Mt Fuji Climbing Season
The world's most climbed volcanic mountain — 200,000 people ascend each year during the official season (July–early September). The Yoshida Trail from the Yamanashi side is the most traditional route, passing 60 shrines and torii gates. The crater rim circuit, Ohachimeguri, takes 90 minutes around the summit caldera at 3,776 metres.
7–10 hours (round trip)
¥4,000 (passage fee as of 2025; mandatory for Yoshida route). Check official climbing site for latest rules and booking.
Climbing season: early July–early September; Yoshida Trail: most used; Fujinomiya Trail: steepest, clearest views
July–early September (climbing season only)
Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station by bus from Kawaguchiko (Fujikyū Bus, approx. 50 min); check timetable and road opening.
Location
Why Visit
- 1
The summit (3,776m) offers a view of the entire Kanto Plain, Fuji Five Lakes, and Suruga Bay simultaneously
- 2
The Yoshida Trail passes 60 shrine torii gates — it is a Shinto pilgrimage as much as a hike
- 3
Sunrise from the summit (Goraikou) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — arrive by 4am
Local Tips
Start no later than 20:00 from the 5th Station for a summit sunrise (goraiko) — the most popular and rewarding Fuji experience. The summit can be -5°C even in August; bring insulated layers, gloves, and a rain jacket regardless of weather at the base. The ¥2,000 conservation fee is mandatory. Altitude sickness affects some climbers above 3,000m — ascend slowly.
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