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How to Visit Gotemba in Japan?

Gotemba is a city located in central Japan’s Shizuoka prefecture, situated west of Tokyo and along the slopes of Mount Fuji. Blessed with stunning natural scenery and expansive vineyards, it’s an excellent destination for travelers searching for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Japan.

Decide On When to Go

Gotemba is breathtaking any time of year, but the perfect time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. From April to May, flowers at the Gotemba Kogen Park are in full bloom; from late April to May, Fuji-view plum and cherry blossom festivals take place in various locations around Gotemba. If you’d like to see Mount Fuji blanketed in snow, the best time to visit is midwinter when the scenery is especially beautiful. Summer and autumn are both excellent times to explore Gotemba with pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage around.

Arrive at Gotemba Station

After deciding on when to visit, you’ll need to figure out how to get to Gotemba. The most convenient way is to take a bullet train or express train from Tokyo. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen line or the JR Gotemba Line from Tokyo Station, and you’ll arrive at Gotemba Station in around 90 minutes.

Explore the Local Sights

Your first stop should be the Gotemba Kogen Park. Located just a short walk from Gotemba Station, it sits high up in the mountains of Shizuoka and offers magnificent views of Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes. Don’t miss the park’s 1,400 meter-long nature trail, named “Kyodo no Michi” (Path of Nature). Find more information about the Gotemba Kogen Park here.

Also make sure to stop by Gotemba Premium Outlets—the biggest outlet mall in Japan. Take a stroll along their many cafes and nearly 200 shops featuring designer brands including Gucci and Prada. You’ll even find Japanese brands like Uniqlo and Muji at bargain prices! Find out more.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even head south to Shiraito Falls in Fujinomiya City. Situated between two rivers, Shiraito Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Japan and just a short drive away from Gotemba station. Learn more here.

Stay at Nearby Hotels

Gotemba offers various accommodation options from luxury hotels—well-situated for sightseeing around Mount Fuji—to budget guesthouses for budget travelers. One hotel worth considering is 10 Madison Hotel which offers basic but comfortable rooms with enchanting views of Mount Fuji—in some rooms it’s even visible from your bed! Located just 3 minutes from Gotemba Station, it’s an ideal base for exploring Gotemba and its sights. Learn more here.

My personal opinion would be that Gotemba is one of Japan’s hidden gems and it’s worth a visit if you have some spare time. The natural beauty of this place and its proximity to Mount Fuji make it one of the most amazing places I have ever visited. Besides sightseeing, there’s also plenty of shopping opportunities, ranging from luxury designer outlets to local souvenirs, so you should definitely check it out the next time you visit Japan!

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Gotemba, Japan

Gotemba is a small city located in the Shizuoka Prefecture of Japan, known for its stunning natural beauty, cultural attractions, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, Gotemba offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to amaze and delight. Here’s our insider’s guide to exploring this beautiful city.

Attractions and Activities

Gotemba is most famous for its stunning views of Mount Fuji, which makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The city is surrounded by scenic hiking trails and picturesque countryside, which makes it an excellent location for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and camping.

One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Gotemba Premium Outlets, which is home to more than 200 high-end designer stores. Here you can shop for designer clothes, shoes, and accessories at discounted prices.

If you’re interested in Japanese history and culture, then you must visit the Fureai Park Gotemba. The park has a Japanese garden with a traditional tea house, walking trails and a playground for kids to enjoy. The Gotemba City Museum is also worth a visit, where you can learn more about the city’s rich history and traditional culture.

Local Cuisine

Gotemba is a food lover’s paradise, with plenty of amazing restaurants serving up delicious Japanese cuisine. Try out the local speciality Sagamiko yaki, grilled freshwater fish, which is served with soy sauce and daikon radish. Other must-try dishes include Inari Sushi, Tofu Dishes and Japanese Ginseng.

There are also plenty of cafes in the city where you can grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely meal. For coffee lovers, I suggest trying the Gotemba Coffee Shop, which serves some of the best coffee in the city.

Cultural Experiences

There are also many cultural experiences that you can enjoy in Gotemba. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is to take part in a traditional tea ceremony. You can do this at the Gotemba Fureai Park, where you can enjoy a cup of matcha green tea while admiring the view of Mount Fuji.

Another great cultural experience is to visit one of the many hot springs in the area. There are several onsen resorts around Gotemba, including the Hakone Onsen, which is renowned for its therapeutic properties.

Local History

Gotemba has a rich history dating back to the Edo period, which you can learn more about at the city’s museums and cultural centres. A must-visit is the Chokoku no Mori Museum, which has a collection of traditional Japanese woodcarvings, and other exhibits showcasing the city’s rich cultural heritage.

You can also visit the ancient Ichinomiya Gotenjinja Shrine, which was built in the 8th century, and is believed to be the oldest shrine in the area.

Off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, then head to Kakitagawa Park. This hideaway park is located in a secluded valley and features beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, which are stunning and perfect for photo-taking.

Another quirky attraction is the Toyota Auto Museum, which showcases the history of the Toyota car brand. The museum has an impressive collection of cars, including vintage models and concept cars.

In conclusion, Gotemba is a hidden gem in Japan that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, delicious cuisine, and rich history. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or a culture enthusiast, this city has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful destination.