Exploring Mount Fuji: Japan’s Iconic Mountain

Mount Fuji, with an elevation rise of 12,388 feet, is the 35th most prominent mountain in the world. Located on Honshu Island, Japan (coordinates: 35.358 N / 138.731 W), it has a circumference of 78 miles and a diameter of 30 miles. Its crater is 820 feet deep and has a surface diameter of 1,600 feet.

Mount Fuji Distinctions

• The highest mountain in Japan.
• It is an ultra-prominence peak as the 35th most prominent mountain in the world.
• A cultural site on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
• On the Japanese list of “Places of Scenic Beauty”.

Mount Fuji Name

Mount Fuji is called Fuji-san (富士山) in Japanese. The origin of Fuji’s name is disputed. Some say it derives from the Ainu language, used by the Japanese aboriginal people, and means “everlasting life.” Linguists, however, argue that the name comes from the Yamato language and refers to Fuchi, the Buddhist fire goddess.

Early Mount Fuji Ascents

The first known ascent of Mount Fuji was by a monk in 663. Subsequently, the peak was regularly climbed by men, whereas women were not allowed on the summit until the Meiji Era in the late 19th century. The first known Westerner to climb Fuji-san was Sir Rutherford Alcock in September 1860, followed by Lady Fanny Parkes, the first white woman, who ascended in 1867.

Active Stratovolcano

Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano characterized by its towering, symmetrical volcanic cone. The mountain formed through four phases of volcanic activity, which commenced 600,000 years ago. The last eruption of Mount Fuji occurred from December 16, 1707, to January 1, 1708.

Sacred Mountain in Japan

Fuji-san has long been revered as a sacred mountain. The native Ainu honored the great peak, while Shintoists regard the mountain as sacred to the goddess Sengen-Sama, who embodies nature. Conversely, the Fujiko sect believes that Fuji is a being with a soul, hosting a shrine dedicated to Sengen-Sama at its summit. Moreover, Japanese Buddhists view the mountain as a gateway to another world. Together with Mount Tate and Mount Haku, Mount Fuji forms Japan’s “Three Holy Mountains.”

Mount Fuji is the World’s Most Climbed Mountain

Mount Fuji ranks as the most climbed mountain globally, attracting over 100,000 trekkers annually to its summit. In contrast to many sacred mountains, people embark on pilgrimages specifically to ascend this peak. Approximately 30% of climbers are foreigners, while the remaining percentage comprises local Japanese.

Japan’s Most Popular Attraction

Regarded as one of the world’s most stunning mountains, Mount Fuji stands as Japan’s most popular attraction. It is celebrated for its picturesque beauty and symmetry, inspiring generations of artists through paintings and photographs. Spring is arguably the most beautiful season to view Fuji, as the snow-covered peak is accentuated by blooming pink cherry blossoms, earning it the name Konohana-Sakuahime, or “causing the blossom to brightly bloom.”

Views of Fuji from Tokyo

Mount Fuji is situated 62 miles (100 kilometers) from Tokyo; however, from Nihonbashi in Tokyo (the zero mile marker for Japanese highways), the road distance to the mountain is 89 miles (144 kilometers). On clear days, the majestic peak of Fuji can be glimpsed from Tokyo.

Mount Fuji is Symbol of Japan

Within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Mount Fuji is recognized as Japan’s most emblematic mountain and its national symbol. Surrounding the mountain are five lakes: Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Sai, Lake Motosu, and Lake Shoji.

How to Climb Mount Fuji

The official climbing season for Mount Fuji is during July and August when the weather is generally mild and most of the snow has melted. The peak season occurs from mid-July until the end of August, coinciding with school vacations. Given the immense popularity, the mountain can become quite crowded, particularly at busy sections. The climb typically takes between 8 to 12 hours to ascend and an additional 4 to 6 hours to descend. Many climbers plan their ascent to enjoy the breathtaking sunrise from the summit.

4 Trails Ascend to Summit

There are four main trails to ascend Mount Fuji: the Yoshidaguchi Trail, Subashiri Trail, Gotemba Trail, and Fujinomiya Trail. Each trail comprises ten stations that offer basic amenities and resting areas. Prices for drinks, food, and accommodations can be steep, thus reservations are advisable. The first stations are located at the base of the mountain, with the tenth station situated at the summit. Most climbers start from the fifth stations, accessible by bus, while other routes involving technical climbing exist on Fuji.

Most Popular Trail to Summit

The Yoshidaguchi Trail is the most popular route to the summit, beginning at Kawaguchiko 5th Station on Fuji-san’s eastern side. The round-trip hike from here takes approximately eight to twelve hours. Along the trail, several huts are available near the 7th and 8th stations. Notably, ascent and descent trails are separate, making this path particularly suitable for novice climbers.

Climb Mount Fuji in Two Days

For a two-day climbing experience, it is recommended to ascend to a hut near the 7th or 8th station on the first day, allowing time to rest and eat before tackling the summit early on the second day. Alternatively, some climbers begin their trek in the evening from the 5th Station, hiking through the night to reach the summit in time for the sunrise.

Mount Fuji’s Crater Rim

Mount Fuji’s crater boasts eight peaks. A walk around the crater’s edge, known as ohachi-meguri, takes a couple of hours. It typically requires about an hour to hike around the crater to Kengamine peak, the highest point on Fuji, which is located opposite the crater from where the Yoshidaguchi Trail ends.