Sengen Shrine Cedar Avenue
A serene Shinto shrine at the base of Mt. Fuji, famed for its ancient cedar avenue and as the start of the Yoshida Trail.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Sengen Shrine Cedar Avenue
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Shinto shrine at the base of Mt. Fuji, famed for its ancient cedar avenue and as the start of the Yoshida Trail.
"The tranquility is felt in this temple area. The trees are incredibly large."
🚶♀️ Start of Yoshida Trail
This is the beginning of the Yoshida Trail for Mount Fuji climbers.
🌳 Nature Lover's Paradise
Focuses on serene nature, not Fuji views. Great for peaceful walks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Cedar Avenue
Path leading to the shrine
Walk beneath towering, thousand-year-old cedar trees that create a mystical, shaded pathway.
Yoshida Trailhead
Shrine grounds
The starting point for the famous Yoshida Trail up Mount Fuji, steeped in climbing history.
Peaceful Shrine Complex
Main shrine area
Explore serene wooden structures and stone lanterns amidst a tranquil forest setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Start Your Fuji Adventure Here
Embrace the Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Start of Yoshida Trail
This is the beginning of the Yoshida Trail for Mount Fuji climbers.
🌳 Nature Lover's Paradise
Focuses on serene nature, not Fuji views. Great for peaceful walks.
Climing Fuji from station 1 or 5?
🍂 Autumn Beauty
Spectacular in autumn with yellow leaves.
👟 Walk from Shimoyoshida
Enjoyable 1-hour walk from Shimoyoshida Station.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Start of Yoshida Trail
This is the beginning of the Yoshida Trail for Mount Fuji climbers.
🌳 Nature Lover's Paradise
Focuses on serene nature, not Fuji views. Great for peaceful walks.
🍂 Autumn Beauty
Spectacular in autumn with yellow leaves.
👟 Walk from Shimoyoshida
Enjoyable 1-hour walk from Shimoyoshida Station.
⛩️ Tranquil Shrine Vibe
Quiet and peaceful shrine, less crowded than other spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the serene beauty of the ancient cedar trees and the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine. It's praised as a tranquil escape and the historic starting point for the Yoshida Trail, though some note it's not the best spot for direct Mount Fuji views.
"We visited this shrine on our first day's excursion in Tokyo. This was our very first stop. I love the quite, peaceful location in the forest and enjoyed walking amongst the tall, green trees. The grounds are well kept and there were plenty of parking spots available. The were a few other shrines in the vicinity and we explored them all. This shrine is believed to be used for worshippers of Mt Fuji and deemed as a sacred place."
gevs
"We discovered the shrine totally by accident, without realizing its significance as a holy site and a spiritual trailhead for pilgrims looking to ascend Mount Fuji.
We saw a wide woodland path from the road and decided to park up and go down it. After maybe 200 yd, we came to a peaceful stream, a bridge, and a huge wooden gate leading to the shrine complex. The gate is the largest of its kind in all of Japan.
The shrine is still very active, there were people here praying and paying their respects- both employees and visitors. All the structures throughout the shrine had informative plaques in Japanese and English explaining the significance and how to properly pray here.
Sometimes you visit somewhere and you can just feel the significance in the air, and this is one of those places.
We were able to wander around the entire place at no charge."
Oliver Warne
"If only I would check that this is beginning of Yoshida trail… I would start my journey from Shrine, instead 2 days before we started from Subaru 5th station. shrine is lovely place surrounded by old cedar trees. Very refreshing in hot summer day."
Andris Larins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Sengen Shrine Cedar Avenue by taking a bus to Kawaguchiko Station or Fujisan Station. From there, it's a walk or short taxi ride to the shrine. Some visitors enjoy a scenic 1-hour walk from Shimoyoshida Station.
While specific parking details can vary, arriving early is recommended. The shrine is a starting point for Fuji climbers, so parking might be limited during peak climbing season.
Yes, you can take a bus from Kawaguchiko Station to reach the vicinity of Sengen Shrine, which serves as a gateway to Mount Fuji.
