Kofu

What to know

Kofu (甲府, Kōfu) is the largest city and capital of Yamanashi Prefecture. Nestled in a vast natural basin ringed by mountains, with Mount Fuji to the south, the area enjoys abundant sunshine. This has made it the birthplace and heart of Japanese wine production. Today, numerous wineries welcome visitors with tours and tastings. Kofu and its surroundings are also famed for fruit, especially grapes. Beyond wine and fruit, Kofu boasts a rich history as the former capital of the Kai domain and home to Takeda Shingen, a legendary warlord who nearly unified Japan during the Sengoku period. A brilliant military strategist, Shingen died before a decisive battle with Oda Nobunaga that could have altered Japanese history. Many sites related to the Takeda clan remain in the area.

Activities and attractions

Shosenkyo GorgeA beautiful gorge famous for autumn colorsTakeda ShrineShrine dedicated to Kofu’s most celebrated samuraiKofu CastleRuined grounds of the former castleKai-Zenkoji TempleLarge temple modeled after Nagano’s ZenkojiKatsunuma WineriesThe most famous area for wine making in JapanDaizenji TempleOld temple nicknamed Grape TempleHottarakashi OnsenHot spring with views of Mount FujiNishizawa KeikokuBeautiful valley and hiking destinationFuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko)Lake resort at the foot of Mount Fuji