On the morning of the second day of our trip, I looked out from the balcony of my room and saw Mt. Fuji covered in clouds. However, the open ocean view was refreshing and invigorating. After enjoying a buffet-style breakfast, we set off on our journey.
We boarded a boat wrapped with designs from the anime “Love Live! Sunshine!!,” which features Awashima Hotel as one of its locations. After reaching the opposite shore, we hopped on a bus.
Our main destinations for the second day were Kunozan Toshogu Shrine and Nippondaira Hotel in Shizuoka City.
JR Central’s “Morenaku Fujisan” campaign offers an array of experiences paired with Mt. Fuji as the centerpiece. Activities include cycling with Fuji as a backdrop, scenic flights over the mountain, and relaxing hot springs and accommodations with mountain views. This article highlights some of the 38 curated plans. See here for details: https://recommend.jr-central.co.jp/shizuoka-tabi/ (Website available in Japanese only)
Visiting Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, where Tokugawa Ieyasu rests (Shizuoka City)
It took about 40 minutes from the center of Shizuoka City by car and ropeway to reach Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, which sits atop Mt. Kuno at an elevation of 270 meters. This shrine enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu (1542–1616), the first shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate, which ruled Japan for about 260 years from the early 17th century to the late 19th century.
Upon arriving at Toshogu Shrine, we first participated in a spiritual training program at the shrine hall, a designated national treasure, where we chanted the teachings of Ieyasu alongside a Shinto priest. These teachings emphasized self-discipline, with phrases like “Be patient” and “Know your place,” reflecting Ieyasu’s personality, often associated with endurance and perseverance. In the solemn atmosphere of the beautifully preserved historical shrine, we took a moment to calmly reflect on ourselves.
After purifying our minds, we were granted a rare opportunity to step into the Chinju no Mori—a sacred forest that had been off-limits to anyone except Shinto priests for 400 years in the history of Kunozan Toshogu Shrine.
As we ascended the mountain for about 30 minutes, we passed by the remains of an ancient mountain castle that existed even before the construction of Toshogu. Upon reaching the summit, we found a small shrine—Massha Atago Shrine, an ancient auxiliary shrine. From here, we performed yohai (“worshipping from afar”) to Mt. Fuji, gazing at it beyond the buildings.
Interestingly, Mt. Fuji stands on a direct line connecting Kunozan Toshogu with Nikko Toshogu Shrine in Tochigi Prefecture, which also enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu. In other words, if you travel straight from this point toward Mt. Fuji, you will eventually reach Nikko Toshogu in the far distance. This alignment evokes a sense of historical and natural romance.
After expressing our gratitude for this sacred forest encounter, we also visited the shrine’s museum. The museum displayed an impressive collection of historical artifacts, including swords and armor from successive generations of Tokugawa shoguns, making it an irresistible place for history buffs.
Nippondaira Hotel
Afterward, we visited Nippondaira, a scenic spot just a few minutes by bus from Kunozan Toshogu Shrine. Located here is the Nippondaira Hotel, a luxurious accommodation that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Mt. Fuji, Shimizu Port, and Suruga Bay. Inside the hotel, the spacious atrium and large windows provide a stunning visual experience.
Stepping out into the garden, the view becomes even more expansive and liberating. On this day, we were fortunate to see a clear view of Mt. Fuji.
We enjoyed a delightful lunch buffet at the restaurant “THE TERRACE” while taking in the scenery. Additionally, we visited the “Garden Lounge,” a café restaurant in the annex that opened in 2022. Here, you can indulge in an elegant tea time with cake sets and other treats.
Conclusion
Exploring the history and industries surrounding Mt. Fuji, I was once again reminded of how significant this sacred peak is—not only to Shizuoka Prefecture but to all of Japan.
Beyond these destinations, Shizuoka Prefecture offers many other spots where you can enjoy strolling through towns, experiencing local culture and industries, all while admiring the magnificent view of Mt. Fuji. Be sure to find your own special place in this remarkable region!
I am from Shizuoka, with Mount Fuji in the background. I lived in Korea for four years and in China for 11 years. I majored in literature for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I love strolling around in a city, listening to pop music, taking a ride in trains and cars, and visiting observatories in high-rise buildings. I have a sweet tooth.
