Seisen Ryo (Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Seisenryo is a farm, accommodation, and dining complex located in the Kiyosato Plateau in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Its appeal lies in the fresh highland air and the magnificent views of the Yatsugatake mountain range, and it is particularly famous for its rich soft serve ice cream and dairy products made with Jersey cow milk. It offers accommodation, a restaurant, a retail shop, and hands-on programs (such as farm tours and milking experiences), and is visited by a wide range of people, from families to couples and photography enthusiasts. Guests can also enjoy the four seasons (fresh greenery, flowers, summer escapes, autumn leaves, and winter scenery) that are typical of a high-altitude resort.

Highlights

• Seisenryo's soft serve ice cream and dairy products: Their specialty is their rich soft serve ice cream made with Jersey milk. You can enjoy it at the shop or cafe.
• View/Panoramic scenery: On a clear day, this is a viewpoint where you can see the Yatsugatake mountain range and Mount Fuji in the distance.
• Ranches and animal interactions: Areas and viewing spots where you can interact with cows and sheep (opening times vary by facility).
• Walking trails and plateau walks: Perfect for leisurely strolls through the surrounding plateau paths and flower fields.
• Accommodation/Log House Experience: If you stay overnight, you can enjoy the highland scenery in the mornings and evenings and stargazing.
• Seasonal Events: There are seasonal attractions, such as spring to autumn flowers, summer escapes, and autumn foliage season.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: Kiyosato Station on the JR Koumi Line or Kobuchizawa Station, a tourist hub. From Kiyosato Station, it is approximately a 10-15 minute taxi ride (approximately).
• By car: Approximately 30 minutes from Nagasaka IC or Kobuchizawa IC on the Chuo Expressway via national and prefectural roads (depending on road conditions). Parking is available nearby.
• Bus: Depending on the season and day of the week, local buses and tourist buses operate from JR lines and the Chuo Expressway. However, there may be fewer buses during the winter and on weekdays, so it is recommended to check in advance.
• Taxi: It is convenient to take a taxi from Kiyosato Station or Kobuchizawa Station. If you are in a group or have luggage, it is more comfortable to take a car.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short tour (soft serve ice cream + shop): 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Leisurely sightseeing (viewing, strolling, lunch): Half day (2-4 hours)
• If you include experiences and sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day
• Staying overnight: 1 night (enjoy the starry sky at night and a morning walk on the plateau for a fulfilling stay)

Nearby spots

• Kiyosato Plateau area: There are many spots for plateau walks and observation.
• Moegi-no-Mura: A popular spot with souvenir shops, cafes, live music venues, and more (about a few minutes to 10 minutes by car).
• Kiyosato Terrace/Beautiful Forest: A recommended place for views and strolls.
• Yatsugatake Ranch Area: There are other ranches and activity facilities scattered around the area.
• Kobuchizawa area: Abundant tourist attractions such as outlets, wineries, and hiking trails.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: The park is extremely crowded on weekends, holidays, Golden Week, summer vacation, and during the autumn foliage season. Parking lots may fill up, so please leave with plenty of time or consider using public transportation.
• Weather and clothing: The temperature on the plateau is lower than on the plains, and it is often chilly in the mornings and evenings. The weather is changeable, so please bring something to wear over your clothes.
• Public Transportation: Buses run infrequently on weekdays and at night, so be sure to check your return transportation options in advance. You may also consider arranging a taxi.
• Respect for animals: Please do not touch or feed the animals on the farm. Please follow the signs and instructions of staff to enjoy the park safely.
• Manners: To protect the natural environment, please take your trash home or dispose of it in designated areas. Fires and camping must be limited to designated areas.
• Check business information: Business hours, seasonal operations, and dates for various experience programs may change, so be sure to check the official website or facility for the latest information before visiting.