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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Arakurayama Sengen Park is a park located on a small hill in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, and is known both in Japan and abroad for its beautiful five-story red Chureito Pagoda (commonly known as Chureito Pagoda), cherry blossoms, and Mount Fuji in the foreground, all in one composition. The Chureito Pagoda was erected in 1963 as a memorial to the war dead, and the view of the tower, rows of cherry blossoms, and Mount Fuji is especially popular in spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (autumn leaves). While the park is relatively compact, it has an observation deck, stairs, and walking paths, and is free to visit.
Highlights
- The classic composition of Chureito Pagoda and Mt. Fuji: A photo of the red five-story pagoda in the foreground and Mt. Fuji in the background is an iconic sight of this park. It has been featured frequently on television and social media.
- Cherry blossom season: The cherry blossom trees surrounding the tower are best viewed from late March to mid-April. The scenery is particularly beautiful when in full bloom, and early morning and evening views are popular.
- Observation Deck: From the tower, you can see not only Mt. Fuji, but also the Fuji Five Lakes and the city of Fujiyoshida.
- Seasonal Appearance: The atmosphere changes dramatically with the seasons, from cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves, and snowy scenery in winter.
- Climbing the stone steps and approach to the shrine: You will feel a sense of accomplishment as you climb the steps, and you can enjoy the scenery along the way (it is often stated that there are about 400 steps).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: Accessible on foot from Shimoyoshida Station (Shimoyoshida Station) or Fujisan Station (formerly Fuji-Q Highland/Fujisan Station) on the Fujikyu Railway Line. It is relatively close to Shimoyoshida Station, and you can walk to the park entrance. From Otsuki/Tokyo, take the JR train via Otsuki and transfer to the Fujikyu Railway Line.
- Bus: Depending on the season and route, local buses may be available from Kawaguchiko and Mt. Fuji Station. Please check the timetable and route in advance.
- By car: There are paid parking spaces around the park, but the number of spaces is limited and they tend to fill up, especially during cherry blossom season and on holidays. We recommend using public transportation.
- Estimated travel time (reference)
- Walking from Shimoyoshida Station: Approximately 10-20 minutes (approximate distance from the station to the park entrance)
- Walking from Mt. Fuji Station/Fuji-Q Highland Station: Approximately 20-30 minutes (depending on the walking route)
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Normal: 30 minutes to 1 hour (climb, take photos, and return)
- If you want to take photos and enjoy the scenery at your own pace: 1-2 hours (more time if it gets busy)
- If you are aiming for the peak of the cherry blossoms or the sunset or dawn, we recommend arriving early (taking into account the crowds and waiting times for photos).
Nearby spots
- Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine: A historic shrine associated with worship of Mount Fuji, within walking distance.
- Fuji-Q Highland: Amusement park and attractions (accessible by car or on foot).
- Lake Kawaguchiko: One of the Fuji Five Lakes, it has a wide range of tourist facilities and sightseeing boats.
- Oshino Hakkai: A tourist attraction where you can enjoy traditional spring water and old townscapes (convenient to travel by car).
- Mount Fuji-related museums and visitor centers: Check with your local tourist information center.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets very crowded during cherry blossom season, autumn foliage season, Golden Week, etc. We recommend visiting early in the morning (from dawn to mid-morning) or on a weekday.
- Stairs and physical strength: You will need to climb stone steps to reach the observation point. Wear comfortable shoes and do not push yourself if you have concerns about your legs or hips.
- Parking and Transportation: Parking is limited and can get crowded, so we recommend using public transportation. Parking on the surrounding roads is considered a nuisance.
- Garbage and Toilets: There are toilets on the premises, but they are limited in number. Please take your trash with you or follow instructions.
- Photography etiquette: Many people will be taking photos. Please be considerate of others when using tripods and taking up space, and do not cause any inconvenience to other tourists.
- Drone and photography regulations: Drone flying is generally prohibited or restricted in most cases, so please check the rules of your city, town, village, or administrator.
- Weather and season: In winter, snow and ice can make the trail slippery. Weather can also cause poor visibility (on some days, Mount Fuji cannot be seen), so please check the weather forecast before planning your trip.
- Consideration for worship and surrounding facilities: The area around the Chureito Pagoda and the shrine are places of worship and remembrance. Please behave with moderation.
Note: Before visiting, it's a good idea to check official information and local tourist guides for the latest opening times and transportation access information (such as route suspensions, parking lot operations, and traffic restrictions due to events). We hope you enjoy great photos and safe sightseeing.
