Kawaguchi Asama Shrine

Overview

Kawaguchi Asama Shrine is an ancient Shinto shrine in Kawaguchi, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture. Standing on the northern foot of Mount Fuji with the Misaka Mountains behind it, the shrine faces the sacred peak across Lake Kawaguchi. As one of the many Asama shrines across Japan, it is inscribed as a component of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration,” carrying the history of Fuji worship to this day.

Highlights

• ●A sacred hall facing Mount Fuji across Lake Kawaguchi
• ●Heritage as a component of a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• ●Solemn air created by towering cedars along the path
• ●An ancient Fuji-worship shrine said to date from 865

History

According to shrine tradition, it was founded in 865 during the Jogan era. It is a candidate for the Shikinaisha (Myojin Taisha) listing and formerly held the rank of prefectural shrine. Belonging to the old Yatsushiro district of Kai Province, the shrine developed against the backdrop of faith meant to calm the eruptions of Mount Fuji. Its precincts cover about 1.6 hectares, and the towering cedar trees lining the approach convey the dignity of an ancient shrine.

Map

35.5311, 138.7749 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head from the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi to Kawaguchi hamlet
2. 2Walk the cedar-lined approach to the worship hall
3. 3Enjoy views of Mount Fuji and the lake from the grounds
4. 4Finish with a stroll along the nearby lakeshore

Did you know?

💡 Its registered religious corporation name is simply “Asama Shrine,” and its view of Mount Fuji lies at the heart of its faith. The name inscribed for the World Heritage listing is “Kawaguchi Asama Shrine,” while the great cedars along the approach speak of the passing centuries.

Nearby spots