Kofu – mountains, wine and cultural sites

Located in the Chubu region, Kofu is the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture, the land of Mount Fuji. The city and its region enjoy exceptional sunshine, making it the cradle and centre of Japanese wine production. Today, there are several wineries open to the public, many of which offer wine tours and tastings. Kofu and the surrounding area are also known for their fruits, as grapes are a particularly famous local product. The history of this city as the former capital of Kai estate and Takeda Shingen house, the leader of the estate and one of the main samurai, challengers for the reunification of the country towards the end of the period of war states, makes it an important cultural visit.

Kofu Castle and Maizurujo Park

From the exit of the station, the first visit to be made (except the statue of Takeda Shingen on the left, taking the south exit) is the Maizurujo Park, which still houses the ruins of Maizuru Castle (also known as Kofu Castle). After the fall of Takeda Shingen, Kofu Castle was built by Toyotomi Hideoyoshi, who unified Japan. Today, the Maizuru Castle Park houses part of the ruined castle.

From the turret overlooking Kofu’s vast land basin and restored, you can see Mount Fuji in the distance. In the spring, about 160 cherry trees bloom in the park, making it a particularly popular place to observe cherry blossoms. When the weather is sunny and clear in April, the view is truly spectacular.

Takeda Shrine

The Takeda Shrine was established in 1919 at the Tsutsujigasaki Yakata site (Azalea Cape Castle), which was the residence of the Takeda family for three generations beginning with Takeda Nobutora, the father of Takeda Shingen, and the seat from which these feudal lords administered the affairs of Kai province. A real treasure room is inside the sanctuary. There are many ancient objects (armors, fans, etc.), including the Yoshioka-ichimonji sword (national treasure).

Shingen Museum

The “Takeda Clan Museum of Kofu” is located in the place where three generations of the Takeda family lived, Nobutora, Shingen, Katsuyori.

In the museum, there is a permanent exhibition room tracing the three generations of the Takeda family. A film is played in the special exhibition room. You can buy snacks and souvenirs at the food and drink corner. You can hear famous words from Takeda Shingen and see his personality using virtual reality. It is also possible to visit with a volunteer guide.

The entrance is 300 yen.

Kai-zenkoji

Kai Zenkoji Temple is a representative temple of Kofu, built by Lord Shingen, who had Buddha statues and sutras transferred from Shinano Zenkoji Temple, whose destruction he feared during the battles of Kawanakajima.

The main hall, which is 27 meters high and 49 meters long, as well as the main door of the temple are among the largest wooden structures in eastern Japan. They have a magnificent appearance and are designated as important national cultural property. In addition to Kai Zenkoji temple, Kofu Gozan, or Five Temples of Kofu, selected and protected by Lord Shingen, still exist today.

Indian Museum

The distinctive features of the Koshu Inden technique come from a special technique to decorate soft and light deer leather with artistic lacquer patterns. In this museum you can discover the 400-year-old history of this technique that was used to decorate combat costumes, including armor and helmets, warriors. His beautiful ornamentation is very appreciated.

Today, the Koshu Inden technique is designated as a traditional local craftsmanship and enjoys a lasting popularity.

Museum open from 10am to 5pm, entrance from 200 Yens.

Shingen-ko Festival

The Shingen-kō festival takes place every year to celebrate the heritage of the Daimyō Takeda Shingen in Kōfu, the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture. It is the “greatest gathering of samurai” in the world.

It takes place every year at the beginning of April around Kofu station and the castle.

Kofu wine

Kofu is the cradle of winemaking in Japan. Started with techniques learned in France 140 years ago, there are now nearly 80 wineries in Yamanashi. Koshu wine made from locally produced Koshu grapes blends perfectly with Japanese cuisine. This variety of local wines can be enjoyed in cafes and restaurants in the city very easily. If you prefer (and have time) to visit a winery, it’s this way.

To Kofu

It takes about 1h30 by train from Shinjuku railway station in Tokyo (line JR Chuo), about 2 hours by car via the Chuo motorway or about 2h10 by bus Chuo from the west exit of the railway stationShinjuku. It takes about 50 minutes by car or about 1 hour by train from the Kofu region to the Yatsugatake Mountains region.

If the history of this city as the former capital of Kai estate and Takeda Shingen’s house makes it an important cultural and natural visit, the region is not left with visits and surprises and Kofu will be a good home port to visit.

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