Top Things to do in Koshinetsu
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The 10 Best Things to do in Koshinetsu, Chubu
Discover the best top things to do in Koshinetsu, Japan including Matsumoto Castle, Fuji-Q Highland, Zenko-ji Temple, Lake Kawaguchiko, Suntory Hakushu Distillery, Arakurayama Sengen Park, Chureito Pagoda, Shosen Valley, Karuizawa prince shopping plaza, Marinepia Nihonkai.
Restaurants in Koshinetsu
1. Matsumoto Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,584 reviews
Reviewed By phale12017
When l was told we were visiting a a castle, grey blocks of stone came to mind( l clearly wasn’t thinking logically) I was amazed to see this massive, towering wooden structure before me! Yes Japanese castles are made from wood. They have moats and tiny narrow windows for firing weapons out of and other familiar features but l have to say they are quite different from the English versions. They have a hidden extra floor that you cannot see from outside, this is just one unfamiliar feature! We were put into groups of 5 or less and shown round by retirees who were practicing their English, what a wonderful idea! Our guide was very amusing!! A word of warning, there are lots of steps inside, some of them steep! But make the effort, it’s well worth it!!
2. Fuji-Q Highland
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,283 reviews
Do you like more scream? Free entry to Fuji-Q Highland from July 14 ! If you come to travel near by Mt. Fuji, without any money that you can get inside the park and enjoy the fantastic view. Fuji-Q is best known for its thrilling, record-breaking roller coasters and elaborate, anime- themed rides and attractions. There are numerous “Guiness-level” attractions, including “EEJANAIKA,” the roller coasting boasting the highest total number of spins in the world, “FUJIYAMA” “DODODONPA”, and famous of “ Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear” and “Ultimate Fort3” that can challenge your courage and intelligence. There are also popular character theme-parks such as “Thomas Land” and “Lisa and Gaspard Town”. Fuji-Q Highland is bound to amuse all ranges of visitors, from youths to families. 5-6-1 Shin-nishihara, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Website (http://www.fujiq.jp/en)
Reviewed By boobee123 - Jakarta, Indonesia
First of all it was really nice to travel during winter because the park is empty and the Q was fast (5-10 mins per ride), the extreme rides was marvelous and super fun! And at some high points on the coaster rides, I could see clearly the beautiful Mt Fuji, the snow at the park made my trip to Fuji Q highland park more memorable <3
3. Zenko-ji Temple
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,931 reviews
Reviewed By hfot2 - Vermont, United States
We have visited Zenko-ji on three different sakura trips and each time the blossoms did not disappoint. The weeping tree on the side of the main hall is spectacular when in full bloom - not to be missed. Bridal shoots occur throughout the temple compound in this season, but especially at this tree. The grounds are lovely throughout. Don’t miss the trees behind the main hall and the many stone lanterns there and elsewhere. There are several small gardens with more flowering trees. If you stand near the photogenic bell tower long enough, you will be there when the ringer arrives, bows to the bell and using the beam suspended on ropes strikes the bell which resonates for a very long time. Statues abound, especially the seven Jizo Bodhisattva at the Sanmon Gate. Many side buildings are more peaceful and less crowded than the main hall area and they too contain statues, bells and lanterns. If you walk behind the main hall and up a bit you arrive at the pagoda which contains the Zenkoji History Museum. It can take several hours to walk around, view, and photograph all that is here. Take your time to enjoy the whole temple compound. There is a city bus that runs to the temple from the station, or you can walk up the hill to the temple from the station - it takes about 30 minutes. The road immediately in front of the gate is full of shops selling souvenirs, religious items, and food. Good soft ice cream can be had here. The streets running parallel to this one are very interesting and worth a stroll. Even if the cherry trees are not a peak, and even if it is not sakura season at all, Zenko-ji is definitely worth a visit.
4. Lake Kawaguchiko
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,293 reviews
Reviewed By patrickperbkk
Lake Kawaguchiko is one the the Mt Fuji 5 Lakes. It's very convenient to travel from Tokyo by train, highly suggested to get a Tokyo pass and reserve the seat. Also, it's highly recommended to rent a bike, the best way to travel around the Lake. There are many nice cafes and restaurant around the Lake area.
5. Suntory Hakushu Distillery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 364 reviews
Reviewed By 639geoffreys - Deptford, United States
I love whisky distilleries and this one did not disappoint (except for one thing, to be mentioned below). The location was breathtaking, in the Japanese Southern Alps, and the tour was fantastic. There's a museum of whisky, and a restaurant on site. It culminated with a great tasting. The production capacity appeared very high, and there's a lot of barrels aging. Unfortunately there was no ability to buy a bottle of the whisky made on site. That was my only disappointment. The bar in the visitor's center was really special. They were pouring some incredible whisky for really good prices. This is a must-see day-trip from Tokyo.
6. Arakurayama Sengen Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 207 reviews
Reviewed By Travelgirl1909 - Luzon, Philippines
You need to be ready to walk a lot of stairs going up the viewing deck. The stairs are a bit slippery when wet so wear appropriate shoes. Offers nice view from the top.
7. Chureito Pagoda
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 226 reviews
Reviewed By Krubee - Singapore, Singapore
Fall, Winter, Autumn or Summer if you would like the best view of Mt. Fuji with the most romantic atmosphere then this is the best place to be - Chureito Pagoda. Located in Asakura Sengen Shrine site in Arakura Sengen Park. We went during Fall season just a few days ago and it was divine. A cool chilly weather around this area but sadly the clouds covered the top of Mt. Fuji. It was still indeed marvelous. We departed from Nippori station going to Otsuki using our JR Tokyo Wide Pass. From Otsuki we took the Fujikyuko line and alighted at Shimoyoshida Station. From the station exit right and follow the trail heading to Asakura Sengen Park. The walk is about 20 mins traversing beautiful countryside, gardens, streams, bridges and farms of Fuji Yoshida city. The park is free but you need to walk uphill so if you have kids or seniors with you please be prepared to take this trail or they can wait just at the entrance of the park. If the day is clear and not cloudy you would see Mt. Fuji behind you. As you enter the park there are many shrines and statues symbolizing your entry to this Holy place of Arakura Sengen Shrine (separate review). There are hundreds of cherry blossoms, maple trees and pine trees that surround the area. We went fall so the colors of Red, Yellow and Orange of the trees are in full bloom - very romantic, bright and happy colors which are perfect for photos and videos to cherish. Going uphill you could take stairs and uphill paved roads. We took the uphill road which is easier for kids and seniors. At the pagoda you have a good photo spot right in front of it and going further up there is the viewing spot where you could stare, marvel, relax and take beautiful photos and videos from the top of the beautiful Red Pagoda and if your lucky to see it - the majestic Mt. Fuji from the distance. This is a good spot for photographers due to its perfect location for your insta-worthy photo and videos. There is also a toilet available at the site. Going down we took the stairs which is easier than going up. Additional bonus in this park is the panoramic view of the Fuji Yoshida countryside and unlimited view of the Majestic Mt. Fuji. Despite not seeing the beautiful mountain we were delighted to be at this beautiful park and its Divine Red Chureito Pagoda.
8. Shosen Valley
9. Karuizawa prince shopping plaza
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,398 reviews
Reviewed By chiunhow - Singapore, Singapore
200+ shops, covering a huge area. Plenty of international brands. If you intend to visit every shop, be prepared to buffer a few more days. Winter operating hours are short, 10am to 7pm only.
10. Marinepia Nihonkai
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