Minobu — Kuonji Temple
The mountain temple founded by Nichiren in 1281 — head temple of Nichiren Buddhism and one of Japan's most austere pilgrimage destinations. The 287-step stone staircase through ancient cedar trees leads to the main hall. The surrounding Minami-Alps form an extraordinary backdrop, and the cherry blossoms on the approach are among Yamanashi's finest.
1.5–2 hours
Free
Kuonji Temple: 5:00–18:00; Minobusan ropeway: 9:00–16:30 (closed Tue in winter); mountain accessible year-round
March–April (cherry), Year-round
Minobu Station on JR Minobu Line (from Kofu by limited express, approx. 1 hr), then bus to temple area (approx. 15 min).
Location
Why Visit
- 1
287 stone steps through towering cedar trees — the approach to the main hall is a genuine trial
- 2
Kuonji is the head temple of Nichiren Buddhism — 30 million followers worldwide trace their tradition here
- 3
The surrounding Southern Alps (Minami-Alps) frame the valley in permanent snow for 6 months
Local Tips
Kuonji is the head temple of the Nichiren Buddhist sect — the founding monk Nichiren lived and died on this mountain. The 287-step stone approach staircase (Somon-san-do) through ancient cedar is one of the most atmospheric temple approaches in Japan. The ropeway ascent to Shichimensan gives extraordinary views of Mt Fuji and the Minobu mountains.
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