9 things to do in Yamanashi in January

If you’re planning to go sightseeing, you probably want to include things in your itinerary that you can only see or experience during that specific season. For those interested, this time we will introduce the January conditions, events, and recommended spots in Yamanashi Prefecture.

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

Yamanashi Prefecture is located in central Japan and features beautiful snowy landscapes with the arrival of winter. January is particularly a time when you can enjoy New Year’s shrine visits, stunning winter scenery, events, and festivals. Here, we will introduce recommended spots to visit in January.

New Year’s Shrine Visits

In January, New Year’s shrine visits to celebrate the beginning of the year are very popular in Yamanashi Prefecture. The following three shrines and temples are particularly recommended.

“Takeda Shrine” (Kofu City)

“Takeda Shrine” enshrines the famous Warring States period general, “Takeda Shingen”. The shrine is known for its blessings in “Kachiun” (victory) and is said to bring success in life. Many visitors come for their first shrine visit of the year, especially between January 1st and 3rd, when it is crowded all day. The shrine grounds are open for free exploration, and the treasure hall is a must-see.

“Kai Zenkoji” (Kofu City)

“Kai Zenkoji” is a historic temple established by “Takeda Shingen”. The temple offers a wide range of blessings, including protection from evil and academic success. The New Year’s shrine visit from midnight to 2 AM on January 1st is very lively. From January 1st to 3rd, the “Naki Ryu” (crying dragon) is open to the public for free.

“Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine” (Fujiyoshida City)

This shrine, located at the starting point of the northern climbing route of Mount Fuji, is known as the center of Fuji worship. It offers blessings for matchmaking and safe childbirth. Many people visit for their New Year’s shrine visit, and lucky charms related to the zodiac of the New Year are particularly popular. From January 1st to 8th, it is crowded all day, so early visits are recommended.

Winter Scenic Spots

In winter, Yamanashi Prefecture offers many beautiful scenic spots where you can enjoy the contrast between snowy landscapes and Mount Fuji. The following three spots are particularly worth seeing.

“Oshino Hakkai” (Oshino Village, Minamitsuru District)

“Oshino Hakkai” is a beautiful spot consisting of eight ponds fed by the waters of Mount Fuji. The clear winter air and snowy landscapes enhance the transparency of the ponds. It takes about an hour and a half to visit all the ponds, providing a refreshing experience for both mind and body. The “Sakasa Fuji” (upside-down Mount Fuji) is a highlight.

“Lake Kawaguchi” (Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District)

“Lake Kawaguchi” is one of the Fuji Five Lakes, offering beautiful scenery in every season. In particular, the winter view of “Lake Kawaguchi” is highlighted by the “Sakasa Fuji”, where the snow-covered Mount Fuji is reflected on the lake’s surface. There are many hot spring inns around, where you can warm up your cold body in the hot springs.

“Lake Yamanaka” (Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District)

“Lake Yamanaka” is the closest lake to Mount Fuji among the Fuji Five Lakes. You can enjoy the beautiful contrast of Mount Fuji and the lake in the clear winter air. There are many points where you can see the “Diamond Fuji”, making it a perfect spot for photographers.

Accommodations with a View of Mount Fuji

Yamanashi Prefecture has many accommodations where you can stay while enjoying a view of Mount Fuji. The experience of staying in the clear air of January is exceptional. Below, we introduce three particularly recommended accommodations.

“Kaze no Terrace KUKUNA” (Fujikawaguchiko Town)

“Kaze no Terrace KUKUNA” is a hot spring resort hotel where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi from every room. Especially in January, you can enjoy the clear air and snowy landscapes, and the view from the infinity bath is breathtaking. The luxurious atmosphere reminiscent of overseas resorts is a feature.

“La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko” (Fujikawaguchiko Town)

“La Vista Fuji Kawaguchiko” is a resort hotel inspired by the Provence region of southern France. It offers a panoramic view of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, with particularly beautiful winter scenery in January. The view of Mount Fuji from the guest rooms and large bath is truly a sight to behold.

“Hoshinoya Fuji” (Fujikawaguchiko Town)

“Hoshinoya Fuji” is an accommodation facility in the style known as glamping. Here, you can enjoy outdoor experiences such as campfires while gazing at Mount Fuji in the clear winter air. January offers particularly clear air, making the stay with the beautiful Mount Fuji in the background an unforgettable experience.