Sightseeing & Event Guidebook YAMANASHI · The Fuji Five Lakes Area, formed from the volcanic eruptions of Mt. Fuji, is a place where you can encounter some of the most wonderful

Sightseeing & Event Guidebook

YAMANASHIJuly 1st August 31st, 2010

The Renowned Waters of Yamanashito Enjoy with Your Families Experience the true, savory flavor of fruit:Yamanashi Fruit Tour

Special Features

Spend yourweekends inYamanashi

Yamanashi Tourism Promotion OrganizationYamanashi Prefectural Offices West Annex, 1st Floor1-8-17 Marunouchi, Kōfu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, JAPAN 〒400-0031☎055-231-2722 http://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/english/index.html

YAMANASHITourism & Events Guide2

Summer

Excursions

in Yamanashi:

Forests and Water Spots

At the southeast corner of Yamanashi, lies the village of Dōshi amidst virtually untouched and pristine wilderness. Countless tributaries come together at the Dōshi Ravine, putting one in mind of the veins of a leaf. Nestled in the V-shaped space between the mountains along the Dōshi River are the “Seven Hamlets of Dōshi,” a collection of small villages. The area, not taken over by tourist attractions, has its share of auto camp sites with deep forests and clear rivers as far as the eye can see.▶Dōshi Village ● 45 minutes by bus from Tsuru Station on the Fujikyū Train Line ● 30 minutes from the Tsuru Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Dōshi Tourism Committee ■0554-52-1414

The mountain kingdom of Yamanashi, a land abundant with green, is also home to secluded watery paradises. Beautiful to look at, top quality to drink, and refreshing to the touch, the water here and the surrounding scenery will be sure to recharge you. Come visit this summer and rejuvenate!

Nishizawa Ravine : the 5-tiered Nanatsugama-Godan FallsBoasting countless pools and waterfalls, the Nishizawa Ravine is lauded as one of the most beautiful gorges in Japan. Nanatsugama-Godan Falls beckon you to the very back of the ravine with a watery panorama.

The Renowned Waters of Yamanashito Enjoy with Your Families

Situated in northern Yamanashi City in the Chichibutama Kai National Park, lies the Nishizawa Ravine. A 9km walking path stretches around the ravine, bringing those who tread upon it to breathtaking waterfalls and curiously shaped boulders. Recharge yourself with the surrounding water and greenery, and admire the unparalleled beauty of the tapestry woven by nature.▶ Mitomi, Yamanashi City ● 60 minutes by municipal bus from Yamanashi-shi Station on the JR Chūō Line ● 60 minutes by car from the Katsunuma Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Yamanashi City Tourism Department ■ 0553-22-1111

Primeval Forests and the Nishizawa RavineFrom woodland therapy to adventures amidst water and nature

The Fuji Five Lakes Area, formed from the volcanic eruptions of Mt. Fuji, is a place where you can encounter some of the most wonderful natural scenery in the world. The lakes surround water and forests imbued with “Fuji Power;” it’s a great place to explore.

The Blessings of Mount FujiFuji Five Lakes and Oshino Hakkai

It takes 80 years for the melted snows of Mt. Fuji to filter through the rocks and bubble up in a spring. The deep and mystifying color that soaks up the rocks tells a story of the sacred mountain; the water itself is like a natural memento. It should also be noted that the view of Mt. Fuji from Oshino is spectacular.▶ Oshino Township ● 25 minutes by bus from Fujiyoshida Station on the Fujikyū Train Line ●Oshino Township Tourism Committee■ 0555-84-4222

Oshino Township, Oshino HakkaiThe sky-blue color that spins a mysterious tale of Mount Fuji

Celebrated for decades as warlord Takeda Shingen’s hidden springs, this area is dotted with long-standing hot spring spa hotels. ▶ Mitomi, Yamanashi City ● 40 minutes by municipal bus from Yamanashi-shi Station on the JR Chūō Line ● 50 minutes by car from the Katsunuma Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Yamanashi City Tourism Department■ 0553-22-1111

Mitomi Hot Spring Village

Natural springs in the basalt rock formed by Mt. Fuji produce truly unique mineral water. It takes years for the water to develop their trademark high concentrations of vanadium.

The Best Mineral Waterin Japan!

Shōsenkyō Gorge and Nishizawa Ravine are two areas designated by the Japanese Ministry of the Environment to be the “Best Waters of Heisei.” In addition to the Best Waters of Showa, 100 areas were specially selected from all over the country. Yamanashi alone boasts several chosen water spots, including the afore-mentioned areas, as well as “Tōkaichiba Natsugari Wakimizugun” in Tsuru City and “the Springs of Mt. Kimpō and Mt. Suikaki” in Hokuto City.

