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Home: Highest Mountains in Japan: Climbing Mt. Fuji - Frequently Asked Questions, Page 1: Climbing Mt. Fuji - Frequently Asked Questions, Page 2

Climbing Mt. Fuji (富士山) -
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Page 2 of 2

This page is a continuation of Climbing Mt. Fuji - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), Page 1.


Lake Yamanaka seen from the top of Mt. Fuji
"Lake Yamanaka seen from the top of Mt. Fuji"
(Taken circa 1904 by a photographer with the Underwood & Underwood Co.
Used with permission from the Nagasaki University Library Collection)


Got a question or story about climbing Mt. Fuji?


Frequently Asked Questions (continued from Page 1):

Q: Is it possible to climb to the summit of Mt. Fuji from the base of the mountain?  (updated July 12, 2018)
Q: What time is sunrise and sunset during the Mt. Fuji climbing season?  (updated Mar. 25, 2023)
Q: Can I leave my large backpack in a locker at the train station and take only a smaller pack with me to climb?  (updated April 4, 2019)
Q: What kind of coin lockers do they have at the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station?  (updated Mar. 31, 2018) 
Q: Where can I find a list of tips on "How to Climb Mt. Fuji"?
Q: Do I have to worry about altitude sickness when climbing Mt. Fuji?
Q: What should I do if I have an accident, get sick, or have some other kind of trouble or emergency?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017)
Q: Are there any live webcams showing Mt. Fuji?  (updated July 28, 2022)
Q: Where can I find a good route map or elevation profile for climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated July 6, 2023)
Q: What is the latitude and longitude of Mt. Fuji?
Q: What does it look like from the summit of Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 26, 2023)
Q: Where can I view videos of Mt. Fuji from an airplane?
Q: Is it ok to climb Mt. Fuji with children?  (updated July 23, 2017)
Q: I'm looking for a Mt. Fuji climbing partner. Are there some online forums where I can hook up with other climbers?  (updated June 12, 2022)
Q: Where can I read some personal stories and opinions, both pro and con, by hikers who've actually climbed up Mt. Fuji?  (updated Nov. 10, 2023)
Q: Where can I view some good videos that encapsulate the true spirit and essence of climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated Aug. 5, 2015)
Q: Where can I eat, sleep, and sightsee at the base of Mt. Fuji?  (updated Mar. 11, 2020)
Q: I recently heard of something called "Diamond Fuji." What is it?  (updated Jan. 28, 2020)
Q: How can I get myself in good enough shape to climb Mt. Fuji?  (added July 2, 2021)
Q: I'm not confident in my own mountain climbing abilities. Can you recommend a good local mountain climbing guide or tour?  (updated July 2, 2021)
Q: If I make it to the top of Mt. Fuji, can I get a certificate for my accomplishment? 
Q: I'm not a mountain climber. Are there guided Mt. Fuji bus tours I can join?  (updated April 26, 2023)
Q: Are there any races or trail runs up or around Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 27, 2023)
Q: Is it possible to mail a letter or postcard from the summit of Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 27, 2023)
Q: Are there places around Tokyo to rent/buy gear (i.e. hiking boots, warm jackets, headlamps) when climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated June 12, 2022)
Q: Does it really cost ¥1000 to climb Mt. Fuji?  (updated Aug. 15, 2021) 
Q: Where are Mt. Fuji's toilets located and are they environmentally-friendly?  (added July 6, 2017)
Q: I've heard that a Japanese university professor predicted Mt. Fuji would erupt by 2015. Should I be concerned?  (updated April 27, 2023)
Q: Will I be able to access the internet while climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated June 24, 2023)
Q: I plan to climb all night to catch the sunrise from the Mt. Fuji summit, but I've heard this is unsafe. Is it REALLY that dangerous?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017) 
Q: I read somewhere that credit cards are not accepted on Mt. Fuji, so how much cash should I bring, anyways?  (added July 21, 2015) 
Q: Who's the oldest person to have ever climbed Mt. Fuji?  (updated July 25, 2019) 
Q: Where are the most congested spots on the Yoshida Trail?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017)
Q: Where are the most hazardous places on the Yoshida Trail?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017)
Q: Is camping allowed on Mt. Fuji?  (added May 30, 2020)
Q: Where can I get more helpful info on climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 27, 2023)






Q: Is it possible to climb to the summit of Mt. Fuji from the base of the mountain?  (updated July 12, 2018)
A: Yes, indeed. Since most climbers start from the 5th Station, if you want to escape the crowds and surround yourself with a quiet, breathtaking forest, you should seriously consider the historic Yoshidaguchi Climbing Trail, which starts from the northern base of Japan's highest peak.

The original Yoshida Climbing Route starts from the Fuji Sengen Shrine (formally known as Kitaguchi Hongu Sengen Jinja), where the pilgrims of over 500 years ago came to pray before they started their climb up the sacred mountain. Today, traditionalists claim that the only way to climb Mt. Fuji is from the Fuji Sengen Shrine (elev. 850m), which is designated as a national cultural asset and part of Mt. Fuji’s June 22, 2013 registration as a World Heritage Site.

But many climbers hike from Umagaeshi, from where it only takes two and a half hours to reach the 5th station. Located just below the 1st Station and easily accessible by bus, Umagaeshi is a great starting point to climb Mt. Fuji. Recently there has been a surge of people starting their climb from Umagaeshi because it provides a much more traditional and historical climbing experience, free from the hordes of climbers above the 5th Station.

Bus service from Mt. Fuji Station (formerly Fujiyoshida Station) is available to the Fuji Sengen Shrine, and up the road to Naka-no-Chaya and Umagaeshi. Click here for 2018 bus schedule info to the Fuji Sengen Shrine, Naka-no-Chaya, and Umagaeshi. (A special thanks to Robin, the former Coordinator for International Relations at Fujiyoshida City Hall for kindly sharing this info.)

Yoshidaguchi Climbing Trail hiking times
Yoshidaguchi Climbing Trail hiking times
(Click image above to view more details, including trail map)
Courtesy: Robin at Fujiyoshida City International Affairs Desk

A brochure published in Nov. 2013 by Fujiyoshida City shows even more details about this pilgrimage route and can be viewed here



Q: What time is sunrise and sunset during the Mt. Fuji climbing season?  (updated Mar. 25, 2023)
A: Sunrise/sunset times for the 2023 Mt. Fuji climbing season are exactly the same as shown below or vary by only a minute or 2.

