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.
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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