The perfect souvenir from Kofu! 15 popular recommendations by genre

When you visit Kofu, you’ll want to find a special souvenir to give to someone special or to yourself. We’ll introduce many popular and recommended items that will capture the charm of Kofu, from classic sweets to specialty wines and fruits, crafts such as Koshu Inden, and local gourmet food. We’ll also introduce information about souvenir shops, so your “souvenir hunt” in Kofu will be that much more fun. Use this as a reference to choose a memorable item while imagining the smile on the recipient’s face!

Thorough support for choosing souvenirs in Kofu!

Kofu City, the capital of Yamanashi Prefecture, is a fascinating place filled with rich nature and history. One of the joys of traveling is choosing souvenirs to cherish as memories. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect souvenir that is packed with the unique charms of Kofu.

Choosing a souvenir from Kofu: How to find a memorable item

When choosing a souvenir, whose face do you imagine? Perhaps it’s a gift for family, friends, coworkers, or even yourself? By considering the recipient and the occasion, the perfect gift may come to mind. Kofu has a wide variety of souvenirs, from famous confectioneries from long-established shops to sweets made with seasonal fruits and artisanal crafts. Why not find a souvenir that will truly delight the recipient, tailored to your budget and preferences?

What kinds of souvenirs are there in Kofu?

The appeal of Kofu souvenirs lies in their variety. The following table introduces the main categories and representative items.

Genre	Typical souvenirs
Famous sweets and confectioneries	Kikyo Shingen mochi, Kurotama, roll cake, etc.
Specialties (wine and fruit)	Koshu wine, seasonal grapes and peaches, grape juice, peach compote, etc.
Crafts and Jewelry	Koshu Inden, natural stone jewelry, traditional crafts, etc.
Gourmet	Hoto, horse sashimi, Koshu wine beef, stewed chicken offal, simmered abalone, Koshu small plums, local beer, etc.
History-related goods	Takeda Shingen goods, etc.

Use this guide to find the perfect souvenir to cherish your memories of Kofu. We’ll introduce popular products recommended in each category!

Kofu’s classic souvenirs: famous sweets and confectioneries

If you visit Kofu, the first thing you’ll want to buy are some of the local favorites and sweets. Here are some classic souvenirs that will add a sweet touch to your memories of your trip.

Kikyo Shingen Mochi is a popular souvenir that you can’t miss

When it comes to souvenirs from Yamanashi, the first thing that comes to mind is Kikyo Shingen Mochi. This Japanese sweet is made of soft mochi covered in soybean flour and topped with a generous amount of specially made brown sugar syrup. Its simple yet elegant sweetness is appealing, and it is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Because they are individually wrapped, they are easy to give as souvenirs to coworkers or friends, and they have a relatively long shelf life, so you can take them home safely. Recently, new ways to enjoy them have been added, such as the Yamanashi-only “Kikyo Shingen Mochi ‘Kiwami'” and “Shingen Mochi Ice Cream,” which are now packaged in a mochi-shaped container. The most popular is the easily available two-piece Kikyo Shingen Mochi! They can be purchased in many places, including inside Kofu Station, service areas, and Kikyoya’s directly managed stores, as well as at the Japanese cafe Kuromitsuan Kinakotei in Koshu Yumekoji .

Features	Taste	Estimated shelf life	Main purchase locations
Soybean flour, brown sugar syrup, and soft rice cakes	Simple and elegant sweetness	12 days from the date of manufacture	Kofu Station, service area, Kikyoya directly managed store

Kurodama, a specialty of a long-established Japanese confectionery shop

“Kurodama,” made by Sawadaya, a long-established Japanese confectionery shop in Kofu, is another local favorite. This unique-looking confection is made by wrapping green pea-based green bean paste in yokan made with brown sugar from Okinawa.

