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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Hokuto sharing quite a few of those!
With its sweeping mountain vistas and pristine alpine lakes, Hokuto is a haven for nature lovers seeking adventure.
From tackling challenging hiking trails to soaking in natural hot springs, this breathtaking destination offers a wealth of opportunities to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
So come and explore the hidden gems of Hokuto – you won’t be disappointed!
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Hokuto:
1. Kiyosato Kogen Highland Park
Kiyosato Kogen Highland Park is a stunning hilltop park located in Hokuto, Japan.
This park boasts of gorgeous flower fields, stunning landscapes, and a range of fun outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful flower fields and enjoy the fresh air. Get your adrenaline pumping by taking a ride on the park’s thrilling roller coaster.
Take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape from the top of the park’s observation tower.
Don’t miss: Walking through the park’s lavender garden, which is especially enchanting during the summer months. Capturing stunning photographs of the rolling hills and flower fields that are spread across the park.
The park is also famous for its ice cream, which is made from fresh local milk and other ingredients.
Insider travel tips: The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in full bloom.
If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat as it can get quite sunny and warm.
Try to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and take full advantage of the park’s many attractions.
2. Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Hotel
Shirakaba Resort Ikenotaira Hotel is a family-friendly ski resort located in the town of Hokuto, in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The resort offers a variety of winter sports activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. There are 8 ski runs, ranging from beginner to advanced, and a snow park for snowboarding enthusiasts.
The resort also provides ski lessons and rental equipment for those who need it.
Don’t miss: The stunning view of Mount Fuji from the top of the ski runs is a must-see. The resort also has an indoor pool, a hot spring bath, and a karaoke room for guests to enjoy.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit the resort on weekdays rather than weekends. If you’re traveling with kids, the snow sledding area is a perfect spot to keep them entertained.
The hotel offers a free shuttle bus service to and from JR Kobuchizawa Station, which makes it easy to get to the resort.
Don’t forget to try the local food, such as Hoto noodle soup and Koshu wine, during your stay!
3. Lake Shirakaba
Lake Shirakaba is a picturesque freshwater lake located in the town of Hokuto in Japan’s Nagano prefecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of activities at Lake Shirakaba, including fishing, boating, and hiking.
The nearby Shirakaba Resort offers a variety of accommodations and is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and foliage in the fall. The lake is also known for its summer fireworks display, which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Insider travel tips:
4. Kurumayama Highland
A scenic highland located in the Northern Japanese Alps.
What to see or do: Take in breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, hike through the picturesque landscape filled with wildflowers, visit the nearby Kurumayama Kogen Ski Resort for winter sports.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic view of the mountain range from the observation deck, the colorful fields of alpine flowers that bloom from late June to early August.
Insider travel tips: Bring warm clothes as it can get chilly even in the summer, consider renting a car as public transportation in the area is limited, and don’t forget to try the local specialty, soba noodles made with mountain water.
5. Oishi Park
A picturesque park located in Hokuto, Yamanashi prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the park’s manicured gardens, featuring a variety of beautiful flowers including cherry blossoms in the spring.
Take in stunning views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi from various vantage points within the park. There are also several small ponds and walking trails to explore.
Don’t miss: The illumination event that takes place during the winter months, where the park is lit up with thousands of colorful LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
Insider travel tips: – The park can get crowded during peak tourist season, so aim to visit during weekdays or arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.
6. Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest
Akasawa Natural Recreation Forest is a vast forested area located in the town of Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and nature walks. The forest has many hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the unique suspension bridge that spans over the Akasawa River. The bridge offers breathtaking views of the river and the forest.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting during autumn when the foliage is at its peak, providing a stunningly picturesque view.
7. Lake Suwa
Lake Suwa is a large freshwater lake located in the city of Suwa, Hokuto in Nagano Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: There are many things to see and do around Lake Suwa, such as taking a stroll along the lake’s picturesque shore or renting a boat and exploring the lake on the water.
Visitors can also enjoy a soak in the local hot springs, visit the nearby Suwa Grand Shrine, or bike around the lake’s perimeter.
Don’t miss: One of the most notable attractions around Lake Suwa is the annual “Onbashira” festival, which is held every six years and involves moving giant logs down from nearby mountains to the shrine.
Guests can witness the impressive procession as logs are dragged and ridden down the hills. Additionally, the Lake Suwa Fireworks Festival held every August is a must-see for its spectacular fireworks display over the lake.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the springtime to witness the stunning cherry blossoms that frame the lake, or for a more unique experience, visit in winter when the lake freezes over and offers a unique skating experience known as “mukaitaki”.
Additionally, visitors can enjoy local cuisine such as the freshwater fish “suzuki” and the famous regional soba noodles, made with water from Lake Suwa.
