【Hidden gem?】The free campsite "Shinrin-yoku Hiroba" in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture is cool and hardcore

For campers, it's a pleasant free campsite. It has become a precious existence, and I headed out to discover and report on the hidden gem campsite "Shinrin-yoku Hiroba" located in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture.

The free campground located at the Forest Bathing Square in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture

The target free campground is the Forest Bathing Square in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture. On Google Maps, it is located near 1200m elevation along the Crystal Line, making it a place that seems comfortable to spend time even in summer. Since you need to drive through deep mountain roads from any direction, the journey is likely to be quite challenging. This time, I will drive west along the Crystal Line from Makio Town, heading towards the Forest Bathing Square.

Forest Bathing Square
3289-1 Akamatsudaira, Mitake-cho, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture

At first glance, it seems like an ordinary campground, but it's actually for advanced users

The scenery upon entering the Forest Bathing Square gives an unexpectedly well-maintained impression. It doesn't seem much different from a regular campground. The quiet forest is populated with white birch trees, conveying a highland atmosphere.

In addition to the site near the entrance, there was also a spacious area deep inside. It is quite large, and it seems like various setups could be arranged, so it could accommodate a considerable number of people. Camping in tents, car camping, and hammock camping also seem possible.

However, there are no water facilities or even restrooms. It's a place with a good environment, but it might be a high hurdle for beginners.

Furthermore, there is no mobile signal, so it can be considered a campsite for advanced users. The environment is similar to wild camping, and items that are not typically used in regular camping, such as water purifiers, shovels, and toilet paper, may be necessary.

There is a stream nearby, so if you have the right equipment, it can be used as drinking water. It seems necessary to adapt to the natural environment and use knowledge and tools to get by.

With the lack of facilities, preparation and a mindset are necessary.

Source: / Montbell

The forest bathing area is carefully managed as a water source conservation forest. This is not limited to this location, but we must avoid actions that lead to water quality pollution, such as using toilets or washing dishes in the stream. It is also necessary to take back items like toilet paper and waste, using portable toilets if necessary.

A place where you can feel the cool and beautiful nature on your skin

Since there are no fences or partitions in the mountains, it is likely that wild animals may come by. You need to be prepared and ready to handle unforeseen situations on your own.

However, due to the inconvenience, the nature is richly preserved, making it a very atmospheric campsite. It's quite cool because of the high altitude, and it was a great place for a summer retreat.

In the mountains of Yamanashi, there was a wonderful free campsite surrounded by beautiful nature. I didn’t bring my gear this time for a preliminary visit, but next time I want to stay here with the appropriate equipment.

Interview and text by Kazuma Tanaka

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