Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: The Most Iconic Mt. Fuji View with the Five-Story Pagoda

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic spots, famous for its breathtaking view of Mt. Fuji framed by the Chureito five-story pagoda.

Every year, visitors from around the world come here hoping to capture that picture-perfect scene, Mt. Fuji rising majestically behind the red pagoda.

During cherry blossom season, the scenery becomes even more magical as around 650 sakura trees bloom in full pink splendor, creating one of Japan’s most photogenic landscapes.
Above the shrine sits Arakurayama Sengen Park, where the Chureito Pagoda and its nearby viewing deck offer that classic postcard view of Mt. Fuji.

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While the spring cherry blossoms are undeniably stunning, winter brings its own charm, the quiet countryside blanketed in snow, farms and houses shimmering beneath Mt. Fuji’s white peak.

Even from the parking area beside the shrine, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Japan’s most beloved mountain.

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About Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine

The shrine is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mt. Fuji and volcanoes in Japanese mythology. She is revered as a symbol of protection, safe childbirth, and family harmony.

Founded in 705 AD, Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine also enshrines the local guardian deity of the Arakura region in Yamanashi Prefecture.
For centuries, it has stood as a sacred place where locals come to pray for safety, prosperity, and peace within their families.

Highlights of Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: The Great Torii Gate

Climbing the stone steps toward the shrine, you’ll first be greeted by the impressive Great Torii Gate.
According to legend, during a major eruption of Mt. Fuji in 807 AD, the imperial court sent envoys here to pray for the volcano’s calm.
Emperor Heizei himself granted the title “Japan’s Greatest Mountain” and inscribed it, this calligraphy still adorns the shrine’s grand torii today.

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: The Sakuya-hime Stairway

To reach the stunning viewpoint, you’ll need to climb 398 steps known as the Sakuya-hime Stairway, named after the mountain goddess herself.
If you exercise regularly, the climb isn’t as exhausting as some bloggers make it sound!
Take your time, each stop along the way rewards you with a new, beautiful angle of Mt. Fuji.

You’ll pass Atago Shrine, dedicated to the deity of fire prevention👇

And you’ll even spot warning signs about bears, monkeys, and wild boars along the trail, a reminder that nature is alive here! 👇

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: Chureito Pagoda

The bright red Chureito Pagoda was built to honor the fallen soldiers from Fujiyoshida City who lost their lives in wars such as the Russo-Japanese and Pacific Wars.

Today, it’s not only a memorial but also a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. 👇

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: The Observation Deck

This is the moment everyone climbs for — the famous view of Mt. Fuji and the five-story pagoda.
The vivid red of the pagoda contrasts beautifully against the pure white peak of Mt. Fuji.
It’s one of those surreal moments when a scene you’ve seen in countless photos finally unfolds before your eyes.

However, the beauty comes with crowds.
During weekends or cherry blossom season, expect large crowds and even crowd control at the viewing platform.
Visitors are often allowed to enter in small groups of 30–50 people, each given about 5 minutes to take photos. If you want that perfect shot, be quick and patient!

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: The Hilltop Pavilion

If you continue walking up past the observation deck, a small trail leads to a pavilion that offers a different angle of Mt. Fuji, quieter, more peaceful, and equally stunning.

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It’s the perfect place to take a postcard-worthy photo away from the crowd.🤩🤩

Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine: The Main Shrine Hall

After admiring the iconic view, don’t forget to visit the main shrine building below.
Here, you can purchase omamori (amulets) for family safety, good fortune, and protection in travel.

A small path to the left of the main hall leads to a serene, lesser-known sub-shrine called Arahama Shrine, surrounded by trees and tranquility.

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Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine Visitor Information

• Admission: Free
• Address: 2-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture
• Office Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

How to Get to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine

• By Car: Free parking is available for up to 87 cars (note: during cherry blossom season, parking may require a small fee).
• By Train: Take the Fujikyu Railway Line to Shimoyoshida Station, from there, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the shrine.

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