2015 Mt. Fuji sunrise and sunset times
2015 Mt. Fuji sunrise and sunset times
Source: sunrise.maplogs.com
(based on 35°22'N, 138°44'E)



Q: Can I leave my large backpack in a locker at the train station and take only a smaller pack with me to climb?  (updated April 4, 2019)
A: The availability of coin lockers depends on a number of factors, including the trail you take, day of week, and time of day of your climb, all of which will affect how crowded it is at the time. You should be aware, though, that the number of coin lockers large enough for backpacks is usually quite limited, and may be all filled during peak times. According to the City of Fujiyoshida, some coin lockers for large luggage are available at both Mt. Fuji Station and Kawaguchiko Station (operated by the Fuji Kyuko Line) and at the Fuji Subaru 5th Station. Although, they warn that sometimes people have had problems storing large hard-shelled luggage. The starting cost is ¥300/day. It may also be possible for arrangements to be made at either the Mt. Fuji or Kawaguchiko Tourist Information Centers.

The chart below shows the sizes and costs for coin lockers typically found at train stations operated by JR East, although all sizes may not necessarily be available at the smaller train stations in the Mt. Fuji area.

JR East coin locker sizes & costs
JR East coin locker sizes (in millimeters) and costs
(photo courtesy: JR East)

On the following train station maps, you can see the locations of coin-operated lockers that are available there:
Shinjuku Station: http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/stations/e866.html
Tokyo Station: http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/stations/e1039.html

If you're climbing Mt. Fuji during peak climbing times (especially July 21 - Aug. 20), I think the chances of finding a coin locker for large-sized luggage at the Mt. Fuji 5th Station trailhead would probably be somewhere between slim and none.  smiley  I think you might have better luck leaving your stuff at Shinjuku or Tokyo Stations, where you can use the coin lockers there for up to 3 days (from ¥300/day). "Days" are counted from 12:00 am to 11:59 pm (not 24-hr. periods from the time you insert ¥100 coins to pay for the 1st day) and they check the lockers everyday, and so if your stuff is not out after 3 days, it's taken to an office where you can claim it and pay the extra charges upon your return.

Japanese train station coin locker
Japanese train station coin locker


Also, if you stay at a hotel at the base of the mountain, you could possibly leave your pack at the hotel during your climb. Another option might be that, while climbing Fuji-san, some climbers have their suitcases shipped to their next destination by "takkyubin" (local ground transport service, like UPS in the states).



Q: What kind of coin lockers do they have at the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station?  (updated Mar. 31, 2018) 
A: There are at least 200 coin lockers inside the Unjokaku Lodge, located right where you get off the Keio highway bus from Shinjuku. But only 12 of the 70 coin lockers that are in the 1st floor souvenir shop are large enough (34 cm wide x 76 cm high x 50 cm deep)​ for a backpack and they cost ¥600.

The small-size (34W x 30H x 42D) and mid-size (34W x 39H x 42D) coin lockers cost ¥300 and ¥500, respectively.

The other 130 coin lockers are on the 3rd floor, along with the coin showers, separate capsule bed rooms for men and women, and the larger community rooms for rest or overnight stay. Please note that these coin lockers are only accessible from 7 am till 10 pm.

There are also coin lockers inside the Fujisan Miharashi shop and restaurant, a photo of which you can view on this page.


Unjokaku coin lockers
Large-size coin lockers inside the Unjokaku Lodge


Q: Where can I find a comprehensive checklist of tips on "How to Climb Mt. Fuji"?
A: This is one of the best checklists I've seen so far, courtesy of Toru Sasaki, although some of the info has now become a tad outdated: How to Climb Mt. Fuji


Q: Do I have to worry about altitude sickness when climbing Mt. Fuji?
A: If you are not an experienced hiker nor have trained properly, there is a real possibility of altitude sickness, including headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even vomiting. The best way to avoid this is to pace yourself, take lots of breaks, and to acclimate yourself to the higher elevations. Perhaps you can even sleep for a while, say, at the 5th, 7th, or 8th Stations, giving your body a chance to adjust to the thinner air. If your travel schedule permits, staying overnight at one of the area hotels at the base of the mountain before starting your climb will also help with the acclimation process. While some mountain huts have oxygen bottles, if you suffer a severe case of altitude sickness with vomiting, it is probably best to get down off the mountain ASAP. An excellent report on the causes and prevention of altitude sickness can be found here.


Q: What should I do if I have an accident, get sick, or have any other kind of trouble or emergency?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017)
A: Carrying a first-aid kit is a good idea, but if you need emergency assistance, it's best to try to make it to the nearest mountain hut. There are emergency aid stations at the 7th and 8th Stations on the Yoshida Trail (usually open July 16 - Aug. 28, dates subject to change) and at the 8th Station on the Fujinomiya Trail (usually open July 25 - Aug. 18, dates subject to change). For more serious emergencies, you should dial "110" on your cell phone (assuming it works on Mt. Fuji) to receive immediate assistance. Also, at the Yoshida Trail 6th Station (Tel. 0555-24-6223) as well as at the Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station (Tel. 0544-22-2239 or 090-2182-2239) are Safety Guidance Centers where you can get help with injuries and other emergencies.

Let's be clear, Mt. Fuji can be quite dangerous, and between 2011 and 2014 has claimed on average nearly 8 lives per year. Overconfidence results in deaths and injuries on Mt. Fuji every single year. 


Q: Are there any live webcams showing Mt. Fuji?  (updated July 28, 2022)
A: Yes, live webcams quickly come and go, but here are a few that were operational as of July 28, 2022:
http://live.fujigoko.tv/?e=1&n=22 (this page doesn't like ad-block software)
https://lake-yamanakako.com/zekkei (I like this one best, as you can choose between a wide angle view and a telephoto view.)
https://www.goraikoukan.jp/livecamera (view from Goraikoukan mountain hut, refreshed every 5 min.... only during climbing season)
http://www.pref.shizuoka.jp/~live/english/index.html (photographs of Mt. Fuji taken at 1-minute intervals by different cameras in Shimizu, Fujinomiya, and Gotemba)

(Japan time = UTC + 9 hrs.)


Q: Where can I find a good route map or elevation profile for climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated July 6, 2023)
A: Since the trails are very well marked, and are almost always filled with throngs of people, it'll be difficult to get lost and you probably won't need one. Free English brochures are available at the tourist information centers in Tokyo and Kawaguchiko. Just make sure before you head down, you choose the right trail, or you'll wind up at the wrong 5th Station and that'd be a real bummer (and an EXPENSIVE taxi ride!). 

