Arakurayama Sengen Park

At the top of 400 steps, the superb view is impressive

The park is located on Fujiyoshida City’s Mt. Arakura, and from there you can see the whole city in front of Mt. Fuji. It is a 400-step climb from the base of the mountain to the park but once you reach the top, there is a vermilion 5-story pagoda which was built as a monument for all those who had died in battle during World War I. Along the slope behind the pagoda, there is a spectacular viewing point. The recommended time to be there is firstly in the middle of April when the sakura are in full bloom. You can get that photograph of the pagoda and the sakura with Mt. Fuji in the background. But the peak of autumn is also a beautiful time. The spectacle of the red and gold leaves adorning the foot of Mt. Fuji is incredible.

Worship Mt. Fuji as seen beyond the torii gate at Arakura Sengen Shrine!

Arakura Sengen Shrine at the park entrance is also a spectacular viewing spot. When you pass the torii, look behind you. You can pay your respects to Mt. Fuji which is nestled right in the center of the gate. Arakura Sengen Shrine was established in the year 705. The local deity of Arakura Township in Yatsushiro District of the former Kai Province is enshrined there, and the shrine’s history apparently began from that point. It is one of the shrines that worships Mt. Fuji, and it is dedicated to the princess Konohanasakuya-hime. Her worship brings disaster prevention, household happiness, safe childbirth and child-rearing, and so many of the local residents pray to her.

Aim to go during the twilight with the collaboration of Mt. Fuji’s silhouette and the night scenery

Arakurayama Sengen Park is also famous as a night-viewing spot. Even within the night-viewing spots of the Fuji Five Lakes area, the park boasts a top-class beauty. Enjoying the illuminated pagoda against the silhouette of Mt. Fuji is something that can only be done just after sunset. So if you want to savor a beautiful view that also includes the nightscape, coming when the sun is going down is recommended. The night view from the observation point coming straight on the path to the right of the pagoda is also wonderful. From here, a panoramic night view can be enjoyed of Mt. Fuji and an area spanning from Fujiyoshida City to Oshino Village.