Many travelers opt for buses from Tokyo to Kawaguchiko Station, which is a convenient hub for exploring the Fuji Five Lakes region and accessing trailheads like the one at Sengen Shrine.
Yes, it is accessible via public transport, with bus services connecting to nearby stations like Kawaguchiko and Fujisan, making it a viable option for those without a car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Sengen Shrine grounds and the Cedar Avenue is generally free, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty and historical significance without admission fees.
The shrine grounds are typically open to visitors throughout the day, allowing for exploration at your own pace. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific event closures.
No, the beautiful Cedar Avenue is a natural pathway leading to the shrine and does not have an entrance fee, making it an accessible natural attraction.
Yes, Sengen Shrine and its Cedar Avenue are accessible year-round, though weather conditions can vary significantly, especially during winter.
While official guided tours might not be widely advertised, many visitors explore independently. Local guides or tour operators focusing on Mount Fuji might include this as part of a broader itinerary.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering ancient cedars lining the avenue create a dramatic, atmospheric shot. Look for the stone lanterns and the shrine structures for classic Japanese photography.
Absolutely! The dense forest, ancient trees, and serene atmosphere make it a prime location for nature photographers seeking tranquil and majestic shots.
Photography rules can vary within active religious sites. It's best to observe any posted signs or respectfully ask shrine staff if photography is permitted inside the main buildings.
Early morning light filtering through the cedars offers a magical ambiance. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful, soft lighting.
Drone usage is often restricted at religious sites and national parks. It's crucial to check local regulations and shrine policies before flying a drone.
🎫 🌲 Onsite Experience
You can walk the serene cedar-lined path, explore the peaceful shrine grounds, and appreciate the ancient trees. It's also the starting point for the Yoshida Trail. +1
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours here, enjoying a leisurely walk through the cedars and exploring the shrine. Climbers will spend more time preparing.
Yes, it can be part of a day trip to the Fuji Five Lakes area, though it's best combined with other nearby attractions for a full experience.
Expect a very tranquil, peaceful, and spiritual atmosphere, surrounded by nature and ancient trees. It's a place for quiet reflection. +1
Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available near the shrine and trailhead areas, especially for climbers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that this is a sacred site and the beginning of a serious mountain trail. While the shrine grounds are accessible, it's important to maintain a respectful demeanor. If your children are interested in Japanese culture, the stone lanterns and shrine structures offer a glimpse into Shinto traditions.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Climbers
Even if you're not climbing, the well-maintained path offers a pleasant, moderate walk that can serve as a warm-up or a scenic detour. The surrounding forest provides a beautiful environment to experience the foothills of Mount Fuji, offering a different perspective than the higher, more barren slopes.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Nature Lovers
It's a destination that prioritizes serenity over grand vistas. If you're looking for a place to escape, reflect, and appreciate the quiet majesty of nature and Japanese spirituality, Sengen Shrine Cedar Avenue is an ideal choice.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Yoshida Trailhead: A Climber's Gateway
While the shrine is the official start, many climbers now begin from the Subaru Line 5th Station, which is accessible by bus and significantly reduces the initial ascent. However, for those seeking a more traditional and immersive experience, starting from Sengen Shrine offers a deeper connection to the mountain's history and spiritual significance. The journey from the shrine to the 5th station is a trek in itself, often taken by bus or a longer hike.
Planning your Fuji climb often involves understanding these different starting points. The Yoshida Trail is known for its well-maintained paths and numerous mountain huts, providing essential rest stops and facilities for climbers.
Nature's Embrace: The Ancient Cedar Forest
The tranquility of the cedar forest is a major draw for visitors who aren't necessarily climbing Mount Fuji. It provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing for quiet contemplation and appreciation of the natural world. The shrine's location within this lush environment enhances its spiritual ambiance, making it a place where one can feel truly immersed in the Japanese landscape.
Seasonal beauty adds another layer to the experience. While stunning year-round, the avenue is particularly spectacular in autumn when the surrounding foliage turns vibrant shades of yellow and red, creating a breathtaking contrast with the evergreen cedars.
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