Must-Visit for History Lovers! 2 Interactive Museums in Yamanashi

Visiting Yamanashi isn’t just about Mt. Fuji sightseeing—did you know the region is also home to fascinating museums where you can explore history and culture in depth?

Yamanashi is often called the “Jomon Kingdom” because of the large number of artifacts from the Jomon period discovered here. The prefecture is home to seven historical museums and archives, each offering unique insights into Japan’s ancient past.

In this article, we’ve selected two of the most engaging museums, both of which are well-known for their interactive exhibits and have even been featured on TV and in the media.

These museums are not only popular with history enthusiasts, but also with families and students, making them excellent additions to your Yamanashi travel itinerary.

Yamanashi Prefectural Museum | Explore the Legacy of Takeda Shingen and Everyday Life in Edo Japan

Located in Fuefuki City, the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum, nicknamed “Kaiji-yamu” (a blend of Kai = Yamanashi and museum), is one of the largest and most popular history museums in Yamanashi. It attracts history enthusiasts, families, and travelers from across Japan and abroad thanks to its unique combination of exhibits and hands-on experiences.

Highlight 1 | “Stage of Yamanashi” – Natural Landscapes and the Samurai Legacy

The Stage of Yamanashi zone recreates Yamanashi’s dramatic landscapes, including Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps, through detailed 3D models and satellite imagery.

For history lovers, the “Samurai of Kai” corner is a must-see. This exhibit showcases materials on legendary warlords such as Takeda Shingen and Yamamoto Kansuke, along with meticulously reproduced banners and suits of armor. The immersive atmosphere makes you feel as though you’ve stepped back into the Sengoku (Warring States) period.

Highlight 2 | “Historical Experience Workshop” – Life in Edo to Showa Japan

In the Historical Experience Workshop, visitors can try out aspects of daily life from the Edo to Showa eras. Play with traditional toys like beanbags, ohajiki, and spinning tops, or try your hand at handling emakimono scrolls and wearing kimono.

One particularly popular feature is the “Shufuryu” exhibit, which presents Edo-period fashion with a modern twist. Guests can even dress in kimono and take photos at a designated photo spot—perfect for Instagram-worthy moments while learning about history.

From exhibits on Yamanashi’s natural geography to artifacts of warlords like Takeda Shingen and interactive experiences of Edo-period life, Kaiji-yamu is a rare museum where you can learn history through both seeing and doing. It’s an ideal stop not only for history buffs, but also for families and curious travelers who want to add an educational and cultural touch to their Yamanashi itinerary.

【Yamanashi Prefectural Museum】

Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum | Featured on TV’s The World’s Mysteries

Located in Kofu City, the Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum is a popular destination for history lovers, showcasing invaluable artifacts from the Jomon period through the Meiji era.

The museum sits within the Kai Fudoki-no-Oka / Sone Hill Park, an area dotted with burial mounds and ancient ruins, allowing visitors to enjoy both lush greenery and a sense of ancient romance. In 2024, it was even featured on the popular TBS program The World’s Mysteries, bringing it national attention.

A Treasure Trove of Jomon Artifacts

Yamanashi is often referred to as the “Jomon Kingdom”, thanks to the large number of pottery, clay figurines, and stone tools unearthed here. The museum features more than 1,500 archaeological items, with a strong emphasis on the Jomon period.

One of the highlights is the Deep Pot with Human Face Decoration, which depicts the symbolic image of childbirth. This artifact, showcased on The World’s Mysteries, has become the museum’s signature exhibit. Actor Arata Iura also visited and praised the collection, adding to its reputation as a must-see site for Jomon culture.

Seasonal Exhibitions

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts unique seasonal exhibitions. In the summer of 2024, it presented “The World of Ancient Curses and Ritual Tools”, while in autumn it planned an exhibit titled “Mysterious Tools of the Jomon Period”, featuring items whose exact purposes remain unknown.

The museum shop is filled with exclusive and playful items, making it a great spot for souvenirs:

• Capsule toys featuring dogu figurines and haniwa clay figures
• Original design eco-bags
• Handmade magatama stone amulet straps
• The popular and charming “Mini Haniwa” figures

These items are not only educational but also fun, appealing to both children and adults.

