Recommended summer sightseeing spots around Kofu! 12 cool spots to escape the heat

Summer around Kofu can be very hot, but there are actually many wonderful places to cool off. From waterfalls and valleys where you can feel the cool spray, to fun, air-conditioned museums, and even terraces where you can feel the mountain breeze and enjoy chilled sweets, we’ll introduce some perfect spots for summer sightseeing. Find your favorite cool spot around Kofu, a place blessed with nature and delicious food.

Enjoy the cool weather during your summer sightseeing trip around Kofu.

Kofu City in Yamanashi Prefecture is well known for its intense summer heat, due to its location in a basin surrounded by mountains. However, just a short trip from Kofu reveals many places where you can enjoy cool and comfortable weather. The cool air provided by the abundant nature, the clear waters flowing through the valleys, and the pleasant indoor facilities are just some of the many ways you can enjoy the coolness, making sightseeing around Kofu a major attraction.

Cool spots in the surrounding area to escape the heat unique to the basin.

Even on extremely hot days in downtown Kofu, a short drive or train ride will take you to a completely different world of coolness. You can enjoy various ways to cool off, depending on your mood, such as high-altitude plateaus, places surrounded by lush forests, or spots with cool spring water.

This list summarizes the main areas around Kofu and their characteristics regarding cool summer temperatures.

Area name	Altitude and environmental characteristics	The allure of summer’s coolness
Kiyosato/Yatsugatake area	This is a plateau area with an altitude of approximately 1,000 meters or more.	A refreshing breeze blows, and even in the middle of summer, the mornings and evenings are cool enough to feel chilly.
Shosenkyo area	This gorge is located about 30 minutes by car from Kofu Station.	The sound of the flowing river, the spray from the waterfall, and the abundance of shade from the trees create a gentle cooling effect.
Hakushu/Ojiragawa area	This is a land of lush forests and pristine water, spread out at the foot of the Southern Alps.	You can directly touch the very cold water and enjoy the coolness with all your senses.

The rich natural coolness created by the altitude and topography

The secret to the coolness around Kofu lies in its rich topography. The plateau area at the foot of the Yatsugatake Mountains is at a high altitude, resulting in naturally low temperatures and a very comfortable climate. In addition, in valleys such as Mitake Shosenkyo, the sheer cliffs and lush greenery block the strong sunlight. The breeze blowing across the river acts like a natural air conditioner, allowing you to relax and enjoy the natural coolness.

A journey to experience history and culture in a cool indoor environment.

One of the great things about the area around Kofu is that, in addition to being surrounded by nature, there are plenty of places to relax in the comfort of air-conditioned indoors. You can learn about the history of Yamanashi’s traditional jewelry, wine, and whiskey making, or visit museums where you can learn about science in a fun way. Exciting experiences await you in cool spaces. A trip where you can escape the strong sun and spend a relaxing time is also wonderful.

Cool spots around Kofu where you can stay cool while learning.

Kofu is known for its extremely hot summers, but there are also attractive spots where you can learn in a fun and comfortable indoor environment. Why not explore the fascinating world of history, science, and craftsmanship in a cool, air-conditioned setting? We’ll introduce some recommended facilities that are sure to bring smiles to the faces of both adults and children.

SADOYA Winery

Founded in 1917, this is a historic, long-established winery. Located just a short walk from Kofu Station, its stylish Western-style building, reminiscent of Southern France, is a landmark. The cool spot here is undoubtedly the underground wine cellar, which boasts a spacious area of ​​approximately 700 tsubo (about 2,300 square meters).

The underground cellar maintains a low temperature throughout the year, creating a cool atmosphere that makes you forget the summer heat. A guided tour by expert staff allows you to learn about the history of winemaking and see old machinery, followed by a tasting of delicious wines. Non-alcoholic grape juice is also available for those driving, those who don’t drink alcohol, and children.

project	detailed
location	3-3-24 Kitaguchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours	Weekdays 10:00-17:00, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays 10:00-18:00 (Closed on Tuesdays)
Guided tour	Reservations required (Adults: 1,000 yen, Junior high school students and younger: Free)
access	Approximately 5 minutes on foot from the north exit of JR Kofu Station.
Official website	SADOYA Winery

Ventforet Oshiroland

Ventforet Oshiroland is an indoor facility, so you can stay cool and comfortable even on hot days. You can learn while enjoying nursery rhymes, play songs, and craft experiences. There are also plenty of play equipment and activity corners for children, so you can enjoy playing and learning together.

