The shrine owns the entirety of Mount Fuji's summit above the 8th station, a legal arrangement confirmed by the Supreme Court of Japan.
The Wakutama-ike pond produces approximately 3.6 tons of spring water per second.
The main hall is a rare two-story structure, a departure from typical single-story shrine architecture.
Tokugawa Ieyasu donated the current shrine buildings in 1604 as a gesture of gratitude for his victory at the Battle of Sekigahara.
The shrine's annual Reitaisai festival in May features traditional horse archery known as Yabusame.
The water from the Wakutama-ike pond is considered sacred and was historically used by pilgrims for purification before ascending the mountain.
Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha serves as the head shrine of over 1,300 Sengen shrines across Japan dedicated to the deity of Mount Fuji. It is officially recognized as a constituent asset of the Mount Fuji UNESCO World Heritage site. The main shrine buildings, including the unique two-story Honden hall, were commissioned by Tokugawa Ieyasu in the early 17th century. A sacred spring known as Wakutama-ike, fed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji, is located on the grounds and is designated as a Special Natural Monument. The shrine grounds encompass the entire summit of Mount Fuji above the 8th station as part of its spiritual territory. Visitors can observe the distinct architectural style known as Sengen-zukuri. The site traditionally functioned as the starting point for mountain pilgrims.
The red bridge overlooking the Wakutama-ike pond with the shrine buildings in the background.
Follow the path to the Wakutama-ike pond to view the spring source and the red bridge.
Look for the traditional stone torii gate that frames Mount Fuji on clear days.
Allow time to visit the nearby Fujisan World Heritage Center located within walking distance for context.
Do not attempt to touch or toss coins into the protected spring water at Wakutama-ike.
Maintain a quiet tone, remove hats when approaching the Honden, and perform the ritual purification at the temizuya water pavilion.
