Arakurayama Sengen Park, Chugoku Travel Guide

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Capture Japan's iconic scenery at Arakurayama Sengen Park: Mount Fuji, a crimson pagoda, and cherry blossoms create a breathtaking vista.

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Arakurayama Sengen Park

Arakurayama Sengen Park, located in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, is renowned for its breathtaking views of Mount Fuji. The park is home to the Chureito Pagoda, a five-story crimson structure that, when framed with cherry blossoms in spring, creates one of Japan's most iconic and photographed landscapes.

A brief summary to Arakurayama Sengen Park

2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, 2-chome Asama, Yamanashi, 403-0011, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Arakurayama Sengen Park.

Arrive early, especially during cherry blossom season, to avoid crowds and secure the best photo spots.
Wear comfortable shoes for the 398-step climb to the Chureito Pagoda observation deck.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as clear days offer the best views of Mount Fuji.
Bring cash for purchases at the shrine office and for parking, especially during the Cherry Blossom Festival.
Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for stunning lighting effects on Mount Fuji.

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Explore Arakurayama Sengen Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Arakurayama Sengen Park, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, take the Chuo Line to Otsuki Station (approx. 1 hour by express train). Transfer to the Fujikyu Line and get off at Shimoyoshida Station. From Shimoyoshida Station, walk approximately 10 minutes to the Sengen Shrine entrance. Follow the signs and cross the railway line, turning left and then right under the elevated highway. The park entrance is on the right. The train fare from Otsuki to Shimoyoshida is approximately ¥960. A one way ticket from Mt. Fuji Station to Shimoyoshida Station is approximately ¥230.
Walking

From Shimoyoshida Station, the park entrance is approximately a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and turn right, walking a short distance before crossing the railway line. Turn left and follow the path, then turn left again at the road and elevated highway. Turn right under the highway and walk uphill to the park entrance on the right. From the park entrance, it is a 398-step climb to the Chureito Pagoda.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Fujiyoshida Station to Arakurayama Sengen Park. The taxi ride takes approximately 15 minutes and costs between ¥4,000 and ¥4,800. Alternatively, take a taxi to Fujisan Station, then a train to Shimoyoshida Station, followed by a 10-minute walk to the park.
Driving

From the Chuo Expressway, take the Fujiyoshida Nishikatsura Smart I.C. and follow the signs to the park (approx. 10 minutes). Parking is available, but limited, and can be congested, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Parking fees vary by location: lots closer to the park cost ¥1,500 for 6 hours, while lots further away cost ¥1,000 for 6 hours. During the Cherry Blossom Festival, access to the Arakurayama Sengen Park (Chureito P1) parking lot is completely closed, and temporary parking is available at nearby schools.

Discover more about Arakurayama Sengen Park

Arakurayama Sengen Park offers visitors a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Opened in 1959, the park spans over four hectares on the hillside of Mount Arakura. The park's most famous feature is the Chureito Pagoda, officially known as the Fujiyoshida Cenotaph Monument, constructed in 1963 as a memorial to those who died in the wars after 1868.Ascending the Sakuya-hime Stairs, a 200-meter path with 398 steps, leads to the observation deck near the pagoda. The climb is rewarded with panoramic views of Fujiyoshida City and the majestic Mount Fuji. The park is particularly stunning in mid to late April when approximately 650 Yoshino cherry trees are in full bloom, creating a pink sea beneath the pagoda and Mount Fuji.Beyond the Chureito Pagoda, visitors can explore the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, founded in 705 AD. The shrine has a rich history, with emperors and leaders throughout the centuries visiting to offer prayers, including those to stop eruptions of Mount Fuji. Today, the shrine is a place for locals and visitors to wish for easy childbirth and childrearing.The park offers stunning views throughout the year, with crimson foliage in the autumn and frosted treetops mirroring Mount Fuji in the winter.