First visit of the year in Yamanashi! 10 recommended power spots for visiting popular shrines and temples

2025.12.21

Visit Yamanashi, home to the power spot Mt. Fuji! The New Year is just around the corner. Wondering where to go for your first shrine visit of the new year? We’ve compiled a list of 10 recommended shrines and temples in Yamanashi, each with a variety of benefits, including luck in winning, academic success, financial luck, matchmaking, safe childbirth, protection from misfortune, and good health and longevity. We’ll also explain the characteristics of each shrine, access information, and parking information. We’ll also answer any questions you might have about the best time to visit, how to handle amulets, nearby tourist spots, and shrine visits. Find the perfect place for you and have a wonderful New Year!

Recommended shrines for winning luck and academic success

For those who want to improve their luck in competitions or pray for academic success at the start of the new year, Yamanashi has several shrines that have been answering people’s prayers since ancient times and are said to grant good fortune in terms of winning and academic success. Here we will introduce some particularly recommended shrines. Why not visit these shrines with renewed spirit and welcome in a year full of hope?

Takeda Shrine

A shrine dedicated to the history of “Takeda Shingen” and the blessings of victory

Located in the center of Kofu City, Takeda Shrine enshrines the famous Sengoku period general, Takeda Shingen. Known as the “Tiger of Kai,” Shingen’s extraordinary strategic and leadership skills have earned him the devout faith of many as the god of “good fortune” that brings victory in competitions and overcoming difficulties. Many worshippers visit the shrine on New Year’s Day, resolving to move forward with strength in the new year.

Within the temple grounds, you can feel the breath of history, with the well “Hime no Ido” said to have been used by Lord Shingen and other historical sites connected to the Takeda clan scattered throughout. It is said that the shrine not only bestows good fortune in victory, but also grants blessings for academic success and passing exams, as Lord Shingen placed great importance on both the arts and martial arts. The powerful spirit of Lord Shingen resides in the amulets and votive plaques, giving courage to the hearts of those who visit.

Access and Parking Information

project	information
location	2611 Furufuchucho, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 8 minutes by bus from JR Chuo Main Line’s Kofu Station, get off at Takeda Shrine
car	Approximately 30 minutes from Kofu Showa IC on the Chuo Expressway
parking	Free parking available (approximately 150 cars) *It gets very crowded during the New Year’s visit period, so we recommend using public transportation.

Source/Reference: Takeda Shrine, Kai

Kaina Shrine

With Mount Hakusan as its sacred object, it is said to bring good fortune in academic success.

Kaina Shrine, located in Kofu City, is a historic shrine that has long revered Mount Hakusan as its sacred object. Based on the faith in Mount Hakusan, it has been cherished by local people as a place where pure power resides.

Within the grounds, there is a “Success Stone” that can be touched with a wish to pray for academic success, and it is a shrine that is deeply revered by students and students preparing for exams. The shrine is loved by many worshippers as a place where they can pray for the fruits of their daily efforts in a quiet and calm atmosphere. It will surely grant you the strength to absorb new knowledge and take the first step towards achieving your goals.

Access and Parking Information

project	information
location	3-7-11 Chuo, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	From Kofu Station on the JR Chuo Main Line, take the JR Minobu Line for about 5 minutes to Kanete Station, then walk for about 3 minutes from Kanete Station
car	Approximately 15 minutes from Kofu Showa IC on the Chuo Expressway
parking	Free parking available (approximately 7 cars)

Source/Reference: Kaina Shrine

Inazumi Shrine

Photo: Website image | Source: Masunoki Inari Daimyojin and Inazumi Shrine

A guardian deity of food, clothing and shelter who will also grant you academic success

Inazumi Shrine in Kofu City is beloved by locals as the guardian deity of food, clothing, and shelter, as well as bountiful harvests. As the god who governs the foundations of life, he is said to grant blessings for a stable life and business development, but he is also said to grant wishes for academic success and technological improvement.

In particular, the shrine is a reassuring presence for those on the path of learning, as it teaches the importance of solidifying the foundations and steadily building upon them. On your first visit of the year, you can offer thanks for your daily life and pray for protection to deepen your path of learning. You can visit the shrine with a calm mind in a warm atmosphere rooted in the local community.