Click thumbnails below to view detailed Mt. Fuji trail maps for each of its 4 climbing routes:

Mt. Fuji Kawaguchiko Yoshida trail map
Yoshida
trail map
Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya trail map
Fujinomiya
trail map
Mt. Fuji Subashiri trail map
Subashiri
trail map
Mt. Fuji Gotemba trail map
Gotemba
trail map
In the above 4 maps, the enlargement of the Mt. Fuji summit area can be seen here: Ohachimeguri (お鉢めぐり) trail map


Here are some additional helpful maps:

- 2021 detailed Mt. Fuji trail map for all 4 trails
- 2023 trail map for the main Yoshida Trail, issued by the Mt. Fuji Enviromental Preservation Council
- 2019 trail map for the Fujinomiya Trail, issued by the Mt. Fuji 5th Station Facility Maintenance Committee
- 2018 Climbing Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya Trail Guide and Map, published by the Mt. Fuji Fujinomiya 5th Station Public Restroom Management Council
- 2018 Mt. Fuji Climbing Map for the Gotemba Trail, issued by the Gotemba City Tourist Association (added Feb. 10, 2021)

One of the best internet maps, in my humble opinion, smiley is my own customized Google Map of the 25 Highest Mountains in Japan, which I created in Oct. 2009 as I thought it'd be cool to see all of Japan's highest peaks at a glance. 

My Google Map of the 25 Highest Mountains in Japan

(zoom out to see all of the other highest mountains in Japan)


The actual 3776m Mt. Fuji highpoint is named
Kengamine (剣ヶ峰), one of 8 peaks around the summit crater rim.
(View 25 Highest Mountains in Japan in a larger map.)

Another useful route map for climbing Mt. Fuji is the Yamareco map shown below, which includes an elevation profile graph from a person who hiked up the Yoshida trail and then all the way around Mt. Fuji's cone.

Route Map & Elevation Profile
for Climbing Mt. Fuji (富士山)



Source: Yamareco.com

Also, I was impressed with the interesting 3D schematic below of the Yoshida climbing trail, courtesy of the Fujiyoshida City International Affairs Section.

Mt. Fuji Kawaguchiko Yoshida Climbing Trail


Q: What is the latitude and longitude of Mt. Fuji (富士山)?
A: Latitude: 35° 21' 38.0" N  (35.360556° N)
    Longitude: 138° 43' 39.0" E  (138.727500° E)

 

Q: What does it look like from the summit of Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 26, 2023)
A: In July 2013, Google sent a team up Mt. Fuji to get a "Street View" of the summit. Using the Street View Trekker backpack device, equipped with a remarkable 15 cameras, the Google team was able to capture a full range of 360-degree panoramic imagery from atop the mountain. This YouTube video shows the making of the Mt. Fuji Street View and here is the new 360° Street View panorama from the abandoned weather station atop Kengamine (剣ヶ峰), Japan's actual highpoint. Additional Mt. Fuji images are linked from the thumbnail slider at the bottom of the same page above (click "Show imagery" up arrows to see slider).


Q: Where can I view videos of Mt. Fuji (富士山) from an airplane?
A: This is probably one of the better ones, but not necessarily because it's mine. smiley face 


If the player above is not visible, you can view it at YouTube here.


Here are a few more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMTQNE1DJWo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=udigRRR2a5E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iPkkAAiAI4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=paaHSzgJqPE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EieXCWknSQ



Q: Is it ok to climb Mt. Fuji (富士山) with children?  (updated July 23, 2017)
A: The minimum age for climbing Mt. Everest is 16 (from the Nepal side) and the minimum age for climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is 12. smiley  Ok, Mt. Fuji (富士山) is not THAT difficult, but let's be clear, it's also not a Sunday stroll in the park. Having been climbing mountains since my Boy Scout days and having scaled all of the 25 highest mountains in Japan, 12 of the U.S. State Highpoints (tallest peak in each state), and 12 of Colorado's 54 famous "Fourteeners" (peaks higher than 14,000 feet (~4267 m)), I can honestly say climbing Mt. Fuji (富士山) was one of the more difficult hikes I've ever taken.

The trail gets quite steep above the 9th station, involving some moderate rock scrambling which requires giant steps, even for an adult. And when it rains, the rocks can get very slippery. The winds can get so strong, some hikers literally get blown off the trail, and this risk of injury is obviously much greater with little munchkins. When I climbed Mt. Fuji, I saw many kids, some appearing as young as 6 or 7, and who seemed to be part of some organized outing, like a school or scout trip, etc. But many of them had frowny faces and were obviously in a lot of pain, and some of them were even whining.

Because of a million other reasons, including the very primitive and scarce toilets, lightning risk, and the inherent dangers in descending Mt. Fuji including rock slides and the occasional dislodged boulder tumbling down from above... in my humble opinion, I believe taking young kids up the highest mountain in Japan is a mistake... unless of course they are already experienced mountain hikers and in good physical condition. Therefore, although some tour groups allow kids as young as 6 to climb Mt. Fuji, I'd recommend a minimum age of 8. That said, if taking children, the less crowded weekdays are probably best, and because of all the huts, resting points, emergency aid stations, and other services, the main Yoshida climbing trail would be the preferred route.

June 20, 2014 newspaper excerpt: 

"Parents should think twice before pushing their children to scale Mount Fuji. More than half of the children who attempted to reach the summit of the iconic mountain developed symptoms of acute altitude sickness, a Japanese medical society survey found... Of the respondents, 55 percent said they had developed common symptoms of acute mountain sickness such as headache, nausea and dizziness, and half of the children had given up trying to reach the summit... At its worst, altitude sickness can result in death."
—Asahi Shimbun, June 20, 2014—



Q: I'm looking for a Mt. Fuji climbing partner. Are there some online forums where I can hook up with other climbers?  (updated June 12, 2022)
A: These links are in a constant state of flux, but I'll try to keep them current. Please send me hate mail if you encounter a 404 error:  smiley
"Hiking in Japan" Facebook group (this is by far the best, run by an amazing American guy living in Osaka)
Trip Advisor Fuji Travel Forum
Trip Advisor Shizuoka Prefecture Travel Forum
Lonely Planet Travelers Facebook group



