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Shrine · Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine
The shrine among giant cedars from which pilgrims set out to climb Fuji via the Yoshida Trail, with a large wooden torii; part of Mount Fuji World Heritage.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Discover
About Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine
Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine is in Fujiyoshida at the base of Fuji’s northern slope. It is dedicated to the mountain deity and marks the traditional starting point of the Yoshida Trail, the most used route for the climb. For centuries Fuji worshippers, the Fuji-ko, prayed there before beginning their ascent. The shrine is part of Mount Fuji World Heritage.
The approach is an avenue of cedars and stone lanterns that leads to a large wooden torii, one of the largest in the country, rebuilt periodically. Behind it stand the gate, the worship hall and the main hall, painted red with colorful carvings dating from the early 17th century. Two giant cedars more than a thousand years old stand beside the halls.
Behind the shrine a wooden gate with a sacred rope marks the start of the Yoshida Trail. Today’s climbers usually begin from the fifth station, but some still walk the entire route on foot from the shrine, as the old pilgrims did, a long trek through the forest.
At the end of August the shrine organizes the Yoshida Fire Festival, which closes the climbing season. At night dozens of large wooden torches are lit along the town’s main street, and mountain-shaped portable shrines are paraded through the streets.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 30 to 45 minutes.
Best time
In the morning, with light between the cedars and fewer visitors. The Yoshida Fire Festival takes place at the end of August, drawing large crowds: confirm the dates.
How to get there
Fujisan Station, operated by Fujikyu, is about a 20-minute walk away; buses departing from the station stop at Sengen Jinja‑mae, near the entrance. From Kawaguchiko, it’s about a 10-minute bus ride.
Tip
Notice the wood of the large torii and the giant cedars behind the hall. If you plan to climb Fuji, visiting the shrine before the ascent follows the pilgrims’ tradition.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine
Why is the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine important?
It’s the traditional starting point of the Yoshida Trail, the most used route to climb Fuji, and is part of the mountain’s World Heritage site.
Is there an entrance fee to enter Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine?
There is no charge to enter the shrine.
How do I get to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine?
By bus to Sengen Jinja‑mae or on foot in about 20 minutes from Fujisan Station on the Fujikyu line.
What is the Yoshida Fire Festival?
It’s the shrine festival at the end of August that marks the end of the Fuji climbing season, with large torches lit at night along the town’s main street.
Can you climb Fuji on foot from the shrine?
Yes, the Yoshida Trail starts behind the shrine, but it’s a very long walk. Most hikers start at the fifth station, at about 2,300 meters.
Beyond the guide