8. Yoshigoro Falls
A breathtaking waterfall situated in the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park in Hokuto, Yamanashi prefecture of Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy the tranquility and peace of this stunning waterfall surrounded by picturesque scenery and lush greenery. There is a hiking trail that leads to the waterfall, which is approximately 8 meters high and 6 meters wide.
It’s a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Don’t miss: Be sure to look for the “Kaiun no Taki” (Waterfall of Good Fortune) sign, which marks the origin of the waterfall and is said to bring luck and prosperity to those who see it.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit is during the autumn season (October and November) when the surrounding foliage turns into a beautiful reddish-orange color.
It’s important to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water and snacks, as there are no shops or restaurants nearby. Parking is available, but it can get crowded, especially during the weekends.
9. Yatsugatake Alpaca Farm
A farm located at the foothills of the Yatsugatake Mountains that houses over 70 adorable alpacas.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the farm and interact with the friendly alpacas. You can also feed, pet and take photos with the alpacas.
Additionally, there are spacious areas for kids to play around and enjoy.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss seeing the famous “smiling alpaca” named Kokusho. He’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and consider bringing a small backpack to store any snacks or water bottles. Plan to spend around 1-2 hours to fully enjoy all the activities available at the farm.
Visitors can also purchase cute souvenirs at the on-site shop.
10. Misogi Pond
Misogi Pond is a serene pool of crystal-clear water nestled in the mountains of Hokuto, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a dip in the refreshing pond while surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding forests and mountains.
The water is said to have cleansing and purifying qualities, making it a popular spot for spiritual and wellness seekers.
Don’t miss: Be sure to take a walk around the pond to fully appreciate the stunning scenery, and keep an eye out for the many small shrines and statues scattered throughout the area.
Insider travel tips: – The water in the pond can be quite chilly, so be prepared for a bracing swim.
11. Lake Sagami
Lake Sagami is a picturesque artificial reservoir located in the foothills of the Tanzawa Mountains in Hokuto, Japan.
What to see or do: – Take a stroll around the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Don’t miss: – Seeing the natural beauty of the lake and its surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is during autumn when the leaves change color.
12. Mount Ashigara
Mount Ashigara is a stunning mountain located in the town of Hokuto in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Mount Ashigara is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts. The mountain offers challenging hiking trails that reward visitors with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Visitors can also admire the mountain’s unique triangular shape and the scenic Ashigara Pass.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the stunning panoramic views from the summit of Mount Ashigara. The view of Mount Fuji is particularly impressive from the summit.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Mount Ashigara is during the autumn months when the leaves change colors.
13. Fujimi Kogen Ski Resort
Fujimi Kogen Ski Resort is a popular ski resort located in Hokuto, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the resort’s well-groomed slopes, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The resort is equipped with multiple lifts and runs suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to experts.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on trying the resort’s famous snow escalator, a unique conveyor belt that takes skiers and snowboarders uphill while they remain standing in their equipment.
It’s a fun and convenient way to access the resort’s upper slopes.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting the resort on weekdays to beat the crowds and enjoy shorter lift lines. Also, be sure to dress warmly and in layers, as temperatures can drop significantly in the area.
Visitors can rent equipment on-site, but it’s advisable to book in advance during peak season.
Finally, take some time to explore the charming town of Fujimi nearby, which offers delicious local cuisine and scenic hot springs perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.
14. Lake Motosu
A beautiful lake located in the town of Hokuto in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy various water activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, and kayaking in the clear waters of the lake. The surrounding forests offer great hiking opportunities with some amazing vantage points overlooking the lake.
During the cherry blossom season, the lake is surrounded by beautiful pink sakura trees.
Don’t miss: Stargazing at Lake Motosu is a unique experience, thanks to its location in a remote area with little light pollution. This makes it a perfect spot to watch the stars, especially during summer’s meteor showers.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Lake Motosu is from late spring to autumn, to enjoy the best weather and activities offered.
For those interested in camping, there are several campsites available around the lake, allowing visitors to stay overnight and enjoy the stunning scenery.
15. Kiyosato no Mori
A picturesque forest park in Hokuto, Japan.
What to see or do: Enjoy the serene atmosphere and stroll through the verdant forest trails. Take a scenic ride on the Kiyosato no Mori train or go horseback riding through the woods.
Visitors can also explore the Kiyosato Museum of Photographic Arts or relax at one of the park’s many cafes.
Don’t miss: The stunning views from the observation deck, overlooking the entire park and surrounding mountain ranges.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during autumn to witness the stunning foliage or during winter for a chance to ski at nearby resorts.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes for hiking and waterproof gear as weather can be unpredictable.