9 things to do in Yamanashi in February

If you’re going sightseeing, you want to incorporate things into your itinerary that you can only see or experience during that specific time. For those interested, we will introduce the situation, events, and recommended spots in Yamanashi Prefecture in February.

*Please note that the dates of the events introduced may change. Please check the official website of each facility for the latest information.

About Yamanashi Prefecture in February

Yamanashi Prefecture in February offers beautiful winter scenery and various events. Although it is very cold, special experiences await you. This time, we will introduce must-visit scenic spots, events, and “Wakasagi” fishing in February.

Winter Scenic Spots

The winter scenery in Yamanashi Prefecture is especially beautiful in the cold. Particularly around “Mount Fuji,” you can see the snow-covered mountain, which is breathtakingly beautiful.

Lake Yamanaka

From “Lake Yamanaka,” you can see “Diamond Fuji” (a phenomenon where the sun aligns with the summit of “Mount Fuji,” making the sun shine like a diamond), which is a symbol of winter. February is the best time to observe this phenomenon. From February 1st to 22nd, many tourists gather with their cameras during “Diamond Fuji Weeks.” Enjoy the beautiful scenery from recommended observation spots such as “Panorama-dai” and “Asahigaoka Lakeside.”

Lake Kawaguchi

“Lake Kawaguchi” is a scenic spot where you can enjoy the vast lake surface and the view of “Mount Fuji.” On clear winter days, you might also see the reflection of “Mount Fuji” on the lake’s surface. Additionally, there are many tourist facilities around “Lake Kawaguchi” that you can enjoy throughout the day.

Arakurayama Sengen Park

“Arakurayama Sengen Park” is a place where you can see the combination of “Chureito Pagoda” and “Mount Fuji.” The winter combination of the pagoda and the snow-capped “Mount Fuji” offers a beautiful and quintessentially Japanese scenery. However, you need to climb about 400 steps, so please visit with comfortable shoes.

Events and Festivals Unique to This Season

Winter in Yamanashi Prefecture is bustling with various events. Especially in February, there are many special festivals and light-up events to enjoy the cold.

Lake Yamanaka Ice Candle Festival

This event, held on February 11th, features hundreds of candles placed in ice candle holders. After enjoying the fantastic view at dusk, you can participate in lighting the candles if you bring your own lighting tools. Fireworks are also launched at night, making the winter “Lake Yamanaka” even more beautiful.

Lake Saiko Ice Festival

This festival, held from February 3rd to 12th, features giant ice trees and ice sculptures. From sunset to 7 p.m., you can also enjoy the light-up. On weekends, music events and vendor booths are also set up, attracting many tourists.

Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks

This event, held on weekends in mid-February, features fireworks launched from the shores of “Lake Kawaguchi.” The contrast between the fireworks in the clear winter night sky and the snow-covered “Mount Fuji” is not to be missed. Visit in warm clothing, and after enjoying the fireworks, warm up in a local hot spring.

Where to Go for “Wakasagi” Fishing

One of the activities you can enjoy in winter in Yamanashi Prefecture is “Wakasagi” fishing. “Lake Yamanaka” is particularly known as a famous spot for “Wakasagi” fishing, and the following spots offer a comfortable experience.

Gakuroku Marin

At “Gakuroku Marin,” you can enjoy “Wakasagi” fishing on a private dome boat equipped with heating. You can even have the “Wakasagi” you catch cooked into tempura right on the spot. Enjoy fishing comfortably without being exposed to the cold wind.

Tsuchiya Boat

At “Tsuchiya Boat,” an instructor will accompany you, so even beginners can enjoy “Wakasagi” fishing with peace of mind. Fishing while viewing “Mount Fuji” is exceptional. Various plans such as half-day packages and rental rod sets are available.

Boat House Main

At “Boat House Main,” you can comfortably enjoy “Wakasagi” fishing on Boat No.1 (capacity 32) and Boat No.2 (capacity 14, private boat). Bringing your own food is allowed, and infection control measures are thoroughly implemented. There are also services to enjoy the “Wakasagi” you catch right away.