Furthermore, the nearby Maizuru Park, the site of Kofu Castle, and Koedo Kofu Hanakoji are great places to stop by during your stroll, making it an ideal spot for a summer outing. After exploring the historic townscape, you can relax in the cool building and enjoy some quality time with your family, making it a perfect destination for a summer getaway.

project	detailed
location	1-9-7 Marunouchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Opening hours	10:00～17:30
Closed days	Closed on Tuesdays (or the nearest weekday if Tuesday is a public holiday), and during the New Year’s holiday period (December 29th to January 1st). *Temporary closures may occur for facility maintenance.
access	Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the south exit of JR Kofu Station.
Official website	Kofu City / Ventforet Oshiroland

Yamanashi Jewelry Museum

Kofu City in Yamanashi Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading jewelry cities. Located near Kofu Station, inside the Yamanashi Prefectural Government’s Disaster Prevention Building, this museum displays sparkling, beautiful jewelry and offers an enjoyable way to learn about the history of gemstone processing and polishing.

On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, you can watch demonstrations of gem polishing by artisans or even try your hand at making jewelry. The accessories you create yourself make perfect souvenirs. Enjoy a unique and memorable experience in a cool, indoor environment.

project	detailed
location	1-8-1 Marunouchi, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, inside Yamanashi Plaza, 1st floor of the Disaster Prevention Building
Opening hours	10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Last entry 5:00 PM)
Closed days	Closed on Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a public holiday), during the New Year holidays, and during exhibition changeover periods.
access	Approximately 7 minutes on foot from the South Exit of JR Kofu Station
Official website	Yamanashi Jewelry Museum

Yamanashi Prefectural Science Museum

Located on Mount Atago overlooking the Kofu Basin, this unique science museum is shaped like a ship. The museum is air-conditioned, making it comfortable even on hot summer days. It features plenty of interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to learn about the wonders of science while having fun.

Particularly popular is the Space Theater, where you can enjoy a starry sky and impressive visuals. Sitting in a cool seat and gazing at the beautiful starry sky provides the perfect relaxation for summer sightseeing. Workshops are also held in the laboratory and craft room, making it a great place to find inspiration for your summer research project.

project	detailed
location	358-1 Atago-cho, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Opening hours	9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)
Closed days	Closed on the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Mondays (or the following day if it’s a public holiday), and during the New Year holidays. *Temporary closures may occur.
access	Approximately 10 minutes by bus from JR Kofu Station (operates on weekends, holidays, and during summer vacation).
Official website	Yamanashi Prefectural Science Museum

Shingen Museum

This history museum is located right in front of Takeda Shrine (the site of the Takeda clan’s residence). It provides an easy-to-understand introduction to the history of the three generations of the Takeda clan—Nobutora, Shingen, and Katsuyori—who ruled Kai Province, as well as the lives of the people at that time. You can fully immerse yourself in the romance of the Sengoku period in the air-conditioned museum.

The permanent exhibition room is free to enter, making it a convenient stop when visiting Takeda Shrine. The grounds also include the beautiful old farmhouse “Former Hotta Castle Garden” from the early Showa period, where you can quietly enjoy the atmosphere of the historic building and garden.

project	detailed
location	3-1-14 Ote, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Opening hours	9:00～17:00
Closed days	Closed on Tuesdays (or the following day if Tuesday is a public holiday), and during the New Year holidays. *Temporary closures may occur.
access	Approximately 8 minutes by bus from the north exit of JR Kofu Station.
Official website	Kofu City / Shingen Museum

Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art

The Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art is a place where you can enjoy art and culture in a cool and comfortable, air-conditioned environment. You can learn about art while appreciating various paintings and sculptures, including representative works by Millet. Special exhibitions and workshops are also held, making it enjoyable for people of all ages.

Located within the lush greenery of the Art Forest Park, you can enjoy both art appreciation and a stroll at the same time.

project	detailed
location	1-4-27 Mitsugawa, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Opening hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)
Closed days	Closed on Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a public holiday), the day after a public holiday (open if Sunday is a public holiday), and during the New Year holidays. *Temporary openings and closures may occur.
access	Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Chuo Expressway “Kofu-Showa IC,” or approximately 15 minutes by taxi or bus from JR “Kofu Station.”
Official website	Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art

Suntory Hakushu Distillery

This whiskey distillery is surrounded by the lush forests of the Southern Alps. It’s a bit of a trip from the Kofu area, but it’s the perfect place to experience the cool summer air. The grounds, surrounded by abundant trees, are much cooler than in the city, and a refreshing breeze blows through.

