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Mount Fuji, or "Fujisan" in Japanese, is the highest mountain in Japan, standing tall at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). It is located in the Chubu region and straddles the border between Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan and is admired for its perfectly symmetrical cone shape. It holds great cultural, spiritual, and artistic significance and is one of the most popular travel and climbing destinations in Japan. Whether you're a climber, a nature lover, or a photographer, Mount Fuji offers a powerful and memorable experience.
Reaching Mount Fuji is relatively easy from Tokyo and other parts of Japan. The most popular access points are via the Fuji Five Lakes area (Kawaguchiko) and Hakone.
From Tokyo:
- By Train: Take the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo or Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station. Then transfer to the Fujikyu Railway to reach Kawaguchiko Station (around 2.5–3 hours total).
- By Bus: Direct highway buses run from Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, and Haneda Airport to Kawaguchiko or the Subaru 5th Station on Mount Fuji (approx. 2.5 hours).
- By Car: Mount Fuji is about 100–120 km southwest of Tokyo. Travel via the Chuo Expressway or Tomei Expressway.
From other cities like Kyoto or Osaka, bullet trains can take you to Mishima or Shin-Fuji Station, where you can take buses or taxis toward the Fuji area.
Mount Fuji has alpine weather conditions that can be unpredictable, especially near the summit.
- Summer (July to early September): This is the official climbing season. Weather is relatively mild, mountain huts are open, and trails are monitored.
- Spring (April to June): Lower areas like the Fuji Five Lakes and nearby parks offer great views and cherry blossoms, but climbing is not advised.
- Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. The summit may already start accumulating snow.
- Winter (December to March): Snow-covered Fuji is stunning, but climbing is extremely dangerous without mountaineering experience.
Even in summer, temperatures near the summit can drop below freezing, so proper clothing is essential.
The best time to visit Mount Fuji depends on your activities.
- Climbing Season: Officially from early July to early September. During this time, trails, huts, and first aid stations are open.
- Non-climbing Season: Visiting viewpoints like Chureito Pagoda, Lake Kawaguchi, or Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station is possible year-round.
Most sightseeing locations are open between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Some mountain trails and huts operate overnight to allow climbers to see the sunrise (“Goraiko”) from the summit.
Mount Fuji is famous for its symmetrical volcanic cone, cultural significance, and breathtaking beauty. It has been depicted in countless works of art, including ukiyo-e prints by artists like Hokusai and Hiroshige. The mountain is considered sacred in Shintoism and Buddhism and has inspired pilgrims for centuries. Its iconic shape is visible from many parts of Honshu on clear days and continues to be a national symbol. Mount Fuji is also a symbol of endurance and aspiration, attracting climbers and visitors from all over the world.
Entry to the Mount Fuji area is generally free, but there is a recommended “donation” or environmental preservation fee of around 1,000 yen for those climbing the mountain. This can be paid online or at the trailhead.
- Trail Access: The most popular trail is the Yoshida Trail, starting from the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station.
- Mountain Huts: Available for overnight stays during the climbing season (prices range from 5,000 to 10,000 yen with meals).
- Permits: No permit is needed for general climbing during the official season. However, climbing in the off-season requires special registration due to safety concerns.
Mount Fuji has erupted many times in the past, with the last eruption (Hōei Eruption) occurring in 1707. Its geological and volcanic history is studied by scientists around the world.
Architecturally, the mountain is home to numerous small shrines and torii gates, especially around the summit and trails. The Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine in Fujinomiya is the head shrine for over 1,300 Sengen shrines across Japan and is dedicated to the deity of Mount Fuji. These spiritual landmarks blend nature and culture harmoniously.
- Climb Mount Fuji: Experience Japan’s most iconic hike. Start at the 5th station and reach the summit in 5–7 hours.
- Visit the Fuji Five Lakes: Kawaguchiko, Yamanakako, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko offer great views and recreational activities.
- Explore Chureito Pagoda: A perfect photo spot with Mount Fuji in the background.
- Relax in Hot Springs (Onsen): Soak in an onsen with a view of the mountain.
- Take a Scenic Ropeway: The Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway in Kawaguchiko offers stunning views.
- Photography and Nature Walks: Capture amazing sunrise, sunset, and seasonal landscapes.
- Visit Oshino Hakkai: A traditional village with crystal-clear spring ponds and Mount Fuji views.
- Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano that last erupted in 1707.
- It is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
- You can send a postcard from Japan’s highest post office at the summit.
- The sunrise from the summit is called “Goraiko” and is a spiritual highlight for many climbers.
- July and August are the safest and best months to climb.
- Weather can change suddenly—bring warm clothing, gloves, headlamps, and water.
- If you don't want to climb, the surrounding areas offer beautiful views, nature parks, and cultural sites.
- Carry cash as some mountain huts and facilities do not accept credit cards.
- Consider booking huts in advance if you plan an overnight climb.
- Even if you're not climbing, a clear view of Mount Fuji is a highlight—check the weather before your visit!
