Kinrin Lake
Kinrin Lake is one of many popular tourist spots in the hot springs town of Yufuin. The lake sits under Mt. Yufu and as such was called takemoto-no-ike (lit. “lake under the mountain”) for years. However, it was renamed to Kinrin, or “golden scales”, by Mori Kuso in 1884 when he saw the golden glimmering scales of fish as they swam at sunset.
It's easy for mist to form on the surface of the lake, giving the whole place a dreamy and mysterious vibe.
Shirakawa-go (Historic Village)
Shirakawa-go, a beautiful area where traditional Japanese scenery still exists, is home to the largest number of still-standing traditional “gassho-zukuri” Japanese homes. As of 2016, there are around 100 buildings still standing, both large and small. It is the largest remaining historic settlement in Japan, and it is preserved as a Group of Traditional Buildings in the register of Cultural Properties of Japan.
This place is really beautiful, but there aren't many places to stay, so you should definitely book ahead.
Kappa Bridge
The Kappa Bridge used to be a wooden drawbridge overhanging both banks of the river. In 1910, it became a suspension bridge. The current bridge is the fifth generation of the suspension type, which was renovated in 1997. This beautiful larch tree bridge, 3.1m wide and 36.6m long, has long been a symbol of Kamikochi.
It's a great spot to unwind. The scenery with the mountains and water is just like a painting.
Mt. Fuji
At a staggering 3,776 meters tall, Mt. Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain and the pride of its two homes, Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures. This famous peak is an iconic symbol of Japan.
As a precious World Heritage Site, you really have to climb it at least once!
Kurokabe Square
Nagahama City is a castle town where Hashiba Hideyoshi became the first lord with the castle and gained a foothold as his success in life.The current central city area was developed as the core of the Kohoku region.
There weren't many people around, so it felt a bit quiet. But it's still nice to stroll, browse, and try some local snacks.