The gentle sweetness of the moist yokan and the rich flavor of the green berry bean paste spread in your mouth, evoking a nostalgic feeling. It goes well with both Japanese tea and coffee, making it the perfect snack to accompany your tea. This is a particularly recommended item for fans of Japanese sweets. You can find it at Sawadaya stores, service areas, and the gift corner of your local supermarket.

Features	Taste	Estimated shelf life	Main purchase locations
Brown sugar yokan wrapped around green berry paste	Moist and gentle sweetness	21 days from the date of manufacture	Sawadaya store, service area, local supermarket sweets corner

A classic roll cake from a long-established confectionery shop

The Italian Roll from Kofu’s confectionery shop Seigetsu is a classic roll cake that has been loved by locals for many years. It is made with fluffy sponge cake and generous amounts of fresh cream rolled up inside.

Despite its simple appearance, the richness of the fresh cream that melts in your mouth and the gentle sweetness of the sponge create an exquisite harmony. It also makes a very popular gift, and is a product that lets you experience Kofu’s confectionery culture. It can be purchased at all Seigetsu stores (there is also a store at Kofu Station).

Features	Taste	Estimated shelf life	Main purchase locations
Fluffy dough, fresh cream, chestnuts	Rich cream and the sweetness of chestnuts	Refrigerate for 2 days from the date of manufacture	All Seigetsu stores (there is also a store at Kofu Station)

Kofu’s unique specialty souvenirs: Wine and fruit

Kofu is blessed with abundant nature and is a treasure trove of fruits, including grapes and peaches. It is also known as the birthplace of Japanese wine, producing high-quality wines. Here, we will introduce some special souvenirs that will allow you to take home the blessings of Kofu.

The appeal of Koshu wine and how to choose it

Yamanashi Prefecture, where Kofu is located, is the birthplace of Japanese wine and is a wine-producing region with a long history and tradition. In particular, wine made from the indigenous Japanese grape variety “Koshu” is appealing for its delicate flavor that pairs well with Japanese cuisine.

When choosing wine, try to imagine the tastes of the person you are giving it to. There are a wide variety of wines available, from refreshingly dry to fruity and sweet. Kofu is also home to wineries, each producing unique wines. Visiting a winery and tasting the wines is a fun way to find that special bottle.

Located inside Koshu Yumekoji, Koshu Winery offers a wide selection of carefully selected Koshu wines from various wineries that make perfect souvenirs, as well as wine glasses, snacks that go perfectly with the wines, and dried fruits.

variety	Features	Pairing dishes
Koshu	Citrus aroma and delicate acidity, a refreshing taste that goes well with Japanese food	Japanese cuisine in general, including sushi, sashimi, and tempura
Muscat Bailey A	A gorgeous aroma, a light taste, and little astringency, making it easy to drink.	Chicken dishes, teriyaki, sukiyaki

If you’re looking for a souvenir, a white wine made with Koshu grapes or a red wine made with Muscat Bailey A are perfect for conveying the essence of Kofu.

Various seasonal fruits

Kofu is known as the “Fruit Kingdom” because of the variety of fruits it produces throughout the year. From summer to autumn, the city is especially teeming with grapes and peaches, which are exceptionally sweet and juicy.

Seasonal fruits are perfect for gifting a special taste that can only be enjoyed at that time of year. Although they require some care when transporting, there is nothing like the joy of tasting fresh fruit.

fruit	Main season	Features
peach	Late June to early August	Meltingly sweet, mellow fragrance, and juicy flesh
grapes	Early August to late October	There are many varieties, and you can enjoy the balance of sweetness and sourness.
persimmon	Early October to late November	Elegant sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture

Try choosing the most delicious fruit of the season while imagining the smile on the face of the person you are giving it to.

Fruit processed souvenirs

Fresh fruit can be a worry when it comes to shelf life and transportability, so processed products that capture the bounty of Kofu make the perfect souvenirs.

grape juice

Juice made with luxurious grapes is characterized by its rich flavor. If you choose an additive-free juice, you can fully enjoy the natural sweetness and aroma of grapes. The gentle flavor can be enjoyed by everyone, from children to adults, and will enrich your dining table.

