Inquiry

Sacred Mt.Fuji

Following in the Footsteps of Ascetics

Explore a 500-year-old Mandala of Mt. Fuji.
Discover the ancient beliefs about Mt. Fuji, experience them, and feel their meaning.
We invite you on a special journey unlike any other.

The Fuji Mandala

The Silk Painting of the Fuji Mandala is an Important Cultural Property of Japan. It was likely painted in the late Muromachi period by Motonobu Kano, a famous artist and the second leader of the Kano school. He was a painter officially chosen by the shogunate (military government)

Mt. Fuji has been admired for its beauty and is respected as a sacred place for worship and spiritual training. The belief system around Mt. Fuji called "Fuji Shinkō" (Mt. Fuji Faith), became very popular. The mandala shows vivid scenes of pilgrims climbing Mt. Fuji and people deeply engaged in worship.

Lean More

Various Forms of Worship for Mt. Fuji

遥 拝

Yōhai

Worship from Afar: Yōhai
"Yōhai" means praying from a distance. In the past, when Mt. Fuji erupted frequently, people thought the flames were a sign of god's anger. Since they couldn't go near the mountain, they chose specific locations to pray.

One such place is Yamamiya Sengen Shrine, where a yōhai area remains unchanged, preserving its historical atmosphere.

登 拝

Tōhai

What is Tōhai?
Tōhai means climbing Mt. Fuji while praying for its blessings. Hasegawa Kakugyō, a Shugendō practitioner who trained at Hitoana in Fujinomiya, started the Fuji-kō faith. He encouraged people to "worship Mt. Fuji, connect with its spiritual power, make heartfelt wishes, and show gratitude."

This belief became popular among ordinary people during the Edo period, inspiring many to climb to the summit of Mt. Fuji.

参 拝

Sanpai

People initially worshipped Mt. Fuji itself as a god, a form of nature worship. Over time, they began visiting shrines that revered the mountain as a sacred object. During the late Edo period, improved roads made travel easier, and visiting shrines and temples became very popular among common people.

"Before the internet or social media, the popularity of climbing Mt. Fuji spread through works like the Fuji Mandala and ukiyo-e prints. These served as advertisements, capturing imaginations and inspiring people to visit the mountain they had only dreamed of.
Even today, the sacred power and spiritual energy of Mt. Fuji continue to inspire and draw people, just as it did long ago. "

Exploring the Path of Faith: The Fuji Mandala Experience Tour

"This 2-day, 1-night tour takes you to key locations featured in the Fuji Mandala, including:
-Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha
-Yamamiya Sengen Shrine
-Murayama Sengen Shrine
-Murayama Trail
By exploring these sites and engaging in hands-on activities,
you can gain a deeper appreciation of the ancient faith surrounding Mt. Fuji.

day1

01

The Tour Begins at the Mt.FUJI World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka

Lean More
02

Guided Tour: Explore Mt. Fuji Faith with a Virtual Climbing Experience

Lean More
03

Lunch: Fujinomiya's Local Foods- Fujinomiya Yakisoba & Rainbow Trout Dishes

Lean More
04

Discover the Origins of Mt. Fuji Climbing at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha

Lean More
05

A Relaxing Stay to Soothe Your Body and Mind

Lean More

The Tour Begins at the Mt.FUJI World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka

Located near the torii gate of Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha in Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture, 〝Mt.FUJI World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka〟is the starting point of the tour. Designed by renowned architect Shigeru Ban, winner of the 2014 Pritzker Prize, the exhibition hall features a reverse cone-shaped wooden lattice structure inspired by Mt. Fuji. Inside, a spiral ramp takes visitors through displays and videos simulating the experience of climbing the mountain.

The exhibits cover diverse topics, such as Mt. Fuji's ecosystems, its beauty celebrated in art and literature, and its connection to nature, culture, faith, and art.

From the observation hall, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. On clear days, the majestic mountain stands in harmony with the surrounding landscape and leaves a lasting impression. This center offers a wonderful opportunity to learn about Mt. Fuji's significance and beauty, setting the tone for the exciting journey ahead.

Guided Tour: Explore Mt. Fuji Faith with a Virtual Climbing Experience

Inside the inverted cone of the center, a spiral ramp leads visitors through six exhibit zones, creating a 193-meter-long journey that simulates climbing Mt. Fuji. Videos projected onto the walls enhance this virtual climbing experience as you ascend.

Knowledgeable guides will walk you through the exhibits, including the "Sacred Mountain" area on the 4th floor, where you can see a life-size replica of the Mandala displayed at its original height of 180.2 cm. This mandala is the centerpiece of the tour, offering a preview of the journey ahead. (Note: Photography is not permitted in the "Sacred Mountain" area for general visitors.)

Through the exhibits, you'll explore Mt. Fuji's nature, history, culture, faith, and art, experiencing the sensation of climbing the mountain while deepening your understanding of its significance. This immersive experience sets the stage for a meaningful connection to Mt. Fuji's rich heritage.

