How to enjoy Mt. Fuji
To enjoy mountain climbing more
Training for climbing Mt. Fuji
Make your Mt. Fuji climb a comfortable one with regular training!
One characteristic of climbers on Mt. Fuji is that many of them are beginners. Mt. Fuji, with an elevation of over 3,000m, is by no means an easy mountain. It is necessary to maintain the physical strength to reach the summit and to be accustomed to mountain climbing on a regular basis.
- Regular training is important, including squats and strength training to prevent accidents during descents, and aerobic exercises such as walking to improve cardiovascular function.
- If this is your first time mountain climbing, start by getting used to it by hiking on an easy mountain nearby.
- Once the climbing season on Mt. Fuji begins, try climbing on the middle slopes of Mt. Fuji or on slightly higher peaks. It's also a good opportunity to check your equipment.
Hiking trails on the slopes of Mt. Fuji, etc.
*Some sections of the trail and surrounding roads are closed to traffic. Please check with the relevant authorities for accurate information.
Courses around Mt. