Konohanasakuya-hime is the goddess of Mount Fujiand all volcanoes in Japanese mythology she is also the blossom-princess and symbol of delicate earthly life. She is often considered an avatar of Japanese life especially since her symbol is the sakura (cherry blossom).
Shinto shrines have been built on Mount Fuji for Sakuya-hime collectively known as the Asama or Sengen Shrines. It is believed that she will keep Mount Fuji from erupting.
In one myth Sakuya-hime met Ninigi on the seashore and they fell in love, Ninigi asked Ohoyamatsumi the father of Sakuya-hime for her hand in marriage. Oho-Yama proposed his older daughter Iwa-Naga-hime instead but Ninigi had his heart set on Sakuya-hime. Oho-Yama reluctantly agreed and Ninigi and Ko-no-hana married. Because Ninigi refused Iwa-Naga the rock-princess human lives are said to be short and fleeting like the sakura blossoms instead of enduring and long lasting like stones.
Konohana Hime is a benevolent but formi- dable goddess who must always be approached with respect. This is meant literally: when approaching Mount Fuji one approaches Konohana. She slew followers of the 12th century hero Nitta Tadatsune when they trespassed in a sacred cave. Tadatsune was an exceptionally brave man but when Konohana warned him to retreat or meet his fate he took the escape route. People honor Konohana by walking the pilgrimage route up Mount Fuji. She is also venerated at home altars.