What is OSHI-KIKUYA?
OSHI-KIKUYA is not simply a guesthouse. It is a place to experience 500 years of Mt. Fuji faith and history. We warmly invite you to discover the distinctive local culture of Fujiyoshida, shaped by centuries of devotion to Mt. Fuji, and to enjoy a memorable stay with us.
The History of OSHI-KIKUYA
To share the story of OSHI-KIKUYA, we must first introduce “Oshi”, the traditional caretakers of Mt. Fuji pilgrims. Their origins trace back to the Asuka period, many centuries ago. In Japan, mountains have long been revered as places of spiritual power, attracting monks and practitioners seeking training and enlightenment. As the highest mountain in the country, Mt. Fuji naturally became a sacred destination for these journeys of faith. By the 16th century, local residents began offering lodging and prayer services to pilgrims. These caretakers became known as “Oshi.”
OSHI-KIKUYA is one of these historic “Oshi” houses. For more than 500 years, it has welcomed visitors devoted to Mt. Fuji and supported their spiritual journeys. Pilgrims formed groups called Fujikō, which grew rapidly during the Edo period. One saying described their popularity: “Edo has 808 districts and 808 Fujikō groups. Eighty thousand samurai in Edo, and eighty thousand Fujikō followers.” During summer, the homes of the “Oshi” and the town of Yoshida were said to be alive with activity.
Over time, however, Mt. Fuji’s role as a site of religious pilgrimage gradually faded. The number of “Oshi” houses, once 86 at its peak, has decreased to just 16 today. We hope that by visiting OSHI-KIKUYA, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the long and rich history of Mt. Fuji worship.
OSHI-KIKUYA is one of these historic “Oshi” houses. For more than 500 years, it has welcomed visitors devoted to Mt. Fuji and supported their spiritual journeys. Pilgrims formed groups called Fujikō, which grew rapidly during the Edo period. One saying described their popularity: “Edo has 808 districts and 808 Fujikō groups. Eighty thousand samurai in Edo, and eighty thousand Fujikō followers.” During summer, the homes of the “Oshi” and the town of Yoshida were said to be alive with activity.
Over time, however, Mt. Fuji’s role as a site of religious pilgrimage gradually faded. The number of “Oshi” houses, once 86 at its peak, has decreased to just 16 today. We hope that by visiting OSHI-KIKUYA, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the long and rich history of Mt. Fuji worship.
The Oshi’s Family Shrine,
“Goshinzen”
Goshinzen is a room that houses a shrine dedicated to the spirit of Mount Fuji.
Since ancient times, Oshi shrine lodgings have had this altar at the very back of the building, and it is the most sacred place where pilgrims can offer prayers before climbing the mountain.
Since ancient times, Oshi shrine lodgings have had this altar at the very back of the building, and it is the most sacred place where pilgrims can offer prayers before climbing the mountain.
Message from the 18th head of OSHI-KIKUYA
Shinichi AkiyamaThe 18th head of OSHI-KIKUYA
Thank you very much for visiting our website. My name is Shinichi Akiyama, and I am the 18th head of OSHI-KIKUYA, one of the Mt Fuji Oshi that has been in operation for 500 years at the foot of Mount Fuji.
Mt Fuji Oshi are people who have welcomed pilgrims of Mount Fuji since ancient times, guiding them on their climbs and offering prayers. Our family has been rooted in this area for about 500 years, welcoming many pilgrims and supporting people on their pilgrimages to Mount Fuji. Staying at our inn is the first step in a journey that will allow you to experience the history, faith, and culture of this region. A traditional Japanese space from the good old days, a shrine dedicated to the god of Mount Fuji at the very back of the building, and a story of Fuji worship handed down through generations - all of this will welcome you, transcending the 500-year span.
Please come and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some time at OSHI-KIKUYA, experiencing the history of worship at Mount Fuji. We look forward to seeing you soon.
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