Access and Parking Information

project	information
location	10-2 Otacho, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Take the bus from Kofu Station on the JR Chuo Main Line for about 10 minutes, get off at Yuki Park , go through the park and walk for about 3 minutes
car	Approximately 20 minutes from Kofu Minami IC on the Chuo Expressway
parking	Free parking available (approximately 15 cars)

Source/Reference: Masunoki Inari Daimyojin Shrine and Inazumi Shrine

Recommended shrines for improving your financial luck

Increased financial luck is a wish that many people want to have granted! Why not start the new year by praying for better financial luck with your first visit to a shrine? Yamanashi has a shrine that has long been said to grant financial luck. Here, we introduce Kanazakura Shrine, known as a power spot for financial luck. Why not experience your first visit to a shrine surrounded by abundant nature and refreshed feelings to bring in financial luck?

Kinzakura Shrine

The birthplace of quartz and a power spot for financial luck

Kinzakura Shrine is an ancient shrine that worships Mt. Kinpu as its sacred object, and with a very long history, it has been cherished as one of the centers of faith in Yamanashi. It is believed that the shrine is particularly beneficial for financial luck, attracting many worshippers from all over the country. The most distinctive feature of this shrine is its sacred tree, the “Kinzakura, the Money Tree.” In spring, it blooms with rare pale yellow flowers, and legend has it that if you see these flowers, you will be blessed with financial luck for the rest of your life.

Kanazakura Shrine is also known as the birthplace of crystal. The shrine grounds house a sacred crystal ball, giving visitors a glimpse into the long history of crystal mining. Crystal has been said to possess mystical powers since ancient times, and has been popular as a talisman for purification and good fortune. Coming into contact with the pure energy of crystal here will further strengthen your desire for increased financial luck in the new year.

The “rising and descending dragons” in the main shrine hall exude a powerful energy that will bring you good fortune. When you visit for the first time in the new year, be sure to take your time to wander around the grounds and receive positive energy from each of the power spots. At Kanazakura Shrine, you can experience a first visit of the year that will bring you financial luck with a calm and positive attitude.

Access and Parking Information

Access to Kanazakura Shrine takes some time as it is surrounded by abundant nature, but the journey itself enhances the sacred feeling.

project	detailed
location	2347 Mitakecho, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 50 minutes by bus from JR Chuo Main Line’s Kofu Station, then a 30-minute walk from Shosenkyo Takigami . *As there are few buses, we recommend checking the timetable in advance. Also, the bus may be closed during the winter.
car	Approximately 50 minutes from Kofu Showa IC on the Chuo Expressway. *Please drive carefully as it is a mountain road. There is a possibility of snow accumulation and frozen roads, especially in winter. If taking a taxi, it is approximately 30 minutes from JR Kofu Station.
parking	Free parking available. *It is expected to be very crowded during the New Year’s visit period, so we recommend arriving early.

Reference/Source: Mt. Mitake Kinzakura Shrine

Recommended shrines for warding off evil and living a long and healthy life

For those who wish to spend the new year in good health and ward off misfortune, we will introduce shrines and temples in Yamanashi where you can expect to receive blessings such as protection from misfortune and good health and longevity. Let’s welcome the new year with a pure mind and body.

Kai Zenkoji Temple

History and benefits of warding off evil and bringing good fortune

Kai Zenkoji Temple is said to have been founded by Takeda Shingen, who, fearing that Shinano Zenkoji Temple would be burned down during the Battle of Kawanakajima, moved the principal image of his temple there. Known for its benefits of warding off evil and bringing good fortune, it is the perfect place to visit at the start of the new year. The main hall has been designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, and you can really feel the weight of its history. In addition, two giant dragons are painted on the ceiling of the inner sanctuary of the main hall, and when you clap your hands, the sound reverberates off the ceiling, creating a magical experience known as “roaring dragons.” During your first visit of the year, you can pray for purification of mind and body and protection from evil, along with the sound of these roaring dragons.

Access and Parking Information

project	detailed
location	3-36-1 Zenkoji, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 7 minutes on foot from Zenkoji Station on the JR Minobu Line
car	Approximately 20 minutes from Ichinomiya Misaka IC on the Chuo Expressway
parking	Free parking available (approximately 30 cars)

Reference/Source: Kai Zenkoji Temple

Mount Minobu Kuonji Temple

The head temple of the Nichiren sect and its blessings for warding off evil and bringing good fortune

Mount Minobu Kuonji Temple, the head temple of the Nichiren sect, is where Saint Nichiren spent his final years and where his tomb is enshrined. The vast grounds are lined with historic buildings, creating a solemn atmosphere. Many worshippers visit the temple seeking various blessings, such as protection from misfortune, good fortune, and safety for their families. Especially during the New Year’s visit, the temple is bustling with people praying for the fulfillment of their wishes, welcoming the new year with a refreshing feeling amid the rich nature of Mount Minobu. At the top of the long stone steps, you will find the main hall and the founder’s hall, where you can come into contact with the teachings of Saint Nichiren.

