· JP

Gotenba

Gotenba, Shizuoka, Japan

Escape to Mt. Fuji's Playground: Gotenba, Japan Nestled amidst stunning natural beauty with breathtaking views of iconic Mt. Fuji, Gotenba, Shizuoka, offers a captivating blend of adventure, tranquility, and cultural imm…

#Mount Fuji view#Hot springs#Outlet shopping#Scenic beauty#Outdoor activities

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Gotenba.

Top Hotels in Gotenba

Top Flights to Gotenba

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Gotenba.

Tours

Mt. Fuji Sightseeing

Experience the majestic views of Mt. Fuji from various vantage points in Gotenba.

Gotemba Onsen Relaxation

Unwind in the hot springs with stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

Shopping

Gotenba Premium Outlets Shopping

Shop at one of Japan's most popular outlet malls featuring over 200 brands.

Outdoor

Outdoor Adventure in Fuji Safari Park

Explore wildlife up close with a self-drive or guided tour through the safari park.

Spend a Day at Grinpa Amusement Park

Enjoy a range of rides and attractions with stunning Mt. Fuji as a backdrop.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Gotenba.

Currency

¥ | JPY | Japanese Yen

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Gotenba, Shizuoka, Japan, is around 83,000.

Languages

Japanese, Japanese

Average weather

Gotenba

Jan

8°-1°

Feb

9°0°

Mar

12°2°

Apr

16°6°

May

20°11°

Jun

23°15°

Jul

27°20°

Aug

29°21°

Sep

25°18°

Oct

20°12°

Nov

15°6°

Dec

10°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Gotenba.

What people love

Gotemba, located in Shizuoka, Japan, is a popular destination for travelers with a variety of attractions and activities to offer. Here are some pros of traveling to Gotemba:

Mount Fuji Views: Gotemba offers stunning views of Mount Fuji, one of Japan's most iconic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery of the mountain from various viewpoints around the city.
Gotemba Premium Outlets: The Gotemba Premium Outlets is a popular shopping destination with over 200 stores offering a wide range of designer and brand-name products at discounted prices. It is a great place for shopping enthusiasts to find deals on luxury items.
Hot Springs (Onsen): Gotemba is home to several hot springs resorts where visitors can relax and rejuvenate in mineral-rich thermal waters. Enjoying a traditional Japanese onsen experience can be a soothing and therapeutic way to unwind after a day of exploring.
Outdoor Activities: The surrounding area of Gotemba offers various outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and golfing. Nature lovers can explore the beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, scenic trails, and peaceful gardens.
Cultural Sites: Gotemba also has interesting cultural sites to visit, such as shrines, temples, and museums. Visitors can learn about the local history and traditions of the region while immersing themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Japan.

Overall, traveling to Gotemba provides a mix of natural beauty, shopping opportunities, relaxation, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, making it a well-rounded destination for tourists.

Enjoy your trip to Gotemba!

What to know

Gotemba, located in Shizuoka, Japan, is a popular destination known for its beautiful nature, hot springs, and shopping outlets. However, there are some potential cons to consider when traveling to Gotemba:

Crowds: Gotemba is a popular tourist destination, especially on weekends and holidays. This can lead to crowded attractions, restaurants, and traffic congestion, impacting the overall experience of visitors.
Weather: The weather in Gotemba can be unpredictable, with rainy periods and fog common in certain seasons. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip to ensure a more enjoyable experience.
Language Barrier: While some residents and businesses in Gotemba may speak English, the predominant language is Japanese. This could pose a challenge for travelers who do not speak or understand Japanese, making communication difficult at times.
Limited Public Transportation: Gotemba may have limited public transportation options compared to larger cities in Japan. Renting a car or relying on taxis may be necessary to explore the area fully, which can add to the cost of the trip.
Distance from Major Cities: Gotemba is located about 90 minutes away from Tokyo by train or bus. Traveling to and from major cities like Tokyo or Osaka may require some time and planning, which could impact the overall itinerary.

It's essential to consider these potential cons when planning a trip to Gotemba to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Gotenba is a city located in the Shizuoka Prefecture of Japan. The area has a rich history dating back to ancient times. Here is a detailed history of Gotenba:

Gotenba was originally known as "Tomioka" during the Edo period (1603-1868) and served as a post town along the Tokaido Road, a major transportation route connecting Edo (present-day Tokyo) and Kyoto. The town prospered as a rest stop for travelers and traders.
In 1889, during the Meiji period (1868-1912), Tomioka was officially designated as a village and later renamed Gotenba. The name "Gotenba" means "palace of the Emperor" in Japanese, reflecting its historical connection to the Imperial family.
Gotenba experienced significant development during the post-World War II period as the Japanese economy grew rapidly. The city's location at the foothills of Mount Fuji made it an ideal destination for tourism and outdoor activities.
One of the significant events in Gotenba's history was the construction of the Gotemba Premium Outlets, a large shopping complex that opened in 2000. The outlets have attracted millions of visitors, both domestic and international, contributing to the city's economy.
Gotenba is also known for its hot springs (onsen) resorts, offering relaxation and therapeutic benefits to visitors. The city's natural beauty, with views of Mount Fuji and surrounding forests, has made it a popular destination for tourists seeking a tranquil escape from city life.
Some notable landmarks in Gotenba include the Chichibunomiya Memorial Park, dedicated to Prince Yasuhito Chichibu, a member of the Imperial family. The park features a museum, gardens, and historical exhibits showcasing the city's heritage.
Another landmark is the Hakone Shrine, located on the shores of Lake Ashi, which is a popular spot for spiritual worship and cultural events. The shrine's architecture and stunning views of Mount Fuji make it a must-visit attraction in Gotenba.

Overall, Gotenba's history is intertwined with Japan's cultural heritage, economic development, and natural beauty, making it a unique and vibrant city in the Shizuoka Prefecture.