100 Famous Waters of Heisei

“O Tengu-san” Countryside Experiencein Ashigawa Village in Fuefuki City

This area of nearly 200 square kilometers starts with a corridor of trees and water gardens, and ends with hotels, cultural workshops and organic restaurants. Not to mention the relaxing hot spring spa, “Oshira no Yu.” ▶Hakushū Town, Hokuto City ● 15 minutes by taxi from Kobuchizawa Station on the JR Chūō Line ● 20 minutes by car from the Sutama Exit of the Chūō Expressway ● Closed Wednesdays ● Park Entrance Fee: ￥200♦ Oshira Forest Water Garden Park “Beluga” ■0551-35-4411

Hakushu-, Hokuto City・OshiraForest Water Garden Park “Beluga”Enjoy nature just as you imagined

▶ Fujikawa Town (formerly Kajikazawa Town and the Ōyanagi River Gulch Garden) ● 30 minutes by taxi from Kajikazawa Station on the JR Minobu Line ● 30 minutes by car from the Masuho Exit of the Chūbu-Ōdan Expressway ♦ Local Promotion Division of Fujikawa Town Hall ■0556-22-7202

By the banks of the Ōyanagi River, which runs through Fujikawa Town and the Jukkoku Region, is a walking trail which you can take at your own pace. Easy enough for children and the elderly alike, this popular little area is a great place to stroll around. It takes about 90 minutes for a full circuit, but visitors should take some extra time to stop and smell the flowers. If your feet get tired, stop by the hidden tranquil hot springs at “Jukkoku Onsen.

The Fuji River, one of the three fastest in Japan, is an attractive spot for water sports, as it alternates from a calm, lazy drift to raging rapids. Beginners can rest easy with a veteran river guide on board. You may even get a chance to get acquainted with the common and crested kingfishers who live in the river basin.▶ Minobu Town ● 10 minutes by car from Shimobe Onsen Station on the JR Minobu Line ●35 minutes by car from the Masuho Exit of the Chūbu-Ōdan Expressway ● 1705 Miyagi, Minobu Town ♦ Fuji River Club ■0556-42-2770

Fujikawa Town,O-yanagi River GulchGorgeous tiered waterfallsand 10 suspension bridges

Rafting Tour on the Fuji River,Minobu Town Feel the thrill coursing through your body on thecurrent of one of Japan’s three fastest rivers!

Satisfying for everyone, from beginners to families, and even experts, this fun fishing area offers bait and lures. Barbecues on the riverbanks let you grill up your top-notch catch of the day – the clear waters where the fish grow up make all the difference in quality. Cars are permitted on the riverbank for super easy access. Come surround yourself in nature and refresh your mind and body.▶ Kosuge Village● 50 minutes by bus from Okutama Station on the JR Ōme Line●50 minutes by car from the Uenohara Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Kosuge Fishing Village■0428-87-0837

Kosuge Fishing VillageGo fishing and fire up the barbecue at Tama,the headwaters of the Kosuge River

Stop by Dōshi Roadside Station, where you can find original treats made with watercress and traditional tofu made with water clear as quartz at the Firefly Tofu Shop. Visit the Handmade Kitchen Café for a snack from the eccentric menu, featuring pot au feu stew made with locally grown vegetables and watercress cake.▶ Dōshi Village ● 30 minutes by car from Tsuru Station on the Fujikyū Train Line ● 30 minutes from the Tsuru Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Michi-no-Dōshi ■0554-52-1811

Do-shi Roadside Station

Do-shi: the Agricultural Experience

Nature and souvenirs from a flourishing little hamlet

A River Runs Through It: Do-shi Ravine,Do-shi Village

Cliffs of granite tower over the rapid current of the river in Shōsenkyō Gorge, lauded by many as the most beautiful mountain stream in Japan. Come experience it all: Shōsenkyō’s distinctive Yamatoga Falls and Satoru Marumine, horse-drawn carriages, the nearby Shadowgraph Museum, and more adventures than you can count. ▶Kōfu City ● 30 minutes by bus from Kōfu Station on the JR Chūō Line ♦ Shōsenkyō Tourism Committee ■055-287-2158

Sho-senkyo- Gorge, Ko-fu City The most beautiful mountain river in Japan

Hakushū, with its natural springs, is the very model of a Japanese country village. The feature characteristic noted by those brave enough to scale the Kai Komagatake Mountains are the rivers cascading down the slopes of the ravine to form waterfalls and pools of all sizes. From water lily ponds and waterfalls which snake their way down the mountainside to massive cascades, these mountain streams are certainly a sight to see. Prepare yourself for a real trek! ▶Hakushū Town, Hokuto City ● 60 minutes by bus from Nirasaki Station on the JR Chūō Line ● 30 minutes by car from the Nagasaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway ● Hokuto Tourism Committee ■0551-42-1414

Kai Komagatake Mountainsand Oshira River Gorge, Hokuto City The emerald current which spawned from the famous peaks

河口湖河口湖 本栖湖本栖湖

西湖西湖

山中湖山中湖

精進湖精進湖

The rural village of Ashigawa and its pure, clear streamsA facility built with thatched roofs, like country homes of ages past, offers a variety of workshops, including classes on how to make soba noodles and konnyaku jelly from scratch. The instructors will teach all the basics to children and adults alike. Drop on by for a rare and valuable experience.▶ Ashigawa Village, Fuefuki City ● 40 minutes by bus from Isawa-Onsen

Station on the JR Chūō Line ● 30 minutes by car from the Ichinomiya-Misaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway

♦ O Tengu-san Countryside Experience■ 055-298-2833

Experience a taste of the fun and joy that stems from honest labor. City folk are welcomed to join the villagers of Dōshi to till the fields and plant, raise and harvest fresh produce. ▶ Dōshi Village ● 30 minutes by car from Tsuru Station on the Fujikyū Train Line ● 30 minutes from the Tsuru Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Dōshi Town Hall ■ 0554-52-2114

YAMANASHITourism & Events Guide 1

Spend your weekends in Yamanashi The Renowned Waters of Yamanashi

YAMANASHITourism & Events Guide 3YAMANASHI

Tourism & Events Guide4

●Fujiyoshida City8/26Thu., 8/27Fri.

8/2Mon.

This festival, one of the three most curious in Japan, marks the opening of the Mount Fuji climbing season. When dusk falls on the 26th, a portable shrine is marched around the city for 2km from the main shrine, while 3-metre high pinewood pillars are set ablaze. ▶ the Kamiyoshida (uptown) area of Fujiyoshida City / the North Entrance of the Fuji Sengen Shrine● A 5-minute walk from Fujiyoshida Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 1 0 m i n u t e s b y c a r f r o m t h e Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō E x p r e s s w a y ♦ S p o n s o r e d b y Fujiyoshida Tourism Promotion Service ■0555-21-1000

●Fuefuki City

●Fuefuki City

●Tabayama Township

7/17Sat., 7/18Sun.●Uenohara City

This area has the longest period of daylight in Japan. The mountain ranges of Kai Komagatake and Yatsugatake set the scene and loom in the background while 600 thousand majestic sunflowers take the spotlight in an area so beautiful as to be used in movies and TV dramas. Cosmos blossom along the circumference of the sunflower field, and shops on the premises sell local produce and souvenirs.▶Akeno Onsen Sun Hall, North Area●20 minutes by taxi from Nirasaki Station on the JR Chūō Line / 20 minutes by car from the Nirasaki Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ funded by the Hokuto City Agricultural Promotion Public Corporation■0551-25-2885

● Flower Events ● Historic Village Events ● Hands-On Experience & Workshop Events● Outdoor & Sporting Events ● Traditional Festivals & Parades ● Other Unique Events

8August

7July

Hydrangea and sunflowers blossom in a flowery meadow, which happens to be the closest plain to Mount Fuji. Come enjoy the wonders of Mount Fuji this summer! ▶Hana no Miyako Park, Yamanakako● 25 minutes by bus from Fujiyoshida Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 5 minutes by car from the Yamanakako Exit on the Higashifuji-Goko Road ♦ Hana no Miyako Park ■0555-62-5587

●Yamanakako VillageHydrangea・Sunflowers

7/31Sat., 8/1Sun.●Yamanakako Town

Yamanashi

EventCalendar

7/15Thu. to 8/31Tue.7/17Sat., 7/18Sun.

7/10Sat., 7/11Sun.

7/20Tue. to 8/20Fri.

7/20Tue. to 8/19Thu., every Wed., Thu. , Sat. , Sun.

7/5Mon. to 7/7Wed.

7/17Sat.

scheduled for 7/17Sat.

In order to raise awareness of peaches, the city’s chief product, JA Fruits Yamanashi is setting up a tasting corner. ▶ JA Fruits Yamanashi 6 Kyosenjo ● 10 minutes by taxi from Enzan Station on the JR Chūō Line／20 minutes from the Katsunuma Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Kōshū City Agricultural Promotion Division ■0553-32-2111

Come experience the taste of Yamanashi-grown peaches and peach wine. Show off your skills in the darts and ring-toss competitions. ▶ Fuefuki Fruits Park, Fruit Corner Tent ● 7 minutes by taxi from Yamanashi-shi Station on the JR Chūō Line / 30 minutes by car from the Ichinomiya Misaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Yamanashi Fruits Park ■0553-23-4101

Nothing says summer in Kōfu more than the Kōfu Summer Festival. Each year, the shopping district in the city center is transformed by elaborate adornments and pennants of every color. Stores line up satellite booths along the main shopping road, crowded with yukata-clad festival goers. ▶ Kōfu Central Shopping District ● A 5-minute walk from Kōfu Station on the JR Chūō Line / 20 minutes by car from the South Kōfu Exit on the Chūō Expressway ♦ Kōfu Commercial Union ■055-233-2241

