Mt. Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan that straddles Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures. There are four mountain trails to reach the top at 3,776m. The morning sun "Goraiko" can be seen from the summit of Mt. Fuji. The "Ohachi meguri" means walking around the crater. These are precious experiences exclusively for those who make it to the top.
Trail Heads and Mountain Trails
The four Mt. Fuji mountain trails are Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya Trails, respectively. The standard route is the Yoshida Trail which starts from the Yamanashi side. The Yoshida Trail is popular because of its good access from Tokyo and Osaka, and its relative ease to climb with plenty of mountain huts on the way.
If you are an experienced mountaineer, you may want to try the Gotemba Trail on the Shizuoka side. Although this route has a long distance and a large difference in elevation, reaching the summit by Gotemba Trail is extremely satisfactory. Gotemba Trail Head can also be accessed by expressway buses from Tokyo.
Climbing season of Mt. Fuji
The climbing season of Mt. Fuji is from early July to early September every year. In these two months there is the least amount of snow which makes it relatively safer to climb during this period. The Yoshida Trail opens from around July 1 every year. The other three trails open from around July 10 every year.
Climbing plan
As Mt. Fuji is over 3,700m, it is better to have a flexible plan for safe climbing. When descending from the summit, To get used to the alpine climate, it is suggested to spend at least one night on the manner. It is also suggested to take frequent breaks between trips. Lodging in a mountain hut above the 5th station is better for you.
On the other side, one-day climbing or overnight climbing will boost the danger of illness and injury at altitude, so kindly prevent them.
What to bring when climbing Mt. Fuji
The necessary equipment for climbing Mt. Fuji are : backpacks, climbing shoes, hats, long pants and jackets that can adjust body temperature easily. Winter clothing is also vital because when you approach the peak, temperature falls. In addition, raincoat, headlights, coins, trash bags, map, water and snacks are likely to be needed. Bringing earplugs, hand warmers and sunglasses as well is also helpful.
In order to climb Mt. Fuji safely
In order to climb Mt. Fuji safely, it is important to follow the rules and keep good manners. Basically, you should give priority to ascending mountaineers. Overtaking is forbidden while waiting or climbing due to the danger of slipping away from the mountain paths. It is also essential not to break the lava to avoid falling rocks. In addition, in order to maintain the comfortable environment, please be reminded "take away any trash, do not scribble, keep public facilities clean" and so on.
Spot information
- Spot name: Mt. Fuji (Yoshida Trail Head)
- Street address: 〒403-0005 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Access: About 60 minutes by bus from Fujikyuko Ōtsuki Line "Mt. Fuji Station" or Fujikyu Kawaguchiko Line "Kawaguchiko Station" to Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station
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