Risk Information
Be careful of mountain accidents and injuries.
Mt. Fuji is a high mountain exceeding 3,000 meters in elevation, but due to its high profile, many people attempt to climb it casually, which is a cause of accidents.
Mt. Fuji is by no means an easy mountain. You need to be fully equipped and have the courage to descend if you are not feeling well. Especially if you lack physical fitness or mountaineering knowledge, you should absolutely avoid climbing alone. Also, please follow the basics of safe mountaineering, such as checking the weather forecast, and enjoy a safe climb without accidents.
Situation of mountain accidents and incidents on Mt. Fuji
Many people get lost or have accidents on Mt. Fuji every year. Furthermore, the nature of these incidents varies depending on the four different routes taken.
Information regarding accidents and incidents on Mt. Fuji can be viewed on the following websites, etc.
<Yamanashi Prefecture>
<Shizuoka Prefecture>
Trends in the number of accidents and other related incidents
Trends in the number of mountain accidents, etc. (Created based on data from Yamanashi Prefectural Police and Shizuoka Prefectural Police) (Past 10 years)
*The numbers in parentheses indicate the number of people outside of the summer climbing season.
*The Ministry of the Environment's survey of the number of hikers has been conducted since 17 by installing infrared counters near each trail 8th station.
*In 2020, the mountain was closed during the summer season to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Risks of climbing Mt. Fuji
Temperature difference
Many hikers can be seen near the summit waiting for the sunrise, starting about two hours before it actually happens to be the coldest time of day.Therefore, adequate cold weather protection is necessary. In particular, people with weaker physical strength, such as children and the elderly, are more susceptible to hypothermia.
The temperature at the summit of Mt. Fuji is about 20 degrees Celsius lower than at sea level, and the perceived temperature drops even further during rain and strong winds, so warm clothing and windproof measures are essential.Even around the Obon festival, temperatures can drop below freezing, and it can snow.In such cases, unexpected weather conditions could potentially lead to fatal accidents.
Sudden change in weather
Even if it's sunny when you start your climb, you're often hit by strong winds, dense fog, or lightning. Lightning strikes, which are common in summer mountains, can easily lead to serious accidents, so it's important to be cautious and make the decision to descend quickly.
In particular, the "Summit rim trail (Ohachimeguri)" that circles the crater at the summit is exposed to the elements and easily affected by weather conditions, making it extremely dangerous during strong winds, heavy rain, or dense fog that reduces visibility. It is important to carefully consider the weather conditions and your own physical condition and not push yourself too hard.
Falling rocks
Because Mt. Fuji is composed of layers of volcanic gravel, it is prone to landslides and rockfalls. In the past, more than a dozen people have died in major rockfall accidents.
【!】Do not walk anywhere other than trails.
Please do not walk anywhere other than the trail, as this increases the risk of rockfalls. Even on the trail, walking along the edge can cause rockfalls. If, by any chance, you do cause a rockfall, shout loudly to alert those around you.
Night hiking
Many climbers ascend Mt. Fuji at night to see the sunrise from the summit.
Climbing a mountain without getting enough sleep, also known as "bullet climbing," can lead to injuries and health problems.
Also, when hiking at night, be sure to use a headlamp due to the risk of falls and falling rocks.
There has been an increase in cases of hikers without headlamps getting lost after sunset and becoming stranded. Please be sure to check the sunset time and route before setting off, and try to leave early.
eruption
Mt. Fuji is an active volcano. We recommend bringing equipment such as a helmet, mask, and goggles in case of sudden eruptions.
Also, pay attention to the Volcanic Alert Level, and if the level is raised while you are ascending or descending, descend immediately.
For information about Volcanic Alert Levels, please refer to the following page.