Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Travel Guide

To the southwest foothills of Mount Fuji in the city of Fujinomiya, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha is a prominent Shinto shrine which was established during the 11th century. It worships the greater landscape expanse and ancient forest of Fujisan (rather than focusing on a single main shrine), purpose-built to seek protection from violent volcanic eruptions of Mount Fuji, which was believed to be an embodiment of an angry, punishing god. The head shrine of over 1300 smaller shrines, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha holds over 150 festivals each year and is now World Heritage Listed as a part of the Fujisan Cultural Site. A short distance from Fujinomiya, the Shiraito Falls free-flow as a part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park area. At 150 meters wide and 20 meters tall, it’s considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Japan. In Fujinomiya, the impressive architecture of the Mount Fuji World Heritage Center offers a stunning observation deck looking out to Fujisan, with information on the celebrated symbol. Local Fujinomiya restaurants offer traditional Japanese food and snacks, including the locally-famous yakisoba, rainbow trout, wasabi, and tea.