Yamanashi | Statistics
Region: Chubu
Capital: Kofu
Population (approx.): 855,746 (2012)
Area: 1,724 sq miles
Area Rank: 32
Yamanashi | Destinations
Yamanashi Prefecture is located in the Chubu region and is best known for its many large mountains, including the famous Mt. Fuji. Mt. Fuji at 3,776m high above sea level is the highest and most popular mountain in Japan, and considered one of the most beautiful conical volcanoes in the world. Near the base is also Fuji-Q Highland, a major amusement park featuring several record-holding, thrilling rides. A popular way to view the beautiful Mt. Fuji is from Lake Kawaguchiko, one of the Fuji Five Lakes. Lake Kawaguchiko is a popular spot during both the springtime when cherry blossoms are in full bloom and in the autumn when the leaves turn into warm, autumn colors. One of the most popular museums in Yamanashi is the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum. The museum features works of Itchiku Kubota, a Japanese textile artist who devoted his life in recreating Tsujigahana, a fabric dyeing technique from 15th century. The Itchiku Kubota Art Museum is also in a great location, with great views of both Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko.
Yamanashi | Local Food and Produce
Yamanashi’s most famous local cuisine is “houtou”. Houtou is a miso soup stew with flat udon noodles and vegetables. When houtou is prepared, the noodles are prepared more like a dumpling than the ordinary udon, hence houtou is not considered an udon dish by locals. Variations of houtou are available, with “kabocha houtou”, or pumpkin houtou, being the most popular choice. The vegetables stewed in the houtou stew vary depending on the season's vegetables. Many restaurants serving houtou display local warlord Takeda Shingen's Furinkazan battle flag at its entrance. This comes from a theory that Shingen was responsible for inventing Yamanashi's houtou and enjoying the dish before every battle. Houtou has since been a hearty meal and a favorite among the people of Yamanashi.
Yamanashi | Arts and Crafts
For over 400 years, Yamanashi Prefecture has produced crystals. Kofu City, Yamanashi is known as the major gem polishing site in Japan. In fact, along with Idar Oberstein in Germany, Kofu City is a leading center for jewelry production and stone cutting. At the Crystal Museum in Kofu City you can view various types of gemstones including crystals on display.
Yamanashi | Festivals and Events
Shingen-ko Matsuri is an annual festival in Kofu City, Yamanashi that occurs every April in honor of Takeda Shingen. Shingen was a famous warlord who gained exceptional prestige for his military success during the Sengoku Period. The festival reenacts Shingen and his warriors marching through town wearing authentic warrior costumes. Participants prepare and practice their roles all year long to perfect the great reenactment. Shingen-ko Matsuri is an impressive festival for all those interested in Shingen's success and samurai history.