Mt. Fuji, one of Japan’s most iconic landmarks, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2013 under the title “Mt. Fuji: Object of Worship and Source of Artistic Inspiration.” In recent years, the number of international visitors has continued to grow, eager to admire this sacred mountain.
Among the Fuji Five Lakes, Lake Yamanakako is particularly famous for its stunning views of Mt. Fuji. Not only is the lakeside dotted with sightseeing attractions, but it also offers an array of local dining spots where you can savor authentic Yamanashi flavors.
When people think of Yamanashi cuisine, the first dish that comes to mind is Hōtō noodles, a hearty local specialty. But beyond Hōtō, the Lake Yamanaka area boasts a wide variety of culinary experiences, from traditional regional dishes to delightful sweets, making it a perfect stop between sightseeing activities.
In this article, we’ll introduce five must-visit gourmet spots around Lake Yamanakako. Whether you’re planning lunch or dinner during your Fuji Five Lakes tour or Mt. Fuji sightseeing, these restaurants and cafés will make your trip even more memorable.
PICA Yamanakako FUJIYAMA KITCHEN
Located inside PICA Yamanakako Resort, FUJIYAMA KITCHEN is a European-style restaurant offering healthy dishes inspired by Italian and French cuisine. The menu emphasizes fresh, local ingredients such as seasonal vegetables, meats, and fish.
Guests can also enjoy a fine selection of Yamanashi wines, perfectly paired with the dishes for a true farm-to-table experience. For pet owners, there’s even a dog-friendly menu, making it a great place to dine with your four-legged companion.
Savor the wide variety of dishes made with fresh, local produce and enjoy a relaxing time in the heart of Lake Yamanaka.
【PICA Yamanakako FUJIYAMA KITCHEN】
| Address | 506-296 Hirano, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0502 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-62-4155 |
| Business hours | Lunch 11:00～15:00 (LO 14:00) Dinner 17:00～21:00 (LO 20:00) ※closed 15:00～17:00 |
| Closed | Irregular |
| Website | https://www.pica-resort.jp/yamanakako/special/fujiyamakitchen/ |
Kyodo Ryori Kaiba
Kaiba is a traditional Japanese restaurant where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine with stunning views of Lake Yamanakako. The recommended dish is the Yamanakako Gozen, which features specialties like grilled rainbow trout and Hakkai soba.
Another highlight is the set menu featuring “Fuji-no-suke”, Yamanashi’s original fish that is a crossbreed of king salmon and rainbow trout. During winter (December to March), fresh smelt (wakasa-gi) dishes are also available.
With seasonal specialties and lakefront dining, Kaiba is the perfect place to enjoy authentic Japanese flavors while sightseeing.
【Kyodo Ryori Kaiba】
| Address | 86 Yamanaka, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0501 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-62-1616 |
| Business hours | 10:30～20:00 (LO 19:30), varies by season and holidays |
| Closed | 4 weekdays per month (irregular) |
| Website | http://sea-horse.biz/index.html |
Komenya Reel Cafe
Next to the Teddy Bear World Museum (currently closed), Reel Cafe is one of the top-rated ramen shops in the Lake Yamanakako area (Tabelog rating 3.7).
The menu features shoyu (soy sauce), miso, and shio (salt) ramen, as well as unique options such as roasted tomato ramen, creamy chicken paitan ramen, and weekend-only mazesoba (soupless ramen). The soup is made with Mt. Fuji spring water, stewed with premium ingredients like Koshu chicken, Fujizakura pork, beef bones, and seafood.
On weekends, don’t miss the special mazesoba topped with Koshu chicken oil. For dessert, the café also serves ice cream and sweets, perfect for a light break.
【Komenya Reel Cafe】
| Address | 493-111 Hirano, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0502 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-20-2800 |
| Business hours | Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11:30～14:30 |
| Closed | Monday, Thursday |
| Website | https://www.facebook.com/komenyareelcafe |
PAPER MOON
With the concept of offering a relaxing space for adults, PAPER MOON is an elegant café (no entry for children under 10). Signature desserts include apple pie and strawberry shortcake, both made with carefully selected ingredients.
Takeout options are available, making them perfect as souvenirs. A terrace seating area is also provided for guests with pets, so you can enjoy your sweets with your dog by your side.
Indulge in specialty coffee or tea and enjoy a refined café experience at one of Lake Yamanakako’s most stylish spots.
【PAPER MOON】
| Address | 481-1 Hirano, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0502 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-62-2041 |
| Business hours | 11:00〜18:00 |
| Closed | – |
| Website | https://basel.co.jp/brands/paper-moon/ |
Kosaku
No trip to Yamanashi is complete without trying Hōtō noodles, and Kosaku is one of the best-known restaurants to experience this local dish.
Hōtō is a hearty hotpot made with flat wheat noodles, miso-based broth, and a generous serving of local vegetables such as pumpkin and potatoes. The restaurant’s signature pumpkin hōtō is especially recommended, packed with large chunks of sweet pumpkin for a satisfying meal.
If you want to savor authentic Koshu regional cuisine, Kosaku is the place to go.
【Kosaku】
| Address | 234 Yamanaka, Yamanakako Village, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi 401-0501 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0555-62-5391 |
| Business hours | 11:00～20:00 |
| Closed | – |
| Website | https://www.kosaku.co.jp/ |
Summary
In this article, we introduced five must-visit dining spots around Lake Yamanakako. From hearty regional specialties like Hōtō noodles, to ramen made with Mt. Fuji spring water, elegant cafés, and wine-paired European cuisine, the area offers a wide variety of food experiences.
Dining at these restaurants will not only satisfy your appetite but also enrich your Mt. Fuji sightseeing experience. Be sure to include some of these spots in your Fuji Five Lakes itinerary and enjoy a truly memorable trip.
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