For many tourists, climbing Mount Fuji is a dream come true, but for locals, it's a spiritual adventure. Being the tallest and most famous mountain in Japan, Mount Fuji is a symbol of the country. Hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors swarm the Mt. Fuji region each year in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the peak from a distance or hiking the routes that lead to the top. Amongst all the different features of Japan, the focus today is on Mount Fuji Volcano. The location of Mount Fuji is in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. Fujisan, as locally known, is a volcano close to Tokyo. The elevation of Mount Fuji is around three thousand seven hundred and seventy-six meters. It is a symbolic beauty of Japan for many reasons and is a cultural icon of the country. Japanese cultural photography and art are inspired most by this snow-capped mountain. 

Which Trail To Choose? 

• Usually, the Yoshida Trail is recommended for the hike to the summit because of its accessibility from Tokyo, safety, and infrastructure. The Yoshida Trail is well-developed and maintained, providing you with basic amenities such as mountain huts, restrooms, and food stalls along the route. This makes it a more comfortable option, especially for those who may not have extensive outdoor experience.

( Source: Google Images)

• It’s also considered one of the safer routes up Mount Fuji. It has well-marked paths, guideposts, and designated resting areas, making it easier to navigate in general. Additionally, the popularity of this trail means that there is usually a good number of fellow hikers around, providing a sense of safety and assistance if needed.

This highest peak in Japan is 3,776 meters (12,388 feet) high, known as Fujisan in Japanese. Although still active, Mt. Fuji is a stratovolcano last erupted in 1707. Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is located southwest of Mt. Fuji, which is close to the Pacific Coast. The mountain spans the prefectures of Yamanashi and Shizuoka in Japan.  it offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to the summit, where they can witness the awe-inspiring sunrise. Additionally, the mountain holds great spiritual importance in Japanese culture and is considered a sacred site. Nearby attractions worth exploring include the Fuji Five Lakes, which offer picturesque views of the mountain reflected in the calm waters. The region also boasts hot springs, traditional villages, and museums showcasing the history and art associated with Mt.Fuji.

( Source: Google Images)

( Source: Google Images)

Collective Belongingness ~

• The Yoshida Trail is well-liked for its cultural experiences in addition to its stunning natural surroundings.
• Along the journey and waiting at the summit will be an extraordinarily diverse mix of individuals from other nations, all of whom have similar aspirations to your own.

Cultural Importance ~

• In Japan, Mount Fuji is very important both spiritually and culturally.
• For generations, poets, authors, and painters have drawn inspiration from this mountain, which is revered in Japanese mythology and religion.

Individual Success ~

• Achieving a personal challenge like climbing Mount Fuji makes you feel accomplished.
• At 3,776 meters (12,389 ft), reaching the top takes physical endurance, willpower, and persistence.

( Source: Google Images)
Adventure and Nature ~

• If you enjoy outdoor activities and adventure, Mount Fuji provides an excellent opportunity for both.
• Hiking the Yoshida Trail allows you to escape the city and immerse yourself completely in nature for a day or two. You can breathe in the fresh mountain air and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.

Approximately five months of the year are covered with snow on Mount Fuji. The mountain's cone is largely clear of snow throughout the climbing season, however we did see some in July. Since the Edo period, which began in the 1600s when Edo (now Tokyo) became the capital of Japan and tourists started to notice the peak, Mt. Fuji has been revered by the Japanese people. From July 1 to September 10, is when Mt. Fuji is officially open for climbing. While the mountain is accessible all year round, it is advisable to visit during this period when all of the trail's huts are open and the weather is ideal.

( Source: Google Images)

The most well-traveled and manageable path is most likely the Yoshida Trail, which begins near Fifth Station. Hiking to the peak and back is doable in a single day, despite not being an easy feat. Along the way, several stations offer various amenities including food, water, shelter, and bathrooms. Even the 7th and 8th station bungalows let guests stay overnight on the mountain. The 7th and 8th Station huts are popular places to spend the night if you want to get up early and see the sunrise at the top.

Yoshida Trail Safety Advice & Measures: 

1. Your safety throughout your trip up Mount Fuji should be your first concern. 
2. Start your climb early to give yourself enough time to reach the peak and, if you choose to, descend before dusk. Even if you don't intend to spend the night, just in case, pack a light.
3. Bring extra water and food with you for the hike so you can stay energized. Certain trail stations have refill stations.
4. When necessary, take pauses, and pay attention to your body. By increasing gradually, you can prevent altitude sickness and overexertion.
5. Dress in layers to accommodate shifting temperatures. Be ready for abrupt weather changes and severe gusts.
6. Bring a head covering, sunscreen, warm mitts, and a cap.
7. Adhere to the authorities' directions and stay on paths that have been designated. Respect the guidelines and policies of the mountain.
8. Bring extra cash for food, drink, oxygen, and any other necessities you may require as some mountain huts and amenities do not take credit cards.
9. At an altitude of 12,389 feet (3776 meters), the top of Mount Fuji is a dangerous place to visit if you have altitude sickness. Allow enough time for acclimatization, maintain hydration, and return right away if symptoms get worse.
10. Take into consideration getting hiking and mountain-related activities covered by your trip insurance. In the event of emergency or unforeseen circumstances, it offers comfort.

Choose a mountain hut along the way that is close enough to the peak so that you may reach there before dawn because Mount Fuji is well-known for its breathtaking sunrises. Depending on your level of fitness and acclimatization, you can choose either one, but whatever route you choose, get up early and go for the summit! One of the best things about the Yoshida route is that you can still watch the dawn to the east even if your timings are off and you don't reach the peak before daybreak. Follow it around to the highest point of the mountain, the Mount Fuji Weather Station, until you arrive at the summit crater. Set yourself up for one of the most breathtaking sunrises you will ever witness!

( Source: Google Images)