Park rangers on Japan’s Mount Fuji have opened the climbing season with new trail fees and restrictions to address overcrowding issues. Climbers must pay 2,000 yen and numbers are limited to 4,000 per day to help reduce litter, pollution, and crowded trails. The influx of tourists due to a weakened yen has strained facilities and locals’ patience, leading to measures like barriers at popular photography spots.
Mount Fuji, a revered symbol in Japan, is an active volcano and a site of worship for centuries. The climbing season, running until September, attracts about 300,000 climbers annually. Climbers receive a wristband for trail access between 3 a.m. and 4 p.m., with exceptions for those staying at mountain huts.
The new trail restrictions are aimed at preventing accidents and altitude sickness, particularly among foreign “bullet climbers” racing to the top. Yamanashi governor Kotaro Nagasaki has emphasized the importance of attracting higher spending visitors rather than sheer numbers.
One overseas climber, Geoffrey Kula from Boston, sees the restrictions positively, noting that Mount Fuji is not Disneyland and that access control can help manage potential chaos. The measures are part of efforts to ensure a safe and sustainable climbing experience on the iconic peak.
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