Ichikawamisato(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Ichikawa-Mitsukuni, the top choice for families is Mitsukuni Onsen no Yado, a traditional Japanese inn nestled in the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture. This ryokan features private outdoor baths, tatami-mat rooms with futons, and kid-friendly amenities like on-site playgrounds and children's meals. The natural hot spring water, rich in silica and radon, is ideal for skin health and relaxation. Guests can enjoy local dishes such as grilled trout and mountain vegetable rice, while gazing at views of Mount Fuji from the veranda. Located near hiking trails and cherry blossom fields, it’s perfect for a peaceful, culturally immersive getaway.

The inn also offers seasonal activities like pottery workshops and tea ceremonies, making it ideal for intergenerational travel.

The best area for tranquil, scenic stays in Ichikawa-Mitsukuni is the Mitsukuni Onsen District, where historic wooden houses line narrow lanes surrounded by lush forests and mountain views. This region is known for its serene atmosphere, low tourist traffic, and proximity to nature trails leading to Mount Koma and the Southern Alps. Accommodations here range from intimate guesthouses to traditional ryokan with private baths. Many offer panoramic windows facing the sunrise over Mount Fuji, especially popular during winter. Staying here allows guests to experience authentic rural life, with access to local markets, farm-to-table dining, and stargazing under clear night skies.

It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude, mindfulness, and connection with nature.

In Ichikawa-Mitsukuni, visitors can participate in the rare Mitsukuni Pottery Workshop, where you’ll learn the centuries-old craft of "Mitsukuni-yaki" ceramics using local clay. Held at the Mitsukuni Ceramics Village, this hands-on session includes shaping, glazing, and firing your own piece. Additionally, the annual Yamanashi Agricultural Festival showcases fresh grapes, homemade plum wine, and traditional folk dances. During spring, join a cherry blossom tea ceremony in a forest clearing overlooking Mount Fuji—where every sip is paired with breathtaking scenery. These experiences offer deep insight into the town’s heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainable lifestyle.

The hot springs in Ichikawa-Mitsukuni are renowned for their high concentration of radon and silica, known for improving circulation and skin health—earning them the nickname "Beauty Springs." The water flows directly from underground sources, maintaining a warm 45°C (113°F) year-round. Many ryokan feature open-air onsen baths with panoramic views of Mount Fuji and surrounding alpine landscapes. At Mitsukuni Onsen no Yado, guests can enjoy a "Stargazing Bath" under the night sky, where the steam mingles with the Milky Way. Some resorts also offer herbal steam rooms and therapeutic massage treatments, enhancing the overall wellness experience. The mineral-rich waters are particularly beneficial after hiking or sightseeing.

A minimum of 2 to 3 days is recommended for a meaningful visit to Ichikawa-Mitsukuni. Day one: Arrive and check into a ryokan, then explore the Mitsukuni Onsen District, attend a pottery workshop, and enjoy a kaiseki dinner. Day two: Hike through the Mount Koma trail or visit the Southern Alps viewpoints, followed by a morning at a local farm market. Day three: Participate in grape harvesting or take part in a tea ceremony amid cherry blossoms. This itinerary balances relaxation, culture, and nature. It allows time to savor slow living, connect with locals, and appreciate the town’s seasonal beauty—from spring blooms to autumn harvests.

Must-try foods in Ichikawa-Mitsukuni include Yamanashi wine, especially red varieties made from local grapes; plum wine (ume-shu); and dried grapes, often served as snacks. Local restaurants like Mitsukuniya serve wagyu beef and eel rice bowls made with ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Another highlight is the Mitsukuni Nabe, a hearty hot pot featuring mountain vegetables, chicken, and tofu, perfect for cold weather. Street vendors also sell salted fish (shiozake) and rice flour dumplings (mochi). These dishes reflect the region’s agricultural roots and culinary traditions passed down through generations.

The most photogenic spots in Ichikawa-Mitsukuni include the historic wooden alleyways of Mitsukuni Onsen, where red lanterns glow against aged timber walls—ideal for vintage-style shots. The cherry blossom path along the Fuji River in spring creates a dreamy tunnel of pink petals. For dramatic views, head to the Southern Alps viewing platform at dawn, where mist rolls over valleys and mirrors the snow-capped peaks. The pottery kiln garden and rooftop onsen terraces of ryokan also make stunning backdrops. Use wide-angle lenses and shoot during golden hour for maximum impact. These locations capture both the timeless charm and natural grandeur of the region.

From Tokyo, take the JR Chūō Line to Omiya Station, then transfer to the Chūō Rapid Service to Ōtsuki Station, followed by a connecting bus or taxi to Ichikawa-Mitsukuni, a journey of about 2 hours. Alternatively, book a private car service for a direct ride with scenic views of Mount Fuji and the Kōfu Basin. For eco-conscious travelers, rent a bicycle at Ōtsuki Station and ride along the Fuji River Greenway, passing rice paddies and orchards. HopeGoo buses in advance is advised, especially during peak seasons like cherry blossom or autumn foliage periods.

Guesthouses in Ichikawa-Mitsukuni are typically restored old farmhouses with exposed beams, shoji screens, and handcrafted furniture. Mitsukuni House offers free Wi-Fi, electric vehicle charging stations, and home-cooked breakfasts featuring local grapes, pickled plums, and wild rice. Hosts often share stories of village life and invite guests to join daily rituals like morning meditation or herb gathering. Some guesthouses provide farm visits and tea ceremony sessions, blending hospitality with cultural exchange. The focus is on authenticity, sustainability, and creating meaningful connections—with nature and community—making them ideal for long-term stays and digital nomads.

Key events in Ichikawa-Mitsukuni include the Mitsukuni Matsuri in summer, featuring taiko drumming, fireworks, and neighborhood parades. The Yamanashi Grape Festival in autumn celebrates harvest season with wine tastings, cooking contests, and vineyard tours. In spring, the Cherry Blossom Lantern Festival lights up the town with paper lanterns beneath blooming trees. During winter, the Snow Light Path illuminates walking trails with soft glow, creating a magical atmosphere. These festivals not only showcase local traditions but also foster community spirit and offer opportunities to interact with residents—making them unforgettable cultural experiences.