Mount Fuji Climbing Guide: Tips, Weather, Access, Sightseeing, and More (2024 Edition)

Climbing Mt. Fuji is on the bucket list for avid hikers and Japan-lovers alike. But while relatively safe, it’s still vital to read up on climbing Mt. Fuji before heading out. This Mt. Fuji guide covers all the need-to-know basics, including preparation tips, recommended gear, climate conditions, famous sights and native wildlife, accommodation, souvenirs, and more. So, if you’re considering conquering Japan’s tallest peak, be sure to bookmark this guide to guarantee the safest Mt. Fuji climbing experience possible!

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

About Mt. Fuji

Mt. Fuji is an active volcano located on the border between Shizuoka Prefecture and Yamanashi Prefecture. With a height of 3,776 m, it is the tallest mountain in all of Japan and the symbol of the country. On June 22, 2013, Mt. Fuji was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the title "Mt. Fuji: Object of Worship, Wellspring of Art." It brings in many visitors throughout the year, especially during its climbing season in the summer.

Getting to Mt. Fuji

There are 4 main trails for climbing Mt. Fuji, and they all start roughly halfway up the mountain. These starting points can be reached by bus, taxi, or car. Note, however, that during the climbing season (roughly June - September) all climbing trails except for the Gotemba Trail prohibit traveling to the starting point by personal vehicle.

*Please take the bus from the train stations below to reach the Mt. Fuji climbing stations.

・Yoshida Trail: Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station
 Closest station(s): Kawaguchiko Station and Mt. Fuji Station on the Fujikyuko Line
・Subashiri Trail: Subashiri 5th Station
 Closest station(s): Gotemba Station on the JR Gotemba Line and Shin-Matsuda Station on the Odakyu Line (buses from Shin-Matsuda Station run during climbing season only)
・Gotemba Trail: Gotemba Trail New 5th Station
 Closest station(s): Gotemba Station on the JR Gotemba Line
・Fujinomiya Trail: Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station 
 Closest station(s): Shin-Fuji Station on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen, Fuji Station on the JR Tokaido Main Line, Fujinomiya Station on the JR Minobu Line, and Shizuoka Station on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (buses from Shizuoka Station run during climbing season only)

Our Top Tips

Mt. Fuji, Lake Ashi, and Owakudani Day Tour from Tokyo

If you want to see Mt. Fuji and explore its fascinating surroundings, this day tour from Tokyo is perfect!

Mt. Fuji's Climate

Being a stand-alone mountain with an elevation over 3,000 m, Mt. Fuji has very extreme winds. The temperature also varies widely from the base to the 5th Station and the peak (generally, the temperature falls 0.6°C (1°F) for every 100 m up the mountain). The peak of Mt. Fuji experiences winter-like conditions all throughout the year, even in summer. It can dip below 0°C (32°F) at night, and those who spend too much time at the summit risk hypothermia. Please carefully check Mt. Fuji weather conditions before making the climb, and prepare and dress appropriately.

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

Mt. Fuji Climbing Season

The Mt. Fuji climbing season spans from the beginning of July to the end of September. Exact opening dates differ for each trail, so be sure to check the official website linked below when making your Mt. Fuji climbing plans. The busiest period for climbing Mt. Fuji is mid-July, with weekends being particularly crowded. When visiting Mt. Fuji at this time, it can be difficult to climb and take breaks at your own pace, and there is increased risk for injury from falling rocks and other factors. We recommend trying to avoid busy periods as much as possible when climbing Mt. Fuji.

The Mt. Fuji climbing trails will also often close during heavy rain. Please check the official website's Weather Information section to check any emergency trail closings before and during your visit.

Japanese: http://www.fujisan-climb.jp/season.html
English: https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/

Klook.com

Mt. Fuji Climbing Trails

There are four main Mt. Fuji climbing trails to the summit. They all have different starting points and difficulty levels, making it vital to do some research and choose the trail that matches your situation and ability. The signage for all Mt. Fuji climbing trails are standardized, with each trail having its own color. Be sure to remember the color of your trail!

・Yoshida Trail (Beginner)

Trailhead: Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station
Route Color: Yellow

The Yoshida Trail leads to the Mt. Fuji summit from the north side in Yamanashi Prefecture. It starts at the Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station and converges with the Yoshida-guchi Trail at the 6th Station. Its ascending and descending routes are completely differentーthe ascending route has many mountain huts, but there are hardly any on the descending route. The famous sunrise view of Mt. Fuji can be seen anywhere from above the 5th Station, but it is recommended for beginners to spend the night at the 8th Station before heading up.

