Yamanashi

In the Chubu region of Honshu, Yamanashi Prefecture is one of Japan’s most scenic inland destinations. Surrounded by towering mountain ranges, including the Southern Alps and the Yatsugatake Massif, the prefecture is perhaps best known as the home of Mount Fuji — or at least its most iconic viewpoints. The Fuji Five Lakes area, located along the northern base of the volcano, draws visitors year-round for its stunning reflections of Japan’s most famous peak.

Beyond its natural beauty, Yamanashi has earned a reputation as Japan’s wine capital. The Kofu Basin’s warm days, cool nights and well-drained soils create ideal conditions for viticulture, and the region produces some of the country’s finest wines. The Katsunuma and Shosenkyo Gorge areas are also worth exploring for their autumn foliage, traditional crafts and fresh local produce, including peaches and grapes that Yamanashi is famous for.