In Tokyo, there are places where mysterious energies gather, often referred to as Power Spots. Well, there are various spots, but I think Fuji-Zuka is a relatively straightforward power spot. While Mount Fuji itself is arguably Japan’s ultimate Power Spot, for Tokyoites who have been gazing at Mount Fuji every day since ancient times, it’s only natural to create something resembling it, like Fuji-Zuka, within a power spot. Let me introduce Fuji-Zuka spots in Tokyo where you can particularly feel the power.
What is Fuji-Zuka?
In Tokyo, there are many places names came from Mt. Fuji, indicating how the existence of Mt. Fuji was integrated into the daily lives of Tokyoites, almost as if it were a natural part. On the other hand, it’s not surprising to feel a special connection to its beautiful conical shape, standing tall in the far distance beyond the Kanto Plain. During the Edo period (1603-1868), people would bow towards Mt. Fuji in the morning and evening, praying for peace and prosperity in their daily lives.
Back then, it was believed that climbing Mt. Fuji bestowed special merits. However, it wasn’t easy to journey from Tokyo to the vicinity of Mt. Fuji, let alone to ascend a 3,776-meter mountain, making it even more challenging. Against this backdrop, Fuji-Zuka, resembling Mt. Fuji and believed to offer similar merits, was created in various parts of Tokyo.
Many Fuji-Zuka can still be found within the precincts of temples and shrines, suggesting that these were originally considered special places within their respective communities.
Let me introduce some Power Spots in Tokyo where you can still find Fuji-Zuka, evoking a hint of the Mount Fuji climbing experience.
Deture Point ❶ Fuji-Zuka at Naruko Tenjinsha, Shinjuku
One of the recommended Fuji-zuka is located at Naruko Tenjinsha in Shinjuku. This shrine is also an intriguing place, so taking a leisurely stroll around the area is highly recommended. This shrine boasts a history of over 1100 years and, despite being completely surrounded by towering skyscrapers now, it remains a mysterious space with a pure and otherworldly atmosphere.
Heading towards the main hall and taking the left path, you’ll come across Fuji-Zuka. It’s crafted using lava rocks from Mt. Fuji, giving it a charming and unique appearance. It’s one of the large-scale Fuji-Zuka sites in Tokyo where you can actually climb. (as of December 2023). However, due to the surrounding skyscrapers, unfortunately, you can’t directly gaze at Mt. Fuji from here. Well, it can’t be helped, so facing west where Mt. Fuji is, clasp your hands and make a wish.
Detour Point ❷ Otowa Fuji (Fuji-Zuka) at Gokoku-ji (Temple), Bunkyo-Ku
If you ever find yourself heading towards the northern part of Tokyo, near Ikebukuro, it is recommended to visit Otowa Fuji (Fuji-Zuka) at Gokoku-ji. If you’re coming from Ikebukuro, it’s just one station away on the Yurakucho (Metro) Line, with Gokoku-ji Station being the nearest stop.
Gokoku-ji was established in 1681 by the fifth Shogun of Tokugawa dynasty, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, fulfilling his mother’s wish. Its main hall and other structures are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. It’s also a great place to immerse yourself in the days of the Samurai, which were the protagonists of the Edo period.
The entrance to the Otowa Fuji trail is through the main gate and to the right. Although it’s only seven meters high, you’ll be delighted to find the first marker indicating the start of the trail near the shrine gate at the entrance; Ichi Gome (First Stage)
As you walk along the trail, which winds around the mountain, you’ll come across markers indicating the elevation, making you feel as if you’re climbing Mt. Fuji itself. At the summit, there’s a small shrine, so take a moment to offer a prayer there. With that, your Mt. Fuji climbing experience is complete!
Detour Point ❸ Shinagawa Fuji (Fuji-Zuka) at Shinagwa-Jinjya (Shrine), Shinagawa-Ku
If you ever find yourself heading towards the southern part of Tokyo, near Shinagawa, it is highly recommended to visit Shinagawa Fuji at Shinagawa Shrine. You can either walk from JR Shinagawa Station or take the Keikyu Main Line for two stops from Shinagawa Station and get off at Shimbamba Station, which is the nearest station.
Speaking of Shinagawa, it used to be a bustling town along the main road connecting Tokyo with Osaka and Kyoto. People walking from Tokyo would often make it their first lodging stop, leading to its prosperity. I’m eager to reminisce about those days, but unfortunately, there isn’t much left to remind us of the old post towns. Well, Tokyo is a big metropolis after all, so I hope you won’t be too disappointed.
Once you pass through the main gate of Shinagawa Shrine and start climbing the stone steps, you’ll notice a Torii Gate on your left along the way. It leads to Shinagawa Fuji. After passing through this Torii Gate and ascending a bit, you’ll encounter a steep staircase. Alongside the staircase, there are chains to assist you in climbing. It’s said to be the tallest Fuji-Zuka in Tokyo, standing at a height of 15 meters.
From the summit of Shinagawa Fuji, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Shinagawa area, giving you a feeling akin to climbing a real mountain. It’s quite remarkable!
Don’t forget to face west towards real Mt. Fuji, offer a prayer, and perhaps make a special wish.
On your way back, if you choose the path leading into the shrine grounds, there’s no need to rely on the chains for descending.
In Tokyo, there are still plenty of Fuji-Zuka scattered around, and there are tons of places where you can actually catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji itself, like the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Sunshine City in Ikebukuro, Skytree, Tokyo Tower, and so on. And guess what? There are even some secret spots where you can still see Mt. Fuji from the ground!
Next time I get the chance, I’ll introduce you to some spots where you can either see Mt. Fuji or catch a view of it from the ground!