At the Whisky Museum, you can learn about the origins of the single malt whisky “Hakushu” and the history of whisky around the world in an enjoyable way. Popular tours (advance reservations required, some by lottery) that allow you to see how whisky is made up close are also available. After your tour, be sure to enjoy a tasting of special whiskies that can only be tasted here, or take a stroll through the forest.

project	detailed
location	2913-1 Torihara, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Opening hours	9:30～16:30 (last entry at 16:00)
Closed days	Year-end and New Year holidays, factory closed days *Temporary closures may occur
access	It’s about a 15-minute taxi ride from JR Kobuchizawa Station, or there’s a free shuttle bus (check operating days).
Official website	Suntory Hakushu Distillery

Cool spots around Kofu where you can relax amidst beautiful waterfalls and valleys.

When you want to escape the summer heat and be enveloped in the coolness of nature, waterfalls and valleys with beautiful flowing water are perfect. Around Kofu, there are many wonderful spots that are cool to the eye and cool to the touch. Enjoy a luxurious cool time while soaking up negative ions in the abundant nature.

Enjoy the refreshing spray at Senga Falls in Mitake Shosenkyo Gorge.

Located about 20 minutes by car from Kofu Station, Mitake Shosenkyo Gorge is a beautiful scenic spot often described as having the most beautiful gorge scenery in Japan. At its innermost part is Sengataki Falls, the symbol of Shosenkyo Gorge.

The sight of the waterfall cascading down a fault line formed by tectonic activity from a height of approximately 30 meters is truly impressive. Standing close to the falls, you’ll feel a cool, refreshing breeze and a fine mist of water on your skin. The trees shielding you from the strong summer sun, along with the sound of the rushing water, will cool both your mind and body.

With well-maintained walking paths, it’s highly recommended to enjoy a leisurely stroll while listening to the gentle murmur of the river. There are also many souvenir shops and restaurants in the surrounding area, so you can take a break during your walk.

project	Detailed information
location	Takanari-cho, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture
access	Approximately 30-50 minutes by bus from JR Kofu Station, or approximately 20 minutes by car.
Parking availability	Yes (Free and paid parking lots are scattered around the area)
Official website	Shengxian Gorge

Enjoy the cool breeze at Ojiragawa Gorge

The Ojiragawa Gorge, which originates from Mount Kai-Komagatake in the Southern Alps, is a beautiful, clear stream that has been selected as one of Japan’s 100 best waters, and the clarity of its water is truly astonishing.

At Sengabuchi, located about a 15-minute walk from the parking lot, you can see the beautiful emerald green surface of the water up close. The river is surrounded by lush greenery, and as soon as you step in, you’ll be enveloped in cool, crisp air. Even just lightly touching the water will surprise you with its coldness.

Beyond Chigafuchi, the trail becomes a proper mountain climbing route. If you plan to hike, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and proper equipment, as there are slippery areas and steep slopes.

project	Detailed information
location	Shirasu, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
access	Approximately 30 minutes by car from the Sutama Interchange on the Chuo Expressway, or approximately 30 minutes by taxi from JR Kobuchizawa Station.
Parking availability	Yes (Free, approximately 100 spaces)

Cool spots around Kofu where you can enjoy a refreshing time in the highlands and parks.

Why not escape the summer heat and enjoy a refreshing breeze? Just a short trip from Kofu, you’ll find plenty of lush, invigorating highlands and parks where you can enjoy cool water. We’ll introduce you to some of the best cool spots that will leave you feeling refreshed and smiling.

Enjoy the cool scenery from the terrace at Sun Meadows Kiyosato.

Located at an altitude of 1,900 meters, the Kiyosato Terrace is a special place that remains remarkably cool, with an average temperature of around 25 degrees Celsius even in the height of summer. Take a panoramic lift and enjoy a roughly 10-minute aerial stroll to the summit. Upon reaching the top, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view of the Yatsugatake blue sky, Mount Fuji, and the Southern Alps.

