Mount Fuji is not so easy to catch! But this iconic Fuji viewing spot is still worth it

The Chureito Pagoda is probably one of the most photographable place near Mount Fuji. The pagoda is part of the Arakura Sengen Shrine and is nearly 400 steps up the mountain from the shrine's main buildings, which is a pretty tough walk. The observation deck most tourists crave to visit is even higher up.

I visited this place during a bus tour around Mount Fuji in early September - little did I know, not the best time to try to see it. During this time of the year, it is not yet covered in snow, making it harder to spot. Our bus tour happened to be on a relatively cloudy day, which only made our chances to see the famous volcano smaller. As our tour guide pointed out, Mount Fuji is like a shy woman hiding her face in the clouds when she doesn’t have her snowy makeup on.

But nevertheless, the view this observatory offers is stunning. The local nature and the bird’s-eye view of surrounding villages made the tired and red-faced me smile until my face hurt. Definitely one of the best days of my trip to Japan.

In my pictures you can still see her, hiding her face in the clouds. #mtfuji #japan #yamanashi

Post by mariahn | Feb 4, 2025