1 Day in Kofu – Home of Our Head Office
If you’ve never been to Kofu, you’re in for a hidden gem of a city surrounded by mountains and filled with rich samurai history, natural hot springs, and beautiful views of Mt. Fuji on a clear day. Known as the gateway to Yamanashi’s wine country and famous for its local gemstones, Kofu offers a calm, authentic taste of Japan away from the crowds. If you only have a morning to explore, we’ve got the perfect itinerary for you. When you arrive at Kofu Station, stop by the Information Center to grab a handy map for your adventure.
Start your morning by exploring these must-see spots:
Takeda Shingen Statue
Located just outside Kofu Station, the Takeda Shingen statue is a symbol of Kofu and Yamanashi Prefecture. It depicts the famed warlord during the Battle of Kawanakajima and stands 3.1 meters tall. In spring, cherry blossoms frame the statue, creating a stunning photo spot. It’s such a local icon that it often appears in weather reports.
How to get there:
Kofu Station
Takeda Shrine
Step into the world of legendary samurai lord Takeda Shingen at this historic shrine. Surrounded by peaceful forest, it’s the perfect place to learn about his legacy while enjoying a calm and spiritual atmosphere. The shrine grounds feature artefacts and displays from Japan’s Sengoku period.
How to get there:
10min bus from Kofu Station
35min walk from Kofu Station
Gokoku Shrine
Just 10 minutes on foot from Takeda Shrine, Gokoku Shrine offers a quiet retreat dedicated to honoring fallen soldiers. Walk through its serene grounds, admire the traditional architecture, and reflect on the region’s rich history.
How to get there:
10min walk from Takeda Shingen Shrine
Enkō-in Temple
One of the "Kofu Gozan" temples established by Takeda Shingen, Enkō-in is the resting place of his wife, Lady Sanjō. Her grave was relocated here in 1560 under Shingen’s protection. The temple was later renamed after her posthumous Buddhist name. From its hillside grounds, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Kofu Basin and surrounding mountains.
How to get there:
10min walk from Gokoku Shrine
Tomb of Takeda Shingen
Just a 5-minute walk from Enkō-in Temple, this tomb marks the final resting place of one of Japan’s most revered warlords. Surrounded by nature, it’s a peaceful and meaningful stop where you can reflect on Takeda Shingen’s enduring influence.
How to get there:
5min walk from Enko-in Shrine
Maizuru Castle Park
End your morning with a stroll through Maizuru Castle Park. Explore the historic castle ruins and enjoy sweeping views of Kofu City. In spring, the cherry blossoms make it a dreamy spot for photos and peaceful breaks.
How to get there:
10min bus to Maizuru Castle Park
Whether you're here for the history, the food, or just passing through, Kofu has a peaceful charm that’s easy to fall in love with. We hope this quick itinerary helps you make the most of your morning. And if you have a bit more time, don’t forget to stop by and visit us at L&Co.—we’d love to show you where our jewellery is born.
Safe travels and happy exploring!