Chureito Pagoda, located within the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine is a stunning five-story pagoda located in the Fujiyoshida area of Japan, part of the scenic Arakura Sengen Shrine complex. Perched on a hillside, it offers breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, making it a popular spot for photographers and tourists alike. The pagoda was built in 1963 as a peace memorial and is surrounded by beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring, creating a picturesque scene. Visitors often hike up the 400 steps to reach the pagoda, and the journey is just as rewarding as the destination. With its striking red color against the backdrop of the mountain, Chureito Pagoda is a must-see for anyone exploring the Golden Route and beyond.

You’ll want to hop off the train at Shimoyoshida Station (on the Fujikyu Railway Line), and from there it’s about a 10-minute walk to the shrine’s entrance. The shrine itself is peaceful and steeped in history, with ancient cedar trees and a red torii gate that perfectly frames Mount Fuji on a clear day. But the real highlight is the Chureito Pagoda, sitting high above the shrine — reaching it takes around 15–20 minutes up about 400 steps, so bring water and take your time. The climb is absolutely worth it though: from the summit, you’ll get that postcard-perfect view of Mount Fuji rising behind the five-storied pagoda

You can book visit this site on a DIY style day tour or join in on a group day tour