Chureito Pagoda

Chureito Pagoda (忠霊塔), located within the Arakura Sengen Shrine (新倉山浅間神社) in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, is a five-storied pagoda renowned for its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Mount Fuji.

The pagoda was built in 1963 as a memorial to those who lost their lives in World War II and has since become an iconic landmark and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can ascend the steep staircase of 398 steps to reach the viewing platform, where they are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including the town of Fujiyoshida, and most notably, the majestic Mount Fuji.

The pagoda is particularly captivating during cherry blossom season in April, when the surrounding park is adorned with delicate pink blossoms, creating a stunning contrast against the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji. The vibrant autumn foliage, with its fiery red, orange, and yellow leaves, also provides a picturesque backdrop for the pagoda.

Visitors can explore the Arakura Sengen Shrine, which dates back to the 9th century and is dedicated to the goddess Konohanasakuya-hime, associated with Mount Fuji. The shrine complex features several traditional Japanese buildings, including a main hall, a worship hall, and a gate, all surrounded by beautiful gardens and forested hills.

Getting there

By Train

From Tokyo:

• Take the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station
• Transfer to the Fujikyu Line and get off at Shimoyoshida Station
• Total journey time: About 2 hours 40 minutes
• From Shimoyoshida Station:
• 20-30 minute walk to the pagoda

From Shimoyoshida Station:

• 20-30 minute walk to the pagoda

By Bus

From Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal:

• Take a direct bus to Chudo Shimoyoshida Bus Stop
• Journey time: About 90 minutes
• Walk 15 minutes to the pagoda

From Kawaguchiko Station:

• Take the Mount Fuji World Heritage Loop Bus to Chureito Iriguchi bus stop
• Short walk to the pagoda

By Car

• Approximately 10-minute drive from Kawaguchiko IC or Fujiyoshida IC
• Free parking available for about 100 vehicles (except during cherry blossom season)

Details

Hours	Open 24 hours
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 555-23-2697
Address	2-chome-4-1 Asama, Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi 403-0011
Resources	https://chureito-pagoda.com/summary/