Peach compote

This compote, carefully crafted from seasonal peaches, is a dish that allows you to enjoy the deliciousness of Kofu peaches at any time. With its firm texture and refined sweetness, it is delicious not only as a dessert, but also as a garnish with yogurt or ice cream. Give it as a dessert for a special occasion, thinking of someone’s face.

Drops of the Moon

“Tsuki no Shizuku” is a traditional sweet from Kofu. Its appeal lies in its simple taste, with each fresh grape carefully wrapped in sugar. The sweet and sour taste of the juicy grapes spreads through the crunchy sugar in your mouth, evoking a nostalgic feeling. It is sure to be a delightful treat to take a break from tea time.

Stylish and special Kofu souvenirs: Crafts and jewelry

Kofu is home to many stylish and special items, including crafts that highlight traditional techniques that have been passed down through the generations and jewelry that radiates a beautiful sparkle. Why not look for the perfect gift for a loved one or a perfect treat for yourself?

Koshu Inden accessories and miscellaneous goods

Koshu Inden is a traditional craft from Yamanashi Prefecture, where deerskin is decorated with lacquer patterns. It is characterized by the supple feel of deerskin and the delicate, beautiful patterns created by the lacquer. It has a long history of being used as part of military equipment, and has long been loved for its durability and beauty.

Nowadays, a wide range of items are made, from everyday accessories such as wallets, business card holders, clasps, and key cases, to miscellaneous goods such as bags and pouches. They come in a variety of colors, from muted tones to vibrant designs, so it can be fun to imagine the face of the person you’re giving it to and find a piece that suits them.

Yamanashi washi paper, with its soft texture, is a great souvenir

Blessed with quality water and nature, Ichikawamisato Town in Yamanashi Prefecture has long been known as a region where washi paper production thrives. Its appeal lies in the warmth of handmade paper and its durable, beautiful texture. Kofu also has a shop offering a wide selection of washi paper goods from within the prefecture, including stationery, envelopes, envelopes, book covers, and other everyday items that make wonderful souvenirs. The paper gently becomes more familiar to your hands with each use, providing a sense of comfort that relaxes your mind in your everyday life. These Japanese items are perfect for gifts to loved ones, or for yourself, as they gently evoke memories of your trip.

Find natural stone jewelry in Kofu, the city of gems

Kofu has long been known as a producer of crystal, and thanks to the development of polishing and processing techniques, it has flourished as a “city of gems.” Natural stone jewelry made by skilled artisans captivates many people with its reliable techniques and beautiful brilliance.

There are many different types of jewelry available, including necklaces, bracelets, and pendants, made with a variety of natural stones, including quartz, amethyst, and garnet. One of the joys of choosing is thinking about the meaning of each stone. Why not try wearing some beautiful jewelry unique to Kofu as a souvenir for a special anniversary, or as a treat for yourself?

Koshu Inden and washi paper goods are available at ” Kurumu ” in Koshu Yumekoji , and crystal jewelry is available at ” Tamaya ,” also in the same area. Be sure to stop by during your stroll!

Extra Edition: Masterpieces of Traditional Crafts

In addition to Inden, Kofu has a variety of other traditional crafts. These masterpieces, which showcase the skill of artisans, give you a sense of history and warmth every time you hold them in your hands. Here we will introduce some of Kofu’s most representative traditional crafts.

Craft Name	Features	Recommended points
Koshu Crystal Precious Stone Crafts	These crafts are made by carving and polishing crystals and precious stones, and the exquisite craftsmanship shines through.	You can enjoy the delicate beauty of ornaments and accessories.
Koshu Daruma	Daruma dolls are a traditional item that has been around since the Edo period and are popular as lucky charms.	It has a strong expression and is said to bring good fortune when displayed in a room.