There’s nothing quite like relaxing on a large sofa, feeling the gentle breeze, and spending some leisurely time here. Why not treat yourself to some original gelato or a cold drink at the cafe stand and enjoy a truly luxurious moment?

project	detailed
location	8240-1 Nishiide, Oizumi-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Operating period	April 29, 2026 (Wednesday/Holiday) – November 3, 2026 (Tue/Holiday)
Business Hours	Lift: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Last ascent at 4:00 PM) Cafe Stand: 9:30 AM – 4:20 PM
access	Approximately 20 minutes by car from the Nagasaka Interchange on the Chuo Expressway, or approximately 7 minutes by taxi from Kiyosato Station on the JR Koumi Line.
Official website	Sun Meadows Kiyosato

Enjoy the famous soft-serve ice cream at Seisenryo.

Seisenryo, a symbol of the Kiyosato Highlands, is a charming and nostalgic spot located at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters. Their famous “Seisenryo Soft Serve Ice Cream” is the perfect treat for a hot summer day!

Made with fresh milk from Jersey cows carefully raised at Seisenryo Jersey Farm and delicious water from the Yatsugatake Mountains, this soft-serve ice cream is rich and creamy, yet has a clean aftertaste. Enjoying it while gazing at the vast pastures and beautiful mountains from the panoramic terrace will create a special summer memory. For those who want to enjoy an even richer flavor, we also recommend the “Premium Soft Serve Ice Cream,” available exclusively at Jersey Hat.

project	detailed
location	3545 Kiyosato, Takane-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours	9:00～17:00
access	Approximately 20 minutes by car from the Nagasaka Interchange on the Chuo Expressway, or approximately 5 minutes by taxi from Kiyosato Station on the JR Koumi Line.
Official website	Qingquanliao

Touch the cool water at Hakushu Ojira no Mori Meisui Park Belga.

Located at the foot of the Southern Alps, “Hakushu Ojira no Mori Meisui Park Belga” is a nature-rich park where you can experience some of Japan’s finest spring water with all your senses. There are many spots where you can play by directly touching the cool water, such as a wading pool fed by the clear waters of the Ojira River that flows through the park, and the very popular water slide.

The shade of the forest trees is cool, and the breeze from the river is refreshingly refreshing. After playing and getting chilled, we recommend relaxing in the natural hot spring “Ojiro no Yu” located on the premises. It’s a water play spot where everyone, from children to adults, can smile.

project	detailed
location	8056 Shirasu, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business Hours	9:00～17:00
Closed on	Wednesday
access	Approximately 20 minutes by car from the Chuo Expressway “Sutama IC,” or approximately 20 minutes by taxi from JR “Kobuchizawa Station.”
Official website	Shirasu Ojiro Forest Natural Water Park Belga

Enjoy refreshing gourmet food at Koshu Yumekoji!

Located just a short walk from the north exit of Kofu Station, “Koshu Yume Koji” is a stylish shopping area that recreates the castle town of Kofu during the Meiji, Taisho, and early Showa periods. Why not escape the summer heat by strolling through the charming retro streets and enjoying some delicious, refreshing sweets? Here are some recommended cool and refreshing gourmet spots that you’ll want to stop by during your stroll.

Japanese Cafe Kuromitsuan Kinako-tei

This is a Japanese-style cafe run by Kikyo-ya, the company famous for “Kikyo Shingen Mochi,” a representative confection of Yamanashi Prefecture. They offer a selection of special Japanese sweets made with plenty of their signature brown sugar syrup and kinako (roasted soybean flour).

I especially recommend the “Kikyo Shingen Soft+”, a soft-serve ice cream generously topped with Kikyo Shingen Mochi and Kikyo Shingen Sticks. The rich flavor of brown sugar syrup and fragrant roasted soybean flour fills your mouth, and you’ll feel instantly refreshed from the inside out. You can also enjoy watching the trains go by from the windows of the shop located along the railway tracks, making for a relaxing time.

HELMET ISLAND

RICCO GELATO, located on Miyako Island in Okinawa, is a stylish gelato and cafe that values ​​its ingredients. They offer a colorful array of gelatos that showcase the bounty of the island’s rich natural environment, including fruits and other produce.

We recommend enjoying your gelato in a fragrant waffle cone, carefully baked one by one in our shop. Find your favorite combination from our wide variety of flavors, which change daily. Adding our adorable homemade “bear topping” will transform it into a charming dessert that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. The cold and refreshing gelato will soothe your fatigue after a summer stroll.

summary

Around Kofu, there are plenty of places to enjoy a comfortable summer, from cool indoor facilities and natural valleys to delicious, refreshing food. Each spot has its own unique charm, so it’s best to choose one that suits the people you’re with and your mood. Find your favorite cool spot to share smiles with your loved ones and create special summer memories!