Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration

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Mount Fuji: A Sacred Place and Artistic Inspiration

Mount Fuji (Fujisan), standing at an impressive height of 3,776.24 meters, is an active stratovolcano situated on the Japanese island of Honshu. As the highest mountain in Japan, Mount Fuji is among the tallest volcanoes on an island in Asia, and one of the highest island volcanoes in the world. This majestic mountain, recognized globally as a symbol of Japan, has been a source of artistic inspiration and a sacred site for centuries.

The designation of Mount Fuji as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013 encompasses 25 sites that embody the essence of its sacred and artistic landscape. The mountain's unique combination of natural beauty and cultural significance makes it a remarkable destination for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the rich history and breathtaking vistas of Japan.

From the late Heian and early Kamakura periods (around the 12th century), Mount Fuji became an important center for ascetic Buddhist practices, blending Shinto elements into its spiritual practices. Pilgrimage routes ascend the mountain toward the summit, where crater shrines mark sacred points along the path. At the base of the mountain, various Sengen-jinja shrines, Oshi lodging houses, and natural volcanic features like lava tree molds, lakes, springs, and waterfalls can be found. These natural wonders are revered as sacred sites by the local population.

Mount Fuji's representation in Japanese art dates back to the 11th century, with numerous paintings, sculptures, and poetry dedicated to capturing the mountain's ethereal beauty. However, it was during the 19th century that Mount Fuji truly gained international recognition through the medium of woodblock prints, or ukiyo-e. 

These intricate prints showcased stunning views of the mountain, including images from sandy beaches adorned with pine tree groves, which further cemented Mount Fuji's status as an iconic symbol of Japan. The influence of these prints extended beyond the realm of art, leaving a lasting impact on the development of Western art as well.

Mount Fuji is classified as an active stratovolcano, with its last major eruption occurring in 1707–1708, known as the Hōei eruption. This eruption deposited large amounts of volcanic ash over eastern Japan, including what is now Tokyo, and resulted in the formation of the Hōei crater on the mountain’s southeastern flank. No eruptions have occurred since, but the volcano remains closely monitored due to its potential activity.

Mount Fuji's cultural and artistic significance transcends borders, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Japanese history and culture. Whether one chooses to embark on a pilgrimage up the mountain's slopes or simply admire its beauty from afar, Mount Fuji offers an unparalleled experience that will leave an indelible mark on the soul.

UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site

The beauty of the solitary, often snow-capped, stratovolcano, known around the world as Mount Fuji, rising above villages and tree-fringed sea and lakes has long been the object of pilgrimages and inspired artists and poets. The inscribed property consists of 25 sites which reflect the essence of Fujisan’s sacred and artistic landscape. In the 12th century, Fujisan became the centre of training for ascetic Buddhism, which included Shinto elements. On the upper 1,500-metre tier of the 3,776m mountain, pilgrim routes and crater shrines have been inscribed alongside sites around the base of the mountain including Sengen-jinja shrines, Oshi lodging houses, and natural volcanic features such as lava tree moulds, lakes, springs and waterfalls, which are revered as sacred. Its representation in Japanese art goes back to the 11th century, but 19th century woodblock prints of views, including those from sand beaches with pine tree groves have made Fujisan an internationally recognized icon of Japan and have had a deep impact on the development of Western art. 

Encyclopedia Record: Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano located on the Japanese island of Honshu, with a summit elevation of 3,776.24 m. It is the highest mountain in Japan, the second-highest volcano on any Asian island, and seventh-highest peak of an island on Earth.

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