Access and Parking Information

project	detailed
location	3567 Minobu, Minobu-cho, Minamikoma-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR Minobu Line “Minobu Station”
car	Approximately 25 minutes from Minobusan IC on the Chubu-Odan Expressway
parking	Free parking available

Reference/Source: Kuonji Temple, Mount Minobu

Daizenji Temple

Medicine Buddha and the blessings of health and longevity

Daizenji is an ancient temple with a designated National Treasure, the Yakushi Hall. Its principal image, Yakushi Nyorai, is widely worshipped for its healing powers and longevity. This temple is a must-visit for those praying for their own health and the longevity of their families as the new year approaches. Daizenji is also known as the “Grape Temple,” famous for its principal image, the Yakushi Nyorai statue holding grapes. The temple’s chief priest brews his own wine using grapes grown within the temple grounds. Known for its
connection to Koshu grapes, you can enjoy a bottle of Koshu wine as a souvenir of your visit. Original wines are also available for purchase at the gift shop in the reception hall!

During your first visit of the year, why not spend a moment experiencing the historic temple and Yamanashi’s distinctive grape culture, while praying for good health in a peaceful state of mind?

Access and Parking Information

project	detailed
location	3559 Katsunuma, Katsunuma-cho, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 5 minutes by taxi from JR Chuo Main Line “Katsunuma Budokyo Station”
car	Approximately 5 minutes from Katsunuma IC on the Chuo Expressway
parking	Free parking available (approximately 40 cars)

Reference/Source: Kashiosan Daizenji Temple

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine

A power spot with spectacular views and protection from evil spirits

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is world-famous for its spectacular views of Mount Fuji, the five-story pagoda (Chureito Pagoda), and cherry blossoms. Here, visitors can expect blessings such as protection from misfortune and safety for their families. Especially during the New Year’s visit, visitors can welcome the new year in the fresh air while admiring the majestic figure of Mount Fuji. Climbing the long stone steps leads to an observation deck with a panoramic view of the Chureito Pagoda and Mount Fuji, a view that will purify the souls of all who visit. It is the perfect place to ward off misfortune and renew your spirit for the new year. Why not refresh your mind and body while enjoying the beautiful scenery?

Access and Parking Information

project	detailed
location	2-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 5 minutes on foot from Shimoyoshida Station on the Fujikyuko Line
car	Approximately 10 minutes from Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway, Fuji Five Lakes Line
parking	Paid parking available *From 1,000 yen for 6 hours

Reference/Source: Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine

Recommended shrines for matchmaking and safe childbirth

With the New Year upon us, some people may be praying for wonderful connections or the birth of a precious life. Here, we introduce shrines in Yamanashi Prefecture known for their blessings of matchmaking and safe childbirth. Find the perfect place for your first visit of the year to pray for a heartwarming encounter or the healthy growth of your child.

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

The center of Mount Fuji worship and the blessing of matchmaking

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, located on the north side of Mount Fuji, is the central figure in the worship of Mount Fuji, which worships the mountain as a god. As one of the constituent assets of Mount Fuji, which is registered as a World Heritage Site, its history and prestige attract many people.

This shrine has long been said to grant blessings for finding good matches and marital harmony. A sacred tree over 1,000 years old stands tall within the shrine grounds, and many people visit to pray for wonderful encounters and for existing relationships to be strengthened, inspired by its powerful vitality. This shrine is especially recommended for those who wish to deepen their bonds with loved ones and be blessed with good relationships in the new year.

Access and Parking Information

project	detailed
location	5558 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 15 minutes by bus from Fujisan Station on the Fujikyuko Line, then a 3-minute walk from Sengen Jinja-mae bus stop
car	Approximately 10 minutes from Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway, Fuji Five Lakes Line
parking	Free parking available (approximately 150 cars)

Reference/Source: Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine

富士山最古の神社と安産のご利益

Mount Fuji’s oldest shrine and its blessings for safe childbirth

Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine, quietly nestled on the shores of Lake Kawaguchi, is said to be the oldest shrine dedicated to Mount Fuji. Its historic atmosphere leaves visitors with a sense of quiet and solemn emotion.