Q: Where can I read some personal stories and opinions, both pro and con, by hikers who've actually climbed up Mt. Fuji?  (updated Nov. 10, 2023)
A: Here are a select few, in (more or less) reverse chronological order:
How To Climb Mt. Fuji: My Subashiri Trail Experience (added Nov. 10, 2023)
I climbed Mount Fuji during ‘rush hour’. I won’t do it again (added July 31, 2023)
​​Climbing Mount Fuji Japan (added Aug. 17, 2022)
Climbing Mt. Fuji: An Unforgettable Experience (added Aug. 6, 2022)
A Guide to Climbing Mt. Fuji For Beginners 2021 (added July 31, 2022)
Japan: climbing Mt. Fuji – surpassing yourself (added July 11, 2022)
​​Idiot’s Guide to Hiking Mt. Fuji (added July 4, 2022)
From Sea to Summit – Climbing All 3,776 Meters of Mount Fuji (added Sept. 10, 2021)
Reporter's Notebook: Climbing Japan's tallest peak, Mount Fuji, amid the global pandemic (added Aug. 17, 2021)
Climbing Mt Fuji without any Experience! (added Sept. 1, 2020)
TIFU (Today I F*cked Up) by almost dying on Mt Fuji (2009 story) (added May 29, 2020)
Lessons Learned Climbing Mount Fuji (added Oct. 13, 2019)
Climbing Mount Fuji with my 70yo mum; Our Experience (added Sept. 29, 2019)
Mt. Fuji Climb (added Sept. 15, 2019)
Climbing Mt Fuji worth the effort (added July 18, 2019)
My Mt. Fuji Experience… (and why you should climb Mt. Fuji) (added June 22, 2019)
Climbing Mount Fuji from Sea to Summit, in Photos (added May 18, 2019)
Climbing Mount Fuji: A Beginner's Story and Useful Tips! (added Jan. 23, 2019)
Climbing Mt. Fuji – Despite Typhoons, Lightning, and Dire Unfitness (added Sept. 19, 2018)
Mt. Fuji killed my iPhone, but the sunrise was worth it (added Aug. 21, 2018)
Climbing Mt. Fuji at Night (amazing pics of lenticular clouds) (added July 17, 2018)
Mt. Fuji - not for sissies! (added July 13, 2018)
A Backpacking Guide To Mt Fuji (added May 3, 2018)
Hiking Mt. Fuji When You’re Not An Avid Hiker (added April 30, 2018)
Conquering Fuji-san (added Sept. 15, 2017)
Climbing Fuji San (added Aug. 3, 2017)
Climbing Mt. Fuji  (added Mar. 29, 2017)
Climbing Mt. Fuji (3776 m)  (added Oct. 18, 2016)
Climbing Mount Fuji: Tips and Tricks from Sassy To Light The Way  (added Sept. 30, 2016)
Climbing Mt. Fuji: Tips to the Top  (added Aug. 3, 2016) 
I climbed Mt Fuji; What You Should Know July 2016  (added July 27, 2016)
Climbing Mt Fuji (because you don't need a catchy title when you sleep on and summit a volcano)  (added July 15, 2016)
Gear, Tours and Tips: Making the Most of Your Mt. Fuji Climbing Experience  (added July 13, 2016)
How NOT to climb Mount Fuji  (added May 6, 2016)
My Mt. Fuji Night Climb (download this free eBook, a standalone chapter from author Nick Hall's forthcoming book)  (added April 1, 2016)
A non-traditional Fuji ascent: From sea to summit  (added Nov. 3, 2015)
Hiking up Mount Fuji  (added Oct. 13, 2015)
Little snail, slowly slowly climb Mount Fuji  (added Sept. 16, 2015)
Beyond the Summit - Climbing Mt. Fuji  (added Sept. 10, 2015)
Searching for the Sunrise  (added Aug. 25, 2015)
The Mt. Fuji Epic Saga  (added Aug. 23, 2015)
Hiking Mt. Fuji  (added Aug. 19, 2015)
The Ultimate Mt. Fuji Packing List  (added July 20, 2015)
What I learned from Climbing Mount Fuji in August  (added June 6, 2015)
Why is climbing Mount Fuji a ‘horrendously’ bad idea?  (added May 10, 2015)
Climbing Mount Fuji 
Climbing the Fujinomiya Trail of Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji Sunrise Hike 
Mount Fuji
Climbing Mt. Fuji
What It Cost Me to Climb Mount Fuji
Fuji, Tramontane (unsuccessful winter attempt)
Climbing Mt. Fuji
Climbing Mt. Fuji (Film) (part 1 ascent)
Climbing Mt. Fuji – The Descent (Film) (part 2 descent)
Fuji Love
On Highest Ground 
I'm No Fool - Climbing Mt Fuji!!!!!!!
Climbing Fools
Climbing Mount Fuji   



Q: Where can I view some good videos that encapsulate the true spirit and essence of climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated Aug. 5, 2015)
A: Nowadays there are an uncountable number at YouTube, but these are 3 of my favorites:


A grrrreat new video by "Sharla in Japan" posted Aug. 4, 2015.
This amazing young Canadian has a remarkable 600,000+ subscribers to her YouTube channel!
(If the player above is not visible, you can view it at YouTube here.)




An Aug. 20, 2012 ascent by Dr. David Wallace
Don't miss his own electric viola as the background music.
You can also read David's amazing story about climbing Mt. Fuji here.
(If the player above is not visible, you can view it at YouTube here.)




An Aug. 10-11, 2010 climb of Mt. Fuji
(If the player above is not visible, you can view it at YouTube here.)



Q: Where can I eat, sleep, and sightsee at the base of Mt. Fuji?  (updated Mar. 11, 2020)
A: The area surrounding Mt. Fuji is one of most beautiful parts of Japan and includes the Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko) region. Trip Advisor is probably one of the best sources for sightseeing info for this area. (I used to post their affiliate links here, but they didn't pay hardly anything for the traffic I was sending them, so those links got deleted.)

In May 2016, the friend of a friend opened Hostel Mt. Fuji-Fukuya in a newly renovated wooden house located in Fujiyoshida City, at the base of Mt. Fuji. As you can see below, it's an absolutely gorgeous place, complete with rooms that have original old wood floors and Japanese style sliding doors, as well as a comfy tatami mat TV lounge.

If you need a good place to stay, conveniently located near Fujisan Station where you can easily access both Mt. Fuji train and bus transport options, you'll definitely want to consider Hostel Mt. Fuji-Fukuya. Reservations can be made here.

