TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, located in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture, is a central shrine in Sengen faith, with Konohanasakuyahime as its main deity. It has been associated with worship of Mount Fuji since ancient times and has played an important role as a base for worshipping Mount Fuji (mountain climbing and religious climbing). In 2013, it was registered as a World Heritage Site as one of the constituent heritage sites of "Mount Fuji - a place of worship and a source of artistic inspiration."
The temple grounds are full of sights, including the majestic main hall, tower gate, large torii gate on the approach to the shrine, and Wakutamaike Pond, which is filled with pure spring water, and the scenery is charming, with history and nature blending in harmony.Many worshippers come to pray for safety before climbing, for their first visit of the year, and for seasonal festivals.
Highlights
- Main hall, worship hall, tower gate: The beauty of the traditional shrine architecture. You can worship in a dignified atmosphere.
- Wakutama Pond: A highly transparent spring-fed pond within the temple grounds. This pure spring, fed by underground water from Mt. Fuji, is a popular photo spot. It has been considered a sacred place since ancient times.
- Large torii gate and approachThe large torii gate and the approach to the shrine are a majestic sight. You can enjoy the different faces of the four seasons.
- Goshuin and amulets: You can receive goshuin stamps and various amulets at the shrine office. There are also amulets for praying for safe climbing of Mount Fuji (please note the reception hours at the shrine office).
- Festivals and annual events: You can experience local culture through the annual festival, New Year's first shrine visit, and traditional events (please check official information in advance for event dates).
- Relationship with climbing Mount Fuji: Since ancient times, it has been the starting point and place of worship for those climbing Mount Fuji, and climbers visit here during the climbing season to pray for safety.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Fujinomiya Station on the JR Minobu Line. Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by taxi from the station.
- bus: You may be able to use the Fujinomiya City Loop Bus or local buses at stops such as "Asama Taisha-mae." Please check the official city transport information for timetables.
- car: Accessible via the Tomei Expressway "Fuji IC" or the Shin-Tomei Expressway. There is a parking lot for visitors nearby (some with paid and some with free parking), so it may be full during busy times.
- By ShinkansenFrom Tokyo, get off at Shin-Fuji Station on the Tokaido Shinkansen, then take a local bus or taxi for approximately 20-30 minutes (depending on transfers).
- Estimated travel time (from station): Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from Fujinomiya Station, or 5-10 minutes by bus or taxi.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short time (worship only): 30 to 45 minutes (does not include visiting the worship hall, walking around Wakutama Pond, or purchasing a goshuin or amulet)
- Standard: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (including use of the shrine, Wakutama Pond, shrine office and photography)
- Leisurely walks including strolls around the area: 2 hours or more (if you also visit nearby museums, historical sites, and eat meals)
Nearby spots
- Around Wakutama Pond: A clear pond located right next to Sengen Taisha Shrine. Recommended as a strolling spot.
- Shiraito Falls: A famous waterfall near Fujinomiya City. Approximately 20-30 minutes by car (a popular tourist spot).
- Mount Fuji World Heritage Center: A facility with exhibits related to the culture, nature, and mountaineering of Mount Fuji. Convenient for learning and sightseeing.
- Fujinomiya Yakisoba store: Local gourmet food, recommended for lunch or a light meal.
- Trailhead near Mount Fuji Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine: There is a road leading to the Fujinomiya 5th Station, so it is used as a base for preparing for mountain climbing during the climbing season.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Busy periodThe shrine is extremely crowded during New Year's visits (January), Golden Week, the summer Mount Fuji climbing season, and festival days. The parking lot is likely to fill up, and there may be long lines at the shrine office to get a goshuin stamp or amulet.
- Worship etiquettePlease observe basic manners, such as bowing once at the torii gate, purifying your hands and mouth at the temizuya (purification fountain), bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once at the worship hall (the proper way to worship at a shrine). Please also be considerate by remaining quiet within the shrine grounds and taking any trash home with you.
- photo shoot: Generally, photography is permitted within the temple grounds, but please refrain from taking photos of religious ceremonies and festivals or those involved, or follow the instructions. Do not enter indoors or restricted areas.
- About Wakutama Pond: Although very pure water springs from the spring, please follow the signs indicating areas that are off-limits and whether the water is safe to drink. Please avoid crossing the fences to protect the natural environment.
- Weather and Seasonal CautionIn winter, beware of the cold and frozen roads. In summer, it coincides with the Mount Fuji climbing season, and traffic in the area will be congested, so be sure to arrive early. In rainy weather, be careful when walking as there are slippery areas.
- Temple seal and shrine office reception: The shrine office often has limited reception hours (daytime is the general rule of thumb). It may take some time to collect your gift when it is busy, so please make sure you arrive with plenty of time to spare.
We recommend checking the official website or Fujinomiya City tourist information for the latest information on worship, transportation, and festival schedules before visiting. We hope you enjoy a safe and pleasant visit.
