Each spring, the “cherry blossom front” moves northward across Japan. Starting in Kyushu and traveling up to Hokkaido, you can enjoy sakura somewhere in the country for about a month.
Kōfu’s Biggest Winter Crowd: Entakuji Temple’s Yakuyoke Jizō Festival
One of Kōfu’s most beloved winter traditions is the Yakuyoke Jizō Festival held at Entakuji Temple (塩澤寺). From noon on February 13 to noon on February 14, the temple grounds become lively for 24 hours as worshippers arrive from across Japan—making it one of the busiest and most energetic times of the year in the area.
Enjoy World Music, Dance, and Food at a Jōmon Archaeological Site
“A festival at a Jōmon site?” It may sound surprising at first. But at Umenoki Ruins Park, a nationally designated Jōmon historic site in Akeno, Hokuto City (Yamanashi), the atmosphere of ancient Japan makes music, dance, and food feel even more memorable—and that’s exactly what makes this event so special each year.
5 Best Autumn Foliage Spots in Japan (2025 Edition)
For people in Japan, autumn foliage is a cherished seasonal scene that embodies the beauty of change and transience. As mountains and temple gardens turn red and gold, many set out for “momijigari,” the joy of seeking autumn leaves.
Follow the north-to-south “foliage front,” and you can enjoy peak colors across the country over an extended period.
Chubu (Niigata, Nagano, Toyama, Ishikawa, Fukui, Yamanashi, Gifu, Shizuoka, Aichi) 2–3 Day Itinerary (Public Transport, 9:00–18:00)
The Chubu region features the Japanese Alps, historic towns, the Sea of Japan, Mt. Fuji, and Yamanashi’s famed fruits and wine. Feel tradition in Kanazawa and Takayama, learn history in Shirakawa-go and Matsumoto Castle, and enjoy nature at the Fuji Five Lakes, Shosenkyo Gorge, and the Yatsugatake Highlands.
Traditional Japanese Woodblock Prints: “Ukiyo-e”
The Appeal of Koshu Inden
Koshu Inden is a traditional craft originating from Kofu City in Yamanashi Prefecture, with a history spanning approximately 400 years. The term “Inden” means “pattern” and “transmit.” Originally, it was used as decorative items for samurai in Koshu during battles. Techniques brought from India were uniquely developed in the Kai Province (now Yamanashi Prefecture), which eventually became known as today’s Koshu Inden.
Having dinner under the wing of a Boeing 787♪
During my 1 week business trip to the Chubu International Airport, I found a fantastic facility called “Flight of Dreams”. One day, when I finished my work, I saw a sign that said there are restaurants open in Terminal 2. It’s a little far from the airport train station, but I just followed the path until I arrived and was so surprised with this amazing spot! It was a food court where you can have dinner under the wing of Boeing 787