Chureito Pagoda - Yamanashi, Japan
I can’t remember where I first saw the iconic photo of Chureito Pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background, but ever since, it had been on my list — and I knew I wanted to see it at sunset. Chureito Pagoda, perched in Fujiyoshida City, offers one of the most photographed views of Mount Fuji in Japan.
From Kawaguchiko Station, there are two train options to Shimoyoshida: a regular local train or a pricier reserved train. Both take about 20 minutes, so I went with the cheaper option. From Shimoyoshida Station, it’s just a short 1.1 km walk through quiet neighbourhood streets to the base of Arakura Sengen Shrine, where the climb of 398 steps leads up to Chureito Pagoda.
My knee was still sore from an earlier hike, so I climbed slowly while a group of local school kids sped past, running up and down the steps as part of their training. At the top, there’s a small seating area where I finally caught my breath. The view was absolutely stunning — the iconic five-story pagoda perfectly framed against Mount Fuji. The sun didn’t set directly behind the mountain, but the warm orange glow that spread across the sky made the scene feel almost surreal.
As the light faded, I made my way back down slowly, stopping at a cozy café for a drink before catching the train just in time. It was a peaceful end to the day — one of those moments that felt even better in person than in photos.
History & Background
Chureito Pagoda (忠霊塔) – Built in 1963 as part of Arakura Sengen Shrine (新倉山浅間公園), Chureito Pagoda was constructed as a peace memorial to honour the lives lost in war. Standing five stories tall on Mount Arakura, it overlooks Fujiyoshida City with Mount Fuji rising majestically in the distance.
The pagoda’s surroundings transform beautifully with the seasons — cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and snow-capped serenity in winter. The 398 steps leading up are seen as both a physical challenge and a spiritual ascent, symbolizing the effort required to reach moments of reflection and peace. Today, it’s one of Japan’s most photographed spots, attracting visitors from around the world who come to witness this perfect harmony between nature and culture.
Getting There
From Kawaguchiko Station, take the Fujikyuko Line to Shimoyoshida Station — a quick 13-minute ride that offers glimpses of Mount Fuji along the way. From the station, it’s about a 1.1 km walk through quiet neighbourhood streets to the base of Arakura Sengen Shrine, where the climb of 398 steps leads up to Chureito Pagoda.
Route Overview
Distance: 2.02 km out & back (Shimoyoshida Station)
Total elevation gain: 102 m
Duration: 38 min (with breaks 51 min)
Difficulty: Easy
Cost Breakdown
Train: Kawaguchiko Station → Shimoyoshida Station — ¥310
Food: ¥329
