Barrier blocks iconic view
On one side of a bustling road, the iconic 3,776-meter (12,388-foot) symbol of Japan, along with the Lawson convenience store below it, has disappeared from view. Authorities recently completed a 20-meter by 2.5-meter barrier, effectively blocking a popular photo spot that had gone viral among tourists. (AP photo)
New limitations for climb
Only 4,000 climbers will be permitted on the trail each day, with an entry fee of 2,000 yen (approximately USD 18). Additionally, hikers have the option to donate an extra 1,000 yen (about USD 9) for conservation efforts. (AFP photo)
Japan to charge climbing fee
Climbers aiming to climb one of the most popular trails on Japan's iconic Mount Fuji will now need to reserve a slot and pay a fee. This change comes in response to safety and conservation concerns due to overcrowding, littering, and the hurried pace of some climbers on the picturesque stratovolcano. (AP photo)
Booking options for the climb
According to a statement by Yamanashi Prefecture via the Foreign Press Center of Japan on Monday, 3,000 of those slots will be available for online booking, while the remaining 1,000 can be booked in person on the day of the climb. (Reuters photo)
New mountaineering regulations
In the updated arrangement, climbers are required to opt for either a day trek or an overnight accommodation at one of the various huts situated along the trail. On the day of their ascent, they receive a QR code to be scanned upon reaching the 5th station. (Reuters photo)
Summit safety protocol
Those who don't reserve an overnight hut will be directed to descend and prohibited from ascending between 4 pm and 3 am This measure primarily aims to curb "bullet climbing," the practice of hastily reaching the summit without sufficient rest, which authorities fear endangers lives. (AP photo)
Mount Fuji climbers surge
According to the environment ministry, the total number of climbers on Mount Fuji during the 2023 season reached 221,322, nearly matching pre-pandemic levels. Officials anticipate even higher visitor numbers this year. (AFP photo)
Challenges facing Fujikawaguchiko
The iconic landmark of Japan is visible from afar, yet residents of Fujikawaguchiko are increasingly frustrated by the influx of predominantly foreign tourists who disregard local regulations, litter, trespass, and violate traffic rules in pursuit of the perfect social media snapshot. (AP photo)
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