●Ko-shu- City

●Yamanashi City

●Ko-fu City

Fresh, Ripe Ko-shu- City Peaches!“Sample and Eat On the Go” Campaign

Summer Fruits Festival: Peach Day

Yoshida Fire Festival andCelebration of the Pampas Grass

Fireworks light up the skies of Isawa Onsen Village every night from 8:50 to 9:00, welcoming visitors far and wide with a bang.▶ Fuefuki Riverbed, in front of the Fuefuki Town Hall ● A 20-minute walk from Isawa Onsen Station on the JR Chūō Line / 10 minutes by car from the Ichinomiya Misaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Isawa Onsen Hotel Cooperative■055-262-3626

Isawa Onsen Nightly Fireworks●FujiKawaguchiko Township

The festival at Tatsumiya Shrine pays homage to Toyotama-hime, the deity of water. Ceremonial paper lanterns set afloat on the lake while fireworks illuminate the water’s surface, creating the ambiance of a world of legend and mystery. ▶ the foreshore on the banks of Lake Sai ● 25 minutes by bus or 20 minutes by taxi from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 20 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Fujikawaguchiko Ashiwada Branch Office■0555-82-2311

Lake Sai’s Festival of theDragon Shrine

8/4Wed.●FujiKawaguchiko Township

S t a r t i n g w i t h f i r e w o r k s , festival-goers can enjoy a variety of activities from taking a boat ride out on the lake and fishing to watching a unique procession. Live music performances are also planned for this year’s festivities.▶ the banks of Lake Shōji● 3 5 m i n u t e s b y t a x i f r o m Kawaguchiko Stat ion on the Fujikyū Train Line / 30 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Lake Shōji Tourism Committee ■0555-87-2311

Lake Sho-ji’s Festival ofCool Waters

8/7Sat.

8/15Sun.

●Ichikawa Misato Town

August 7th is Fireworks Day in Ichikawa Misato, where the biggest fireworks show in the prefecture is held each year for the past two decades. The main feature is the flowery firework that stretches to 500 meters in diameter. The explosion is powerful enough to make your body tremble.▶

● A 10-minute walk from Ichikawa Station on the JR Minobu Line / 5 minutes by car from the Masuho E x i t o f t h e C h ū b u Ō d a n Expressway♦ Ichikawa Misaka Furusato Summer Fes t iva l Execu t ive Committee ■055-272-1101

22nd Shinmei FireworksExtravaganza

8/21Sat.●Fuefuki City

This is the climax of Fuefuki’s summer festivals in the final big fireworks event of the season. The launching area is quite close to the spectator area so everyone can have a perfect view by looking straight up into a sky so full of sparks, it’s like being under an umbrella made of fireworks.▶ Fuefuki Riverbed, in front of the Fuefuki Town Hall● A 20-minute walk from Isawa Onsen Station on the JR Chūō Line / 10 minutes by car from the Ichinomiya Misaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Fuefuki Ci ty Tour ism and Agriculture Union ■055-261-2829

46th Isawa OnsenFireworks Extravaganza

●Tabayama Township

The townsfolk of Tamayama gather together on a field to launch fireworks in an area surrounded by mountains that echo each blast.▶ Tabayama Citizens’ Field● 60 minutes by bus from Okutama Station on the JR Ōme Line / 70 minutes from the Ōme Exit of the Ken-Ō Expressway♦ Summer Festival Tabayama Executive Committee ■0428-88-0444

Tabayama Gorge Fireworks

8/15Sun.●Nambu Town

Flame torch juggling, pillars of fire and traditional parades are the features of Nambu’s original entertaining event. Huge spheres of glittering light are set ablaze in the sky during the anticipated fireworks launch. ▶ Fujikawa Nambu Bridge ● Nambu A 10-minute walk from Utsubuna Station on the JR Minobu Line / 60 minutes by car from the Masuho Exit of the Chūbu Ōdan Expressway♦ Nambu Local Promotion Division and Fire Festival Executive Committee ■0556-64-3111

Nambu Fire Festival

8/14Sat.●Chu-o- City

Attractions like meeting the members of Kōfu’s soccer team, Ventforet, lotteries, children’s activities and fireworks in full force entertain the crowds. ▶ Hōfuno Plaza, Chūō City● 10 minutes by taxi from Higashi-Hanawa Station on the JR Minobu Line / 10 minutes by car from the Kōfu Minami Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Chūō City Agriculture and Tourism Commercial Division■055-274-8582

Chu-o- Yo-ichi Festival

8/1Sun.●Minobu Town

See how many trout you can catch in this fishing event. ▶ Riverside Park, Shimobe Onsen ● A 5-minute walk from Shimobe Onsen Station on the JR Minobu Line / 40 minutes by car from the Masuho Exit of the Chūbu Ōdan Expressway♦ Shimobe Onsen Tourism Committee■0556-20-3001

