Asama Shrine

Found right outside of Ekoda Station’s north exit, this small and quiet shrine bathes in the shade of a pair of massive zelkovas, but isn’t very interesting in its own right. What makes it worth seeking out is the Fujizuka mound behind the main building: first built in the 1830s, this lush 8m hill is one of the biggest among Tokyo’s many miniature versions of the great peak, is partially covered with hardened lava and rocks from the real Fuji, and opens up for visitors only three times a year. Climb it on the first three days of January, on July 1, or during the second weekend of September (when the shrine festival is held).