Hostel Mt. Fuji entrance
Front entrance
Hostel Mt. Fuji lounge
Front desk and TV lounge
Hostel Mt. Fuji bunk beds
Bunk beds with privacy curtains
Hostel Mt. Fuji vanity
Double vanity with electric outlets
Hostel Mt. Fuji-Fukuya in Fujiyoshida City, at the base of Mt. Fuji conveniently located near Fujisan Station
(click pics above to view original larger-size images)
(photos courtesy: Hostel Mt. Fuji)


Also, in 2015 the Fujigoko Tourism Association put together an excellent restaurant guide with map: New Fuji 5 Lakes restaurant guide in English



Q: I recently heard of something called "Diamond Fuji." What is it?  (updated Jan. 28, 2020)
One of the most interesting things about Mt. Fuji I've ever experienced while residing in Japan is what's known as "Diamond Fuji," a phenomenon which occurs primarily from Oct. to Feb. when the sun sets into or rises out of Mt. Fuji's cone, setting off sunbeams that resemble a glittering diamond. The Diamond Fuji pic below was taken by a Tokyo friend of mine from the shore of Lake Yamanakako, one of the Fuji 5 Lakes.

Berndt's Diamond Fuji
Diamond Fuji photo taken Feb. 17, 2011 by Berndt Otto

Also, on Xmas Day 2014 I decided to put together a webpage listing the best high-rise spots in Tokyo for viewing Diamond Fuji along with recommended dates, sunset times, admission fees, and links to their Google maps. That Diamond Fuji page was updated Jan. 27, 2020 and can be viewed here: Diamond Fuji Viewing Spots, Dates, and Times in Tokyo



Q: How can I get myself in good enough shape to climb Mt. Fuji?  (added July 2, 2021)
A: REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.), the famous outdoor gear and apparel store, has prepared a very comprehensive physical fitness and conditioning guide, complete with videos, to help you properly train for climbing Mt. Fuji. You can view it here.



Q: I'm not confident in my own mountain climbing abilities. Can you recommend a good local mountain climbing guide or tour?  (updated July 2, 2021)
A: I suspect there are several, but here are just a few examples I've run across:
- Kanto Adventures, run by David Niehoff
- FYG Mountain Guides offers a number of 2-day and 3-day Mt. Fuji pilgrim and sunrise tours
- VIP Tour bus tours (Japanese)



Q: If I make it to the top of Mt. Fuji, can I get a certificate for my accomplishment? 
A: Yes, you can get a personalized certificate for ¥1,050 or a commemoration letter for free from the Yamanashi Tourism Organization. More details here.



Q: I'm not a mountain climber. Are there guided Mt. Fuji bus tours I can join?  (updated April 26, 2023)
A: From the comfort of an air-conditioned motorcoach, you can enjoy not only the beautiful panoramic views from Mt. Fuji's 5th Station, but there are 1-day Mt. Fuji tours starting from ¥8000 (without lunch box), some that also take in the nearby Hakone hot spring resort and include a pirate boat cruise on Hakone's Lake Ashi. Here are some of the more popular Mt. Fuji bus tour services:
- Veltra Corporation
- Hato Bus

Also, Mt. Fuji One Day Bus Tour (K's Travel) offers a ¥8,800 1-day bus tour (and ¥4,900 half-day tour) of the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, Aokigahara Forest, Shiraito Falls, and Lake Motosuko (one of the Fuji 5 Lakes), departing from and finishing in the Kawaguchiko area [available April thru November]. (as of April 2023, their webste states this service is no longer available)



Q: Are there any races or trail runs up or around Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 27, 2023)
A: There are probably more, but I'm currently aware of these:
Sea-to-Summit - The Sea-to-Summit is an endurance charity fundraising event. Climbers trek all the way from the Shizuoka coastline to the summit of Japan's symbolic Mt. Fuji in under 24 hours.

For climbers interested in a more leisurely sea-to-summit trek, Fuji City in Shizuoka Prefecture has laid out a 4-day, 3-night, 42 km (26.1 mi) route named the "Mt. Fuji Tourism Climbing Route 3776," in reference to the elevation gain to Mt. Fuji's summit. Hikers can choose to start from either Tagonoura Port Park or Fujizuka, both of which are at sea level on Suruga Bay.

Fuji City's English/Japanese bilingual guide map includes information on sightseeing and accommodation options along the route and can be found here.

44th Annual Chichibunomiya Memorial Mount Fuji Climbing Relay Race (Japanese) - Sunday, August 4, 2019 - runners ran from Gotemba's 5th Station to the summit of Mt. Fuji, then descended 3258 m down the Gotemba Great Sand Run (supposedly the world's largest elevation drop among relay road races), finishing up at the Gotemba athletics stadium. [The 45th annual race in 2020 was cancelled due to Covid-19.]
Mt. Fuji International Marathon 2023 - Nov. 26, 2023
Ultra-Trail Mt. Fuji - April 21-23, 2023 
19th Mt. Fuji Hill Climb, Japan's largest hill climb cycling race - Sun. June 4, 2023
76th Fuji Mountain Race (Japanese) - Fri., July 28, 2023
Tour of Japan cycling race - May 21-28, 2023 - Japan's largest cycle road race event. Info on the 2022 race is here (Japanese).



Q: Is it possible to mail a letter or postcard from the summit of Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 27, 2023)
A: Yes, by all means don't miss the chance to mail a letter or postcard to your family or friends back home from the highest post office in Japan. In 2023 the Mt. Fuji summit post office (富士山頂郵便局, Fujisan-cho Yuubin Kyoku) will be open this season from 6 am to 2 pm daily from Mon. July 10 till Sun. Aug. 20, including weekends and holidays except on days with inclement weather or if an employee becomes infected with coronavirus. It's located at the top of the Fujinomiya Trail, between the Fujikan summit mountain hut (頂上富士館) and the Sengentaisha-Okumiya shrine (浅間大社奥宮), about a 30-40 min. hike clockwise around the summit crater from the top of the main Yoshida trail. More info on Japan's highest post office, including map (in Japanese) is here.