Shimobe Onsen Trout Festival

8/4Wed., 8/5Thu.●FujiKawaguchiko Township

The Lake Kawaguchi Festival is just another way to say summer here. Over 10,000 fireworks burst open over Japan’s Niagara Falls in the fireworks contest that takes place over the two-day celebration.▶ on the banks of Lake Kawaguchi at Funatsu and the Hirahama Parking Lot● A 15-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 10 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō Expressway (special traffic regulations will be in effect during the festival) ♦ Lake Kawaguchi Tourism Committee ■0555-72-2460

The Lake Kawaguchi Festival

8/8Sun.●Oshino Township

The Hakkai Festival is celebrated every year on 8/8 . Live performances , t radit ional bon-odori dances and fireworks are held on the banks of Wakuike Pond and on the campus of Oshino Junior High School. ▶ Oshino Junior High School Campus ● 20 minutes by bus from Fujiyoshida Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 25 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Oshino Township Local Promotion Division■0555-84-7794

33rd Oshino Hakkai Festival

8/7Sat., 8/8Sun.●Yamanashi City

Experience the taste of Yamanashi peaches and grapes along with peach wine and other local goods. Show off your skills in the darts and ring-toss competitions.▶ Fuefuki Fruits Park, Fruit Corner Tent● 7 minutes by taxi from Yamanashi-shi Station on the JR Chūō Line / 30 minutes by car from the Ichinomiya Misaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Yamanashi Fruits Park■0553-23-4101

Summer Fruits Festival:Peach and Grape Day

8/16Mon.●Nirasaki City

Paper lanterns cast adrift down the r iver, a process ion of f lambeau, roughly 5,000 fireworks and 100 fair booths and stalls commemorate the men who died under the command of the warlord, Takeda Shingen. ▶Kamanashikawa Kasen Park● A 15-minute walk from Nirasaki Sta t ion on the JR Chūō Line / 5 minutes by car from the Nirasaki Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Takeda no Sato Festival Executive Committee ■0551-22-1991

A Summer Takeda Festival:Fireworks and Memorial forTakeda’s Soldiers Who Fellin Battle

8/3Tue. to 8/15Sun.●Lake Yamanaka Township

Come join this hiking tour event on Mount Kōshi, where you can get your fill of the elegant I. setosa irises.▶ Lake Yamanaka Exchange Plaza● 50 minutes by the Fujikko Bus from Fujiyoshida Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 15 minutes by car from the Yamanakako Exit of Higashifuji-goko Road♦ Lake Yamanaka Exchange Plaza “Kirara” ■0555-20-3111

Village of Irises

8/16Mon.●Minobu Township

This fireworks festival has been held since the Edo Period. Come join in this time-honored tradition!▶ Shimoyama, Minobu ● 40 minutes by car from the Masuho Exit of the Chūbu Ōdan Expressway / 10 minutes by car from Minobu Station on the JR Minobu Line ♦ Minobu Tourism Division■ 0556-62-1116

Shimoyama Atago Festival and Fireworks

8/3Tue.

8/31Tue.

●FujiKawaguchiko Township

Lake Motosu’s main summer event is the festival commemorating the spirit of the lake. The celebration opens with fireworks and fervor.▶ On the banks of Lake Motosu● 40 minutes by taxi from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 35 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Lake Motosu Tourism Committee■0555-87-2518

Lake Motosu’s Jinko Festivalof the Lake Deity

Watch a group of trained fishers wade into the waters of the Fuefuki River and guide leashed cormorants in this rare and unique method of catching fish. Free to watch, and a lucky two people per day will get the chance to experience this long-lived tradition (reservation and participation fee required). ▶ Fuefuki Riverbed, in front of the Fuefuki Town Hall ● A 20-minute walk from Isawa Onsen Station on the JR Chūō Line / 10 minutes by car from the Ichinomiya Misaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Fuefuki Tourism and Commerce Division ■055-262-4111

In this traditional parade, which has been practiced for the past 200 years, three lions, four people in kasa straw hats and a pair of sword-wielding dancers come together to the melody of a flute and the vigorous beat of taiko drums. ▶ the parade runs from Kawakami Shrine ～ Oorokuten ～ the children’s shrine ～ Kumano Shrine●A 60-minute bus ride from Okutama Station on the JR Ōme Line / 70 minutes by car from the Ōme Exit of the Ken-Ō Expressway♦ Tabayama Township Department of Hot Springs and Tourism ■0428-88-0026

Fuefuki Cormorant Fishing

For two days, people from the city and countryside alike come together to work in a functional commune, where a closed school is becomes an art gallery, an old house is converted into a café, and people rest in hammocks swinging from trees, listening to live music performances in the forest. Visitors have the chance to experience what it’s like to work in the field and sleep in bungalow huts. Come for a day trip and picnic or stay the night!▶ Around Biryū Hall, Haneoki no Sato● 50 minutes by bus from Uenohara Station on the JR Chūō Line / 35 minutes by car from the Uenohara Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Fields and Deals Executive Committee ■0554-68-2100

