• Table of Contents
• The Higashizawa Bridge : Kiyosato's Iconic "Red Bridge" Set Against the Brocade Autumn Foliage of the Yatsugatake Mountains.
• The Ojiragawa Valley : The Contrast of Emerald Stream and Autumn Colors
• Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge : Autumn Leaves Adorning the Valley Against the Backdrop of Yatsugatake Mountains
• Mt. Mizugaki Nature Park : A Spectacular Combination of Golden Larch and Vivid Maple
• Hontanigawa Valley : Autumn Colors Painting the Pure Waters selected as  Japan's 100 Best Waters
• Shingen Bomichi : A golden corridor with a history
• Fujimidaira : Panorama of shining larch trees and Mt. Fuji

The Higashizawa Bridge : Kiyosato's Iconic "Red Bridge" Set Against the Brocade Autumn Foliage of the Yatsugatake Mountains.

The Higashizawa Bridge,
affectionately known as the "Red Bridge," is a 90-meter long
vermilion arch bridge located in Kiyosato.

During the autumn foliage season, the
surrounding area transforms into a spectacular landscape covered in rich autumn colors. With the magnificent Yatsugatake Mountains in the background, the
bright red bridge creates a beautiful contrast with the deep canyon gorge
painted in the vibrant reds of maples and yellows of Japanese larches.

The view from the observatory on the east
side of the bridge (Kiyosato Station side) is particularly exceptional.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from mid-October
to early November.

(Note) The
bridge is undergoing repair work from September 11, 2025, to August 31, 2026.
Half of the bridge is covered with sheeting, affecting the view.

The Ojiragawa Valley : The
Contrast of Emerald Stream and Autumn Colors

The Ojiragawa Valley, sourced from the Minami Alps, is a valley selected as one of Japan's 100 Exquisite and Well-Conserved Waters

At Senga-fuchi, which is about a
15-minute walk from the parking lot, the emerald green clear stream creates a
stunning contrast with the red and yellow autumn leaves of beech and maple
trees. This harmonious collaboration between the pure water and the autumnal
colors is truly magical. 

For those interested in serious trekking, the trail continues deeper into the valley, where you can visit several waterfalls.

The best time to see the autumn colors near Sengafuchi is usually from early to late November.

Note: Beyond Senga-fuchi, the trail is a
narrow and potentially dangerous mountain path. Please ensure you have proper
hiking boots and gear before proceeding. Those with limited hiking experience
or confidence in their physical fitness should refrain from continuing.

(Note) The forest road beyond Sengafuchi is closed during the winter (early December to late April).

Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge : Autumn Leaves Adorning the Valley Against the Backdrop of Yatsugatake Mountains

The Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge, often
called the "Yellow Bridge" in contrast to the "Red Bridge",
is 100 meters high and 490 meters long. The bridge features a pedestrian
walkway, offering panoramic views of the Yatsugatake Mountains to the north,
the Minami Alps to the southwest, and Mt. Fuji to the south.

During the autumn season, you can enjoy a
magnificent view of the colorful foliage decorating the valley stream, with the
Yatsugatake Mountains in the background.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late October to early November.

Mt. Mizugaki Nature Park : A Spectacular Combination of Golden Larch and Vivid Maple

Mt. Mizugaki Nature Park is a rich, natural
park located at the foot of Mt. Mizugaki, one of the 100 Famous Mountains of
Japan.

In the autumn foliage season, visitors can
enjoy a breathtaking view where the golden yellow of the Japanese larches and
the crimson red of the maple trees interweave, set against the powerful, rocky
peaks of Mt. Mizugaki.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from mid-October
to early November.

(Note) The
forest road is closed during the winter (late November to late April).

Hontanigawa Valley : Autumn Colors Painting the Pure Waters selected as  Japan's 100 Best Waters

The Hontanigawa Valley is a valley along the
Hontani River, which originates from Mt. Kinpu. It is a beautiful valley known for
its clear stream, selected as one of the "100 Exquisite Waters of the
Heisei Era."

In autumn, trees such as Japanese larches
and maples are vividly colored, and the clear stream itself appears dyed with
the reflection of the autumn leaves.

