In previous posts, we’ve explored the climbing routes that lead to Mount Fuji’s summit. Today, we’ll learn about another significant spiritual path on this sacred mountain – “Ochudo,” the pilgrimage route that circles around the middle of Mount Fuji. While Mount Fuji has two primary circular pilgrimage routes-the “Ochudo” (middle path circuit) and the “Ohachi-meguri” (summit crater circuit)-this article focuses specifically on the Ochudo tradition.
What is Ochudo?
Ochudo is a circular path that runs around Mount Fuji at approximately the 5th station level, between elevations of 2,300-2,800 meters. Historically, this was a sacred pilgrimage route reserved only for those who had climbed to Mount Fuji’s summit at least three times. This restriction demonstrates the reverence and spiritual significance attached to this path by followers of the Fuji faith (Fuji-ko).
The complete circuit stretched approximately 25 kilometers. Unfortunately, today it is impossible to complete the entire circuit due to the impact of “Osawa-kuzure,” Japan’s largest landslide area on the western slope of Mount Fuji.
Historical Practices and Challenges
Even during the Edo period (1603-1868), the Osawa crossing was considered a treacherous section of the path, though the landslide area was not as extensive as it is today. To safely navigate this challenging terrain, pilgrims carried special longer staffs called “Nakamichi-tsue” (middle path staff) instead of the standard “Kongozue” staffs used for regular summit climbs.
Pilgrims also wrapped a long cloth called “Hokan” (treasure crown) around their heads. These items served practical safety purposes-the staff could be used like an ice axe in emergencies, while the unwrapped cloth could function as a rope. After successfully completing the Ochudo circuit, pilgrims received a certificate called “Goyurushi” (permission) from their Oshi (mountain guide-priests).
Traditional Ochudo Route
For the Odawara Higashi-ko group (a Fuji faith congregation), the Ochudo pilgrimage typically followed this two-day itinerary: After climbing to the summit via the Subashiri Trail, pilgrims would descend to the Subashiri 5th station and then proceed clockwise to Susono (Gotemba) 6th station → Hoei-zan Gotanbata → Omiya (Fujinomiya) 6th station → East of Osawa on the right bank → Osawa crossing → overnight stay at Osawa teahouse or Komitake → return to Subashiri 5th station.
While departure points varied depending on which trail pilgrims used to ascend Mount Fuji, the circuit route itself remained consistent.
Evolution of the Osawa Crossing
As erosion progressed over the centuries, the Osawa crossing point gradually moved to lower elevations. During the Edo period, pilgrims crossed at “Ichinokoshi” at approximately 2,800 meters. By the Meiji era (1868-1912), the crossing had shifted to “Ninokoshi,” and by the early Showa period (1926-1989), it was moved even lower to “Sannokoshi.” Finally, following a fatal fall in 1977, the Osawa crossing was closed entirely to the public.
Current Ochudo Sections Still in Use
Today, four sections of the original Ochudo remain in use:
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The route from Fujinomiya 6th station via the first Hoei crater to Gotemba 6th station
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The path from Subashiri 6th station to Yoshida Trail descent route at the 7th station (Shishiiwa rock)
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The route from Yoshida Trail descent at the 7th station (Shishiiwa rock) via Yoshida 6th station to Fuji Subaru Line 5th station
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The path from Fuji Subaru Line 5th station through Oniwa to Osawa-kuzure
While the northern side (Yamanashi Prefecture) sections of Ochudo still exist, most of the southern side (Shizuoka Prefecture) sections have been abandoned due to the expanding Osawa landslide.
Experience Ochudo Today
I encourage you to experience the Ochudo pilgrimage in addition to climbing Mount Fuji. However, please stick only to the maintained and open sections of the trail. Never attempt to use abandoned trails or areas marked as closed. The Ochudo offers a fascinating perspective on Mount Fuji’s spiritual heritage and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape without requiring a summit climb.