This shrine is named after its deity, Konohanasakuyahime-no-Mikoto, and is particularly known for granting blessings of safe childbirth and fertility. Since ancient times, many women have visited the shrine, praying for the safe birth of their babies. It is a reassuring ally for those preparing to welcome a new family member or those praying for the healthy growth of their children. Why not take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and make your first visit of the year?

Access and Parking Information

project	detailed
location	3951 Katsuyama, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
public transport	Approximately 20 minutes by bus from Kawaguchiko Station on the Fujikyuko Line, get off at Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine
car	Approximately 15 minutes from Kawaguchiko IC on the Chuo Expressway, Fuji Five Lakes Line
parking	Free parking available (approximately 30 cars)

Reference/Source: Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine

Q&A about visiting the shrines of the New Year in Yamanashi

What is the best time to visit the shrine for the first time of the year?

As we welcome the new year, we want to go to the shrine with a fresh feeling. Here we will introduce the recommended times to go.

Time Zone	Features and recommended points
Late night to early morning on New Year’s Day	Listening to the bells ringing on New Year’s Eve or visiting before dawn will help you welcome the new year with a pure feeling. Popular shrines in particular are bustling with people at this time.
The morning of the first three days of the New Year	This is the most common time, and you can enjoy the lively New Year’s atmosphere. Since it is expected to be crowded, choosing the earliest time possible may allow you to visit the shrine at a more leisurely pace.
During the Matsunouchi period (until around January 7th)	If you want to avoid the crowds during the first three days of the year, we recommend visiting on a weekday during the New Year period. You can take your time to face the gods and Buddhas in a calm atmosphere.
After the evening	This is the time when the daytime crowds subside and you can visit in peace and quiet. You can also enjoy the fantastic scenery of illuminated shrines and temples.

You can make your visit go more smoothly if you check the official website of the shrine or temple you are visiting to find out the opening times and how busy it will be during the New Year’s visit period.

What to do with old amulets and talismans

It is important to return the amulets and talismans that have watched over us for the past year in an appropriate manner, with gratitude.

Many shrines and temples have a place to leave old charms and talismans. It is common to bring old charms and talismans here and leave them there with gratitude. They do not necessarily have to be returned to the place where they were given to you; in some cases, a nearby shrine or temple will accept them.

In some regions, events such as “Dondo-yaki” and “Otakiage” are held on the 15th of January, during which old charms and amulets are burned. This is meant to purify the objects that contain the gods and return them to heaven.

Additionally, some shrines and temples will accept returns by mail if you are unable to visit them in person due to their distance. Please check their official websites for details.

Tourist spots to enjoy around the New Year’s shrine visit

Yamanashi Prefecture has many attractive tourist spots that can be enjoyed in conjunction with your first visit to a shrine. If you have time, we recommend visiting them before or after your visit!

Koshu Yumekoji / Little Edo Kofu Hanakoji

Located just outside the north exit of Kofu Station, Koshu Yumekoji is a charming spot with a retro atmosphere that makes you feel as if you’ve wandered into an old townscape. The stone-paved alley is lined with kura-style buildings that evoke Kofu’s history, and just strolling around is a relaxing experience. The area is dotted with shops selling local souvenirs, such as sweets and wine made with Yamanashi ingredients, crystal accessories, and traditional crafts. There are also eateries, cafes, and restaurants where you can enjoy houtou, making it the perfect place to stop for a quick break after your first shrine visit of the year.

Meanwhile, “Koedo Kofu Hanakoji,” located in the area around the south exit of Kofu Station, is characterized by its streetscape that retains the atmosphere of the time when it was a thriving post town. The scenery of cobblestone roads and lattice-door buildings is charming, and during the day you can enjoy taking photos and browsing the shops in a retro atmosphere. At night, the lanterns come on, creating a fantastical atmosphere that is different from the daytime. There are also many izakayas and restaurants popular with locals, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a night in Kofu.

A hot spring resort that warms both body and soul

Hot springs are the perfect way to warm up after your first shrine visit of the year. There are many hot spring resorts in the prefecture, such as Yumura Onsenkyo in Kofu City and Isawa Onsenkyo in Fuefuki City. Many facilities offer day-trip bathing, so feel free to drop by.