Because it is very accessible and beginner friendly, over half of all Mt. Fuji climbers use the Yoshida Trail. While quite crowded, it also means that there is plenty of information, including maps in multiple languages. Therefore, it’s recommended for first-time Mt. Fuji climbers.

However, due to overcrowding, a daily limit of 4,000 climbers and a mandatory hiking fee of 2,000 yen was introduced to the Yoshida Trail in 2024. You now have to either book a spot in advance online or show up early to the gate on the day you wish to climb Mt. Fuji to secure a place.

For more information on these changes and how to book a spot, please refer to: Mt. Fuji to Set Climbing Restrictions From Summer 2024

Altitude of the Trailhead: 2,305 m
Time: Ascent - 6 hours, Descent - 4 hours
Length: Ascent - 5.8 km, Descent - 6.9 km
Route Map (English): https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/trails/yoshida-trail/yoshida-trail.html

・Subashiri Trail (Intermediate)

Trailhead: Subashiri Trail 5th Station
Route Color: Red

The Subashiri Trail starts from the Subashiri Trail 5th Station on the east side of Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture. This trail is characterized by green forests that extend to higher elevations, which protect climbers from the sun. It also has different routes for ascending and descending the mountain, and the descending route is famous for slopes of volcanic gravel.

The route converges with the Yoshida Trail at the Old 8th Station, after which it becomes more crowded. You can view the sunrise from anywhere on the trail once you have passed the forest zone. Be sure to exercise caution not to get lost while in the forested area or during times of thick fog.

Altitude of the Trailhead: 1,970 m
Time: Ascent - 6 hours, Descent - 3 hours
Length: Ascent - 6.9 km, Descent - 6.2 km
Route Map (English): https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/trails/subashiri-trail/subashiri-trail.html

・Gotemba Trail (Expert)

Trailhead: Gotemba Trail New 5th Station (Shin-5th Station)
Route Color: Green

The Gotemba Trail starts at the Gotemba Trail New 5th Station and ascends to the peak along the southeast side of Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture. This trail is known for its low altitude and gentle slope at the starting point.

However, it’s a very long trail with a large altitude difference between the starting point and the peak, so it is recommended for experienced hikers able to carry heavy equipment for a long distance. The descent down volcanic gravel is quite dynamic, and you will be able to see the sunrise from anywhere along the higher parts.

You can also enjoy a quieter climb on the Gotemba Trail, as it is the least crowded of all the Mt. Fuji trails. However, there are comparatively few landmarks, so make sure not to get lost at night or in heavy fog. Also, there are fewer mountain huts and rest areas, and no first-aid stations, so this route is not recommended to first-time climbers.

Altitude of the Trailhead: 1,440 m
Time: Ascent - 7 hours, Descent - 3 hours
Length: Ascent - 10.5 km, Descent - 8.4 km
Route Map (English): https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/trails/gotemba-trail/gotemba-trail.html

・Fujinomiya Trail (Beginner)

Trailhead: Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station Route
Color: Blue

The Fujinomiya Trail starts at the Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station and leads to the summit from the south side of Mt. Fuji in Shizuoka Prefecture. This trail starts from a higher elevation and has the shortest distance to the peak, making it the second most popular after the Yoshida Trail. However, the path is steep and rocky, and it is recommended for beginners to spend the night near the 8th Station and finish in the morning.

At some places, the rising sun looks like it's ascending from out of the mountain ridge. On sunny days, climbers will be treated to stunning panoramas of Suruga Bay.

The ascending and descending routes are the same, so it is easy to climb without getting lost, however this also means that it can get crowded and you’ll have to make your way around climbers going the opposite way. There is also a chance of altitude sickness due to the steep incline, so make sure not to ascend too quickly.

Altitude of the Trailhead: 2,380 m
Time: Ascent - 5 hours, Descent - 3 hours
Length: Ascent - 4.3 km, Descent - 4.3 km
Route Map (English): https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/trails/fujinomiya-trail.html

*Note that the ascending and descending times written above are estimates, and the actual time will vary depending on the ability of each climber, as well as the climate, temperature, and other factors on the day of climbing.