Mt.FUJI World Heritage Centre, Shizuoka
Address: 5-12 Miya-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka
Phone: 0544-21-3776
Website: https://mtfuji-whc.jp/

Lunch: Fujinomiya's Local Foods- Fujinomiya Yakisoba & Rainbow Trout Dishes

Savor Fujinomiya's renowned local dishes: Fujinomiya Yakisoba and fresh rainbow trout. Fujinomiya Yakisoba, celebrated for its unique flavor and chewy texture, won the Grand Prize at the 2023 JAPAN Fes Konamon Contest in New York. Its springy noodles and special sauce create a delicious balance that become a local favorite.

You'll also enjoy dishes made with fresh rainbow trout, raised in the pure underground waters of Mt. Fuji. This delicate fish reflects the natural beauty and flavors of Fujinomiya's cuisine.

This meal is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the distinctive tastes of Fujinomiya while experiencing its rich culinary culture.

Teppanyaki Restaurant Jinenbou
Address: 4-12 Nishimachi, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka
Phone: 0544-26-2829
Website: https://www.teppan-jinenbou.com
Note: The lunch venue may vary depending on the tour date and the number of participants.

Discover the Origins of Mt. Fuji Climbing at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha

Located in the heart of Fujinomiya City, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha is the head shrine of over 1,300 Sengen shrines across Japan. It is the oldest shrine in the Tokai region and the primary shrine of Suruga Province. The main hall, built by Tokugawa Ieyasu, is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

In ancient times, people feared Mt. Fuji's eruptions, believing them to reflect the anger of the "Fuji God". According to shrine records, the origins of the Sengen Tasisha date back to 27 BCE when the Fuji God was enshrined at the mountain base to calm the deity's anger.

By the late Heian period, as eruptions subsided, more people began climbing Mt. Fuji. The "Silk Painting of the Fuji Mandala" created during the Muromachi period, illustrates pilgrims visiting Sengen Taisha, purifying themselves at the sacred Wakutama Pond, and ascending the mountain.

On this tour, you'll experience exclusive access to the shrine, including stories from shrine priests, a formal prayer ceremony, and a guided exploration of the grounds. You'll also view a replica of the Fuji Mandala, a treasure of the shrine. This rare opportunity offers insights not usually available to the general public.

Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha
Address: Miya-cho, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka
Phone: 0544-27-2002
Website: http://fuji-hongu.or.jp/sengen/

A Relaxing Stay to Soothe Your Body and Mind

After a day of exploring and learning about "Mt. Fuji- Sacred Place and Source of Artistic Inspiration," relax at the tranquil hillside inn with breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji's ridgeline. Your evening stay is at Kappo Ryokan Tachibana, a traditional Japanese inn that offers a peaceful and rejuvenating retreat.

The inn features the timeless elegance of Japanese design and offers warm and heartfelt hospitality. Seasonal dishes crafted with fresh local ingredients highlight the delicate flavors and blessings of Mt. Fuji, making your stay both restful and memorable.

Unwind in the serene atmosphere of the inn, allowing both your body and mind to relax as you prepare for the unique experiences awaiting you the next day.

Kappo Ryokan Tachibana
Address: 1085-4 Nonaka, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka
Phone: 0544-27-7000
Website: https://www.tachibana-fuji.co.jp
Note: The accommodation may vary depending on the tour date and the number of participants.

day2

01

Walking the Tree-Lined Path of Yamamiya Sengen Shrine in the Crisp Morning Air

Lean More
02

Meeting a Yamabushi at Murayama Sengen Shrine: The Training Base for Mt. Fuji Ascetics

Lean More
03

Receiving a Special Blessing at Mt. Fuji Kōhō-ji Dainichidō

Lean More
04

Dressed in White, Cleansing Body and Mind with Mizugori

Lean More
05

Walking the Murayama Trail with a Purified Mind and Body

Lean More

Walking the Tree-Lined Path of Yamamiya Sengen Shrine in the Crisp Morning Air

On the second day of the tour, start your morning with a visit to Yamamiya Sengen Shrine, just a 20-minute taxi ride from your in. Located along Mt. Fuji Skyline, this shrine is believed to be the original site of Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha before it was relocated to its current location Ōmiya.

Unlike the other shrines, Yamamiya Sengen Shrine does not have a main hall. Instead, it features a yōhai (worship) site where Mt. Fuji itself is honored as a deity. According to legend, several attempts to construct a shrine building were destroyed by strong winds, thought to be a sign from the gods.

The path leading to the shrine is lined with taller cedar trees and stone lanterns, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere. As you walk this quiet path in the morning, you can feel the deep reverence that ancient followers of Mt. Fuji's faith held for the sacred mountain.