Please enjoy this quiet and beautiful
Japanese autumn spectacle, created by the interplay of pristine water and
vibrant fall colors.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late
October to early November.

(Note) Some Sections
of the forest road are closed during the winter (late November to late April)

Shingen Bomichi : A golden corridor with a history

The Shingen Bomichi (Shingen's Straight Road)
is a military road built by the warlord Shingen Takeda (1521 - 1573). It is
called a Bo (pole) road because it stretches straight like a pole.

It has been developed as a nature trail and has been selected as one of the "500 Beautiful Walking Paths in Japan ."

As autumn deepens, the ancient path transforms into a corridor of shining golden larch trees. Along the way, a moss-covered stone Buddha statue that has been watching over the walking path since the Edo period (1603-1868) stands quietly, admiring the beauty of the Nishiki colors.

Enjoy the charming autumn roads while reminiscing about the romance of the past.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late October to early November.

Fujimidaira : Panorama of shining larch trees and Mt. Fuji

Fujimi-daira, literally "Mt. Fuji View
Plateau", as its name suggests, is a prime location where you can view
Mt. Fuji directly without obstruction.

During the autumn foliage season, the surrounding larch trees turn golden yellow, creating a stunning contrast with the magnificent Mt. Fuji .

You are sure to be captivated by the crisp
air and the grand, sweeping view.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from mid-October to early November.

(Note) The forest road is closed during the winter (late November to late April).

As you tour the colorful city, you can also see Mt. Fuji shining against the autumn sky.

The autumn leaves season brings vibrant colors to the mountains. Why not take a short trip from the Tokyo metropolitan area or Mt. Fuji to enjoy some hidden gems for viewing the autumn leaves?

Let's explore more autumn leaves in Hokuto City , Yamanashi Prefecture !

• Table of Contents
• Enjoy the experience of interacting with horses
• Feel the nature on the Shingen Bomichi Walk
• Local gourmet food and markets are also plentiful
• Event Schedule
• How to participate in the experience program
• Recommended spots to visit in Kobuchizawa, the town of horses

Enjoy the experience of interacting with horses

There are activities such as horse-drawn experiences, horseshoe throwing, stilt walking challenges, and an exciting horse show.
A wide variety of active experiences unique to the "town of horses"!

Everyone from small children to adults can enjoy an extraordinary time with horses.
This is an event unique to Hokuto City, where you can feel relaxed just by touching the horses and taking photos.

Feel the nature on the Shingen Bomichi Walk

At the same time, the "Shingen Boudo Walk" will be held.
We will walk along the historic Shingen Bodō road, which was built by the Sengoku daimyo Takeda Shingen and was selected as one of the 500 most beautiful walking paths in Japan .

A walking event where you can enjoy the view of the Mount Yatsugatake in the clear autumn air.
You can enjoy both natural beauty and a road steeped in history.
Advance registration is required .

Local gourmet food and markets are also plentiful

The venue will feature flavors unique to Hokuto , including fresh vegetables from the local Kobuchizawa area and bento boxes from local bento shops.

There's also a wide selection of gourmet food from the food truck, including cup steaks, kebabs, and crepes!
The fragrant aroma fills the venue.

There will also be exhibits of handicrafts using horseshoes and local craft workshops.

Under the blue sky, tents and food trucks lined up and people coming and going created a lively scene.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, something that only this festival can offer.

Event Schedule

The Hokuto Horse Town Festival will be held in mid-October in Kobuchizawa Town , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture Prefecture.
The experience program will start in the morning at the venue, followed by a horse show in the afternoon.
The way you enjoy it changes with time.
You can enjoy an autumn day with horses throughout the day.

In the past, the schedule was as follows (excerpts of major events):

9:30am - Shingen Bodo Walk
10:30am - Horse-pulling experience, stilt challenge, horseshoe throwing
13:20～ Opening Ceremony
13:40～ Stage performance
14:45～ Horse Show

How to participate in the experience program

・Shingen Bodō Walk: Application required. Participation fee: 1,500 yen (advance reservation required)
A popular program where you can walk along the historic road built by the Sengoku daimyo Takeda Shingen while enjoying the spectacular views of the Mount Yatsugatake.