Recommended day-trip hot spring facilities

At Ryokan Meiji in the Meiji
Yumura Onsen area, you can use the outdoor bath, Washi-no-Yu, as a day trip hot spring. Known as an inn associated with the literary master Dazai Osamu, it was renovated into a modern Japanese facility in 2025. Washi-no-Yu is a clean bathhouse with both an indoor and outdoor bath, and the water is a sodium chloride sulfate spring. Day trips to the baths are divided into two sessions, morning and evening, and cost 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children. Amenities are provided, making it an appealing option for casual drop-ins.
Hotel Hana
Isawa Located in the Isawa Onsen area, Hotel Hana Isawa accepts day-trip bathers between 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM. The hotel has its own hot spring source, and offers both indoor and outdoor baths. The hotel is known for its alkaline simple hot spring, which is gentle on the skin. The price is 1,650 yen for adults and 1,100 yen for elementary school students and younger, and bath and face towels are included, so you can come empty-handed. Located just a 5-minute walk from the station, it is easily accessible and popular as a casual day-trip hot spring spot.

Experience Yamanashi’s wine culture

Yamanashi is dotted with many wineries, where you can experience the wine culture that Yamanashi is proud of through tastings and tours. Choosing Yamanashi wine as a souvenir will also make a great memory.

Recommended Wineries

SADOYA
is a long-established winery in Kofu City. Founded in 1917, this historic winery offers a tour of its underground cellar, where you can experience the charm of Yamanashi winemaking while walking through a fantastic space lined with aging barrels. At the attached shop, you can purchase high-quality wines made with grapes from the winery’s own vineyards, as well as limited edition bottles. At the attached restaurant, you can also enjoy dishes that go perfectly with wine. Easily accessible within walking distance of Kofu Station, this winery is a recommended stop for a casual break from sightseeing.

Seasonal fruit picking

Seasonal fruit tasting experiences, such as strawberry picking, are also popular, and can be enjoyed even in winter. Tasting fresh fruit on the spot is a special experience.

Recommended in winter! Strawberry picking experience in a greenhouse

Ichikawa Berry House
“Ichikawa Berry House” is a strawberry farm located on a hill near Fuefuki River Fruit Park in Yamanashi City, offering a spectacular view. From outside the greenhouse, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and the Kofu Basin. They cultivate a wide variety of strawberries, including Akihime and Benihoppe, and you can try 4 to 6 varieties at no extra charge. The strawberries are grown using minimal pesticides through natural cross-pollination by honeybees, and the farm is barrier-free, making it safe even on rainy days. Small dogs are allowed, and nighttime operation requires advance reservations. Another great feature is that you can have as many refills of condensed milk as you like and bring your own.
Before the first shrine visit of the year, the sunrise from Fuefuki River Fruit Park is a spectacular sight!

Spectacular views of the Fuji Five Lakes area

You can get a close-up view of the majestic Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Yamanakako, and other areas around the Fuji Five Lakes. The view of Mount Fuji in the clear winter air is breathtakingly beautiful. You can also enjoy the view from a stroll along the lakeside or a sightseeing boat.

View from Tenjoyama Park, Lake Kawaguchi

Kawaguchiko Tenjoyama Park (Mount Kachi Kachi Ropeway)
Tenjoyama Park is popular as a scenic spot offering a panoramic view of Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi. When you reach the top of the mountain by ropeway, you can enjoy the contrast between the majestic Mt. Fuji spreading out before you and the sparkling surface of Lake Kawaguchi. There is also an observation deck and a heart-shaped photo spot at the top, making it ideal for taking photos. There are also walking paths, making it a recommended tourist spot where you can refresh yourself in nature.

Add these sightseeing spots to your New Year’s visit plans and make your stay in Yamanashi even more enjoyable.

summary

Yamanashi is home to many shrines and temples that grant a variety of wishes, including luck in victory, academic success, financial luck, protection from misfortune, long and healthy life, matchmaking, and safe childbirth. The 10 shrines and temples introduced here each have their own history and benefits, making them the perfect places to visit at the start of the new year. Find a place that matches your wishes and thoughts, and use them as a reference to welcome the new year with a refreshing feeling. There are also many sightseeing spots near the shrines and temples introduced here. If you have time, please stop by and visit them as well. Surrounded by beautiful nature, Yamanashi is sure to provide you with a memorable first shrine visit experience.