4.5Matsumoto Castle(3.623 reviews) - Matsumoto Castle Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles • Scenic Walking Areas
My ancestors resided in Matsumoto Castle during the Tokugawa, Ieyasu era so it was a very person visit for my son and I. I appreciated that there are many docents inside the castle as it has steep stairways and they controlled the enter/exit way. I was bit anxious climbing down the stairs, but no one rushed me or told me to hurry. They provided plastic bags for our shoes and had benches to sit on to put them back on after the tour. Outside, we luckily saw a re-enactor with our family mon (crest) on his flag and we eagerly requested a photo with him (attached). I would highly recommend visiting this National Treasure of Japan (one of the few original standing castles in Japan).See more..
4.5Lake Kawaguchiko(2.312 reviews) - Enjoyable a peaceful Kawaguchi lake Bodies of Water • Scenic Walking Areas
Not too far from Tokyo, you can reach this lake by public transport such as bus or train. If you want to be more flexible, I recommend going there by bus from Shinjuku bus terminal (in front of Shinjuku station). It takes about 2 and half hours and costs around JPY 2,000. Several cafes can be found around the lake and you can enjoy the peaceful and beautiful scenery while enjoying a cup of coffee or a piece of cake. You can also enjoy the view of mount Fuji from certain part of this lake. However, it is not on the side you can see mount Fuji, it is still enjoyable. One day trip is enough if you only want to enjoy the lake, but seems too short if you want to enjoy Yamanashi prefecture.See more..
4.5Yuki no Otani (Snow Wall)(226 reviews) - great experience - a walk thru high snow walls Friday: 9:30 AM - 3:15 PM Spent 1-2 hours Scenic Walking Areas
Yuki no Otani (Snow Wall) is the highlight of Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in spring. "Yuki no Otani" would be open from middle of April to late of June and you can walk along the walls during the festival. This snow wall is located in Murodo where is 2,450m above the sea level and it reaches about 20m some times. Of course, this is the best photo spot!! ※Please note this event would be cancelled if the weather is bad.See more..