Things to See on Mt. Fuji

・Mt. Fuji Sunrise

The view of the rising sun from the peak of Mt. Fuji is something you will absolutely not want to miss. The dark sky slowly filling with light is too beautiful for words!

・Diamond Fuji

Diamond Fuji is the name of the phenomenon when the rising or setting sun sits perfectly atop Mt. Fuji's peak and sparkles like a diamond. This is a rare Mt. Fuji view that can only be seen from the right angle and during the perfect weather conditions, season, and time of day.

・Red Fuji

Red Fuji (Aka-Fuji) occurs when the peak of Mt. Fuji shines a bright red during the sunrise or sunset, which happens during the summer climbing season when there is not much snow on the peak. There is another Red Fuji (called "Beni-Fuji," using a different Japanese word for red), pictured above, when Mt. Fuji's snow-crested peak shines red during the winter.

・Shadow Fuji

This is the view of the shadow created when the sun shines down diagonally on Mt. Fuji. Keep an eye out for this view during your climb!

Essential Reading: 11 Secrets About Mt. Fuji That Even Locals Don't Know

Our Top Tips

JR Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Area Tourist Pass Mini

Explore the area around Mt. Fuji and more while saving money!

Mt. Fuji Flora and Fauna

Mt. Fuji is home to a unique, vertically distributed ecosystem. You can encounter a wide variety of wildlife on Mt. Fuji, changing depending on the altitude. This includes animals like the Japanese serow and the spotted nutcracker (pictured), as well as plants like rhododendron, arabis serrata flowers, and more. Many plant and animal species live in the forested area after the 5th station that cannot be seen at the base.

Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

The Ohachimeguri Summit Crater Loop

Ohachimeguri is a walking course that makes a loop around the volcanic crater of Mt. Fuji, often visited after viewing the sunrise from the summit. It takes around one hour to complete, and its vistas sweep across many breathtaking sights, like Kengamine Peak, Suruga Bay, the Minami Alps, the Yatsugatake Mountains, and more. Along the trail are two springs of "miracle water" called Kinmei-sui and Ginmei-sui, along with the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine Okunomiya, Kusushi Shrine, and the Mt. Fuji Post Office.

Ohachimeguri Highlight #1: Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine Okunomiya

This shrine is located at the peak of Mt. Fuji. It is permanently occupied by a Shinto priest throughout the entire climbing season and is devoted to praying for the peace and tranquility of Japan as well as for the safety of all shrine visitors and Mt. Fuji climbers. Gifts and protection charms, pilgrim's staves, goshuin (official shrine stamp), and more are also sold here.

Ohachimeguri Highlight #2: Kusushi Shrine

Kusushi Shrine, a subordinate shrine of Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine Okunomiya, is located at the top of the Yoshida and Subashiri trails. Here, you can receive goshuin stamps and buy some of the wish-granting water from Kinmei-sui (500 yen ceremony fee).

Ohachimeguri Highlight #3: Fujisan-cho Post Office

This post office sits on the peak of Mt. Fuji and opens during the Mt. Fuji climbing season (specific dates change every year, so please check beforehand). Here, Mt. Fuji climbers can send a postcard from the highest point in Japan! In addition to stamping each postcard with an original Mt. Fuji seal, it also sells many exclusive goods.

Mt. Fuji Shopping and Eating

There are small shops (called "mountain huts") along the Mt. Fuji trails and at the peak where you can buy various foods, such as ramen, udon, curry, miso soup, and even alcoholーall perfect pick-me-ups for the long climb. They also sell a variety of sundries and original Mt. Fuji goods, like walking sticks, sweets, beverages, and the like.

・Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station

The Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station marks the starting point of the Yoshida Trail, the most popular route for climbing Mt. Fuji. This area contains shops, restaurants, and lodging facilities. The shops sell snacks and goods, and a spacious 2nd floor cafeteria serves up foods modeled after Mt. Fuji and more.

Mt. Fuji Sample Trips from Tokyo and Osaka

Here are some ways to reach two beginner-level Mt. Fuji climbing trailsーthe Yoshida Trail and the Fujinomiya Trailーfrom the major cities of Tokyo and Osaka.

