Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine — Gateway to Mt. Fuji Climb

Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine has served as the traditional starting point for Mt. Fuji pilgrimages via the Yoshida Trail for over 1,000 years. The shrine sits at the base of Mt. Fuji in Fujiyoshida City, surrounded by a sacred forest of massive cedars — some trees exceed 1,000 years old and tower 50 meters tall. The approach to the shrine passes through a vermillion torii gate and a 400-meter stone-paved path flanked by these ancient cedars, creating a cathedral-like atmosphere even before reaching the main shrine buildings.

The shrine complex includes the main hall (rebuilt in 1615), a sacred spring where pilgrims traditionally purified themselves before ascending Fuji, and numerous small shrines dedicated to different Shinto deities. The shrine is particularly atmospheric during the Yoshida Fire Festival (August 26–27), when giant torches line the streets of Fujiyoshida and climbers gather at the shrine for blessings before ascending Fuji. The festival is considered one of Japan's three greatest fire festivals.