Fujisan-cho post office
Fujisan-cho post office,
the highest post office in Japan



Q: Are there places around Tokyo to rent/buy gear (i.e. hiking boots, warm jackets, headlamps) when climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated June 12, 2022)
A: I'm sure this short list of online shops just scratches the surface, but it's a start: smiley

- http://mtfujirental.com/
- http://lamont.jp/en/ (in Fuji-Kawaguchiko-cho, near the entrance to the Fuji Subaru Line)
- http://www.yamarent.com/ - Note: On Aug. 20, 2015, Yamarent had a small shop set up inside the 5th Station Unjokaku Lodge. Here are a couple pics of their English price list at that time:
   https://flic.kr/p/wH1Ais
   https://flic.kr/p/xBGUNy
https://tour.vipliner.biz/fuji/rental/?tm=1682563140&lang=ENG 
- https://www.cuterek.com/ (Japanese)

Also, outdoor gear shops in Tokyo are in a constant state of flux, and this list is a bit outdated, but some of these may offer rentals:

- Kojitsu-sanso in Ginza (open till 10 pm on weekdays, 9 pm on weekends): https://www.kojitusanso.jp/shop/kanto/ginza/
- Ishii Sports Yodobashi Shinjuku Nishiguchi: http://www.ici-sports.com/shop/shinjuku_west/ (west side of Shinjuku Station, just a short walk from the Busta Shinjuku bus terminal, the departure point for the Shinjuku to Mt. Fuji 5th Station highway bus)
- Ishii Sports Tozan Honten: http://www.ici-sports.com/shop/honten.html (in Kanda Jimbocho)
- Haglofs Japan main page: http://haglofs.jp (Japanese) - Tokyo shop is in the Harajuku area
- Mammut Japan: https://www.mammut.jp - Tokyo area stores in Sendgaya & Yokohama 
- Montbell (Japanese):
http://store.montbell.jp/search/shopinfo/?shop_no=618851 (Shibuya)
http://store.montbell.jp/search/shopinfo/?shop_no=679919 (Ebisu)
http://store.montbell.jp/search/shopinfo/?shop_no=618937 (Shinjuku Station south exit)
Google Map of all Montbell shop locations in Japan



Q: Does it really cost ¥1000 to climb Mt. Fuji?  (updated Aug. 15, 2021)
A: Beginning with a 10-day trial period in the 2013 climbing season and implemented in 2014 for the entire season, Mt. Fuji climbers are asked to donate ¥1000 to help enhance activities and services for environmental conservation, climber safety, and information provision. In particular, the voluntary fees are being used to construct new lavatories and repair existing ones, increase the number of personnel engaging in conservation efforts, and to expand the number of first-aid centers. Also, the study of new toilet technologies, surveys to monitor and analyze climber trends, setting up additional information centers, installing signage to raise awareness of climbing etiquette and rules, increasing the safety of the down trails such as the repair of protective fences, and developing mobile device apps and videos (for guidance in English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese) to help climbers better understand climbing safety and environmental conservation.

[Note: Speaking of environmental conservation, because the 3 trails from Shizuoka Prefecture don't usually open till July 10, some if not all public toilets around the Mt. Fuji summit area (which lie in Shizuoka Prefecture) may be unavailable each year during July 1-9. Climbers planning to summit Mt. Fuji during the 1st 9 days of the season are asked to bring personal disposable toilets just in case, and which are not a bad idea throughout the season, given their usefulness in the case of congestion or emergencies. In 2014, human excrement was found at 17 places along the Subashiri route.]

The funds from the ¥1000 donation are not used to maintain existing toilet facilities, including those installed in mountain huts. Because funds to maintain these existing toilets are not included in Fuji-san's general operating budget, climbers are asked to pay a small fee (¥200‒¥300) when using these toilets.

All of these environmental efforts are imperative in assisting Japan to submit periodic favorable state-of-conservation reports to UNESCO’s World Heritage Center in order for Mt. Fuji to retain its World Heritage Site status.

In 2021 climbers who supported the conservation of Mt. Fuji by donating received a cute little wooden tag of appreciation which reads "Certificate of Cooperation in the Conservation of Mt Fuji." The tags are made out of recycled fallen timber from Mt. Fuji.

Mt. Fuji conservation donation wooden tag
2021 Mt. Fuji conservation donation wooden tag



Q: Where are Mt. Fuji's toilets located and are they environmentally-friendly?  (added July 6, 2017)

There are toilets at all the mountain huts, plus additional public toilets. The 3 different kinds of toilets all incorporate ecological systems which do not discharge waste. The oyster shell and sawdust toilets stimulate microorganisms that break down the waste. And the incinerator toilets evaporate or burn the waste product. According to Shizuoka Prefecture (where 3 of Mt. Fuji's 4 trails originate), their 24 toilet facilities are used approximately 330,000 times every year, collecting approximately 99 tons of human waste. Wow.

Locations and the 3 types of Mt. Fuji's toilets for all 4 trails are shown in this detailed map prepared by Shizuoka Prefecture.



Q: I've heard that a Japanese university professor predicted Mt. Fuji would erupt by 2015. Should I be concerned?  (updated April 27, 2023)
A: Yes, without question, various parts of Japan experienced a very significant increase in volcano activity in the late 2014/early 2015 period, most notably the eruption of Mt. Ontake-san, Japan's 14th highest peak, in September 2014 which killed 57 climbers. In early May 2015, area hiking trails were closed after volcanic activity started at Mt. Hakoneyama in the famous Hakone hot springs area, just 80km southeast of central Tokyo. The volcanic activity then intensfied, prompting the Japan Meteorological Agency in late June 2015 to raise the peak's volcanic alert level to Level 3 (orange triangles on the volcano map - "Do not approach the volcano"). Mt. Hakoneyama lies a mere 30km (~18 mi) from Mt. Fuji.

Meanwhile, both Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures and the City of Fujiyoshida have funded the preparation and distribution of a few thousand sets of safety helmets, goggles, and dust-proof masks to a number of mountain huts along the 4 trails.

But because during the peak of the climbing season as many as 9000 people climb Mt. Fuji every day, local authorities are urging climbers to bring their own helmets, goggles, and masks to protect themselves against a possible Mt. Fuji eruption.

Yamanashi Prefecture is also distributing evacuation route maps to climbers, showing four possible eruption patterns based on the vent’s location and the reach of lava.

one potential Mt. Fuji eruption evacuation pattern
One potential Mt. Fuji eruption evacuation pattern
(Photo credit: Japan Times)

[As of Mar. 20, 2020, both Mt. Fuji and Mt. Hakoneyama, only 30km (~18 mi) from Mt. Fuji, remained at Volcanic Alert Level 1 (white triangles on volcano map - "Potential for increased activity").]

