Fujisan—Sacred Place & Source of Artistic Inspiration (UNESCO) Iconic and inspirational—Japan's most famous mountain

This magnificent site has inspired artists and ascetics for nearly a thousand years. Spiritual traditions in the area continue to this day, with practitioners of Buddhism and Shinto congregating at the notable temples and shrines that dot the foot of the mountains. Nearby villages, such as Oshino, have been preserved as they were centuries ago, offering a view reminiscent of classical Japanese woodblock prints. Regardless of whether you intend to hike the mountain, the surrounding destinations will inspire and delight you.

The UNESCO-designated World Cultural Heritage site comprises 25 separate areas, including Fuji Five Lakes , Sengen-jinja Shrine, Oshino Hakkai , and Miho-no-Matsubara Pine Tree Grove . Many of these destinations offers breathtaking views of the peak. The World Heritage site also includes special pilgrim routes up the mountain, which have long been used by monks in search of spiritual fulfillment.

Mt. Fuji is the ubiquitous symbol of Japan, both domestically and abroad. Much of its status can be attributed to the ukiyo-e woodblock prints of Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) and Utagawa Hiroshige (1797-1858). Their works transformed the mountain into a universally iconic image known throughout the world.

From Tokyo, access Mt. Fuji and the surrounding area via the Tokaido Shinkansen, by bus, or local train. Buses departing from Tokyo Station take approximately two hours, while the regular train takes approximately three hours. Note that the various UNESCO-designated sites are scattered throughout the region, and will require additional travel.