Sacred Mountain
Minobusan, located in southern Yamanashi Prefecture, is a revered spiritual destination centered around Kuonji Temple, the head temple of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism, founded in 1281 by Nichiren himself. Visitors can ascend the 287 "steps of enlightenment," a symbolic staircase leading to the temple, and explore the temple grounds, which include a five-story pagoda and a 400-year-old weeping cherry tree. The Minobusan Ropeway offers a seven-minute ride to the mountaintop Okunoin Shishinkaku Temple, providing panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding Southern Alps. For a deeper spiritual experience, guests can stay overnight at temple lodgings (shukubo) and participate in early morning prayer sessions. Minobusan offers a tranquil retreat into Japan's rich Buddhist heritage and natural beauty. The temple mountain is central to the world of the anim series Laid-Back Camp (Yuru Camp), offering fans a tangible connection to the serene settings. The Kuon-ji Temple and ropeway are prominently featured, with characters ascending to witness the first sunrise of the year, mirroring real-life traditions.
