Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine

Traveler highlights

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine is in Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida, at the start of Mount Fuji’s Yoshida Trail. It is an important place linking Fuji worship with the climbing route and forms part of the World Cultural Heritage site “Fujisan.” Trees surround the grounds, with stone lanterns lining the approach and shrine buildings from different periods along the way. Tradition traces the shrine to a distant worship of Mount Fuji by the legendary prince Yamato Takeru; a shrine hall was later built here in the Enryaku era. The present main sanctuary dates to 1615, while the worship hall, offering hall, kagura hall and Zuishinmon gate were added in 1733. Ancient trees called Fuji Taro Cedar and Fuji Couple Cypress, estimated at about 1,000 years old, stand before the worship hall. From here, visitors can follow the Yoshida Trail and explore the history of Fuji-ko pilgrimages and Oshi guides. The August Yoshida Fire Festival grew from the annual rite of Suwa Shrine on the grounds, bringing climbing faith and local festival tradition together.