Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine

Located on the north side of Lake Kawaguchi, the Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine was built in the ninth century after Mt Fuji erupted, causing chaos and tragedy among the locals. This shrine was built as a gesture by the people to appease the anger of the gods that they believed caused the mountain to erupt.
On the approach to the shrine, giant 800-year-old cedar trees line the path on either side, with stone lanterns guiding the way to the red pagoda beyond. In the past, the Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine was a common starting point for climbing Mount Fuji from the north, with the trailhead located directly behind the shrine's main hall. Most hikers today, however, are more in favor of cutting their journey time by up to five hours by forgoing a trip to the shrine and beginning their climb from the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station instead.
The Maternal White Falls are located around half an hour’s walk from Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine. These waterfalls are stunning enough on their own, but on a clear day, there’s also some impressive views of Lake Kawaguchi and the mighty Mount Fuji to be had along the way.

Practical Info

Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine can be reached by bus from both Kawaguchiko Station and Fujisan Station. (It’s a 30-­minute walk from Fujisan Station).