Yamanashi Prefectural Takeda no Mori Health and Recreation Forest
(Yamanashi Kenritsu Takeda no Mori Hoken Kyuyorin)

A vast health and recreation forest covering 2,500 hectares, set on high ground at an elevation of 600 meters. It is easy to access from central Kofu, yet surrounded by abundant nature.

The main area, “Kenko no Mori,” was certified as a “Forest Therapy Base” in 2013 after the relaxing effects of forest bathing were scientifically proven. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom throughout the park, and in autumn, seasonal wild plants and colorful foliage line the well-maintained walking paths, where visitors can feel the soothing effects of the forest in every season. In 2019, it was registered as the “Kobushi UNESCO Eco Park,” the 10th UNESCO Eco Park in Japan, and the Kenko no Mori Service Center also serves as its information center.

The park has many spots where you can easily enjoy the outdoors, including a campground with log cabins, tent sites, and coin showers, a BBQ area with a great location that is perfect for day camping, a forest learning center introducing Yamanashi Prefecture’s forests and forestry, a bird observation hut ideal for birdwatching, and a mountain biking area that opened in May 2024.

Along the route from Kofu City to Shosenkyo, there is a Wildlife Center. Surrounded by satoyama woodlands, the center offers chances to see many wild birds depending on the season. It displays a rich collection of wildlife specimens and ecological photographs. It also has a rehabilitation facility for injured and sick wild birds and animals. The facility aims to help visitors learn about the ecology and value of wildlife, which is declining, and to promote a spirit of wildlife protection.

The view of the Kofu Basin from the observation plaza in front of the Takeda no Mori Service Center, the park’s main facility, is truly spectacular. You can take in not only Mt. Fuji, but also the Southern Alps, including the Shirane Sanzan and Ho-o Sanzan, along with other mountains that represent Japan. If you stay at the campground or join one of the “Night View Appreciation Events,” held for around 10 days each year, you can also enjoy the beautiful night view of the Kofu Basin.