Mt. Fuji
Map
Japan's highest peak at 3,776 meters and the nation's most enduring symbol. Mt. Fuji has been an object of religious mountain worship since ancient times and is inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the title 'Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration.'
Nature Info
- Type
- Mountain
- Elevation
- 3776m (highest peak in Japan)
- Access
- About 2 hours 30 minutes from Shinjuku to the 5th Station by Fujikyu Railway and bus. By Shinkansen, change at Shin-Fuji Station or Mishima Station.
History & Origins
Since the Jomon period, people have venerated the mountain as a deity capable of devastating eruptions. During the Edo period, 'Fuji-ko' pilgrimage confraternities made climbing Mt. Fuji a popular practice among ordinary people. The most recent eruption occurred in 1707 (the Hoei Eruption).
Highlights
The sunrise viewed from the summit, panoramic views from the 5th Station, the Fuji Five Lakes (including Kawaguchiko and Yamanakako), Shiraito Falls, and the sweeping Asagiri Highlands are all iconic.
Visitor Guide
The official climbing season runs from July to August. Four routes are available: Fujinomiya, Yoshida, Gotemba, and Subashiri. Acclimatization for altitude sickness is essential. Overnight stays at mountain huts are strongly recommended over day trips.
Best Season
Climbing: July–August. Viewing snow-capped Mt. Fuji: October–March.
Annual Events
- February
Mt. Fuji Day
February 23 (a pun on the sounds of Fuji-san) is designated Mt. Fuji Day, and commemorative events and special exhibitions related to Mt. Fuji are held in both Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures.
- July
Yamabiraki (Mountain Opening)
Mountain-opening festivals for the Yoshida and Subashiri routes are held every year in early July. At Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja, a ritual announcing the opening is performed, marking the start of the summer climbing season.
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