Nestled on the southeastern side of Mount Fuji, Gotemba is an attractive city renowned for its outlet shopping mall. In addition to retail outlets, it’s also home to a charming Imperial family residence and magnificent Mount Fuji views.

Things to do

Go on a shopping spree at the Gotemba Premium Outlets to find some of the world’s biggest brands and Japanese labels in discount stores. Shop for designer fashion and electronics, dine at one of the courtyard eateries, then take in the Mount Fuji views from the 50-metre-high Ferris wheel.

Another place to admire Fuji’s snow-capped peak is at Gotemba’s Peace Park, situated on the outer rim of the Hakone crater. It’s centred around a chalky white stupa and also features beautiful Japanese gardens and the Buddhist Monastery of Nihonzan-Myoho-ji Temple.

Want to see how Japan’s royals once lived? Visit the Chichibunomiya Memorial Park, where the late Highnesses Prince and Princesses Chichibunomiya resided following World War II. Explore the historic thatched-roof house where family heirlooms and belongings are displayed, then wander through the picturesque gardens to see seasonal flowers and cherry blossom trees.

Make a day trip to beautiful Lake Yamanakako to go fishing and water skiing. You can also rent a paddleboat to soak up the Mount Fuji vistas from the water. Alternatively, follow the trail that leads to the Panorama Dai lookout for views across the lake or relax in one of the hot spring baths.

Getting around

Gotemba is around 1.5 hours by train from Tokyo and there are direct buses to both Narita International Airport and Haneda International Airport. Buses also travel throughout Gotemba, which can also be explored on foot.