Popular Sightseeing Tours in Gotemba

Gotemba boasts a rich array of surrounding tourist resources. Beyond the shopping paradise, we recommend visiting the 'Gotemba Peace Park' for breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Fuji and to experience the tranquility of Japanese gardens. If time permits, consider extending your trip to the nearby Hakone region to enjoy a scenic boat ride on 'Lake Ashi', explore the historical charm of 'Hakone Shrine', or immerse yourself in art at the 'Hakone Open-Air Museum'. These are all popular choices among travelers.

For a one-day trip to Gotemba, we suggest focusing on shopping in the morning and sightseeing in the afternoon. You can start your day at Gotemba PREMIUM OUTLETS for an extensive shopping spree, followed by lunch either within the outlet complex or in the vicinity. In the afternoon, head to 'Gotemba Peace Park' for distant views of Mount Fuji, or venture to Hakone to experience the natural beauty and cultural atmosphere of 'Hakone Shrine' and 'Lake Ashi'. To optimize your travel, utilizing direct express buses is recommended to save on transfer times.

Gotemba PREMIUM OUTLETS primarily features European and American luxury brands and is located at the foot of Mount Fuji, often planned in conjunction with Hakone and the Fuji Five Lakes region. Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza offers a more diverse range of brands and blends with the resort atmosphere of Karuizawa, making it ideal for shopping after enjoying nature. The choice between them depends on your preferred brand types, whether you wish to combine them with nearby sightseeing, and your travel direction – towards the Tokyo suburbs or Nagano.

The best time to visit Gotemba for views of Mount Fuji is typically from autumn to winter (approximately November to March). During this period, the weather is generally clearer with high visibility, and Mount Fuji is often capped with snow, making the scenery even more spectacular. We recommend visiting in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and clouds are less prevalent, significantly increasing your chances of seeing a clear, complete view of the mountain. Visibility can be lower in summer due to frequent rainfall.

The most convenient way to travel from Tokyo to Gotemba PREMIUM OUTLETS is by direct express bus. For instance, buses departing from Shinjuku or Tokyo Station take about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the destination, eliminating the hassle of transfers. Alternatively, you can take a JR train to Gotemba Station and then transfer to a shuttle bus or a local route bus, but be mindful of train schedules. It's advisable to choose the most suitable option based on your departure point and time.

Travel routes in Gotemba can be combined with the abundant natural and cultural attractions in the surrounding areas. In addition to shopping, you could plan a 'Mount Fuji Sightseeing Tour' route, including Gotemba Peace Park and either Lake Kawaguchiko or Lake Yamanakako in the Fuji Five Lakes region. Alternatively, opt for a 'Hakone Onsen Cultural Journey' to visit Hakone Shrine, Owakudani, and experience local hot springs for a relaxing getaway. Utilizing surrounding buses or renting a car offers more flexibility.

Gotemba offers a variety of experiences beyond shopping. You can visit 'Gotemba Kogen Toki no Sumika', which features beautiful gardens, illuminations (winter only), and hot spring facilities, making it suitable for families. If you're an animal lover, consider visiting 'Fuji Safari Park' for close encounters with various animals. Additionally, 'Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park' offers numerous hiking trails for you to connect with nature.

Gotemba offers diverse accommodation choices. For shopping convenience, consider hotels near Gotemba PREMIUM OUTLETS. If you wish to experience Japanese hot spring culture, the nearby Hakone or Fuji Five Lakes regions have numerous onsen ryokans offering different styles and views for complete relaxation. You can choose the most suitable location based on your itinerary, number of companions, and desired vacation atmosphere.

The Gotemba area offers a wealth of local cuisine. Don't miss the unique 'Gotemba Kogen Beer', which pairs excellently with yakiniku or Japanese fried dishes. The region also boasts fresh produce and dairy products, often incorporated into creative dishes at many restaurants. Try the local soba or udon noodles for a different flavor experience. Gotemba PREMIUM OUTLETS also offers a variety of international cuisine options.

The Gotemba area is very suitable for family travel with children. Besides children's play areas within the shopping centers, there are many child-friendly attractions in the vicinity. For example, 'Fuji Safari Park' allows children to observe animals up close; 'Gotemba Kogen Toki no Sumika' has spacious green areas and diverse facilities; and the nearby 'Hakone Open-Air Museum' features interactive artworks that can spark children's interest and imagination.