Chureito Pagoda is a striking red five-story pagoda on the mountainside of Arakurayama Sengen Park in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi. It is famous for framing Mount Fuji, the pagoda, and the town (with cherry blossoms in spring or foliage in autumn) in a single iconic view. Built in 1963 as a memorial to the city's war dead, it is reached by climbing the 398-step 'Sakuya-hime' staircase behind Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine; the park and pagoda are free and open year-round.
The iconic single-frame view of Mount Fuji, the pagoda, and the town, best seen from the observation deck behind the pagoda
A 1963 war memorial; the 398 steps reference Konohana-Sakuya-hime (sa-ku-ya), the goddess of Mt. Fuji
Peak scenery during the mid-April cherry blossom season and early-November autumn foliage
A widened observation deck (renewed in 2022) allows safer, easier photography
About a 10-20 minute walk from Shimo-Yoshida Station, then a climb from the shrine to the pagoda
Good to know
SeasonThe spring 2026 cherry blossom festival was cancelled over tourist-behaviour problems (traffic, trespassing, littering). The park itself stays open, but expect heavy crowds and long observation-deck queues; check the latest status before visiting.
SafetyYou must climb 398 stone steps, which can be slippery when wet. Wear sneakers rather than heels, dress shoes, or sandals, and allow extra time if carrying camera gear. A gentler zig-zag path to the right of the shrine is available if stairs are difficult.
SafetyBear sightings have been reported near the park. Take extra care in the early morning or after dusk, when there are fewer people around.
MannersThe pagoda is a memorial honoring the war dead, set beside a residential neighborhood. Keep noise down, do not litter, avoid trespassing on private property, and behave respectfully.
RulesRoads by the park are narrow no-parking zones closed to buses; during cherry blossom season vehicle access up to the plaza in front of the pagoda is restricted. Tour buses must drop off and pick up at Shimo-Yoshida Station.
SeasonDuring peak seasons (April blossoms, November foliage), weekends get so crowded that observation-deck waits can run to several hours. Visit on weekdays or early in the day if possible.
Practical info
Free admission, open at all times. By transit: about a 10-20 minute walk from Shimo-Yoshida Station (Fujikyu Line), then climb the steps from the shrine. By car: use the municipal lots (P1-P4, opened 2025, roughly ¥1,000-1,500), as surrounding roads are no-parking. Confirm fees, parking, restrictions, and access status before you go.
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