With its rare Jomon artifacts, engaging seasonal exhibitions, and delightful souvenir shop, the Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum offers an accessible way to experience Japan’s ancient history—even for those who aren’t experts in archaeology. If you’re exploring the Kofu area, this museum is a must-visit.

【Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum】

Tokiwa Hotel | A Historic Ryokan in Kofu, Yamanashi – Where Tradition and Culture Come Alive

Nestled in Kofu City, Yamanashi, Tokiwa Hotel is a prestigious and historic hot spring ryokan. The name “Tokiwa” means “unchanging,” reflecting the inn’s dedication to preserving Japanese tradition and heartfelt hospitality for generations.

Tokiwa Hotel is also renowned in the world of Go and Shogi, having hosted major title matches. It is especially famous as the venue where professional shogi player Souta Fujii achieved his historic promotion to 4-dan—the youngest in history. For those interested in Japanese culture and history, this ryokan offers a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

One of the highlights of Tokiwa Hotel is its access to Yumura Onsen’s “Shingen no Yu,” a hot spring said to have been cherished by the legendary warlord Takeda Shingen. With over 1,200 years of history, this natural onsen can be enjoyed in the large public bath or in private open-air baths attached to guest rooms.

Whether you are a business traveler seeking relaxation or a tourist looking to enrich your journey, the gentle, warming waters provide exceptional comfort and healing.

Dinner at Tokiwa Hotel is an authentic kaiseki experience that highlights seasonal ingredients from Yamanashi and beyond:

• A5-grade Koshu beef, grilled on a ceramic plate
• Fuji-no-suke, Yamanashi’s premium salmon variety
• Honmaguro tuna, freshly caught from Japanese coastal waters

Each dish is carefully crafted for both visual elegance and refined taste, ensuring a memorable dining experience for even the most discerning food lovers.

The hotel is surrounded by a meticulously maintained Japanese garden, where the beauty of the seasons can be enjoyed: cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, crimson foliage in autumn, and a serene snowy landscape in winter.

Guest rooms emphasize the beauty of classic Japanese design, creating a calm and refined atmosphere. Here, guests can fully immerse themselves in a peaceful, extraordinary stay that blends cultural authenticity with comfort.

【Tokiwa Hotel】

Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko | Hot Spring Retreat for Mt. Fuji Sightseeing & Nature Experiences

For those who want to fully enjoy Mt. Fuji sightseeing and the natural beauty of the Lake Kawaguchiko area, Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko is the perfect accommodation. Located just 90 minutes by car from central Tokyo, it’s ideal for weekend getaways or special occasions.

Each villa comes with its own private hot spring bath, allowing guests to relax in total comfort and privacy. Surrounded by evergreen forests, the property offers a tranquil, refreshing atmosphere that feels worlds away from daily life.

The site also features a stylish bar space, where guests can enjoy complimentary Yamanashi wines, local craft beers, and soft drinks—adding a touch of luxury to the stay.

In the evenings, guests can gaze at a star-filled sky from the cool highland air and even enjoy fireworks until 21:00, creating unforgettable memories for couples and families alike.

Nearby, there are plenty of scenic spots with views of Mt. Fuji and natural attractions across the Fuji Five Lakes area. For food lovers, the resort also offers a locally sourced BBQ menu, featuring specialties like Koshu wine beef and Fuji-no-suke salmon, ensuring a gourmet experience to match the natural setting.

Want to know more about Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko? Click here!

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Luxurious Glamping with Mt. Fuji Views! A Full Guide to Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko For those who dream of spending a luxurious time surrounded by nature, enjoying hot springs and a private bonfire under the starry sky with Mt. Fuji as your …

【Glamping Village Fuji Kawaguchiko】

Summary

In this article, we introduced two must-visit museums in Yamanashi. The Yamanashi Prefectural Museum (Kaiji-yamu) offers a wide range of interactive experiences, making it a great choice for families. With areas where you can try on period costumes, it’s also fun for couples and friends looking for something unique.

Meanwhile, the Yamanashi Prefectural Archaeological Museum is a hidden gem, featuring an impressive collection of artifacts from the Paleolithic and Jomon periods. It’s a fascinating destination for anyone interested in Japan’s ancient history.

While Mt. Fuji sightseeing is the classic highlight of Yamanashi, adding a visit to these museums will give you a deeper cultural perspective and make your trip even more rewarding. Be sure to include them in your Yamanashi travel plans!

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