- Official name: Chureito Pagoda (Peace Memorial Pagoda)
- Location: Within Arakurayama Sengen Park, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
- Built: 1963
- Access: 398 stone steps from Arakura Sengen Shrine to the pagoda
- Height: Five stories
- Purpose: Built as a peace memorial and observation point overlooking Mount Fuji and Fujiyoshida City
- Best time to visit: Late March–mid April (cherry blossoms) and late October–mid November (autumn foliage)
- Opening hours: Open year-round; best visited early morning for clear Mount Fuji views
Visiting Chureito Pagoda & Arakurayama Sengen Park
Chureito Pagoda stands within Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture. Built in 1963 as a peace memorial, the five-storied pagoda sits above the main Arakura Sengen Shrine and offers one of Japan’s most recognised views of Mount Fuji.
What to see
- Arakura Sengen Shrine: Located at the base of the hill, this shrine dates back to the 8th century and is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji.
- Chureito Pagoda: Reached by climbing about 398 steps from the shrine, the pagoda overlooks the city of Fujiyoshida with Mount Fuji in the background.
- Viewpoint Area: A short walk beyond the pagoda leads to an observation deck with an open panoramic view — the same angle often seen in guidebooks and postcards.
Quick facts about Arakurayama Sengen Park & Chureito Pagoda
Chureito Pagoda
- Official name: Arakurayama Sengen Park
- Location: 2-chōme-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
- Established: 1959
- Situated around: Arakura Sengen Shrine and Chureito Pagoda
- Access: 398 stone steps or a sloped walking path from the shrine to the park’s main viewpoint
- Famous for: View of Mount Fuji alongside the five-storied Chureito Pagoda and seasonal cherry blossoms
- Best time to visit: Late March–mid April (cherry blossoms) and late October–mid November (autumn foliage)
- Opening hours: Open year-round; generally accessible from sunrise to sunset
Panoramic view of Mount Fuji
Experience one of Japan’s most iconic sights — Mount Fuji framed by the red, five-storied Chureito Pagoda. From the park’s observation deck, you can see the mountain, Fujiyoshida City, and the surrounding forested slopes in one view.
Historical significance
Arakurayama Sengen Park surrounds Arakura Sengen Shrine, founded in 705 CE and dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji. In 1963, the Chureito Pagoda was built within the park as a peace memorial to honour citizens of Fujiyoshida who lost their lives in war.
Scenic climb
Walk up 398 stone steps from the shrine through the park to reach the pagoda and viewing platform. The route is lined with seasonal trees, and a gentle slope is available for easier access.
Cultural and spiritual connection
Visitors can explore both the Shinto shrine at the base and the pagoda above — two sites that together capture centuries of Japanese spirituality and reverence for Mount Fuji.
Seasonal highlights
- Spring (late March – mid April): Cherry blossoms frame Mount Fuji, creating the postcard-perfect Fuji view.
- Autumn (late October – mid November): The park’s maple trees turn red and gold, offering a vivid contrast to the mountain backdrop.
Plan your visit to Arakurayama Sengen Park
Arakurayama Sengen Park and Chureito Pagoda are open year-round and can be visited at any time of the day. However, the area is generally accessible from sunrise to sunset, as there are no gates or ticketed entry points.
Best time to visit:
- Early morning: Clearer skies and fewer visitors, ideal for photography.
- Spring (late March – mid April): Cherry blossoms line the path to the pagoda and park viewpoint.
- Autumn (late October – mid November): The hillside turns vibrant with autumn foliage, offering clear views of Mount Fuji.
Closed:
- The park and pagoda remain open year-round, but access may be restricted during heavy snowfall or maintenance periods.
Both are located in Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture, within walking distance of one another.
- Address: 2-chōme-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0031, Japan
- Nearest Station: Shimoyoshida Station (Fujikyuko Line) — about a 10-minute walk to the park entrance.
- Access from Tokyo: Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Otsuki, then transfer to the Fujikyuko Line to Shimoyoshida Station (around 2 hours total).
- Timing: Visit early in the morning for the best lighting and minimal crowds.
- Climb: Be prepared for a 398-step staircase to reach the Chureito Pagoda viewpoint; there’s also a gentler slope available.
- Weather: Mount Fuji visibility depends on weather; clear days after rainfall offer the best views.
- Seasonal visits:Spring brings cherry blossoms; autumn offers colourful foliage.Summer has lush greenery, while winter provides snow-capped views of Mount Fuji.
- Facilities: Rest areas, vending machines, and benches are available near the viewpoint; toilets are located near the shrine base.
- Etiquette: Remain quiet around the shrine area, avoid blocking pathways during photography, and use the bins provided.
- Parking: Paid parking is available near the base of Arakura Sengen Shrine for those arriving by car.
History of Arakura Sengen Shrine
Welcome to the captivating history of Arakura Sengen Shrine, where tales of spirituality and natural beauty intertwine. Located in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, this sacred site holds a wealth of fascinating stories that span centuries.
Origin: Arakura Sengen Shrine traces its origins back to the 9th century when it was established as a place of worship dedicated to the Shinto goddess Konohanasakuya-hime. This deity, often associated with Mount Fuji and the blooming of cherry blossoms, symbolizes renewal, beauty, and the transient nature of life.
Lesser known fact: A lesser-known fact about the shrine is that its original location was near the base of Mount Fuji. However, due to volcanic eruptions and subsequent changes in the landscape, the shrine was moved to its current hilltop position in the late 16th century. This relocation not only preserved the spiritual essence of the shrine but also granted visitors stunning vistas of the surrounding area.
Other relevant information: While the awe-inspiring Chureito Pagoda steals the spotlight, Arakura Sengen Shrine offers more than meets the eye. Venture off the beaten path and meander through its serene grounds to discover hidden treasures. Seek out ancient stone lanterns, meticulously maintained gardens, and quiet paths that wind through the enchanting forested areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arakura Sengen Shrine
Arakura Sengen Shrine is a sacred Shinto shrine located in Fujiyoshida, Japan, known for its iconic view of Mount Fuji and the Chureito Pagoda.
It is located in the town of Fujiyoshida in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, and can be easily accessed by train or bus from Tokyo. The nearest train station is Shimoyoshida station.
The best time to visit the shrine is during the cherry blossom season in spring, from late March to mid-April, when the cherry blossom trees alongside the path to the shrine are in full bloom, creating a magical and picturesque view.
The shrine is open every day from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, with the last admission at 3:30 pm. It is closed during New Year's holiday (December 31st to January 1st).
You can admire the majestic view of Mount Fuji, walk along the path flanked by cherry blossom trees, learn about the 8th-century shrine's dedication to goddess Konohanasakuya, immerse yourself in the Shinto religion, visit several shrines dedicated to different gods, take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful garden, and experience a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
No, there is no entrance fee for the shrine.
Yes, photography is permitted inside the shrine, but it is customary to ask for permission before photographing visitors or worshipers.
The shrine has stone staircases leading up to the main hall, which may be difficult to navigate for those with mobility issues. However, the garden area is accessible.