Yamamiya Sengen Shrine
Address: 740 Yamamiya, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka

Meeting a Yamabushi at Murayama Sengen Shrine: The Training Base for Mt. Fuji Ascetics

The next stop on the tour is Murayama Sengen Shrine, home to the annual Mt. Fuji Opening Festival held every July. Before the 1868 separation of Shinto and Buddhism, this site served as a syncretic religious center, blending both traditions. Traces of this history remain today, such as the two entrances to the grounds and the coexistence of the shrine and Dainichidō Hall.

As Mt. Fuji’s eruptions calmed, ascetics seeking the mountain’s divine and spiritual power began venturing into its sacred depths. The Fuji Mandala places Mt. Fuji Kōhō-ji Temple, located within Murayama Sengen Shrine, at the center of its depiction. The mandala portrays practitioners traveling from Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha to Kōhō-ji, purifying their bodies and spirits through ritual water cleansing before ascending to the mountain’s summit.

During this tour, you will meet one of the few remaining yamabushi (mountain ascetic monks) who preserve the ancient traditions of Mt. Fuji's spiritual heritage. This rare experience offers insights and connections that go beyond a typical shrine visit.

Receiving a Special Blessing at Mt. Fuji Kōbō-ji Dainichidō

Mt. Fuji Kōhō-ji Dainichidō is usually closed to the public, but on this tour, you will be guided inside by a yamabushi (mountain monk) from Murayama. Inside the hall, you will see a replica of the Fuji Mandala, helping you learn more about the history of Mt. Fuji worship. You will also see a statue of Dainichi Nyorai (the Cosmic Buddha) and some old Buddhist statues and artifacts, including headless statues from a time when Buddhism faced suppression in Japan.

As part of your visit, you will participate in Kaji Kito, a blessing ritual performed to protect against illness, bad luck, and other misfortunes. In the past, monks endured rigorous training on Mt. Fuji, enduring rigorous training to connect with Mt. Fuji's spiritual energy. They believed this connection allowed them to bring blessings of health and safety to others.

Dressed in White, Cleansing Body and Mind with Mizugori

At Murayama Sengen Shrine, a mizugori area and an altar for fire rituals still remain, preserving the practices of the ancient mountain monks during their spiritual training.

Mizugori is a purification ritual where cold water is poured over the body to cleanse it before praying to gods or buddhas. The Fuji Mandala depicts this ritual as it was performed long ago, using sacred water from Mt. Fuji to wash away sins and purify the body and mind before climbing the mountain.

Even today, mizugori is a key part of the Mt. Fuji Opening Festival held every July. On this tour, you will dress in traditional white robes and experience this ritual under the guidance of a yamabushi. Many participants describe the experience as refreshing and spiritually awakening.

Murayama Sengen Shrine (Mount Fuji’s Kōhō-ji Temple)
Address: 1151 Murayama, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka

Walking the Murayama Trail with a Purified Mind and Body

Following the mizugori purification ritual at Murayama Sengen Shrine, participants, now refreshed in both body and mind, will embark on a guided walk along the Murayama Trail. This ancient trail, once used by mountain monks, is the oldest climbing route on Mt. Fuji.

The journey begins with a 20-minute drive from Murayama to Nishi-Usuzuka, situated at an elevation of about 1,250 meters. After enjoying lunch at the starting point, the group will set out on the trail. Along the way, you'll pass historic sites such as Chūgū Hachiman-dō (also known as Umagaeshi) and the ruins of Nyonin-dō, where women, who were once forbidden to climb Mt. Fuji, would stop to pray.

This part of the trail lies in the subalpine zone, featuring a lush landscape of deciduous trees and moss-covered ground, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere. Among all of the routes on Mt. Fuji, the Murayama Trail offers a unique and profound connection to nature. Walking through the green forest and surrounded by the mountain's refreshing energy, participants will complete the two-day tour with a deep sense of renewal.

Nishi-Utsuzuka Parking Lot
Address: Awakura, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka

Tour overview

Tour Price Example

From ¥120,000 per person(Based on accommodation at Kappo Ryokan Tachibana)
  • * Same price for adults and children
  • * Prices may vary for groups of fewer than 4 participants
  • * Rates depend on the accommodation plan selected
  • * The fee includes: guide fee, interpreter fee, local transportation (taxi), lunch for two days, one-night stay with two meals, initial offering for formal worship at Sengen Taisha, entry fee for MT.FUJI World Heritage Center,Shizuoka and the fee for the Kaji and Mizugori experience.
Inquiry

Gallery of the Tour

Notice

  • 2024.12.5This website is currently in a pre-release stage. Please note that prices and content may change in the future. For detailed information about the tours, feel free to contact us.

Getting Here

Fujinomiya City is at the base of Mt. Fuji, with easy access and beautiful views.
From Tokyo: Take the Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station and get off at JR Shin-Fuji Station. It takes only 70 minutes.
Pick-Up Service: A driver will meet you at JR Shin-Fuji Station.
Note: Pick-up from JR Fujinomiya Station is also available if needed.

map transportation