Outdoor Fields, Deals and Meals, 2010

The Fuji Five Lakes hold their first summer fireworks extravaganza christened after the famous literary master Sohō Tokutomi. Fireworks paint rainbows in the summer night sky and are reflected in the silvery pools of Lake Yamanaka. ▶ The parking lot on the shore of Lake Yamanaka ● 40 minutes by bus from Fujiyoshida Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 5 minutes by car from the Yamanakako Exit of the Higashifuji-goko Road ♦ Yamanakako Town Tourism Committee ■ 0555-62-3100

Lake Yamanaka Festival

(Gion Festival) Sasara Lion Dance

●Tsuru City

Festival stalls representing every corner of the town line the streets as music fills the air with recital competitions. The locals dress in period armor and parade a portable shrine through the streets. ▶in front of the Tsuru Branch of the Yamanashi Citizens Credit Association Bank ● A 5-minute walk from Tsuru Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 5 minutes by car from the Tsuru Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Tsuru City Tourism Committee ■0554-43-1111

Hassaku Evening Festival

8/16Mon.●Fuefuki City

This is one of the four fire festivals, which has continued to be practiced since the Edo Period, the Kai Burning Chinese Character boasts vivid flames that reach up to the midsummer night sky. ▶Fuefuki Ichinomiya Peach Village Culture Center ●20 minutes by taxi from Isawa Onsen Station on the JR Chūō Line / 15 minutes from the Ichinomiya Misato Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Kai Ichinomiya Colossal Burning Character Event Committee ■0553-47-1111

Kai IchinomiyaColossal Burning Character

The 61st Ko-fu Summer Festival

●Ko-fu City

●Kai City

Goldfish ScoopingNational Championship:Ko-fu Local Elimination Round

Futaba FarmingStation’sThanksgiving Day

7/11Sun., 7/19Holiday, 7/25Sun., 8/1Sun., 8/8Sun., 8/17Tue.

Get your fill of hiking and hydrangea at once on this hiking course. The summit commands an unparalleled view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. ▶Kawaguchiko Tenjō Mountain Hydrangea Park (Tenjō-san Ajisai Kōen) ● A 10-minute walk from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyū Line to the Hiking Course Entrance・15 minutes to the Tenjō Mountain Ropeway Lakeside Station / 10 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō Expressway to the Tenjō Mountain Ropeway Lakeside Station ♦ Fujikawaguchi Town Agricultural Division ■0555-72-1115

●Fujikawaguchiko TownHike Up Tenjo- Mountain

This course puts Fuji’s slopes to good use: downhill and cross-country trails for intermediate bikers and a trail covering the entirety of a 1300 meter-long grassy ski slope for beginners.▶Fujiten Resort ● 30 minutes by shuttle bus from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 20 minutes by car from the Kawaguchiko Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Fujiten Resort ■0555-85-2000

Not only can you buy fresh, delicious vegetables, here, you can try your hand at harvesting them as well! See what else you can get from the free distribution corner. ▶Futaba Farming Station ● 5 minutes by taxi from Shiozaki Station on the JR Chūō Line / 10 minutes by car from the Futaba Service Area Smart Exit of the Chūō Expressway ♦ Futaba Farming Station■ 0551-20-0035

7/25Sun.●Tsuru City

Nagomi Village Summer FestivalFeaturing an outdoor market selling freshly-picked vegetables, refreshment booths, live music and more! ▶Yuu-yuu Plaza, Nagomi Village, Tozawa no Mori ● 15 minutes by bus from Tsuru Station on the Fujikyū Train Line / 15 minutes by car from the Tsuru Exit on the Chūō Expressway ♦ Tsuru City Tourism Committee ■0554-43-1111

Mountain Bike Trail Opening

At an elevation of approximately 1300 meters, roughly 6 million lilies of 70 varieties bloom in vivid colors on this ski slope at the foot of Mount Fuji.

●Narusawa TownFujiten Resort Lily Park Opening

Mid-July to Mid-August

7/17Sat. to 8/31Tue.

●Hokuto CityHokuto City’s Akeno Sunflower Festival, 2010

7/25Sun. to 8/31Tue.

7/17Sat. to 11/3Wed.

