Deeply wooded and atmospheric, this shrine has stood at the base of Mt Fuji since the 8th century, serving as the spiritual gateway for pilgrims beginning their ascent. A 1,000-year-old cedar towers over the grounds, and the main gate is rebuilt every 60 years, each time slightly larger than the last. The two 1-tonne portable shrines used in the dramatic Yoshida Fire Festival in August rest here when not being paraded. Walking the forested approach, you'll feel the mountain's spiritual gravity before you even see its peak.