・Horse-pulling experience: 500 yen per experience (registration on-site on the day)
This is a popular experience that allows you to casually enjoy interacting with horses.
There are also free activities available, such as horseshoe throwing and a stilt walking challenge.

Recommended spots to visit in Kobuchizawa, the town of horses

RISONARE Mount Yatsugatake

From October 1st to 31st, the entire facility will be decorated for Halloween as part of the " Risonare Halloween 2025 " event.
Piman Street, reminiscent of a European street, is lined with pumpkins and lanterns, making it a great photo spot during the day and creating a fantastical atmosphere when lit up at night.

During the event, there will be a variety of content for visitors to enjoy in their own way, including a costume parade, limited edition sweets, and hands-on workshops.
If you stay at the hotel, you can enjoy the illuminated streets at night and the quiet atmosphere of the streets in the mornings.

Address: 129-1 Yamanashi Prefecture , Hokuto City Prefecture
Event period: October 1st to 31st, 2025
Instagram: @risonare_yatsugatake

Check out the homepage now

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Kobuchisawa Roadside Station

A popular spot where you can find fresh local vegetables and specialty products.
There is a hot spring called "Enmei no Yu," a restaurant, a direct sales store, and more, so you can stop by during your trip and enjoy the "taste of Hokuto."

Address : 2968-1 Yamanashi Prefecture , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Business hours : 9:00-18:00 (varies by facility)
Official website : https://mkobuchisawa.jp/

Check out the homepage now

Spatio Experience Workshop

A popular workshop area where you can enjoy a variety of craft experiences, such as pottery, glasswork, and leather goods making.
Everyone, from children to adults, can enjoy the joy of "making" and create memories of their trip.

Address : 2968-1 Kobuchizawa-cho , Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture (next to Kobuchizawa Roadside Station)
Opening hours : 10:00-16:00 (varies depending on the experience)

Check out the homepage now

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Cafe & Bar LONG Kobuchizawa

A cafe and bar that is open from morning until night.
Coffee brewed with Yusui from the Mount Yatsugatake and handmade sweets are popular, and this is a recommended place to relax and end your trip.

A new morning menu will be available from September 2025!
We have added new menu items to make your mornings more luxurious, such as bacon eggs Benedict and banana pancakes.

Address : 398-1 Yamanashi Prefecture , Hokuto City
Business hours : 8:30-21:00

Check out the homepage now

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How was it?
Kobuchizawa, Hokuto City , is a "town of horses" where horses, people, and nature are connected.
This year's Hokutouma Town Festival was once again filled with warm smiles and excitement.
Next time, why not try spending some special time with a horse?

Also worth reading: Articles about Hokuto City , Yamanashi Prefecture

• Table of Contents
• Osaka Golf Club
• An 18-Hole Seaside Challenge with Strategic Brilliance
• After the Round-- Guide to the Facilities
• A Golf Experience Without Language Barriers

Osaka Golf Club

Known by those in the know-- and a favorite among pros-- Osaka Golf Club is a prestigious course just 40-minutes from the Kansai International Airport!

This seaside course, one of the finest in Kansai, features a beautiful 18-hole layout designed by Osamu Ueda. It has been ranked in Rolex's "The World's Top 1000 Golf Courses" (2010), and GOLF.com's "Top 100 Courses in Asia-Pacific" (2023), among other distinctions.

A feature video introducing the Osaka Golf Club is also available on Youtube (Laugh & Rough Ch.). It includes a special interview with the General Manager and an in-house pro-exclusive content you won't find elsewhere, so be sure to also check it out!

An 18-Hole Seaside Challenge with Strategic Brilliance

Opened in 1938 (Showa 13), Osaka Golf Club celebrates its 88th-year this year (2025 at time of writing). At its opening, the course measured 6,700-yards (Out 3,375-yards, In 3,325-yards), Par 72-- one of the most challenging in Japan, famed for stoking the competitive spirit.

Although the club was temporarily closed due to wartime circumstances, it was elegantly remodeled and re-opened after 16-years thanks to strong requests from locals and members, as well as the efforts of the first chairman, and many others. Since then, it has been beloved by golfers from Japan and abroad as a community-rooted golf club.

