No trip to Japan is complete without a one-day trip to iconic Mount Fujiyama. The mountain, which is a dormant volcano, is Japan’s highest mountain and rises 12,388 feet or 3,776 meters. While travelers to Japan can visit the region on their own, a tour includes transportation to Mount Fujiyama and access to all the attractions. Family-friendly and private tours of Mount Fujiyama and the surrounding area are available. Tours include Lake Kawaguchi in the Five Lakes Region and Hakone area, which offers spectacular views of the mountain.
Where is Mount Fuji located?
The mountain, also known as Fuji-san and Fuji no Yama, is located on Honshu Island, 60 miles to the southwest of the Tokyo-Yokahama metro region. The mountain, which is a stratovolcano, is visible from Tokyo when the weather is clear. Fuji is in an area that received the designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.
The spectacular peak is one of Japan’s Three Holy Mountains. Five lakes surround Mount Fujiyama at an altitude of 1,000 feet above sea level. The lakes include Kawaguchiko, Motosuko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Yamanakako. The area around the five lakes offers panoramic views of the mountain and great photo-ops.
The volcanic peak is the most famous tourist attraction in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the most visited national park in Japan. The volcanic belt in which Fuji-san is located is on the northern side of the park. The beautiful park features ancient forests, hot springs, lava caves, and places to swim with the dolphins. The Bullet Train, known as the Shinkansen, takes visitors to the Atami, Mishima, or the Odawara stations in 30 to 69 minutes. The area is close enough to Tokyo for unforgettable day trips.
How long does it take to climb Mount Fuji?
A climb to the summit of Fuji-san can take between 5 and 10 hours, depending on your ability and the trail you choose to ascend the mountain. Most climbers start at the Kawaguchi-ko 5th station, which means a 5 to 6-hour climb. Although there are huts along the route to stop and rest, it’s recommended that you climb at a slower, steady pace, which can help to prevent altitude sickness.
The descent from the summit can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours. Climbing experts recommend a slow pace during the descent. The steep slope of the mountain means keeping your momentum under control to avoid the risk of slipping and falling.
The four primary trails leading to the summit are Gotenba, Fujinomiya, Subashiri, and Yoshida. Each of the trails leading to the summit has a 5th station, a point at which cars can no longer drive. The most well-known of the stations is the Subaru line, which has access from Tokyo and is open most of the year. Most of the locals who climb the mountain head for the Subashiri Trail which is less congested than some of the others.
Tips for climbing Mount Fuji
The most important tip about climbing Mount Fujiyama is that if you aren’t an experienced climber, make sure to plan your climb during the climbing season, which is from the early part of July through the middle of September. Some people climb at other times when the weather conditions could be hazardous. During the climbing season, tourists are able to access the stations by public transportation, and the mountain huts are open in the event of bad weather.
A lot of people choose to climb the mountain over two days, but if your time is limited, you can do it in a day. The ascent to the summit isn’t too difficult for anyone in good physical condition. The visibility is usually better early in the day, so you may want to schedule your climb accordingly.
To prevent any problems during your climb, make all the necessary preparations in advance. Wear comfortable hiking boots and dress for the weather, which can be cold at the summit. Bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration and food, since not all of the huts have food available. If you hike at night or early in the morning, bring a headlamp or flashlight.
