Kachikachi-yama Ropeway - カチカチ山ロープウェイ
The Kachi Kachi Ropeway ascends 400 meters from the eastern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko to an observation deck near the peak of Mount Tenjo. From the observation deck, which sits more than 1000 meters above sea level, there are panoramic views of the lake below and of Mount Fuji.
Mount Tenjo is the setting of Dazai Osamu's folk story "Kachi Kachi Yama", for which the ropeway is named, in which a rabbit gets revenge on a thieving tanuki (Japanese raccoon) by setting him on fire and drowning him in a river. Cute cartoon characters of the animals decorate the ropeway cars and observation point and are surprisingly kid friendly considering their gruesome background.
Bell of Tenjo
The Bell of Tenjo is a popular spot at the Mount Kachi Kachi Ropeway observation area.
It is placed facing Mount Fuji, and it is a great place to ring the bell or take photos while feeling the power of Mount Fuji with your whole being.
Kawarake Throwing
On Mount Tenjo the two sister goddesses of Iwanagahime-no-mikoto, who is the goddess of marriage, and Konohananosakuyabime-no-mikoto, who is the goddess of beauty and Mount Fuji, are
enshrined.
These two sister deities help the birth of all things through their noble souls and they are revered by the local residents as guardians who bring peace and prosperity, and are the subjects
of many myths and legends surrounding Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi.
Usagi(Rabbit) Shrine
A rabbit is enshrined here for the safety and strength of tourists, as well as visitors to Mitsutoge, which is one of the top 100 mountains of Japan in Yamanashi.
At both sides are guardian rabbits in place of guardian lions. Rubbing the head of the "dreaming rabbit" that has its head down gives wisdom, while rubbing the legs of the "Fuji rabbit" that is standing on its hind legs gives strength, so each rabbit is placed with a particular effect in mind.
Tanuki Tea House
たぬき茶屋
Tanuki Tea House was made in the image of the mountain tea house that appears in tales, full of Japanese spirit and a gathering spot for visitors to Mount Tenjo.
Tanuki Tea House serves light food such as charcoal-fired "Tanuki Dango", as well as "Mount Kachi Kachi Sweet and Salty Potatoes", which is a provincial dish consisting of potatoes boiled in a pot. There are also souvenirs relating to Mount Fuji and Mount Kachi Kachi.
Kachikachi-yama Ropeway - Official Map
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Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (Mar to Nov), 9:30 to 16:40 (Dec to Feb) |