Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is often considered a must-see destination for travellers visiting Japan. At 3,776 meters, it is the highest mountain in Japan and an active stratovolcano, akin to renowned Italian volcanoes such as Etna, Vesuvius, or Stromboli. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, Mount Fuji holds sacred significance and has long inspired artists and poets.
Its iconic conical silhouette, often capped with snow, has captivated minds for centuries and attracted pilgrims seeking a spiritual connection. Since the Edo era, depictions of the mountain have adorned various forms of media, from woodcuts by famous artists like Hokusai to modern-day Japanese guides, book covers, postcards, and souvenirs.
In an interesting twist, the name and popularity of Mount Fuji inspired the founders of a new television channel in 1957. Seeking a name that would resonate with the public, they chose “Fuji Television,” citing the mountain’s widespread appeal and iconic status in Japan. Today, Fuji TV is one of the country’s most popular television stations, with its main building in Odaiba overlooking Tokyo Bay.
Mount Fuji – sacred place and symbol of Japan
For followers of Shintoism, Mount Fuji holds sacred significance, serving as a holy mountain, while for all Japanese people, it stands as an eternal symbol of their country. Revered for centuries, it is a place of religious worship, attracting nearly 17 million visitors annually. At the foot of the mountain lies the Fujisan Hongu Sengentaisha Temple, a thousand-year-old shrine dedicated to the female deity, Princess Konohana-no-sakuyahime-no-mikoto.
An intriguing historical note is that until 1868, entry to the temple was prohibited for women.
Before ascending the mountain, paying respects to the deity is customary by bowing and acknowledging any potential peace disturbance. Additionally, the temple was constructed to safeguard the surrounding area and Edo (now Tokyo) from future volcanic eruptions. The last eruption, triggered by a powerful earthquake, occurred in 1707/1708, making expressions of gratitude especially pertinent.
Mount Fuji – Climbing
It is feasible to summit Mount Fuji during specific times of the year, with the primary climbing season spanning from July to August. From May to September, visitors can ascend to 2400 meters via an asphalt road accessible by bus or car. The journey from this point to the summit typically takes 4 to 7 hours, depending on the hiker’s fitness level, weather conditions, and trail traffic. The descent may require 2 to 4 hours. Several shelters provide rest stops along the route, and a meteorological observatory is at the mountain’s peak. During winter, one of the slopes transforms into a downhill ski area.
The famous Japanese proverb advises, “You have to be a fool not to enter it once, and even more foolish to enter it twice.” To avoid appearing foolish, proper preparation is essential for your first trip, including ensuring appropriate equipment. It’s important to note that even during the peak summer season in August, temperatures on Mount Fuji can drop to 5 degrees Celsius. Surrounding the north side of Mount Fuji are five lakes collectively known as Fuji Goko, and the mountain itself is situated within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
Mount Fuji Cultural Heritage
Mount Fuji, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan, faces overcrowding and environmental degradation challenges due to an influx of climbers. Concerns include human traffic jams, littered foothills, and poorly dressed hikers, some even attempting the ascent in sandals. To address these issues, the Yamanashi prefectural government has implemented new regulations.
New fees and limits for climbing Mount Fuji
Starting in summer 2025, all hikers planning to climb Mount Fuji via any of its four main trails must pay a mandatory entry fee of ¥4,000 (approx. €24.70). The new regulations aim to protect the UNESCO World Heritage environment and address the growing issue of overtourism.
Key updates:
- The fee applies to all four major trails, including the popular Yoshida Trail, easily accessible from Tokyo.
- The fee will be charged during the official climbing season, from July to September.
- A daily cap of 4,000 hikers has been introduced on the Yoshida Trail to reduce congestion.
- Funds collected from the fee will be used to maintain the trails and build shelters for volcanic emergencies.
Authorities observed that similar restrictions introduced last year had a positive impact — reducing visitor numbers and helping preserve the mountain’s natural environment. In nearby Fujikawaguchiko, local officials even installed a black mesh screen blocking the view of Mount Fuji to discourage disruptive behavior and uncontrolled photo stops.
If you plan to hike Mount Fuji this year, book in advance and budget for the new entry fee. Responsible tourism helps protect this iconic site for future generations!
Mount Fuji – how do you get there from Tokyo?
To reach nearby Mount Fuji from Tokyo, train and bus options are available, with the bus being the more economical choice. Several buses depart daily towards the mountain, with the Highway Bus being a popular option. A one-way ticket from Shinjuku station in Tokyo to Fujian typically costs around 1750 yen (approximately 14 euros). It’s advisable to book tickets online in advance, specifying your desired departure and arrival times, and reserve a seat. Remember to pick up your ticket no later than 15 minutes before departure to avoid losing it.
The bus terminal for the Highway Bus is located at the Shinjuku Station West Exit, across the street from Shinjuku Station. The entrance to the main hall of the bus station is marked, and stairs leading up to the station hall on the 4th floor are easily found. Inside, you will find a spacious, comfortable waiting room with several ticket counters. Even if you’ve made a booking, you can change your departure or arrival time when purchasing tickets at the station.
In the waiting hall, large screens display visible and well-marked timetables, making it easy to locate the departure gate. Buses are conveniently parked just outside the waiting room, eliminating the need to search for a stop. The mountain becomes a captivating attraction during the journey to Mount Fuji as it appears directly in front of the bus, offering stunning views. The trip from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo to the final bus stop at Kawaguchiko Station typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
