Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine

Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine is the head shrine for over 1,300 Sengen shrines across Japan. Established over a thousand years ago, the shrine is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-hime, the Shinto goddess associated with Mount Fuji. This deity is believed to protect against volcanic eruptions, and the shrine's purpose has historically been linked to appeasing the mountain's spirits.

The main hall, known for its striking red lacquer and ornate woodwork, was reconstructed in 1604 by Tokugawa Ieyasu. This hall is a prime example of early Edo-period architecture and has been designated an Important Cultural Property. The shrine complex is also home to Wakutama-ike, a sacred pond fed by the melted snow of Mount Fuji. This pond is renowned for its clarity and purity, and its waters are considered sacred and often used in rituals and ceremonies.

Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha is a religious site and the traditional starting point for pilgrims ascending Mount Fuji. Historically, climbers would begin their journey here, seeking blessings for a safe ascent. The shrine hosts several festivals throughout the year, with the most notable being the annual Fuji Festival in May, where participants honor the mountain’s significance in Japanese culture.