Mount Fuji’s spiritual embrace extends far beyond its foothills. Here at Jujo Fuji-jinja Shrine, we find a piece of that sacred connection right here in Tokyo. This shrine is dedicated to the worship of the kami of volcanos. It focuses especially on Mount Fuji.
Jujo Fuji-jinja Shrine is an Asama shrine. These shrines are Shinto shrines found throughout Japan. There are about 1300 Asama shrines. Many are in Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures.
The primary kami at Asama shrines is Konohanasakuya-hime. She is sometimes worshipped with her father, Ōyamatsumi-no-Mikoto, and/or her sister Iwanaga-hime. Konohanasakuya-hime is associated with protection against fire.
The word “Asama” may relate to volcanoes. It may relate to water springs near mountains. Mountain worship has long been centered on Mount Asama in Gunma and Mount Asama in Mie. Mount Fuji became the most famous mountain for worship. Mount Fuji has erupted many times. The Imperial Court venerated it as Sengen Ōkami to keep it calm.
Many Asama shrines are within sight of Mount Fuji. Where this isn’t possible, a Fujizuka is built. A Fujizuka is a miniature replica of Mount Fuji. It is made from rocks from the mountain. It stands within the shrine grounds.
The Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha is the head of all Asama shrines. It is in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka. This main shrine and several others were added to the World Heritage List in 2013. They are part of the Fujisan Cultural Site.
During the Muromachi period, people made pilgrimages to climb Mount Fuji. Mandalas were made as souvenirs. They helped spread the cult. The mandalas showed pilgrims landing at Miho no Matsubara. They showed the climb up Mount Fuji. The top of the mountain had three peaks. Buddhas and Bosatsu floated around them.
The Fuji-kō became popular in the Kantō region during the Edo period. It was a religious group. It used magic and talismans. These protected followers from illness.
After the Meiji Restoration, the cult of Mount Fuji declined. The Fuji-ko groups joined other Shinto organizations.
So, as you stand here at Jujo Fuji-jinja Shrine, remember that you are part of a long tradition. This tradition connects people to the sacred Mount Fuji. Take a moment to appreciate the history and the spiritual significance of this special place.