Places to visit in Kofu

THE 30 BEST Things to Do in Kofu, Japan (2025)

Places to Visit in Kofu

Check out must-see sights and activities:
Shosen Valley, Takeda Shrine, Sacred & Religious Sites, Wineries & Vineyards. For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product.
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Top Attractions in Kofu

These rankings are informed by Tripadvisor data—we consider traveller reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travellers are saying

  • SOH KIEN PENG
    Singapore, Singapore9,693 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Shosenkyo Gorge is one of Japan's most beautiful gorges. The idyllic natural scenery here reminds me of my walk in the Taroko Gorge in Hualien, Taiwan and that of Seoraksan National Park in South Korea. May is the summer month. The beauty of the gorge lies in the Autumn foliage period making the area very colorful.

    I like hiking especially in such greenery mountainous areas filled with negative ions and fresh air. When I was in Kyoto, I explored the calmness of the bamboo forest in Arashiyama, and the zen atmosphere at a hilly terrain behind Ginkakuji Temple. This gorge is a natural gem in Yamanashi prefecture but not many tourists came when we were there.

    From the map displayed at the bus stop near Nagatora Bridge, the Sengkataki Waterfall located about 4 km high up the slope was our star destination target. Sharp and gigantic granite cliffs dotted our pathways and the streams and rivers cut through the rocks provided us the enhanced gorgeous views of the Gorge. But I think the route up is not flat and quite challenging with multi-step of winding road.

    There were coins real authentic ones that were thrown along the path seeking blessing from the mountain god. Half of my team members were elderly aunties and all of them gathered beside the stream to have their bento lunch and were quite feebly weak to take up the challenge to continue to walk up the mountain.

    Eventually, only the four of us were able to surmount the difficulties and eventually had the opportunity to see the most gorgeous and spectacular Sengkataki waterfall. And we are proud to accomplish the mission. I went up the long staircase to explore the top platform and found a few shops here.

    The serenity and calmness of this place is a natural gem.
    Written 30 May 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • tomizuta1953
    Funabashi, Japan1,360 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Takeda-jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to master military strategist and feudal lord, Shingen Takeda. I did not know until this visit that Takeda-jinja is situated on the site of the former Tsutsujigasaki Castle, the head castle of the Takeda Family from 1519 to 1582 when the head castle moved west to Shinpu Castle for a brief period until the fall of the Takeda Family in the same year. Tsutsujigasaki Castle’s use continued a while under the vassals of Hideyoshi Toyotomi who succeeded in reuniting Japan after the civil war, but abandoned at the end of the 16th century upon the completion of Kofu Castle, just west of the present JR Kofu Station. We approached Takeda-jinja from Kofu Station by Takeda-doori (Takeda Avenue) which is a completely straight road. A map at the entrance to Takeda-jinja told us that the residences of the brave Takeda vassals were situated on both sides of the avenue. Takeda-jinja was founded in 1919 and celebrating its 100-year anniversary this year. It was during the Golden Week and there were quite a few visitors to the shrine. We also entered the shrine’s treasure museum which is located to the right of the main shrine. The museum has amassed quite an impressive collection of art, armor, military banners and fans etc. related to the Takeda Family. The admission fee is 300 yen.
    Written 8 June 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Peter K
    Ryde, Australia523 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful grounds surrounding a magnificent temple. A lovely, spiritual place to spend some time and view magnificent gardens.

    It is worth a visit just for the insight into the spiritual.
    Written 23 October 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • smartacg
    Tokyo, Japan165 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    in Summer it is difficult to see Mount Fuji but it is a nice trip, a small temple, small shops and restaurants up there..
    Written 6 August 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • raetrip
    Vancouver, Canada336 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We visited the ruins, many stairs to climb, a lovely view of Kofu, spread out before us. The stairs were uneven, some very high, but a 90 year old was at the top, chatting with us. So some seniors in Japan are fit. The old walls are intact, but little survived from the original.
    Written 2 June 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kofu-Shi Boy
    29 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    I’ve only toured the museum exhibits once but I often came to visit the gorgeous gardens and walk the grounds. My girlfriend and I came here together and we have wonderful memories of this place. The colors in fall are especially beautiful but it’s worth a trip during any season.
    Written 29 September 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Alex I
    Kofu, Japan62 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Sadoya Winery is no more than a 7 minute walk from Kofu Station (North Exit).
    The winery has a lot of history and if time permits, definitely RSVP for winery tour slot.
    Note: The tour is only given in Japanese, so it would help to bring a friend who understands or can translate.
    The tour costs 500 JPY and includes a nice tour and historical guide which lasts approximately 30 minutes, followed by a wine tasting experience (3 glasses).
    They offere grape juice for minors, drivers, and for folks who don't like wine.

