Standing at 6,444 feet (1,964 meters), Mt. Kenashi (Kenashiyama) is the tallest summit in the Tenshi Mountains, on the border of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures. The Asagiri Plateau at the base of the mountain stretches to its more famous neighbor, Mt. Fuji, and hiking or camping here affords views of Fuji.
Nearby Mt. Fuji overshadows Mt. Kenashi as a destination, which means that intrepid hikers and climbers can enjoy an uncrowded natural experience around this mountain. Embark on hikes ranging from several hours to a couple of days. Alternatively, to enjoy the Fuji views without the effort, camp at the enormous Fumotoppara Campground at the eastern base of Mt. Kenashi (with room for 1,500 tents) or campgrounds around Lake Motosuko, north of the mountain.
Carry plenty of water when hiking around Mt. Kenashi, as clean water supplies can be few and far between.
You’re unlikely to encounter many other people hiking on Mt. Kenashi, so tell someone where you’re going and when you'll return before heading out.
Start hiking early in the morning for the best views of Mt. Fuji. Generally, clouds enshroud the peak by midday.
Mt. Kenashi’s hiking trails and the Fumotoppara Campground are accessible by road from many parts of the Fuji area, including the towns of Fujinomiya and Fujikawaguchiko. If you have your own car, drive along the north-south Fujinomiya Road between these two towns. Mt. Fuji will be on one side of you and Mt. Kenashi on the other. Buses also ply this road, so it’s easy to find one that will let you off at your destination.
Summer and fall are the best times to hike and camp around Mt. Kenashi. Summer is the traditional Mt. Fuji climbing season (early July to mid-September). As Mt. Kenashi is almost half the height of Fuji, the conditions on it aren’t so extreme, and the climbing and hiking season can stretch longer. Nevertheless, snow may be present well into spring. Fall has the added advantage of beautiful foliage.
Active travelers who want to tick off one of Japan’s must-do active adventures can climb Mt. Fuji between early July and mid-September. Climbing the 12,388-foot (3,776-meter) peak is challenging, and descending can be even more so, with lots of loose scoria underfoot. The views of the surrounding landscape—including Mt. Kenashi—are worth the effort.