Practicalities
Currency
Japanese currency is the (Japanese) yen, abbreviated JPY. For 1 EUR you get approximately 175 yen. Foreign exchange can be performed at banks, larger post offices, and ATMs at airports. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at major stores, shops, and restaurants, but there are also many places that only accept payment in cash.
Electricity
100 V, 60 Hz (in Kofu). Plugs of type A.
Tap water
Tap water is safe to drink.
Tipping
Service charges are always included in the final price, so there is no need to tip separately.
Safety
The streets in Kofu city are usually safe. You should however exercise standard caution, as you would in any large city, especially around very crowded areas. In case of emergency, dial the all-purpose emergency number 110 (for police) or 119 (for fire and ambulance).
Public transportation
Kofu is served by the JR Chuo Line, connecting it directly to Tokyo and other major cities. Local transportation includes Yamanashi Kotsu buses that cover the main areas of Kofu city and nearby attractions. Bus schedules are available at Kofu Station and online. Within the city, most destinations are also easily reachable on foot or by bicycle.
Taxi
If you need information for a taxi, please visit the following website:
https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2021.html
Most taxis accept credit card payment.
Climate
Kofu has a humid continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June–August) are warm and sunny, with average highs around 30°C. Autumn (September–November) is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities. Winters (December–February) are dry and cold, with average temperatures around 2–8°C, and occasional snowfall. Spring (March–May) brings comfortable temperatures and cherry blossoms.
Things to do
Kofu is surrounded by nature and historical sites. You can visit Takeda Shrine, dedicated to the famous samurai lord Takeda Shingen, explore the Yamanashi Prefectural Museum of Art, or take a short trip to Shosenkyo Gorge, one of Japan’s most beautiful ravines. For wine lovers, the nearby Katsunuma area offers vineyards and tasting tours.
For more ideas, visit the official Kofu tourism website: https://kofu-tourism.com/
Food
Kofu and Yamanashi are known for their local specialties such as Hōtō (a hearty miso-based noodle stew with vegetables), Yoshida Udon (thick wheat noodles), and local Yamanashi wines. You’ll also find a good selection of Japanese and international restaurants around Kofu Station and Takeda Street.