1)Tokyo → Yoshida Trail Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station 

By Train:
1. Take the JR Chuo Line from Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station to Otsuki Station (approx. 1 hour - 1 hour 40 minutes).
2. Take the Fujikyuko Line to Mt. Fuji Station or Kawaguchiko Station (approx. 30 minutes - 1 hour).
3. Take the Fujikyuko Tozan Bus to Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station (approx. 1 hour)

By Express Bus:
1. Take the Fujikyuko Express Bus from the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station (approx. 2 hours 30 minutes).

2)Tokyo → Fujinomiya Trail Fujinomiya 5th Station

By Train:
1. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Fuji Station (approx. 1 hour 10 minutes).
2. Take the Fujikyuko Tozan Bus to Fujinomiya 5th Station (approx. 2 hours).

By Express Bus:
1. Take the Fujikyuko Express Bus bound for Yamanakako Asahigaoka from the Tokyo Station Yaesu South Exit boarding area and get off at Shin-Fuji Station or Fujinomiya Station (approx. 2 hours 20 minutes).
2. Take the Fujikyuko Tozan Bus to Fujinomiya 5th Station (approx. 2 hours).  

Recommended Accommodation Near Kawaguchiko Station: GuestHouse OC

3)Osaka → Yoshida Trail Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station 

By Train:
1. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Shin-Yokohama Station (approx. 2 hours 20 minutes).
2. Take the JR Yokohama Line train to Hachioji Station (approx. 30 minutes).
3. Take the Fujikyuko Line train to Otsuki Station (approx. 50 minutes).
4. Take the Fujikyuko Tozan Bus to Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station (approx. 1 hour).

By Express Bus:
1. Take the Fujikyuko Express Bus (Fujiyama Liner) from Osaka (Abenobashi), Kintetsu Namba Station West Exit, or Osaka Eki-mae to Mt. Fuji Station or Kawaguchiko Station (approx. 11 hours).

4)Osaka→ Fujinomiya Trail Fujinomiya 5th Station

By Train:
1. Take the JR Tokaido Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Shin-Fuji Station (approx. 2 hours 40 minutes).
2. Take the Fujikyuko Tozan Bus to Fujinomiya 5th Station (approx. 2 hours).

By Express Bus:
1. Take the Fujikyuko Express Bus (Kitaro-go) from Kintetsu Namba Station West Exit or Osaka Eki-mae to Shin-Fuji Station (approx. 8 hours).
2. Take the Fujikyuko Tozan Bus to Fujinomiya 5th Station (approx. 2 hours).

Our Top Tips

JR Pass for Whole Japan

Explore Japan in the most convenient and economical way with a Japan Rail Pass! It is valid for the majority of railways and local buses operated by JR. 

Mt. Fuji Pass

Exclusively available to foreign visitors to Japan, the Mt. Fuji Pass is a discount pass sold by Fujikyuko. It allows unlimited rides on route buses and Fujikyuko express buses in the Mt. Fuji area of Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures. Mt. Fuji Passes are available for 1, 2, and 3 days. You can also get special perks such as a free soft drink or other discounts at participating retailers! See the website below for details like cost, benefits, and locations to purchase the pass.

Mt. Fuji Pass: http://bus-en.fujikyu.co.jp/mtpass/

Klook.com

What to Wear and Things to Bring to Mt. Fuji

・Clothing

Jacket Fleece, down, or sweater. Something light and compact, while being warm, is best. 
Shirt Long-sleeved and water-resistant or quick-drying. Avoid cotton as it is slow-drying. Recommended to wear multiple layers in order to adjust to temperature changes. 
Hiking pants Long pants of a material other than cotton. Stretchable materials are the easiest to walk in and are recommended. 
Undergarments Quick-drying, non-cotton. 
Hat, knit cap Protect against sun and rain. Wear something that won't be blown off by strong winds. Knit caps are recommended for the cold conditions at the peak of the mountain.
Neck-warmer Wear to prevent heat-loss. Light ones can also be worn to prevent sunburn and/or dust inhalation. 
Gloves Use for protection from the sun and for warmth in cold conditions. Also can protect hands during a fall.
Socks Thick socks that can absorb sweat are recommended. 