Souvenirs to enjoy the taste of Kofu at home: Gourmet Edition

Why not bring back some delicious Kofu gourmet food as a souvenir, allowing you to recreate the memories of your trip at your table? From authentic local cuisine that you can easily enjoy at home to slightly more luxurious dishes, we will deliver the full flavor of Kofu to you.

The authentic hoto set is a popular item in Kofu

When it comes to Yamanashi’s signature local dish, it’s undoubtedly “hoto.” It’s a heartwarming dish made with wide noodles and seasonal vegetables simmered in miso. A popular souvenir is a set that allows you to easily make authentic hoto at home. The set includes noodles, special miso, and dashi, so you can enjoy the taste of Kofu simply by adding your favorite vegetables. This is a souvenir that is especially appreciated during the cold season, and is good for both body and soul.

I want to eat it at home! Koshu specialty wine beef

Koshu Wine Beef is a domestic brand of beef raised on grape lees from wines produced in Yamanashi Prefecture. “Wine Beef Flavored Potato Chips” are a popular souvenir that lets you easily enjoy the rich flavor and umami of wine beef. The aroma that spreads the moment you open them is addictive. Light and easy to distribute, they make the perfect gift for family and friends. Enjoy them while reminiscing about your trip, and the taste of Kofu will be resurrected. There are also products such as wine beef curry that allow you to enjoy the “taste of Koshu” at home, so be sure to find something you like.

Take home Kofu Chicken Motsuni!

Kofu Chicken Motsuni is a famous B-grade gourmet dish from Kofu, known throughout the country. It is a delicious dish made by simmering various parts of chicken, such as gizzards, liver, hearts, and kumquats, in a sweet and spicy sauce, and goes perfectly with rice and alcohol. There are plenty of ready-to-eat pouches available as souvenirs, so you can easily enjoy it just by heating it up. Be sure to try this B-grade gourmet dish in the comfort of your own home.

A classic luxury souvenir: boiled abalone

“Boiled abalone”, a tradition that dates back to the time of Takeda Shingen, is a luxury souvenir that represents Kofu. The abalone is slowly simmered in a secret soy sauce-based sauce, resulting in a soft texture and deep flavor. It is perfect as a thinly sliced ​​dish, eaten as is, or as a side dish with rice or with alcohol. It is an excellent product that evokes history and tradition, and makes a wonderful gift.

Koshu Koume plums, grown in a rich natural environment

How about a souvenir from Kofu, pickled in shiso leaves from Koshu Koume, a fruit grown in the city’s abundant nature? Small yet packed with flesh, Koshu Koume offer a perfect balance of refreshing acidity and the flavor of shiso, making them a perfect accompaniment to rice or tea. With just the right amount of saltiness and a rich aroma, they’re a versatile souvenir enjoyed by people of all ages. Plums are rich in citric acid, which helps relieve fatigue, and are also effective in stimulating appetite and aiding digestion. They also boast antibacterial properties and improved blood flow, making them an excellent ingredient for maintaining daily health! A convenient way to sample the bounty of Yamanashi’s nature, these plums are also recommended as a memento of your trip.

Bringing home the charm of “Furinkazan” – History

Kofu is a place associated with Takeda Shingen, a warlord from the Sengoku period. Here, you can take home souvenirs such as the “Furinkazan” flag that Shingen raised, as well as items related to the Takeda clan. History buffs will love these souvenirs, which give you a sense of the history that is unique to Kofu.

Takeda Shingen Goods

Goods that convey the strength and wisdom of Takeda Shingen are perennially popular souvenirs from Kofu. There are a wide variety of items available, from small items that can be easily incorporated into daily life to items that can be enjoyed as decorations.

