Last Updated: 22/06/2023
Yamanashi prefecture prides itself in the exclusive wonders of the country’s tallest mountain, Mt Fuji. The graceful conical form that rises 3,776 meters above sea level makes a good reason for taking up a one day trip from Tokyo to Yamanashi, with snow-capped scenery and the panoramic sweeps of colorful fields below providing magical sightseeing. Walk above a sea of clouds, as you journey into the heavens and meet mountain shrines and gods. Home to the folklore-laden Aokigahara Jukai forest, Mt Fuji also ensures the best forest expeditions that guests can enjoy on horseback, MTBs, ATVs, and in a sleek convertible! You can even sightsee in style on a Harley motorcycle, which especially makes for movie-like riding in the gorgeous Fujisan sunsets of summer!
Despite being a landlocked prefecture, Yamanashi has many watersport delights for your one day trip from Tokyo. The five lakes of Fuji have created beautiful water paradises within the endless plains, offering much in the way of wakeboarding, hoverboarding, SUPs, and banana boat rides. Rafting the Katsura river is among the regions’ most daring and fun activities, and it’s a great experience that you should consider on your next Yamanashi trip.
What more does your one day trip from Tokyo to Yamanashi have to offer? We break down the prefecture’s most sought-after attractions in a nutshell:
1. Canoeing in the largest and most beautiful Fuji Lake
Prized members of the famous Fuji five lakes, Lake Kawaguchi and Lake Yamanaka offer serene canoeing adventures at the base of Mount Fuji. Sunrises from the water are especially magical as the ball of yellow peeps over Fuji’s towering frame!
Cruise on Lake Motosu on a Canoe and Make Unforgettable Trip Memories with Your Friends and Family
Motosu, Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Canoeing Tour on Lake Kawaguchi with the Magnificent Mt. Fuji Views in the Background
Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Indulge in a Canadian Canoeing Tour Surrounded by the Beautiful Mountains and Nature of Lake Kawaguchi
Fujikawaguchiko, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
2. Discover ice caves and myths at Aokigahara Jukai
Admire icy stalactites in Mt Fuji’s lava caves, before venturing to the northwestern flank to wade through the “Sea of Trees” that is Aokigahara forest. A place of many myths in Japanese culture, Aokigahara Jukai is famous for more than just its endless maze of canopies!
Discover the Deepest Parts of Aokigahara Jukai, Enter 3 Natural Underground Caves Where Ordinary Tourists Can't Enter, and Experience a Real Forest Adventure
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
3. Mountain bike adventure below Mt. Fuji
Mountain bike adventure in Yamanashi promises great pleasure and greater views. Explore the nature around Fuji’s foothills, and around Kawaguchi Lake as well, famous for its range of color in the spring and fall!
Mt. Fuji World Cultural Heritage - Guide Cycling (MTB)
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
MTB (Mountain Bike) experience-Downhill tour at the foot of Fuji
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
4. SUP with a view on Lake Yamanaka
Lake Yamanaka’s northern shore avails great scenes from Mount Fuji in the backdrop and provides excellent clear waters for SUP. The same goes for Lake Motosu, the westernmost of the five Fuji lakes, which is populated with rainbow and brown trout!
Enjoy a Leisurely Outdoor Activity Surrounded by Mt. Fuji: Lake Yamanaka SUP Experience
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
SUP Tour in the Beautiful Nature Overlooking Mount Fuji! (Beginner-Friendly Course)
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Relish the Magnificent Views from Above the Water on SUP on Lake Motosu
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
5. Horseback riding in the beautiful Yatsugatake outdoors
Immerse yourself in the raw, untouched landscapes at the foot of the Yatsugatake mountains, including Kobuchisawa, for the most genuine equestrian adventure you'll ever encounter! Gain insights into the fundamental skills of horse riding and master the art of saddle control!
Experience Horse Riding Course (Beginner-Friendly Plan)
Hokuto-shi, Yamanashi
Equestrian skill lesson
Hokuto-shi, Yamanashi
Outdoor riding - First horse riding plan lesson 30 minutes + outside riding 60 minutes
Hokuto-shi, Yamanashi
6. A Yamanashi ATV that knows no bounds
Branded as the roller coaster of the forest, a Yamanashi ATV tears across the unpredictable terrain of Kawaguchi with ease, ensuring no corner of the forest and mountain is beyond your reach! Even little children can join in on the group ride!
Drive All-Terrain Vehicles Through Nature and Feel the Refreshing Wind of the Forest!
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Experience a Dynamic Run with Eight-Wheel Buggies in Yamanashi
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
7. Trekking in the clouds of Yamanashi
An adventure that combines calorie-burning exercise and strolls among the clouds of the nation’s highest peak, Yamanashi trekking is without equal. The summer shades of Aokigahara Jukai will wow you just as much as selfies with Fujisan!
