to an Event!
The sight of 400,000 sunflowers covering a 4.3-hectare field will surely take your break away. On this field, the Hokuto City Akeno Sunflower Festival is held every year for about a month from late July. During the festival, you can freely stroll through the sunflower fields, stop by the food vendors and stalls, and enjoy various festivities.
Gaze at the beautiful sunflowers that come in many varieties and marvel at the 360-degree panorama of the beautiful flower fields with Mt. Fuji to the south, the Yatsugatake Mountains to the north, Mt. Kayagatake to the east, and the Southern Alps mountain range to the west. It's probably safe to say that this spot is the only location in Japan where you can see such a luxurious view.
Restaurants to Soothe Your Tired Body From All the Driving and Walking!
Asuen-kataraidokoro Irori (Shimoyoshida / Izakaya)
Asuen-kataraidokoro Irori
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 4,500 JPY / [Lunch] 3,000 JPY
Access: 10-minute walk from Gekkoji Station or Shimoyoshida Station / 588m from Gekkoji Statiuon
Address: 2-13-1, Shimoyoshida, Fujiyoshida-shi, Yamanashi Map
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Cueillet (Nirasaki / French)
The signature dish of its chef, who was trained in France, is the [Roasted stuffed quail from Brittany]. In addition, this restaurant is located in an area that is known as the Fruit Town, so guests can also get to savor course meals that incorporate seasonal fruits such as strawberries, peaches, blueberries, apples, and grapes. Now, when it comes to wines, which are considered essential to French cuisine, the restaurant offers French wines as well as Koshu wines that are the pride of Yamanashi Prefecture.
Cueillet
Closed: Tuesday
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 3,000 JPY
Access: From Nirasaki Interchange, head toward Shosenkyo Gorge, turn right at the Nirasaki Interchange Kita, and the restaurant will be 600 meters ahead on the right.
Address: 1129 Hosakamachi Mitsusawa, Nirasaki, Yamanashi Map
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