Mt. Minobu

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Panoramic view of Fuji river valley from the top of Mount Minobu - Yamanashi prefecture, Japan (Photo: Amehime / Shutterstock.com)

Located in Yamanashi Prefecture, Mt. Minobu is home to Kuonji Temple, the head temple of the Nichiren school of Buddhism. The temple stands at the foot of the mountain, where a 287-step stone staircase ascends to a striking five-story red pagoda. A trail through lush cedar forests leads to the 1,153-meter summit, though visitors can also take a ropeway for a direct ride to the top. From there, panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Alps await. In spring, the mountain draws crowds eager to see the 400-year-old weeping cherry tree in front of Kuonji Temple’s main hall in full bloom.

Overview

Address

Minobu, Yamanashi (Map) (Directions)

Price

Free

Website

yamanashi-hiking100.jp

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Highlights

Minobusan Kuonji Temple

Founded in 1282 by Nichiren Daishonin, Kuonji is the headquarters of the Nichiren sect, and is home to Buddhist treasures, a five-storied pagoda and various impressive gates and buildings, including the hondo (main hall) with its magnificent dragon painting on the ceiling.

Discover Minobusan Kuonji Temple

Tom Fay / JT

Minobusan Ropeway

Minobusan Ropeway takes visitors from the Kuonji area up to Okunoin Shishinkaku Temple near the summit. The ropeway operates from 9am until the last ascent (3:40pm) and descent (4:20pm). A return ticket is 1,600 yen.

Discover Minobusan Ropeway

Tom Fay / JT

Access

The Minobusan Ropeway is about 15 minutes by taxi or bus from JR Minobu Station, making Mt. Minobu a convenient day trip from Tokyo.

From JR Shinjuku Station, take the Chuo Line Limited Express Azusa to Kofu Station, then transfer to the Minobu Line Limited Express Fujikawa bound for Minobu Station. From there, it’s approximately a 15-minute taxi or bus ride to the Minobusan Ropeway.

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