Trekking Experience Above the Clouds: Enjoy Heaven on Earth with a Great Mountains Views of the Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps
Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi
Mt. Fuji climbing course for outdoor beginners and families
Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi
Trekking at the foot of Mt. Fuji from the foot to the 5th station
Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi
8. Exploring Mt Fuji on a Moped
Zip through Yamanashi's forests on an electric moped, circling Fujisan and its lakes. Discovering nature's riches in this top sightseeing spot has never been so eco-exciting!
9. Flyboard: Fly like Superman Over The Water
If you ever wanted to know what flying like a superhero is like, this flyboard experience on Lake Yamanaka is your chance. Channeling water pressure into the power of flight, and whizz across the water surface while Mt Fuji stands guard behind you!
Exhilarating Flyboarding Experience on Lake Yamanaka
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Enjoy the Feeling of Flying in the Sky Over the Sea at Yamanakako
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
10. Wakeboarding Yamanashi: The lake is your oyster
Sharpen your wakeboarding skills and master the waves at Lake Yamanaka! The sight of Japan's tallest mountain nearby will surely inspire you!
Wakeboarding Experience at One of the Best Schools in Japan!
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Lake Yamanaka Thrilling Wakeboarding Experience
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
11. Banana boat rides: More than your typical boating
Why ride an ordinary, mundane vessel when you can up the experience with a unique banana boat cruise? Explore the waters of the Fuji Lakes as you fool around in Yamanaka with friends and family. It’s as photogenic an experience as they come!
Feel the Wind of Lake Yamanaka Riding a Banana Boat with Mount Fuji Views
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Enjoy the Fun and Excitement of Riding a Banana Boat on Lake Yamanaka
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
12. Hoverboard experience at the foot of Fuji
As the closest lake to Mount Fuji, Yamanaka offers unmatched hoverboard adventures with stunning views of the snowy peak. Experience breathtaking panoramas and thrilling anti-gravity sensations!
Exciting Hover Boarding at Lake Yamanaka Surrounded by Nature and Mount Fuji!
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
Fly in the Sky with Water Pressure Hoverboard & SUP Free Rental on Lake Yamanaka with Delicious BBQ Lunch
Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi
13. Canyoning in Otsuki
Immerse yourself in the soothing serenity of canyoning! Amidst quieter stretches of the swift Katsura river, find both relaxation and healing while marveling at the surrounding beauty.
Shower climbing and canyoning in Yamanashi
Otsuki City, Yamanashi
Enjoy nature shower climbing
Otsuki City, Yamanashi
14. Rafting: The best of Yamanashi watersports
Embrace the adrenaline rush as you navigate the roaring rapids of the Katsura river in Otsuki City, Yamanashi! The thrill of white splashes during your rafting journey will be a memory to cherish!
Half-day River Rafting Adventure at Fuji River
Minamikoma District, Yamanashi
Katsura River Rafting Tours
Yanagawamachi, Otsuki City, Yamanashi
In conclusion, a one-day trip from Tokyo to Yamanashi offers a wealth of unforgettable adventures and experiences. Whether it's exploring the picturesque Five Fuji Lakes, daring a Katsura river escapade, or challenging yourself with a trek up iconic Mount Fuji, you're sure to make memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and brace yourself for the remarkable journey that awaits in Yamanashi. Remember, the adventure is as much in the journey as it is in the destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat's the best way to travel from Tokyo to Yamanashi?
AThe fastest way to travel from Tokyo to Yamanashi is by train, specifically the Chuo Line. The journey typically takes around 1-2 hours.
QWhat are the Five Fuji Lakes?
AThe Five Fuji Lakes are Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Yamanakako, Shojiko, and Motosuko, all of which offer breathtaking views of Mount Fuji.
QIs it possible to climb Mount Fuji in a day?
AYes, it's possible, but it's challenging. The climbing season is in summer, from July to early September.
QIs Yamanashi family-friendly?
AAbsolutely! Yamanashi offers activities suitable for all ages, including lake tours, fruit picking, and parks with beautiful scenery.
QWhat is Yamanashi Prefecture famous for?
AYamanashi Prefecture is famous for its scenic beauty, including Mount Fuji and Five Fuji Lakes. It's a hotspot for outdoor activities and noted for its exceptional fruit production, especially peaches and grapes, along with excellent local wines.
QWhat else can I do in Yamanashi?
ABesides the activities mentioned, Yamanashi is known for its wineries, hot springs, and historical sites. It's also a great place for food lovers to try Houtou noodles and fresh Yamanashi fruit.