Mt. Fuji World Heritage: Deeply Knowing the Charm of the Sacred Mountain of Faith

Mt. Fuji's World Heritage Registration

Mt. Fuji was registered in June 2013 by UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage as "Mt. Fuji — Sacred Place and Source of Artistic Inspiration." Registered as cultural rather than natural heritage, the world recognized that Mt. Fuji is a special existence for Japanese people as a source of faith, art, and culture.

What are the Component Assets?

Mt. Fuji World Heritage component assets include, besides Mt. Fuji itself, Fuji Five Lakes, Shiraito Falls, Oshino Hakkai, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Shojiko, Saiko, Motosuko, and shrines and temples at Mt. Fuji's foothills. Understanding the history and culture of Mt. Fuji faith can be gained by touring these assets.

History of Mt. Fuji Faith

Since ancient times Mt. Fuji has been revered as a sacred mountain where gods dwell, with "Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha" built in the Heian era. In the Edo era, "Fuji-ko" (collective Mt. Fuji pilgrimage) became extremely popular among commoners, with many "Fuji-zuka" (mini Mt. Fuji mounds) created throughout the country.