Goshuin number 41 is from 北口本宮富士浅間神社 (Mt. Fuji Northern Entrance Sengen Shrine). Located a thirty minute walk from the Mt. Fuji train station, this shrine is the original starting point of the Yoshida Trail leading up to the summit.

The huge torii gate and the smaller, wooden gate in front of the shrine were faded and majestic.

The water basin where you rinse your hands before entering was made from lava from Mt. Fuji! The water flowed out of the mouth of a dragon, and the overflowing water flowed silently down the sides of the basin.

This is an old stage where kagura dances are held. These dances are done as an offering to the gods of Mt. Fuji for thanks and a prayer for a good harvest; it is a very important place for the religion surrounding Mt. Fuji!

The shrine itself was next to a huuuuuuge tree with a sacred rope tied around it.

And, located behind the shrine, the original trail to the summit of Fuji.

Date acquired: November 17, 2018