Hopeful candidates, who wish to participate in the annual Goldfish Scooping National Championship h e l d i n N a r a P r e f e c t u r e ’s Yamatokōriyama City, gather in Kōfu for the primary elimination competition. The winner will have the privilege of representing Kōfu at the nationals. The representative must be a resident of Kōfu City, Yamanashi, but the competition is open to anyone who wants to join. Participation is free, so why not give it a shot? Or, in this case, give it a scoop. ▶ Kōfu Central Wholesale Market, Parking Lots 1 and 2 ● 5 minutes by car from the Kōfu Shōwa Exit of the Chūō Expressway ● 15 minutes by bus from Kōfu Station on the JR Chūō Line ♦ Kōfu City Tourism Development Department ■ 055-237-5702

8/7Sat.●O-tsuki City

Awa Odori and Bon Odori dancers gyrate and chant around a giant bonfire in the biggest festival in Ōtsuki City.▶Ōtsuki East Elementary School Campus● A 5-minute walk from Ōtsuki Station on the JR Chūō Line / 5 minutes by car from the Ōtsuki Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Bonfire City Citizens’Festival Executive Committee ■0554-20-1829

The 27th Bonfire City Citizens’ Festival

Spend your weekends in Yamanashi Yamanashi Event Calendar 2010

The size and craftsmanship of the 5,000 year-old urns from the Jōmon Period are so overwhelming that you have to see them to believe them. ▶ Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum ● 32 minutes by bus from Kōfu Station on the JR Chūō Line / 1 minute by car from the Kōfu Minami Exit on the Chūō Expressway♦ Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum ■055-266-3881

●Ko-fu City

2010 Summer Special Exhibit,“Jōmon Period Pottery ~ Come See Some of theWorld’s Largest Works of Terracotta ~”

7/17Sat.～9/5Sun.Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum

This special exhibit will grace the halls of both the art and literature prefectural museums. Roughly 150 pictures from Japanese language textbooks from the mid-1960’s to 2010 will be displayed. ▶ Yamanashi Prefectural Art Museum Special Exhibit Room・Yamanashi Prefectural Literature Museum Project Room ● 15 minutes by bus from Kōfu Station on the JR Chūō Line / 10 minutes by car from the Kōfu Shōwa Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Yamanashi Prefectural Art Museum ■055-228-3322♦ Yamanashi Prefectural Literature Museum ■055-235-8080

●Ko-fu City

Memories from Grade School Textbooks:Picture Stories, from “Whale Cloud” to “Tick Tock”

7/25Sun.～8/29Sun.Yamanashi Prefectural Art Museum・Yamanashi Prefectural Literature Museum

The core collection of Tatsuo Ikeda, a noteworthy artist in the post-war avant-garde movement, is displayed here。▶ Yamanashi Prefectural Art Museum ● 15 minutes by bus from Kōfu Station on the JR Chūō Line / 10 minutes by car from the Kōfu Shōwa Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Yamanashi Prefectural Art Museum ■055-228-3322

●Ko-fu City

Tatsuo Ideda’s Avant-garde Trajectory

ending 7/19Sat.Yamanashi Prefectural Art Museum

The memories of the Shōwa Era are reborn – walk through a reproduction of the streets of the mid-1950’s and see how people of that age lived. Pictures and everyday items take you on a nostalgic trip through time.▶ Yamanashi Prefectural Museum ● 10 minutes by bus from Isawa Onsen Station on the JR Chūō Line / 8 minutes by car from the Ichinomiya Misaka Exit of the Chūō Expressway♦ Yamanashi Prefectural Museum■055-261-2631

●Fuefuki City

5th Anniversary Special Exhibit: the Recent,yet Nostalgic Shōwa Years

7/17Sat.～8/30Mon.Yamanashi Prefectural Museum

Yatsugatake-ChūshinKōgen Kokudei Park

Minami AlpsNational Park

Chichibu TamaKai National Park

Fuji-Hakone-IzuNational Park

Kawaguchiko

Fujiyoshida

Kōfu

Higashi Hanawa

Kajikazawaguchi

Kai Iwama

ShimobeOnsen

Minobu

Utsubuna

Nirasaki

Hinoharu

Nagasaka

Ryūō

Kobuchizawa

Kiyosato

Uenohara

Ōtsuki

EnzanYamanashi-shi

Katsunuma Budōkyō

Isawa Onsen

Hatsukari

Sasago

Ichikawa Daimon

Minami Kōfu

Kamanashi River

Fuefuki River

Katsura

River

LakeMotosu

LakeShōji Lake Sai

Lake Kawaguchi

Lake Yamanaka

Fuji River

Hayakaw

a River Fujikyū Train Line

(Fuji Express Line)

