Yuru Camp △ Season 3 Pilgrimage: A 6-Day Yamanashi Self-Drive Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable 6-day self-drive pilgrimage through the picturesque landscapes of Yamanashi Prefecture and the surrounding Fuji area, meticulously following the footsteps of Nadeshiko, Rin, and their friends from "Yuru Camp △ Season 3." This itinerary is designed for fans eager to experience the anime's serene beauty firsthand, offering practical advice for a smooth and immersive journey.

Getting Started: Car Rental & Driving Tips Your adventure begins with picking up a rental car, ideally from a major hub like Tokyo or directly in Kofu, Yamanashi. Ensure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) and consider adding an ETC card for seamless toll road access. Japan drives on the left, and speed limits are strictly enforced. Many roads in rural Yamanashi can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously, especially around blind corners. Google Maps is highly reliable for navigation, but a car's built-in GPS can also be useful. Always check for parking availability before arriving at popular spots.

Best Time to Visit: For optimal clear views of Mount Fuji and pleasant camping weather, spring (late March to May for cherry blossoms) and autumn (October to November for vibrant foliage) are ideal. Winter offers crisp, clear skies but can be very cold for camping. Summer can be hot and humid with potential for hazy Fuji views, making early mornings crucial for photography.

Day 1: Arrival & Lake Motosu's Iconic Views Arrive in Yamanashi and head directly to Lake Motosu (本栖湖). Your first stop should be the Koan Camp (浩庵キャンプ場), a quintessential Yuru Camp location. This is where Rin often camps, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji reflected in the lake, especially in the early morning.

• Shooting Angles: Recreate Rin's tent setup with Fuji in the background. Look for the specific bench or lakeside spots featured in the anime. Wide-angle shots are excellent here to capture the expansive scenery.
• Timing: Arrive in the late afternoon to set up camp (if staying) and capture the sunset. Wake up before dawn for the iconic "diamond Fuji" reflection, where the rising sun aligns perfectly with the peak.
• Etiquette: If camping, book well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Respect other campers' privacy and keep noise to a minimum, particularly after dark. Leave no trace behind.

Day 2: Lake Saiko, Kawaguchiko & Fuefukigawa Fruit Park's Nightscape Start your day exploring Lake Saiko (西湖), another of the Fuji Five Lakes, which often features in the girls' adventures. Afterwards, drive to Lake Kawaguchiko (河口湖), the most developed of the lakes. Explore the lakeside shops, cafes, and viewpoints, such as the Oishi Park for its flower gardens and Fuji views.

• Shooting Angles: Look for specific shops or cafes that appeared in the anime. Capture Fuji from various angles around Kawaguchiko, perhaps with cherry blossoms in spring or autumn leaves framing the shot. Consider a telephoto lens for detailed Fuji shots.
• Timing: Morning for Saiko's tranquility, afternoon for Kawaguchiko's bustling atmosphere. In the late afternoon, head towards Fuefukigawa Fruit Park (笛吹川フルーツ公園). This park offers stunning panoramic views of the Kofu basin, especially at sunset and night.
• Shooting Angles: Capture the city lights twinkling below, mimicking the anime's beautiful night scenes. Use a tripod for long-exposure shots to capture the full grandeur of the illuminated landscape.
• Etiquette: Be mindful of other visitors, especially at popular viewpoints. Avoid blocking pathways or views for extended periods. Conclude your day with a relaxing soak at Hottarakashi Onsen (ほったらかし温泉), famous for its open-air baths with incredible views of Mount Fuji and the Kofu basin.
• Timing: Evening for sunset views, or early morning for sunrise (check opening hours, as they vary).
• Etiquette: Follow strict onsen rules: wash thoroughly before entering, no swimsuits, keep quiet. Tattoos may be restricted at some baths (check in advance or look for tattoo-friendly options).

Day 3: Minobu's Charm & Southern Yamanashi Exploration Today, delve into the Minobu (身延) area, often depicted as Rin's hometown. Explore the local shops and routes she might have taken. Consider visiting Kuonji Temple (久遠寺), a significant temple in the area, which offers beautiful scenery and a long, impressive staircase.

• Shooting Angles: Look for specific street corners, local eateries, or the general atmosphere of Minobu town that resonates with the anime. Capture the details of traditional Japanese architecture and local life.
• Timing: Morning to early afternoon allows ample time for exploration. Afterwards, drive south towards the border with Shizuoka Prefecture, exploring any smaller, less-known spots that might have inspired the anime's tranquil scenes. This could include a stop at a local supermarket like MaxValu, a common feature in Yuru Camp for stocking up on camping supplies or local snacks.
• Etiquette: When visiting local shops, be polite and consider making a small purchase to support the community. Always ask for permission before photographing people.

Day 4: Asagiri Kogen & Fumotoppara's Grandeur Cross into Shizuoka Prefecture to explore the vast Asagiri Kogen (朝霧高原). This highland area offers expansive views of Mount Fuji and is home to various farms and outdoor activities.

• Shooting Angles: Capture wide-open landscapes with Fuji dominating the horizon. Look for specific viewpoints or farm stands that offer unique perspectives. A drone, if you have a license and permission, could capture stunning aerials.
• Timing: Morning for the clearest Fuji views, as clouds often gather around the peak in the afternoon. The highlight of the day is a visit to Fumotoppara Camp (ふもとっぱらキャンプ場), another iconic Yuru Camp location renowned for its unobstructed, panoramic views of Mount Fuji. Even if you're not camping, a day visit is highly recommended for photography.
• Shooting Angles: Recreate the famous wide shots of the camp with Fuji in the background. Look for the specific pond or open fields that appear in the anime. Experiment with different foreground elements to add depth.
• Etiquette: If visiting as a day-tripper, respect the privacy of campers. Do not trespass on private sites or disturb ongoing activities. Always pack out everything you pack in. Conclude your day in Fujinomiya (富士宮), famous for its local specialty, Fujinomiya Yakisoba. Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many local eateries before heading to your accommodation.

Day 5: Revisiting Favorites & Souvenir Hunting Spend your penultimate day revisiting any favorite spots from the previous days, or exploring new areas you might have missed. Perhaps a scenic drive along a different route, or a visit to a local craft shop for souvenirs. Consider a final visit to a specific cafe or restaurant that caught your eye for a last taste of local cuisine. This is also a good opportunity to stock up on local Yamanashi delicacies or Yuru Camp merchandise from specialty stores.

• Shooting Angles: Focus on details you might have overlooked, or try different lighting conditions at a familiar spot. Look for unique angles or compositions you missed previously.
• Timing: Flexible, based on your preferences and what you wish to revisit or explore further.
• Safety: Ensure your car has enough fuel for the return journey and check tire pressure. Plan your route to avoid rush hour traffic if possible.

Day 6: Departure Enjoy a final Japanese breakfast, perhaps with a last glimpse of Mount Fuji, before beginning your drive back to your car return location. Allow ample time for traffic, especially if returning to Tokyo, and factor in time for refueling and car inspection. Reflect on the serene beauty and heartwarming experiences of your Yuru Camp pilgrimage, carrying home memories as vivid as the anime itself.

This itinerary offers a comprehensive journey through the real-world settings of "Yuru Camp △ Season 3," blending scenic beauty with practical travel advice for an unforgettable adventure. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect local customs, and leave no trace behind.