 

・Things to Bring

Hiking shoes (high ankled boots)  Drinking water (at least 1 liter)
Backpack/rucksack (30 liter volume) Snacks (sugary foods are best for preventing exhaustion)
Backpack cover (protect against rain) Tissue paper or non-rolled toilet paper
Headlamp (to free up both hands) Wet tissues
Raincoat (not advised to bring umbrellas or ponchos because of the strong wind)  Vinyl envelope (for trash) 
Towel (to wipe sweat and protect against sun and dust) Map and/or guidebook
First-aid (bandages, antidiarrheal, etc.) Health insurance card or copy (in the event of an accident) 
Pocket change (100 coins will be required to use some toilets)   

 

・Useful Items

Walking stick (to reduce the burden on your legs) Disposable hand warmers
Spats and gaiters (foot and ankle covers) Survival sheet (to keep warm)
Knee brace (to reduce the burden on your feet) Earplugs (when spending the night in a mountain hut)
Sunglasses (to block sun rays and dust) Teeth-cleaning chewing gum (when spending the night at a mountain hut)
Sunscreen (recommended as UV rays are especially strong at the mountain peak) Strong tape (to repair bags or shoes, etc.)
Portable oxygen canister  

Lodging on Mt. Fuji

Mountain huts are located along each route from the 5th Station above, and are open throughout the Mt. Fuji climbing season. They are simple lodging facilities intended for climbers to use for rest, so they are stocked only with the bare minimum. They generally cost around 8,500 yen for one night and two meals, or 6,000 yen without meals. Some charge an extra 500 - 2,000 yen on weekends.

These huts tend to fill up during the busy season, so it is recommended to make reservations ahead of time. If you aren't comfortable making a reservation on your own, there are Mt. Fuji tours in English that include lodging. Also, be aware that most are mixed gender and you will have to sleep in a cramped space surrounded by other people.

In addition to lodging, these mountain huts also offer rest areas and sell bento boxes, rice bowls, snacks, sweets, and beverages. It is also possible to enter just to use the bathroom.

Note, however, that water on Mt. Fuji is limited, so there is no running water for hand-washing or bathing. You can, however, buy bottles of drinking water. Payment is cash only, so you will not be able to use your credit card. There are no public trash bins on Mt. Fuji, and you are expected to take all your rubbish home with you.

Mountain Hut Guide: https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/itineraries/mountain-huts.html

If you're okay with staying a bit further from Mt. Fuji, here is a list of recommended ryokan (traditional inns) with excellent views of Mt. Fuji!

Cuisine (Mt. Fuji and the Surrounding Area)

You can enjoy the local cuisine of the Mt. Fuji area at the trailheads and mountain huts. Because it is very difficult to transport food up Mt. Fuji, the meals at mountain huts tend to be simple. However, prices will be comparatively high. Here’s some of the dishes that you’ll find on Mt. Fuji and surroundings!

Yoshida Udon

Yoshida Udon is a specialty of the area around Yoshida on the north side of Mt. Fuji. It is usually flavored with miso and soy sauce and topped with sweet and salty stewed horse meat, fried tofu, and cabbage. It is also characterized by its thick, sturdy noodles.

Hoto

Hoto is a beloved specialty from Yamanashi Prefecture that consists of thick noodles (even thicker than udon) cooked in a pot with a miso-based broth and plenty of vegetables.
 

Fujinomiya Yakisoba

Fujinomiya yakisoba is a specialty of Fujinomiya on the southern side of Mt. Fuji. It consists of chewy noodles topped with shaved meat and sardine powder.

Mt. Fuji Souvenirs

There are lots of original goods to be purchased from the shops at the trailheads and summit, as well as the mountain huts. Favorites include Mt. Fuji postcards and Fuji Cider, which is a carbonated drink made with water from Mt. Fuji. In addition, you can purchase pilgrim's staves that double as walking sticks, protection charms, and other goodies from the shrines at the peak.

Rules and Etiquette for Climbing Mt. Fuji

In addition to being a World Heritage Site, Mt. Fuji and its surroundings are part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. The area from the 5th Station in particular is protected by strictly enforced rules.

The following acts are prohibited in the designated area:

・Removing plants or animals
・Leaving graffiti or writing on any surfaces
・Pitching tents and/or making fires
・Releasing pets 

Please be aware of climbing etiquette as well: 

・Do not stray from the designated trails
・Ascending hikers have the right of way
・Do not walk too closely behind other hikers
・Take care not to disturb rocks or they may fall down the mountain (if you accidentally cause some rocks to break loose, please alert those around you in a loud voice)
・Be quiet while in common areas such as mountain huts
・Take your trash home with you

Voluntary Admission Fee

A voluntary admission fee of 1,000 yen was instituted in 2014 in order to preserve the beauty of Mt. Fuji and help ensure the safety of all visitors and climbers. Originally it was asked only of those climbing all the way to the peak, but now it is asked of visitors going above any of the 5th station trailheads. While the fee is voluntary, it is recommended to pay your part in contributing to the beauty and safety of Mt. Fuji. 