    They have a nice wine shop and a wine tasting room where you can purchase small samples (Cash only) and bring inside to taste. Ranging from 200 JPY~

    I would recommend stopping by the winery if you have some time to spare and would like to drink some local wine, without the hassle and walk.
    Written 15 May 2018
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Dale W
    Tbilisi, Georgia202 contributions
    3.0 of 5 bubbles
    I have been to Kofu several times and must have missed this status. Located at the Kofu station this is a must see. Great photo opportunity to start off a Kofu adventure.
    Written 29 September 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • The T
    3 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Visiting the shadow museum is a must stop place if your in Kofu. The scenery on the trip is gorgeous and the mountains surrounding the museum are breathtaking! However, the beauty does not stop once you enter the building. Witnessing the masterfully crafted pieces of art was mind-blowing. Having guides also helps significantly understand the history and creation of many of the pieces. This is a necessary stop on your trip through Yamanashi Prefecture where art and history combine!
    Written 25 June 2018
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • japnian4life .
    California13 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I was able to be one of the participants that took part in the battle. They dressed us up in all of the gear and then literally ran into battle! I would do this again and recommend it to anyone even if there is just a slight interest! Also I think the festival changed to the end of October instead of taking place during the spring.
    Written 21 December 2018
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Alex I
    Kofu, Japan62 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    When I first visited the center, I was amazed at how well kept the facilities were. The staff were all very friendly and comfortable with kids, so that really was a plus.
    Inside: Lots of cool science related gadgets to mess around with. They usually have some live science shows that the kids would really enjoy. They also have a hands on type of event (costs a few buck but worth it) where you just need to register and pay for the session in advance. I think the one I attended was some slime goo making class. The best part is that you can take them home (only if you want to).
    For those who love star gazing, they have a nice planetarium as well. You can watch a short film. Very nice on a hot day, as the AC is on full blast.
    If you get hungry, you can buy some food/snacks at the food stand. You can also bring your own obento or food/drinks. They have outdoor seating to just relax.
    Finally, they have a huge outdoor playground for the kids to just enjoy. Definitely can spend a few hours easily there. Bring shoes, bug spray, change of clothes, drinks, and lots of energy. You will surely enjoy your stay
    Written 18 September 2018
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Jason moofang
    Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia55 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    This rugged peak pretty much deserves all of its popularity. Be careful though of underestimating the hike, especially if you start from the Mizugaki Sansou trailhead.

    While I hear that a much easier approach is possible from Odarumi pass, it seems inaccessible by public transport, and so I opted to start at Mizugaki Sansou, camping a night at Fujimidaira Hut, and then starting the hike first thing in the morning. There are two reasons why the hike proved tougher than I expected: firstly, much of the most tricky (and epic) bits of the hike are well above 2300m, where the high altitude makes it difficult to catch one's breath. I almost halved my pace near the end. Second, the last bus from the trailhead leaves at 3:20pm, and so I was rather strapped for time even starting early in the morning, forcing me to be brisk in the easier bits.

    In hindsight, if you cannot start from Odarumi Pass, I would recommend instead climbing up to Kinpu Hut near the summit on the first day, stay the night, head up the summit in the morning, then back down to the trailhead for the bus.

    The hike, while somewhat tiring, isn't really technical, though there is a lot of scrambling over rocks and several pulling up chains.

    The rewards on the other hand are all they are made out to be. Especially the final hour before the summit is a brilliant trek along a rocky ridge with soaring views in all directions, including Mt Fuji in the ethereal distance on good days.
    Written 19 November 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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