Nishizawa Valley, Yamanashi Travel Guide

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Discover Yamanashi's Nishizawa Valley: a breathtaking natural escape with stunning waterfalls, vibrant forests, and invigorating hiking trails.

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Nishizawa Valley

Nishizawa Valley, nestled in Yamanashi's Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, is a scenic wonderland sculpted by the Fuefuki River. This stunning valley features a network of waterfalls, lush forests, and unique rock formations, offering a refreshing escape into nature.

A brief summary to Nishizawa Valley

1822-13 Mitomikawaura, Yamanashi, Mitomikawaura, Yamanashi, 404-0201, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nishizawa Valley.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the trail can be steep and slippery, especially near the waterfalls.
Visit during autumn (late October to early November) for the most spectacular foliage.
Bring cash for the bus fare, as payment is typically cash-only.
Check the bus schedule in advance, as services are infrequent.
Be aware that the Nanatsugama Godan Falls area may be closed during winter (December to late April).

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Explore Nishizawa Valley on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Nishizawa Valley, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Yamanashishi Station, take the Yamanashi Shimin Bus' Nishizawa Gorge Line to the Nishizawa Keikoku Iriguchi bus stop. The one-way journey costs ¥900 and takes approximately one hour. There are limited bus services per day, so check the timetable in advance. Alternatively, from JR Enzan Station, take the bus bound for Nishizawa Gorge, operated by Yamanashi Kotsu Limited. The one-way journey will cost you 1,050 yen.
Car

From Tokyo, take the Chuo Expressway to the Katsunuma exit. Follow Route 20 west to Highway Route 140 and head north to Nishizawa Keikoku. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours from Tokyo. Parking is available near the trailhead, costing ¥500 during the autumn foliage season.

Discover more about Nishizawa Valley

Nishizawa Valley, located within the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, is one of Japan's most stunning valleys, drawing hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. Over millennia, the Fuefuki River has carved a deep, V-shaped gorge through white granite, creating a landscape of dramatic cliffs, pristine waters, and diverse flora.The valley is renowned for its numerous waterfalls, each with its own unique character. The most famous of these is Nanatsugama-Godan-no-Taki, a five-tiered waterfall considered one of Japan's top 100. The hiking trail that winds through the valley offers breathtaking views of these falls, as well as the surrounding forest. The trail is well-maintained but can be steep in places, so sturdy shoes are recommended.The valley is particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season, when the leaves of the maple and beech trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. However, the valley is a delight to visit year-round, with rhododendrons blooming in early summer and lush greenery throughout the warmer months. Nishizawa Valley has also been certified as a Forest Therapy base, thanks to its relaxing atmosphere.