In this continuation of our series on Mount Fuji’s climbing trails, we explore the history and cultural significance of the Ōmiya-Murayama Pilgrimage Route—now known as the Fujinomiya Route.
Ōmiya-Murayama Pilgrimage Route
The Ōmiya-Murayama Pilgrimage Route is said to have originated with Matsudai Shōnin, also known as “Fuji Shōnin,” who laid the foundation for Fuji Shugendō (Mount Fuji Buddhist ascetic practices). Before the rise of Fuji-ko groups in the Edo period, Murayama Shugendō flourished, marking the starting point for organized climbs to the summit of Mount Fuji. Many ascetics aimed to reach the mountain’s peak from this area.
During the 15th century, Murayama Shugendō deepened ties with Shōgo-in Temple in Kyoto, attracting practitioners from western Japan, including Owari (Nagoya area) and Ise. These pilgrims crossed the Fuji River and entered Ōmiya (modern-day Fujinomiya City) to worship at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine. They then traveled to Murayama Sengen Shrine, which marked the start of the Murayama climbing route. Due to the route’s connection to Ōmiya, it was eventually referred to as the Ōmiya-Murayama Pilgrimage Route.
The Growth and Decline of Murayama Shugendō
During the medieval period, Murayama held ownership of Mount Fuji’s summit (above the 8th Station), rivaling Ōmiya in prominence. Under the protection of the Imagawa clan, rulers of Suruga Province, Murayama Shugendō flourished with considerable influence.
However, following the Imagawa clan’s downfall, Murayama’s power declined. Despite this, the Ōmiya-Murayama Route remained the primary climbing path until the mid-Edo period.
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1707: The Hoei eruption caused significant damage, making parts of the route impassable.
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18th century: Fuji-ko groups gained popularity in Edo, shifting most pilgrims to the Yoshida and Subashiri routes.
The Meiji Era and Modern Transitions
The Meiji era brought significant changes to Mount Fuji climbing culture:
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Meiji Government Reforms: The Haibutsu Kishaku (anti-Buddhism movement) greatly reduced the number of climbers taking the Murayama route.
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1889: The opening of the Tōkaidō Line made Gotemba Station a key access point for Mount Fuji, leading to the establishment of the Gotemba Route.
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1906: A new climbing route opened from Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine via Yamamiya Sengen Shrine, bypassing Murayama Sengen Shrine entirely. This effectively led to the decline of the Murayama Route.
Modern Revival
The Murayama Route officially fell into disuse but was revived in 2005 as Murayama Kodō (Murayama Ancient Path). This restored trail connects Murayama Sengen Shrine to the Fujinomiya 6th Station, preserving its historical significance.
Fujinomiya Climbing Route
By the Edo period, climbers taking the Murayama Route were required by decree to pass through Ōmiya and Fuji Hongu Sengen Taisha—a sign of its rivalry with Murayama. Despite this decree, there was persistent competition between Ōmiya and Murayama in attracting practitioners.
During the Meiji era, the Fujinomiya Route emerged as the dominant trail on the Shizuoka side:
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1930: Fujimi Railway opened (now the Minobu Line), making access to the shrine easier via Fujinomiya Station.
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1969: The opening of Fuji Skyline transformed the Fujinomiya Route into a popular climbing trail.
Today, the Fujinomiya Route is one of Mount Fuji’s four main trails. Starting at Fujinomiya 5th Station (2,400m), it provides the shortest route to the summit and begins at the highest elevation of all the trails. Climbers ascend with views of Suruga Bay and end their journey at Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha’s Okumiya Shrine, located at the summit.
Conclusion
The legacy of the Ōmiya-Murayama Pilgrimage Route reflects its integral role in Mount Fuji’s spiritual and climbing history. While its prominence has waned over time, its influence endures through the Fujinomiya Route and the restored Murayama Kodō. Today’s climbers not only follow in the footsteps of past ascetics but also honor the traditions and stories that define Mount Fuji’s cultural heritage.
In our next post, we’ll explore the history and background of other pilgrimage routes leading to the summit of Mount Fuji!
