Funatsu Lava Tree Molds
Funatsu Lava Tree Molds, Natural monument and worship site in Fujikawaguchiko, Japan
Funatsu Lava Tree Molds are a series of cylindrical caves carved through solidified lava flows on Mount Fuji's northern base. The formations developed when flowing lava surrounded standing trees, leaving stone shells as the wood decomposed.
These formations developed about 1,000 years ago when volcanic lava from Mount Fuji flowed across a forest, encasing tree trunks in stone. This volcanic event shaped the landscape permanently.
These caves held spiritual importance for Fuji-ko pilgrims who performed purification rituals before climbing Mount Fuji. The practices connected worshippers to the mountain's volcanic power.
Plan your visit through guided tours at the Kawaguchiko Field Center, which offer information about volcanic processes. These tours help visitors understand the formations and their geological history.
The interior temperature of these caves remains constant throughout the year, preserving evidence of the exact width of ancient trees that once stood here. This natural stability has allowed researchers to learn details about the vegetation from 1,000 years ago.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
Fuji-Q Highland
4.5 kmDo-Dodonpa
4.6 km
Dodonpa
4.6 km
Eejanaika
4.6 km
Kitaguchi Hongū Fuji Sengen Shrine
4 km
Mount Fuji Radar System
4.5 kmFuji-Q Highland Conifer Forest
3.7 km
Kawaguchiko Stellar Theater
3.1 km
Yoshida Fire Festival
4.6 km
Fuji Omuro Sengen Shrine
5.8 km
Kawaguchiko Motor Museum
1.2 km
Mount Fuji Radar Dome Museum
4.5 km
Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
6 km
Yamanashi Prefectural Fuji Spring-fed Village Aquarium
6.3 km
Fuji Chobo no Yu - Yurari
6.3 km
Fujizakura Country Club
2.3 km
Gekkō-ji
6.1 kmOshino Shinobi no Sato
5.8 km
Narusawa Lava Tree Molds
5.9 km
Yamanashi Prefectural Fujisan World Heritage Center
4 km
Yamanashi Prefectural Fuji Visitor Center
4 km
Former house of the Togawa Family
4.8 km
Sainen-ji
4.4 km
Fuji Lakeside Country Club
1.8 km
Fujiyoshida City Library
5.8 km
Kitahara Museum
6.3 km
Fujiyama
4.2 km
Takabisha
4.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes