Gotemba-shi

Asia

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Japan

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Gotemba-shi

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Fuji in Shizuoka prefecture, Gotemba offers a delightful blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. This city provides a scenic base for exploring Mount Fuji, with the iconic peak often visible on clear days.

For those seeking a tranquil escape, Chichibunomiya Memorial Park boasts a serene cypress forest, ideal for a peaceful stroll, and comes alive with vibrant cherry blossoms during spring. Gear up for an adventure at the Fuji Safari Park, where you can observe a variety of animals, including elephants, on a regular or night safari. If you're a motorsports enthusiast, Fuji Speedway, located north of Gotemba, is a must-visit. Witness high-octane car races or even take a thrilling lap around the track yourself (subject to availability).

Beyond the city, Lake Yamanaka offers a picturesque escape. Here, you can enjoy a scenic boat ride on the calm waters amidst graceful swans, or hike to the Panorama Dai lookout for breathtaking views of the lake and Mount Fuji.

Gotemba enjoys a pleasant climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, while winters are mild with occasional snowfall. The city is conveniently located, roughly a 1.5-hour drive or train journey from Tokyo and approximately 3.5 hours from Kyoto. This makes Gotemba a perfect stop for a day trip or a charming stopover on a longer exploration of Japan.

Travel Tips for Gotemba-shi

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Gotemba-shi

A guide to Gotemba-shi's local transportation

Shuttle Bus

Bus

Walking

Bicycle

Getting around Gotemba is convenient and depends on your exploration style. For a relaxed experience, take advantage of the free shuttle buses that run every 15 minutes between JR Gotemba Station, Tomei Gotemba Interchange bus stop, and the Gotemba Premium Outlets. These buses operate during mall hours, making it easy to navigate between these key locations.

Practical Tips for Gotemba-shi

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What is Gotemba Premium Outlet?

Gotemba Premium Outlets is one of Japan's largest outlet malls and the flagship location of the Premium Outlets chain. This shopper's paradise boasts over 290 stores offering discounts on a wide range of brands, all set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Mount Fuji.

The Gotemba Premium Outlets is conveniently open year-round, with extended hours during peak season from March to November (10:00AM to 8:00PM) and slightly shorter hours from December to February (10:00AM to 7:00PM). Keep in mind that the mall does close once annually on the third Thursday of February, so plan your shopping trip accordingly.

Can you see Mt Fuji from Gotemba Premium Outlet?

Yes, you have a good chance of seeing Mount Fuji from the Gotemba Premium Outlet. There's even a specific spot, the Great Dream Bridge, within the outlet that offers a view of Mount Fuji. However, it's important to remember that seeing Mount Fuji depends heavily on the weather. On a clear day, you should have a good chance of spotting the iconic peak while you shop.

How to get from Shinjuku to Gotemba?

The fastest option is the Odakyu Limited Express "Romancecar Mt. Fuji" train. This scenic train whisks you away from Shinjuku Station in just 95 minutes and deposits you conveniently at Gotemba Station. Once you arrive in Gotemba, your shopping adventure awaits! Free shuttle buses run every 15 minutes during operating hours, connecting Gotemba Station to the Gotemba Premium Outlets in a comfortable 20-minute ride.

How long does it take to spend in a Gotemba premium outlet?

The time you spend at Gotemba Premium Outlets depends on your shopping style! If you're a dedicated bargain hunter who wants to explore every corner and rack up the deals, a full day might fly by. For a more casual shopping experience, a few hours could be perfect.

Is Gotemba Premium Outlet cheap for shopping?

Scoring deals on designer brands is definitely possible at Gotemba Premium Outlet. Compared to regular stores in Tokyo, you'll find better prices on a wider range of brands. However, it's important to manage your expectations. While Gotemba offers discounts, especially on last season's items, the prices might not be as competitive as outlets in the US or Europe.

Japanese brands tend to be a better bargain here, and you can often snag great deals on sale items. Keep in mind to check for any imperfections before you buy. For certain products, like men's shoes, you might find prices comparable to international outlets. Ultimately, whether Gotemba is "cheap" depends on what you're looking for and your usual shopping habits. Do some comparisons beforehand and set a budget to ensure you have a fun and fruitful shopping experience.