Beginner's guide to climbing Mount Fuji

Many people are looking for an image to represent Japan, and the perfect, snow-capped cone of Mount Fuji would be on their checklist. It's not just there to admire from a distance. However, conquering Fuji is at the top of many people's bucket lists, and there's no time to decide whether to take up the challenge or not.

Truly, the bottom half of Mount Fuji also offers dynamic nature and historical heritage. Following the traditional pilgrim route is a relaxing and spiritual experience. The lower portion of the mountain has a longer hiking season, and the trails at the foot of the mountain are easier to climb. Particularly in spring, tourists can see beautiful flowers and blossoms such as the sakura along the way. In addition, it is also the highest peak in Japan at 3,776 meters above sea level. Fuji is also particularly interesting since it is still considered to be an active volcano. Climbing Fuji will not just be an enjoyable climb but also a fascinating experience with the breathtaking views from the top and the volcano craters.

Decide the Day and Time to Climb Mount Fuji

Generally, the official climbing season of Mount Fuji lasts from early July to the beginning of September. When the weather is relatively mild, the huts operate where public transportation runs frequently. At the same time, Mount Fuji is also crowded on weekends from mid-July to late August, with a peak in Obon Week. It is common to see continuous lines of people climbing or queuing up in the early morning hours to reach the summit. Sometimes people try to avoid climbing Mount Fuji during Obon Week.

Climbing Mount Fuji During Off-Season

While more experienced hikers choose to climb Mt Fuji outside the climbing season, they highly discourage first time climbers from hiking. Outside the climbing season, the huts and weather conditions are extreme. Even if the top of Mount Fuji is not covered with snow, the temperature can drop below zero degrees from October onwards.

The lower half of Mount Fuji has a hiking season that lasts longer. Spring is the best time to visit when you can enjoy dynamic nature with sakura and other flowers in full bloom. To get an exciting and unforgettable experience, people will recommend tourists to join a tour. The tour guide will teach them about Mount Fuji's cultural and historical heritage.

The Trails of Mount Fuji

To reach Mount Fuji's summit, there are four major trails: Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya. Each trail differs from its own fifth station, and they vary in distance to the summit, steepness, and available facilities. They are also marked in their color. Depending on your climbing preferences and experiences, choose at which Station to start an ascent.

• Yoshida Trail

Most hikers take this zigzag path on the north side when climbing Mt fuji. It is considered the easiest offering the sunrise view that has access to public transit from Tokyo, but also extremely crowded among other trails. There are also some eateries and a few stores at Fuji Subaru Line Gogōme, also known as Kawaguchiko Station or Yoshidaguchi fifth Station. 

In addition, Kawaguchiko train station is one of the last stations to gear up before making your way to the summit. Several first-aid points are located along the trail at the fifth, seventh or eighth station. About 15 huts are along the trail to buy food and drinks and use a toilet for a few hundred yen. Moreover, to stay at the mountain hut, make a timely reservation, especially during the peak season, Obon week.

• Subashiri Trail

Subashiri Trail is the first section below the tree leads and lines through the forest. The tree protects the climbers from strong wind or sun. With that being said, it is one of the easily accessible public transit to access from central Tokyo.

Around the 8th Station, the Subashiri Trail and Yoshida Trail meet where it can get crowded. There are two shops at the 5th Station with no first-aid office and around seven mountain hut with toilets.

• Gotemba Trail

The route to the summit from this 5th station is the longest and most difficult trail since it is the trail with the lowest elevation and the least steep. It is physically the toughest route but you can avoid altitude sickness. Yet, it is the least crowded amongst the four trails. There is a store at the 5th station and around three mountain huts along the trail, but no first aid point.

•  Fujinomiya Trail

After the Yoshida Trail, the second most popular trail starts at the highest 5th station and is the shortest route to the summit. The slopes are rather rockier and steep than other trails. There is a store at 5th station, the first-aid office at 8th station, and about 7 huts along the trail.

Hiking the Mount Fuji

Each trail of Mount Fuji has 10 different stations. The first station is located at the foot of the mountain, and the 10th station is at the summit. It is best to start a hike from the first station or before Mount Fuji Station. In this way, people appreciate more the history and natural background of the mountain. Before hiking, it is essential to pack the right gear for a secure trek to your Mount Fuji hike experience. Bring rain gear, warm clothing, extra proper clothes, appropriate mountaineering equipment, a head torch, sleeping bag for an overnight stay, spare batteries for electronic devices, and trekking poles.

Mount Fuji Merchandise

Are you afraid of heights, worrying about falling rocks, suffering from mild altitude sickness, or for whatever reason it may be that you can't hike Mt. Fuji? Perhaps you can't go to Japan yet? Well, don't be sad! You can avail of merchandise inspired by the most recognizable landmark in Japan, Mt Fuji. We have cute erasers and locally brewed drinks for you to choose from!

1. Mount Fuji x Sakura Eraser

   Erasers are among the most important stationery supplies in both schools and offices. But why would you settle for less? We have some incredibly adorable erasers that were designed in the style of Mount Fuji. The eraser begins to resemble Fuji as you use it more frequently. Additionally, they have a kawaii sakura-themed design.

2. Mt Fuji Blue Curry

   Who would expect that Mt Fuji can also be delicious food! The mount fuji inspired this bizarre blue spicy curry. You will not only enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Fuji from the comfort of your home, but you can also have a mouthful snack time. It is created with peaches that are native to Yamanashi's Fuefuki city, where Mt. Fuji is located.

 

3. Mount Fuji Lamp: Grey

   Imagine if you could see Mt. Fuji every time you wake up and before you sleep. It might be the best thing ever, right? Well, look at this amazing LED light fashioned like Mount Fuji! It can be turned on or off by merely pressing the Mount's peak. Excellent for the bedroom and decoration for your study table. The adorable design is high-quality silicone that feels soft and comforting to the touch.

   

    

4. Mount Fuji Kigurumi Cap

   Hiking is not the only way to reach the top of Mt. Fuji. You can also just wear this Mount Fuji Kigurumi Cap, and voila! You can literally reach the peak right above your head. This cap will also help you keep warm during the winter season.

   

5. Mt. Fuji Puzzle

   Building puzzle is now enjoyable more than ever! From the three-dimensional Mt Fuji jigsaw puzzle to a breathtaking 1000 pieces jigsaw puzzle featuring the view of Sakura and Mount Fuji.