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Kōfu
Your 4-day travel guide
Spring for blossoms, autumn for colors
Kōfu•4D•Couple
Kōfu, Japan
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Castles, Hot Springs, and Peach Blossoms
Welcome to Kōfu, where the air carries the faint scent of hot springs and the mountains stand guard like silent sentinels. This isn't Tokyo's neon frenzy or Kyoto's tourist-packed temples, this is the relaxed heart of Yamanashi Prefecture, where you'll discover Japan's samurai legacy in a castle that feels like a secret, soak in mineral-rich waters with views of Mount Fuji on clear days, and taste some of the country's finest fruit wines. As a couple, you'll love the intimate scale of this city, where you can hold hands while exploring ancient stone walls, share delicate local dishes in cozy restaurants, and experience authentic Japanese hospitality without the crowds. Get ready to slow down and savor the simple pleasures of regional Japan.
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Ask someone who actually lives in Kōfu
1
Samurai Heritage and Castle Exploration
Day 1 of your journey
Kōfu Castle, also called Maizuru Castle, was built in the early 17th century by Tokugawa Ieyasu's son. While the main keep is gone, the impressive stone walls and moats remain, offering a peaceful historical site. You can walk along the walls, visit the small museum with samurai artifacts, and enjoy views over the city. The park surrounding it is lovely for a stroll, especially during cherry blossom season in early April. Plan about 90 minutes to explore thoroughly.
Kōfu Castle Ruins (Maizuru Castle Park)
Why Visit
This is the cultural heart of Kōfu, showcasing Japan's feudal history in a serene setting. The stonework is remarkably preserved, and the museum provides context about the Takeda clan who once ruled from here. For couples, it's a romantic spot with historical atmosphere and beautiful photo opportunities among the ancient walls and gardens.
Visit the small Inari shrine within the park grounds for a quiet moment. The best light for photography is in the late afternoon when the stones glow warmly. Address: 1-5 Marunouchi, Kōfu, Yamanashi 400-0031.
2
Hot Springs and Local Flavors
Day 2 of your journey
3
Free Day and Local Exploration
Day 3 of your journey
4
Relaxation and Departure
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Kōfu is best accessed by train from Tokyo via the JR Chuo Line (about 1.5-2 hours by limited express).
Within the city, walking is often easiest for central areas, but buses cover wider distances. Consider a day pass if using buses frequently.
Cash is still king in many local restaurants and shops, though major establishments accept credit cards.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases like 'arigatou gozaimasu' (thank you) and 'sumimasen' (excuse me), as English is limited outside tourist spots.
Onsen etiquette requires washing thoroughly before entering baths, and tattoos may be restricted at some facilities.
Try local specialties like hōtō noodles, basashi (if adventurous), and Koshu wine for an authentic taste.
Spring (late March to April) offers cherry blossoms at the castle, while autumn has pleasant weather and fall colors.
Kōfu is generally very safe, but keep standard travel precautions like watching your belongings in crowded areas.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Kōfu are spring (late March to May) and autumn (September to November). Spring brings mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms at Kōfu Castle, usually peaking in early April. Autumn offers cool, comfortable weather and vibrant fall foliage in the surrounding mountains. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, though it's peach season. Winter (December to February) is cold with occasional snow, but hot springs are especially appealing then. Avoid Golden Week (late April to early May) if possible, as domestic travel makes accommodations scarce and prices higher.
Local Insights & Tips
Kōfu is the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture, known for its fruit production, particularly grapes for wine and peaches. The city has a relaxed, provincial feel compared to major Japanese metropolises, with friendly locals who may not speak much English but are welcoming. The culture here is tied to its samurai history as the seat of the Takeda clan and its natural hot springs. When dining, it's polite to say 'itadakimasu' before eating and 'gochisousama deshita' after. Onsen visits are a cherished ritual, so follow the etiquette of washing first and keeping towels out of the water. The pace is slower, so embrace taking your time to enjoy simple pleasures.