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Kawaguchi Asama Shrine: Gateway to Mount Fuji's Sacred Heritage

Discover a serene Shinto shrine with breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, ancient cedar trees, and a rich spiritual history dating back to 865.

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Kawaguchi Asama Shrine, nestled in Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to Mount Fuji. Founded in 865 to appease the volcano's eruptions, it offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, attracting visitors seeking spiritual connection and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Kawaguchi Asama Shrine

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
  • Take the 30-minute uphill walk to Tenku no Torii for stunning views of Mount Fuji, but wear comfortable shoes.
  • Explore the seven sacred cedar trees, some over 1,200 years old, and learn about their individual significance.
  • Attend the Magomi Matsuri festival on April 25 to witness the Chigo no Mai ritual dance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kawaguchiko Station, take the red line sightseeing bus to the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum bus stop. The bus ride takes approximately 20 minutes. From the bus stop, walk approximately 15 minutes to the shrine. The bus fare is around ¥440.

  • Walking

    From the Kawaguchiko Post Office bus stop, walk for about 4 minutes down the road; the shrine will be on your right. To reach the Tenku no Torii from the main shrine, it's approximately a 30-minute uphill walk. Note that the path is steep in places.

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Discover more about Kawaguchi Asama Shrine

Kawaguchi Asama Shrine is more than just a picturesque location; it's a journey into the spiritual heart of Japan and its relationship with the iconic Mount Fuji. Established in 865 on the command of Emperor Seiwa, the shrine was built to calm the volcanic activity of Mt. Fuji, which had erupted the previous year, and to pray for regional peace. For nearly 1,200 years, it has been a center of faith, drawing worshippers and climbers alike. The shrine is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji and volcanoes. As one of approximately 1,300 Asama shrines in Japan, Kawaguchi Asama holds a special place in the nation's spiritual landscape. The shrine is part of the Mount Fuji UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, designated in 2013, a testament to its cultural and historical significance. The grounds feature ancient buildings and remnants of Mount Fuji worship, offering a glimpse into the past. The striking cedar avenue leading to the main approach and the seven sacred cedars, some over 1,200 years old, are particularly noteworthy. Two of these cedars, known as Futahashira, are believed to bring luck in matchmaking. Visitors can experience the three practices of worshipping Mount Fuji here: yohai (worship from a distance), shugen (training), and tohai (worship through climbing). The Tenku no Torii (gate in the sky), built in 2019, offers a vantage point to pray to Mount Fuji from a distance. The annual Magomi Matsuri festival on April 25 features Chigo no Mai, a ritual dance performance by young children to prevent earthquakes and eruptions. Suwa Shrine, located within the grounds, hosts a festival on September 11 featuring Sumo wrestling.

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