Fujinomiya is the south-side gateway to Mt. Fuji and the spiritual headquarters of mountain worship. Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha is the head shrine of more than 1,300 Sengen shrines across Japan; its grounds enclose Wakutama-ike, a pond fed directly by Mt. Fuji's snowmelt percolating through volcanic strata. The shrine traditionally marks the starting point for Fuji pilgrim climbs via the Fujinomiya Trail, the shortest of the four official routes to the summit. A few kilometers north, Yamamiya Sengen Shrine is one of the oldest Sengen shrines and unique in that it has no main hall — the altar is aligned directly with Mt. Fuji, worshipping the mountain itself as the deity. Tall cedar trees naturally frame the view, and the site is registered as part of Mt. Fuji's UNESCO World Heritage inscription (2013). Fujinomiya yakisoba — a regional noodle dish with lard-cracklings and chilled mince — is the local food, served at neighborhood stalls near the shrine.
What Fujinomiya is known for
Top-rated in Fujinomiya
Mt. Fuji
4.6nature
Japan's most iconic peak at 3,776 meters. Climb once for wisdom, but twice makes you a fool, locals say.
Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha
4.4shrine
The principal Mount Fuji shrine featuring clear, snowmelt ponds and classic red architecture.
Yamamiya Sengen Shrine
4.4shrine
Ancient Mount Fuji shrine uniquely featuring no main hall, worshipping the mountain directly.