Yamanashi: A Day Trip To Nature And History

Have you ever been to Yamanashi Prefecture? It depends on an area but, from Tokyo, it takes about 1 hour and half-2 hours by car and train. It’s easy access to visit countryside.

Last August, it was super hot so I felt to feel nature. I invited a friend of mine to visit Yamanashi. Mainly, we visited Otsuki and Kofu city, where is closer from Tokyo than other Yamanashi area. In this part, I’d like to show you 4 places we visited of day trip.

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1. Saruhashi

Saruhashi, or “Monkey Bridge,” is one of Japan’s three most famous unusual bridges, known for its unique architectural design and stunning natural surroundings. Located in Otsuki City, Yamanashi, the bridge spans the Katsura River, offering picturesque views of the surrounding gorge. What makes Saruhashi distinctive is its construction—unlike most bridges that rest on pillars or arches, Saruhashi is supported by cantilever beams protruding from the gorge walls. The name “Monkey Bridge” comes from an ancient legend that monkeys once helped people cross the river by forming a chain with their bodies, inspiring the design of the bridge.

Historically, Saruhashi dates back over 1,300 years, and its strategic location on a key trade route made it an important crossing point during the Edo period. The current version of the bridge was built in 1836 and has since been preserved as a cultural landmark. The surrounding area is particularly beautiful during the fall, when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red and orange, attracting visitors from all over Japan. Saruhashi has been designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, symbolizing a connection between nature, history, and traditional Japanese engineering.

When you walk through small path, you’ll arrive at river closely. To avoid sunshine, here was my favorite place.

I think during autumn season is the best because, all leaves will become colorful like red, yellow and orange. During summer, it’s good place to avoid humid and hot condition, and during autumn, it’s good place to see beautiful colorful view.

2. Lunch at Veggie Cafe: Fluunt

Next, we arrived at Kofu city and had a lunch. We chose this vegan cafe: Fluunt because I felt to have healthy foods. Recently, I like to have vegan foods. Especially, when I have beef, porks and oily cuisines, I like to have plant based foods next day.

I chose this combo. Salad and soy meets fry. So tasty! Soy meets fry was like authentic fried chicken. In other menu, there are many kinds of fries and hamburgers using plant based ingredients. Compared to Tokyo’s vegan cafe, it’s reasonable. When you trip in Kofu city, try to go to this cafe!

3. Kofu Castle

Kofu Castle, also known as Maizuru Castle, is a historic site located in the heart of Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. It was originally constructed in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s trusted general, Takeda Nobutaka, after the fall of the Takeda clan, which had ruled the region. The castle was strategically positioned to control the important routes leading into the Kanto and Shinano regions, making it a significant military stronghold during the feudal period. Its name, “Maizuru,” meaning “Dancing Crane,” symbolizes the castle’s elegant design and its association with good fortune.

Though much of Kofu Castle was dismantled during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, the remaining stone walls, moats, and gates have been preserved, creating a peaceful historical park. Visitors today can walk among the ruins, climb to the top of the restored tenshudai (castle keep’s foundation) for panoramic views of Kofu City and the surrounding mountains, including Mount Fuji. The site serves as a reminder of Yamanashi’s feudal past and offers a serene place to explore the region’s rich history and enjoy seasonal beauty, such as cherry blossoms in spring.

4. Ryumonkyo

The last place was Ryumonkyo. It’s located on the way from Kofu city to Tokyo so we visited there.

Ryumonkyō Gorge, located in Yamanashi Prefecture, is a hidden gem that showcases the untouched beauty of nature. The gorge is surrounded by towering cliffs and dense forests, with the crystal-clear waters of the Fuefuki River flowing through it. The rugged landscape is both dramatic and serene, offering a perfect escape into nature. Visitors can stroll along scenic walking trails that wind through the gorge, taking in the breathtaking views of the river cutting through the stone, moss-covered rocks, and the lush greenery that lines the path. During autumn, Ryumonkyō becomes a magical sight, as the vibrant red and gold leaves of the surrounding trees reflect off the water, creating a stunning natural palette.

What makes Ryumonkyō especially captivating is its peaceful atmosphere, far removed from the crowded tourist spots. The sound of rushing water, the chirping of birds, and the rustling of leaves provide a calming backdrop for anyone seeking to reconnect with nature. The area is also dotted with small waterfalls and rock formations, adding to its charm and making it an ideal spot for nature photography. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to meditate or a picturesque trail to explore, Ryumonkyō offers a refreshing retreat into Yamanashi’s natural beauty.

Here is Keitokuin, where is located the entrance of Ryumonkyo.

Keitoku-in Temple in Yamanashi is a historic site deeply tied to the legacy of the Takeda family, one of Japan’s most renowned samurai clans. Established in 1558 by Takeda Shingen, the famous warlord of the Sengoku period, the temple was built to honor his father, Takeda Nobutora. Keitoku-in served as the family’s memorial temple and holds significant importance as the burial site of several Takeda family members, including Shingen himself. Nestled in a serene setting surrounded by nature, the temple grounds reflect the power and influence of the Takeda clan, offering visitors a quiet space to connect with Japan’s feudal history and pay homage to one of its most legendary families.

5. Conclusion

That’s the end of Kofu and Otsuki city, Yamanashi part. As I introduced, these areas are very close from Tokyo so it’s easy access to visit there. To feel nature and take a walk around, why don’t you to make a plan to visit Yamanashi?

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