Mar. 28, 2021 update: "A volcanic hazard map for Mount Fuji in central Japan has been revised for the first time in 17 years, doubling the estimated volume of lava flows in the event of a major eruption.

It shows far more craters than were in the previous map and estimates that a major eruption would cause a flow of 1.3 billion cubic meters of lava, or about twice as much as previously estimated.

The revised map also shows that lava flows could reach 12 more towns and cities in 3 different prefectures -- including those located more than 40 kilometers away, like Uenohara in Yamanashi Prefecture, Sagamihara and Odawara in Kanagawa Prefecture, and Shimizu in Shizuoka Prefecture.

It also says 96 percent of previous eruptions were minor or medium-sized, but that the next eruption could be a big one."

Source: "Volcanic hazard map revised for Mt. Fuji," Japan Bullet, Mar. 27, 2021



Q: Will I be able to access the internet while climbing Mt. Fuji? (updated June 24, 2023)
A: Since 2016 Wireless broadband provider Wire & Wireless has offered free wireless Internet access at a total of 47 locations on Mt. Fuji during the official climbing season, including all of the mountain huts along all 4 trails.

2016 Fujisan Wi-Fi network
Fujisan Wi-Fi network
(image credit: Wire & Wireless)

Users can access the Fujisan Wi-Fi network by registering their email address or social network account, or by downloading Wire & Wireless' free Travel Japan Wi-Fi app (for iOS and Android devices) from their website linked above.

The Fujisan Wi-Fi network offers support in 6 languages: Japanese, English, Chinese, simplified Chinese, Korean, and Thai.

Source: SoraNews24

June 24, 2023 update: During the 2023 Mt. Fuji climbing season, Telecommuncation giants SoftBank Corp. and KDDI Corp. will each provide 5G mobile communication services at Mt. Fuji's summit from early July to late August. And Wire and Wireless Co., Ltd. (Wi2) will provide free public Wi-Fi service at 46 locations around Mt. Fuji including mountain huts from July to early September.

Aug. 29, 2021 update:
In 2021 Yamareco, a community site for climbers to share their mountain climbing records like GPS logs, diaries, and photos, developed the Mt. Fuji app which is a hiking trail map application specially designed for climbing Mt. Fuji. You can check your current location with GPS even where there is no cell phone signal.

It utilizes data such as maps, routes, and place names, and also provides other details like mountain hut info, weather forecasts, recommendations for climbing gear, how to obtain climbing insurance, etc.
 



Q: I plan to climb all night to catch the sunrise from the Mt. Fuji summit, but I've heard this is unsafe. Is it REALLY that dangerous?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017) 
A: Because of serious climber safety issues in recent years related to the one-day style of Mt. Fuji climbing called "bullet climbing" ("Dangan-Tozan" (弾丸登山) in Japanese), prefectural officials have worked diligently to educate and warn climbers against doing this, especially 1st-time climbers of Mt. Fuji from overseas, the segment of the climbing population where this seems to be the biggest problem. Climbing incidents most often involve people who view climbing Mt. Fuji like a sightseeing outing and thus fail to make adequate preparations. This sort of 1-day climber tourism is taking a toll on the Fuji-san's delicate environmental balance, and may accelerate future actions to limit the number of climbers on Japan’s holiest peak and newest World Heritage Site.

A recent report by Japan's environment ministry showed that 28% of all 1st-time climbers of Mt. Fuji opt to climb up and down in only one day, starting in the late evening (often despite inadequate fitness) and hiking all night long to reach the summit in time for sunrise. This number is drastically higher for foreign climbers who make up 30% of Mt. Fuji climbers. Furthermore, 14% of bullet climbers (compared to only 5% of standard climbers) give up climbing to the top because they become ill. Plus, the number of bullet climbers who seek help at 1st-aid stations is 3 times higher than that of standard climbers.

One-day bullet climbing is considered dangerous as it increases climber susceptibility to injury, below-normal body temperatures, and altitude sickness, a condition that should never be taken too lightly. The shortage of oxygen supply at high altitudes can cause fatigue, lethargy, and headaches, which in turn may lead to accidents, physical imbalance, dehydration, circulatory system anomalies, and even the possible lethal condition known as cerebral edema, or swelling of the brain caused by excessive fluid buildup.

To avoid safety problems from bullet climbing and altitude sickness, prefectural officials are urging Mt. Fuji climbers to follow a few simple guidelines:

- Get adequate sleep on the day before the climb. Climbers who have not properly slept are more prone to injuries and illnesses due to fatigue. Avoiding alcohol intake on the day before your climb (and during your climb) is also a good measure for warding off high-altitude dehydration.

- At the 5th station before departure, climbers are advised to rest for 1-2 hours before starting the ascent to the Mt. Fuji summit. This will help your body acclimatize to the higher altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

- Climbers are urged to take their time, pace themselves, and in order to avoid altitude sickness, to stop at mountain huts to take regular, short rest breaks, even if that involves forking over a few thousand yen to catch a catnap in a hut. For example, climb for 25 minutes and rest for 5 minutes, or climb for 50 minutes and rest for 10 minutes.

- In order to avoid getting cold, though (temperatures at the summit may drop below freezing even in July and August), rest stops ideally should not last TOO long.

- In order to prevent dehydration, drink water (or isotonic sports beverages) regularly. Specially formulated sports drinks that replace water and electrolytes and contain either fructose or glucose polymers allow a slow release of carbohydrates for replenishing reserves of energy consumed while climbing. It is not safe nor a good idea to avoid drinking water in order to save time and money on toilet breaks.

- To the greatest extent possible, try to avoid (or at least limit the number of hours) climbing at night. Due to nightime darkness, climbers are more likely to cause rocks to fall, a potential danger to other climbers below. Climbers are urged to stay as close as possible to the inside (slope side) of the trail, as walking along the trail's downhill free edge can cause loose rocks to fall and hit climbers hiking along one of the zigzags below. If you do dislodge rocks causing them to fall, please yell at the top of your lungs to warn others below and around you.

The best way to warn someone about a falling rock is to just shout out "RAKU!" (落!), pronounced "rah-koo," which is the shortcut Japanese expression for "falling rock." This should be easy to remember, as it sounds almost identical to the English word "rock."

Sources for the info above:
For increased safety when climbing Fuji-san (2015 version)
Stop Bullet Climbing!