How the fee is used: 
・Protecting the environment
・Installing bio-toilets in the mountain huts
・Purchasing helmets and goggles for the event of a volcanic eruption
・Installing emergency stations
・Foreigner support (interpretation, etc.) 
・Signage (for emergencies and manners)

Mandatory Hiking Fee

A gate was also installed at the 5th Station entrance of the Yoshida Trail and a mandatory hiking fee of 2,000 yen was instituted in 2024. 

For more information on these changes and how to book a spot, please refer to: Mt. Fuji to Set Climbing Restrictions From Summer 2024

What to Do in an Emergency

・Toilet Information

While there are public-use toilets available at the mountain huts, depending on the trail, they may be quite far, and some huts may not be accessible at night. Therefore, it is best to try to plan out your toilet-use ahead of time. You may want to consider taking your own portable toilet with you, as there are times when the toilets can get quite crowded. Each toilet may have different rules, so please pay attention during use. Also, note that many of the mountain huts charge a toilet fee of 100 - 300 yen. Be sure to bring plenty of 100 yen coins with you.

・Altitude Sickness

Once you reach the peak of Mt. Fuji, the amount of oxygen circulating in your body will be around half of its normal level, and there is the chance that this could lead to deteriorating bodily conditions and altitude sickness if you are not careful. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include fatigue, lethargy, headaches, dizziness, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting. There are also reported cases of complications leading to death via cerebral edema or pulmonary edema, so extreme caution is advised. 

First, it is recommended to stretch your body and take deep breaths as soon as you reach the 5th Station, and then to remain there for 1 - 2 hours to acclimate your body before starting your climb to the peak. Also make sure to regularly drink water while hiking and to go at a reasonable pace in order to avoid dehydration, which can negatively affect your blood circulation. Remember to take deep, full breaths throughout the entirety of the hike. 

If you still manage to become afflicted with altitude sickness despite following the suggestions above, first warm your body with a blanket or jacket and take a rest. If the symptoms don't subside, do not panic and head to the nearest first aid station. If the symptoms worsen, then the best course of action is to climb down the mountain to receive proper care. 

Keep in mind that it is not an easy task to climb Mt. Fuji, as it is over 3,000 m in height. It is recommended to practice hiking other mountains in order to train your body for the climb up Mt. Fuji. Do not attempt to climb the mountain if you are running on lack of sleep or are otherwise not in your best physical condition.

 

・Using First Aid Stations

There are first aid stations located at the 7th and 8th stations of the Yoshida Trail and the 8th Station of the Fujinomiya Trail. If you cannot walk all the way to a first aid station on your own, at least try to make it to the nearest mountain hut. There are markers throughout all the trails that will allow you to easily identify your location if you need to call in emergency help as well. 

・Worsening Weather Conditions

Thunderstorms are a common occurrence on Mt. Fuji during the summer months. It can be incredibly dangerous to be caught in a storm while hiking the mountain, so make your way to a safe location such as a mountain hut as soon as you hear the first clap of thunder. In the event that a weather warning has been put in effect, climbing will be halted and all visitors will be required to make their way to the base of the mountain. Please make sure to confirm the latest weather conditions and forecast before starting your climb. 

Useful Reference Sites

▼Official Website for Mt. Fuji Climbing
Japanese: http://www.fujisan-climb.jp/index.html
English: http://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/index.html

▼The Complete Guide to Mt. Fuji 
Japanese: http://www.fujisan223.com/
English: http://www.fujisan223.com/en/

Chubu Feature

The information in this article is accurate at the time of publication.

tsunagu Japan Newsletter

Subscribe to our free newsletter and we'll show you the best Japan has to offer!

Subscribe Now!
Get your Japan discounts here!

About the author

Chisa
Chisa Nishimura
I am from Kyoto and enjoy watching movies, reading books, going to art museums, and running.
  • Check out our writers’ top Japan travel ideas!

Restaurant Search

Sign up to our free newsletter to discover the best Japan has to offer.