The club's greatest charm is its expansive panoramic ocean view. The most popular-- and proudly recommended by the general manager is the 7th Hole.

Against the backdrop of the calm blue sea, you can take in the Kansai International Airport, Awaji Island, Kobe's Cityscape, and even Mt. Rokko-- giving you the sensation of playing along the horizon where the sky meets the sea.

This view instantly captivates first-time visitors and keeps them coming back. In addition to the sweeping views of the Osaka Bay, you can also see planes arriving and departing from Kansai International Airport. Access is also excellent with only 40-minutes from the airport. Despite its proximity to the city, the course offers a comfortable golf experience amid the rich nature and stunning scenery.

Of course, there's more to the its reputation than just beautiful views. Each hole has a distinct personality shaped by the complex coastal terrain-- another hallmark of the Osaka Golf Club. Every round reveals fresh challenges and the joy of crafting strategies never ends. The design invites repeat play without getting tired of the course, which fuels players' desire to take on new challenges which is one of its biggest draws.

As you can see from the drone footage, the course makes deft use of the rolling hills, demanding distance control and accuracy. If you go in, you might escape only to get caught by the next bunker-- especially tough for beginners. According to the general manager, "the strategy is learning how to avoid going in the bunker", which while easier said than done, players who relish in crafting their technique, is a stage well worth the challenge.

Furthermore, there are over 80 deep bunkers scattered throughout the course, including the signature Allison Bunkers, which are located throughout the course. Some bunkers are so positioned that if you hit one into one, even if you manage to escape, you'll end up trapped in the bunker right next to it, making them particularly formidable for beginners. According to the manager, "The strategy is to devise ways to avoid hitting one into the bunker." For players who value strategy, this is truly a challenging course worth playing on.

For reservations and details, click here (Japanese)

We also interviewed an in-house pro golfer for this feature and gathered some valuable insights about what makes the Osaka Golf Club so special. Check out the Youtube video to get the full details!

(Youtube) See the full play and interview here!

After the Round-- Guide to the Facilities

A smooth round is important for your flow. Relaxing spaces and Services before and after the play make the overall experience richer and more satisfying. Here are some of the facilities in the Osaka Golf Club perfect for a comfortable break.

Teahouse

Inside the course, you'll find a charming cottage-style teahouse in warm brown tones. Step by between holes for a wide variety of drinks and sweets, including the "Arida Mikan Ice Bar", made with high-quality mandarins from the Wakayama Prefecture! A wide selection of snacks is also available for a relaxing break.

After a few holes, take a short rest to reset before tackling on the next stretch. A light refresh here is sure to power your play!

Furthermore, the currently running "NANKAI Wellness Tourism" special tour for foreign visitors to Japan also includes a service that allows you to freely enjoy a variety of drinks and snacks provided at the tea shop. Please come and experience the attentive hospitality that is unique to Osaka Golf Club.

[NANKAI Wellness Tourism Inquiries]
Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC
TEL +81-06-6641-4010
e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp

Restaurant

You can enjoy a Japanese-Western fusion breakfast and lunch made with plenty of seasonal ingredients.

Just hearing about the menu will whet your appetite, with dishes such as fragrantly grilled beef steak, flavorful tantanmen noodles, and a bowl of extremely fresh tuna and boiled whitebait. You can truly enjoy a luxurious time that will satisfy both your body and mind.

VIP Room

Exclusively for guests who have applied for "NANKAI Wellness Tourism," you can enjoy lunch in the VIP VIP room. This space, which is not open to the general public, is truly a special place reserved for VIPs in both name and reality. In a refined atmosphere exuding high status, you can savor exquisite cuisine while gazing out at the beautiful seascape and majestic skyline of the course. This is a luxurious experience that can only be found at a prestigious golf club.

Bath House

The bathroom is a bright and clean space with natural light streaming in through the large windows. It's the perfect place to soothe your fatigue after a round of golf and you can spend some relaxing time there. The simple yet calming atmosphere makes it a place where you can refresh both your body and mind.

↓If hot water alone isn't enough for you, set off on a tour of Wakayama's hot springs.

Name: Nankai Travel International Co.,INC
TEL +81-06-6641-4010
e-mail: medical@geo-nti.co.jp