Funari Restaurant – Traditional Hoto Nabe With a Scenic View
It is here as well as in the neighboring town of Minobu that you can find the most renowned of Fuji’s Five Lakes, Kawaguchi Lake. Fujikawaguchiko is also home to the famous Kawaguchiko Ohashi Bridge from which many take breathtaking photos of Japan’s Mt. Fuji. It is also in this small town, that you’ll find the lovely restaurant of Funari.
Escaping the Heat – Great Spots to Go to Keep Cool in Japan this Summer
In summer, in central Japan, such temperatures are normal. Perhaps even more stifling than the heat, however, is the humidity. Even a simple walk to the local convenience store can leave you drenched in sweat and gasping for breath. Or, maybe I just need to work out more!
Yakuseki no Yu Kaisen – Hot Spring Bath for Health and Body Treatment
I decided to visit this hot spring bath for the first time since I saw the unique building since 4 months ago. Yakuseki no Yu Kaisen—is the name of the Hot Spring Bath or Onsen that located in Isawa, Fuefuki, Yamanashi—about 2 kilometers from the nearest JR station; Isawa Onsen Station, by the Kofu By-pass.
Autumn in Yamanashi Prefecture – A Great Time for Grapes and Mt. Fuji
Yamanashi, about 2 hours by bus from Tokyo, certainly changed a few perceptions I had of Japan: where Mt. Fuji was, where Japanese wine was made, what the technology to make the world's fastest train looks like. I had wondered about these before moving to Japan, but was completely unaware that one prefecture in the entire country could answer all of them at once.
Lake Kawaguchi Autumn Festival: Viewing Momiji Corridor, Momiji Tunnel, and Mt. Fuji
This year the Lake Kawaguchi Autumn Festival runs from 1 – 23 November. Lake Kawaguchi, situated in Yamanashi west of Tokyo, is one of the best spots for viewing autumn leaves as the majestic Mt. Fuji acts as a stunning backdrop for the fall colors.
Mistakes to Avoid When Climbing Mt. Fuji (I made them all so you don't have to)
I was told almost anyone could do this trail, and it was beginner friendly. All I can say is that I must have a very different idea of beginner!
Akeno Sunflower Festival: 600,000 Sunflowers in Full Bloom
The annual Hokuto City Akeno Sunflower Festival in Yamanashi boasts a stunning view of 600,000 sunflowers, which bloom in an area that has the longest period of daylight in Japan.
Chasing Waterfalls in Nishizawa Canyon
A scenic hiking trail filled with lush greenery, babbling brooks, and eight stunning waterfalls lies west of Tokyo in Yamanashi Prefecture.
From the Foot of Fuji: Climbing Mount Fuji from the Beginning
Mount Fuji is one of the most popular mountain climbs in the world. And yet very few people climb it from the start. What is on neglected first half of the track and why don't people walk it anymore?
Kawaguchiko Herb Festival - Beautiful Blooms at the Base of Mount Fuji
While there is plenty of nature to discover in the Kawaguchiko area, I'd like to introduce you to the Kawaguchi-ko Herb Festival, held here annually in June and July, during which you can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi, all while surrounded by blooming lavender and other herb flowers.
Enjoying Mt. Fuji at Kawaguchiko Lake: No Hiking Required
Mt. Fuji is Japan's most famous and beloved landmark so it is on most people's "must see" lists. However, not everyone is willing or able to climb it. Fortunately, there are many ways to enjoy Fuji and the surrounding areas without hiking.