1. Take in the Views at Fuji Heiwa Park
Established in 1964 as a symbol of the Japanese people’s desire for world peace, Fuji Heiwa Park is home to a towering white stupa said to contain bones of the Buddha. The park is also known for its stunning scenery: an abundance of cherry blossoms in the spring, brilliant foliage in the fall and breathtaking views of Mount Fuji year-round.
2. Admire the Traditional Architecture in Higashiyama
Long known as the perfect spot for a tranquil retreat, Gotemba’s Higashiyama area is home to a number of exquisite villas constructed in the Meiji and Showa eras. Some of these are now open to the public — most notably the Former Kishi Residence, built in 1969 for ex-Prime Minister Nobusuke Kishi. Designed by the legendary architect Isoya Yoshida, the villa brilliantly merges traditional Japanese aesthetics with Western accents.
Just next door, you’ll find Toraya Kobo, a traditional sweets shop and tearoom built on the lush grounds of another historic villa. Enjoy some of their world-famous dorayaki (red-bean paste between two pancakes) on the terrace and soak in the landscape.
3. Dine on Mikuriya Soba
Mikuriya soba exemplifies the taste of home in Gotemba. The colorful, nourishing dish consists of buckwheat noodles mixed with yams, stewed in a chicken broth and topped with Shizuoka vegetables. Try it for yourself at JA Fujiizu Gotemba Soba-dokoro, and savor the fragrant and rich flavors paired with the smooth texture of the noodles.
4. Saddle Up at Okamoto Riding Club
Operated by Masami Okamoto, an experienced equestrian who has represented Japan at many international competitions, Okamoto Riding Club offers something for riders of every level, whether you want to practice for tournaments, take leisure horseback tours or even if you’re just looking to groom and feed one of the club’s 30 horses.
5. See the Lights at Toki no Sumika
Gotemba’s top rest-and-relaxation area, Toki no Sumika is home to numerous cafés, hot spring resorts, a hotel, an aquarium, a football field and so much more — including a massive seasonal illumination. Hikari no Sumika: Fuji no Chikara (Dwelling of Light: The Power of Fuji) will remain in place until March 10, 2024. It features various dazzling displays, including a massive tunnel of light with six areas based on Mount Fuji through the seasons.
6. Enjoy Some Locally Brewed Beer
Also located in Toki no Sumika, GKB Grand Table is the main taproom for Gotemba Kogen Brewery, which makes its famed craft beer using natural spring water from Mount Fuji. Take in the convivial atmosphere of the German-style beer hall, and pair any of the brewery’s five original brews with hearty, meat-heavy fare like sausages and spare ribs.
7. Shop ‘til You Drop at Gotemba Premium Outlets
Gotemba Premium Outlets is Japan’s most popular outlet mall, and it’s not hard to see why: With about 290 stores selling internationally known brands at discounted prices, it’s truly a shopper’s paradise. For those who wish to take a break from bargain-hunting, the outlet mall also has its own food court and several coffee shops.
8. Take a Dip in a Hot Spring with a Fuji View
For some supreme relaxation, stop by Konohana no Yu, a hot spring day spa with large open-air baths overlooking Mount Fuji. In addition to several indoor and outdoor communal baths with water sourced directly from a local spring, Konohana no Yu is also equipped with 19 private bathing rooms for couples and families, plus its own in-house restaurant.
More Info on Gotemba
Gotemba is located just 1.5 hours from Shinjuku, or 2 hours from Haneda Airport by express bus. To explore more Gotemba destinations, visit GotembaTourism.jp.