Types of goods	Features and points	Recommended ways to enjoy
Keychains and Straps	A classic item featuring the Takeda diamond family crest and the words “Fuurinkazan.”	Attach it to your bag or keys and keep your memories of Kofu close at hand.
Stationery (ballpoint pens, clear files)	This item features a portrait of Lord Shingen and his armor, making it easy to wear on a daily basis.	Take a moment to feel the romance of history in between work or study.
T-shirts and towels	It features the powerful words “Fuurinkazan” and an illustration of Takeda Shingen.	Wear it as a memento of your trip or at festivals and other events.
Sweets (package design)	Boxed sweets decorated with designs of Lord Shingen and the Takeda clan.	Even after you’ve finished eating the contents, you can still enjoy the box as a collection.
Sword and armor replicas	Exquisite replicas of miniature swords and armor.	Display it in your study or living room to create an atmosphere of the Sengoku period.

These goods can be found at souvenir shops inside and around Kofu Station, as well as at the shops near Takeda Shrine. Find your favorite item as a memento of your journey following in Shingen’s footsteps.

Check out the main spots where you can buy souvenirs in Kofu

Souvenir shops around Kofu Station

There are many souvenir shops around Kofu Station that are perfect for those using the train or visiting as the starting point for sightseeing. The station building, Celeo Kofu, is filled with shops selling Yamanashi’s famous sweets and local specialties.

Here we will introduce the main souvenir spots.

place	Features
Celeo Kofu	This station building is directly connected to Kofu Station and stocks a wide variety of Yamanashi souvenirs, including Kikyo Shingen Mochi, wine, local confectioneries, and crafts. There are also restaurants and cafes on-site, so you can enjoy shopping at your own pace.
Inside and in front of the station	There are souvenir shops inside and in front of the ticket gates where you can easily purchase snacks, drinks, snacks, etc. Even if you’re short on time, you can stop by and make a quick purchase.

As a perfect place to stop at the end of your trip, there is a wide selection of products and you are sure to find something you like.

Koshu Yumekoji / Little Edo Kofu Hanakoji

If you’re looking for souvenirs in Kofu, Koshu Yumekoji and Koedo Kofu Hanakoji are also very convenient. Koshu Yumekoji, located at the north exit of Kofu Station, is a retro area lined with warehouse-style streets, and is lined with Koshu wine, Koshu Inden, and local specialty sweets. Meanwhile, Koedo Kofu Hanakoji is a new commercial spot right by the south exit of Kofu Station, and within the facility is Omiyage -Kyusho Rikyu, where you’ll find sweets and miscellaneous goods made with Yamanashi fruits, as well as gifts perfect for travel mementos. With excellent access from the station, it’s a great place to stop by between sightseeing or on your way home, and is a recommended place to find souvenirs that are unique to Kofu.

Roadside stations and tourist facilities

In and around Kofu city, there are many roadside stations that you can stop by on your drive, as well as souvenir shops attached to tourist spots. You can find attractive products that are unique to each location.

place	Features
Roadside Station	You can get fresh local vegetables and fruits, processed foods exclusive to the region, local sake, etc. Each roadside station has its own unique characteristics, so it’s fun to stop by during your drive.
Tourist facilities	Major tourist spots such as Shosenkyo Gorge and Takeda Shrine each have their own specialized souvenir shops. We recommend searching for limited edition or original goods that are unique to that location and will serve as a memento of your visit.

One of the joys of traveling is finding a special item that can only be found in the places you visit.

summary

The Kofu souvenirs we’ve introduced range from classic sweets to local specialties nurtured by the city’s rich nature, items that evoke history, and gourmet foods that will add color to your dining table. The time you spend imagining the face of the person you’re giving it to and choosing the perfect gift for them will be one of the wonderful memories of your trip. From classics like Kikyo Shingen Mochi to Koshu wine, Inden accessories, and hoto sets, Kofu has many items that you can give with love. Use this as a reference to find a souvenir that embodies the charm of Kofu and bring a smile to the face of someone special.