JR Chūō Line

JR Koum

i Line

JR Chūō Line

JR Minobu Line

Yamashi Linear Experimental Line

Yamanakako

Fujiyoshida

Uenohara Ōtsuki

Katsunuma Ichinomiya Misaka

Kōfu Minami

Masuho

Nirasaki

Sutama

Nagasaka

Kobuchizawa

Kōfu Shōwa Shirane

Minami Alps

Kawaguchiko

Tsuru

Ōtsuki Junction

Futaba JunctionFutaba Smart

Karisaka Tunnel

Toll Road

Fuji Subaru Line

Higashifuji-gokoRoad

Chūō Expre

ssway

Chūō Expre ssway

Chūō Expressway

Chūbu-ŌdanExpressway

Dōshi

Tabayama

Kosuge

Narusawa

Oshino

Yamanakako

Shōwa

Ichikawa Misato

Fujikawaguchiko

Nishi Katsura

Hayakawa

Minobu

Fujikawa ship

Nambu

Kōfu Kai

Yamanashi

Kōshū

Fujiyoshida

Tsuru

Ōtsuki Uenohara

Nirasaki

Hokuto

Minami Alps

Chūō

Fuefuki

山梨県

10 km0

Mount Fuji

YAMANASHITourism & Events Guide 5

Yamanashi Map

Freshly PickedYamanashi Fruit Tour

This summer, experience the true, savory flavor of fruit.

Fruit in an orchard, branches bowing down with their weight, are completely different from the fruit lined up in boxes at the supermarket. The freshness brings a heartier texture to your tongue, bursting with sweet nectar. The flavor confirms that this truly is the kingdom of fruit. Once you visit, you’ll want to come back every summer to tour the many glorious orchards of Yamanashi.

Taste the season! Fruit Picking Information

Grape Picking Information

Blueberry Picking Information

Peach Picking InformationLocation Picking Season

【Yamanashi City】 Late July ～ Early August

【Minami Alps City】 Early July ～ Early August

【Fuefuki City】 Early July ～ Late August

Inquiries

Yamanashi City Tourism Division ☎0553-22-1111

JA Komano Tourism Centre ☎055-280-2100

Fuefuki City Tourism and Commercial Affairs ☎055-262-4111

Location Picking Season

【Hokuto City】 Mid-June ～ Late July

【Hokuto City】 Late June ～ Mid-August

【Fujikawaguchiko Town】 Early July ～ Early August

【Narusawa Town】 Late July ～ Mid-August

Inquiries

JA Rihoku Akeno Branch ☎0551-25-2035

Nagasaka Blueberry Association ☎0551-32-4567

Fujikawaguchiko Agriculture and Forestry Division ☎0555-72-1115

Narusawa Blueberry Produce Association ☎090-5565-0074

Location Picking Season

【Kōfu City】 Mid-July ～ Mid-November

【Yamanashi City】 Mid-July ～ Mid-November

【Minami Alps City】 Early July ～ Late July

【Nirasaki City】 Early August ～ Mid-October

【Fuefuki City】 Mid-July ～Early November

【Kōshū City】 Late July ～Late November

Inquiries

Kōfu City Tourism Development Division ☎055-237-5702

Yamanashi City Tourism Division ☎0553-22-1111

JA Komano Tourism Centre ☎055-280-2100

JA Rihoku Hosaka Branch ☎0551-22-2151

Fuefuki City Tourism and Commercial Affairs ☎055-262-4111

Kōshū Tourism Committee ☎0553-48-2111

For details, please check the 【 Yamanashi Travel Guide Sightseeing Website】 http://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/english/index.html

Minami Alps, the kingdom of fruit-bearing trees, has fruits for all seasons. There, you can find the “Master of Ripe Fruit,” a person devoted to the orchards and to spreading the word about the true sensation of fruits. The master is dedicated to locally grown produce and raises all the trees in the orchard from sprout to plump, ripe fruit.♦Minami Alps City Chamber of Commerce■055-280-3730

Get the inside knowledge from the “Master of Ripe Fruit” himself about the proper way to pick fruit and how to distinguish the tasty from the bland by sight alone. The Fruits Tour includes a jam-making session and a picnic lunch in the shade of the orchard’ s trees. Discover a new way to experience branch-ripened fruit.

Locally grown fruits are the main ingredients in this meal: you’ ll be served unique dishes like fried peach cutlets and chilled peach pasta. Coffee course included.▶ Minami Alps City (Happy Park) ● 7/10～ 9/30 ● 20 minutes by bus from Kōfu Station on the JR Chūō Line ● 10 minutes by car from the Shirane Exit of the Chūbu-Ōdan Expressway ♦ Minami Alps City Chamber of Commerce ■ 055-280-3730

From the orchards of Minami Alps, Japan’s top area for growing plums, emerges a miraculous peach-sized plum which took 20 years to perfect. With crimson skin and nectar as sweet as honey, this fruit is truly fit for a king. ♦ Minami Alps City Chamber of Commerce ■ 055-280-3730

Minami Alps EdenMaster of Ripe Fruits

Committed to Finding Ripe Fruit

Fruit Lunch in the Orchard

The Illusive FruitCultivars of Minami Alps:“Kiyo-” and “Summer Angel”

The perfection of ripe,locally grown fruits

Local Fruit Tour

Spend your weekends in Yamanashi

Discounts may be available for visitors who stay in inns and hotels within the prefecture. Please ask for details at each facility.

Yamanashi

the Kingdom

of Fruit