[One final note. Although sunrise from the Mt. Fuji summit is a big goal of many climbers, one beauty of the main Yoshida Trail is that you can view the sunrise pretty much anywhere above the treeline, which is near the 6th Station.]



Q: I read somewhere that credit cards are not accepted on Mt. Fuji, so how much cash should I bring, anyways?  (added July 21, 2015) 
A: According to the kind folks at Shizuoka Prefecture's Mt. Fuji World Heritage Division in the Culture and Tourism Department, you might need as much as ¥15,000-20,000, depending on your plans and spending habits. And climbers are recommended to have lots of change on hand (especially numerous ¥100 coins) for meals, drinks, souvenirs, walking stick branding iron stamps, shrine offerings, etc. Mountain hut accommodations will set you back ¥8,000-9,000, bottled drinks will run ¥500-1,000 (¥400-500 per bottle), and pay toilets will cost ¥1,200-1,500 (¥200-300 per use). Toilets on Mt. Fuji are not covered in the general maintenance budget, so are self-supporting and thus require a fee.



Q: Who's the oldest person to have ever climbed Mt. Fuji?  (updated July 25, 2019)
A: Just inside the front entrance of the Gogoen Rest House (五合園レストハウス) at the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, you'll find a bronze statue erected in honor of Teiichi Igarashi (五十嵐貞一) who on Aug. 8, 1988 scaled Fuji-san at the ripe young age of only 105. Igarashi-san was a retired forest ranger from Furudono, Fukushima who started climbing Japan's tallest peak annually in 1976 in memory of his deceased wife. So at the time of his feat in 1988, he already held the record as the oldest person to reach Mt. Fuji's summit and had renewed his record for 13 years in a row. (Source: Mt. Fuji 5th Station International Tourist Conference)

Teiichi Igarashi
Teiichi Igarashi, age 105, the oldest
person to have ever climbed Mt. Fuji

​On July 24, 1987, 91-year-old mountaineer Hulda Crooks from Loma Linda, California became the oldest woman to climb Mt. Fuji. She also successfully scaled California's 14,505-foot (4,421 m) Mount Whitney 23 times between the ages of 65 and 91, earning her the nickname "Grandma Whitney."



Q: Where are the most congested spots on Mt. Fuji's Yoshida Trail?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017)
A: Congestion occurs frequently before sunrise at the spots on the Yoshida Trail shown below, especially between the Goraiko-kan mountain hut at the 8.5th Station and the Kusushi-Jinja Shrine at the top of the trail, including around the 9th Station.

Yoshida Trail congestion spots
Yoshida Trail congestion spots
(Source: "Fujitozan Advice Book," published by
the Mt. Fuji Preservation Promotion Section)




Q: Where are the most hazardous places on Mt. Fuji's Yoshida Trail?  (updated Mar. 19, 2017)
A: As shown below, one place worth noting is between the 9th Station and the top of the Yoshida Trail where the trail is particularly narrow and there is a chance of falling rocks. Another place is between the Hanagoya mountain hut at the 7th Station and the Horaikan mountain hut at the 8th Station where there are steep rocks and a very narrow, single-file trail.

Yoshida Trail hazardous places - 9th Station to top of trail
Yoshida Trail hazardous places - 9th Station to top of trail


Yoshida Trail hazardous places - Hanagoya to Horaikan
Yoshida Trail hazardous places - Hanagoya to Horaikan
(Source: "Fujitozan Advice Book," published by
the Mt. Fuji Preservation Promotion Section)




Q: Is camping allowed on Mt. Fuji?  (added May 30, 2020)
A: There are no designated campsites along any of the climbing routes nor at the summit of Mt. Fuji, which lies within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. And so pitching tents, making fires, or camping of any sort is expressly forbidden. As Japan's holiest peak, also designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, Historic Site, and since 2013 a World Heritage Cultural Site, according to Fujisan's official website, the following acts are also legally prohibited on Mt. Fuji:
  • Disturbing animals and plants
  • Removing lava from the area
  • Releasing pets, etc.
  • Sowing seeds or planting seedlings
  • Defacing natural features, including spray painting graffiti on rocks (sadly, it really DOES happen! frownie

Q: Where can I get more helpful info on climbing Mt. Fuji?  (updated April 27, 2023)
A: Mt. Fuji Yoshida-Guchi Trail Climbing Guide Map, published Nov. 2013 by Fujiyoshida City (added Feb. 26, 2015) (more recent Mt. Fuji trail maps are listed in the maps question above)
The special July/Aug. 2016 Mt. Fuji Climbing Edition of "Reiho Fuji" (added June 16, 2019) - There were 2017 & 2018 print versions, but I don't believe they were published online.
Mt. Fuji (富士山) topo map (from the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan)
2023 Mt. Fuji (富士山) route map (part of the Yama-to-kogen Chizu series published by Shobunsha, available in bookstores and from Amazon Japan)
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6901.html
Mt. Fuji Climbing Guide
http://wikitravel.org/en/Mount_Fuji
"My Experience at a Part-time Job at the Altitude of 3100 Meters," an interesting story posted Sept. 23, 2021 by a Japanese university student who worked at the 8th Station Taishikan (太子舘) mountain hut.
The Unconventional Guide to Climbing Mt. Fuji (12 insider tips from a guy who worked 37 straight days from 5:30 am till 9 pm every day cleaning toilets in a Mt. Fuji mountain hut) 

Emergency phone numbers (during climbing season):
- Mt. Fuji 5th Station General Administration Center: 090-5190-0167
- Mt. Fuji 6th Station Safety Guidance Center: 0555-24-6223

Fuji Subaru 5th Station General Management Center: 0555-72-1477
Fujiyoshida Tourist Info Center: 0555-22-7000
Fujikawaguchiko Tourist Info Center: 0555-72-6700
Fujikyuko express buses bound for Mt. Fuji area
International Affairs Desk, Fujiyoshida City Hall (8:30-5:30, Mon.-Fri.): 0555-24-1236  (+81-555-24-1236 from overseas)


Please stop by again soon


Thank you very much for visiting these pages, and if you by chance have already had the pleasure of climbing Mt. Fuji, I hope you will by all means take a few minutes to share your story on Page 1 with future climbers. Please stop by again soon, as I intend to continue updating these pages with more details in the future, as they become available.

If you have any questions for me, please give me a shout by clicking on the "Contact Me" link. And if you're planning to climb Japan's highest peak, I wish you my most heartfelt good luck!!

Cheers,
Gary


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