This has to be one of the most spectacular views in all of Japan.

The Chureito Pagoda viewing deck is a steep 400-step climb from the parking lot at the Arakura Sengen Shrine, but the view at the top is worth every step. It was a slow climb for myself and the other tourists, but the locals seemed to have no trouble at all. One man in particular, took great pleasure in running the arduous incline, making passing comments as he sped past tourists, and then down the otherside of the mountain and up the steps again… literally running laps around everyone. And he must have been well into his sixties, perhaps even older!

Once at the top, the effort of the climb soon fades as the breathtaking beauty of the traditional Japanese structure with Mount Fuji in the background consumes your every thought. This is undoubtedly one of the most stunning places on the planet to watch the sunset.