Overview
Araya Yama Shrine stands in Araya, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Often called simply Yama Shrine without a place-name prefix, it has long been affectionately known to locals as Yamanokami-sama, the deity of the mountain. Said to have been founded in 1534, it once held the rank of prefectural shrine. Revered since ancient times as a god of the mountain and of industry, in recent years it has also become widely known as a shrine of financial fortune. An inner shrine sits at the second station of Mount Fuji, and many visit it together with the main shrine.
Highlights
- ●Faith as a shrine of financial fortune known across Japan
- ●A heritage said to date to its founding in 1534
- ●An inner shrine set at the second station of Mount Fuji
- ●A god of the mountain and industry, fondly called Yamanokami-sama
History
According to shrine tradition, it was founded in 1534 and was later ranked as a prefectural shrine. Known to locals as Yamanokami-sama, it has a history of being cherished as a god of the mountain and of industry. The presence of an inner shrine at the second station of Mount Fuji is a distinctive feature tied to Mount Fuji worship. For detailed origins and festivals, please refer to official sources and on-site guidance.
Access
The shrine sits in Araya, Fujiyoshida City, at the northern foot of Mount Fuji. By rail, the direction of Fujisan Station on the Fujikyuko Line serves as the gateway, and a private car or taxi is convenient from the station. The inner shrine lies at the second station of Mount Fuji, where access can change with the season and road conditions, so be sure to check opening and transport information on official sources before visiting.
Best season
The main shrine can be visited year-round, but spring through autumn, when views of Mount Fuji are clear, are the most comfortable. Conditions at the inner shrine on the second station of Mount Fuji vary greatly by season, so it is best to confirm the open period before going. During fresh greenery or autumn foliage, you can worship in the invigorating air unique to the northern foot of Mount Fuji.
Map
35.4667, 138.7973 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head to Araya in Fujiyoshida from the direction of Fujisan Station on the Fujikyuko Line
- 2Worship the god of the mountain and industry at the main shrine and pray for fortune
- 3After checking the season and access, continue to the inner shrine at the second station of Mount Fuji
- 4Round off the visit with the scenery of northern Fuji and Fujiyoshida's local specialties
Did you know?
💡 Araya Yama Shrine is known nationwide as a shrine of financial fortune, drawing many worshippers who pray for success in work and business. Its background as a long-revered god of the mountain and of industry is said to connect naturally to faith in blessings for industry and prosperity.
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