Mt. Minobu & Minobu-san Kuonji temple

Shizuoka prefecture borders beautiful Yamanashi prefecture so it's a good place for a day trip. From Fuji Station, the Minobu Line train will take you to Minobu Town or further on Kofu (both excellent Yamanashi destinations). The trip from Fuji Station to Minobu takes about 85 minutes and costs 820 yen each way. This train ride covers an absolutely beautiful stretch along the Fuji River and through the mountains.


When you get off the train at Minobu, you will find yourself in the quaint, quiet downtown strip of the mountain town. Very much like something out of the past. Fall is particularly nice, when everything is wrapped in fog and the leaves are blazing red and yellow. Have yourself some ramen or udon with mountain vegetables and catch the bus to Mt. Minobu (about 15 minutes away).

Mt. Minobu and Minobu-san Kuonji temple are historically important. The temple was built by Nichiren Shonin, founder of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism in 1282. Among other things, Nichiren asserted the novel proposition that woman could attain enlightenment. His ashes are enshrined at Kuonji temple.

Entrance to Minobu-san

The never ending stairs that must be conquered before you reach the temple.
The local high school's baseball team uses it to train.
(There's also an easier trek through the forest for those who can't make it.)

Minobu-san Kuonji temple

Five story pagoda

The temple compound has many gardens.

Part of the view.

These cherry trees are hundreds of years old.

Fall leaves

There's also a parking lot for cars in case you're driving. If you're interested, you can also take a cable car further up for a view of the mountains all around.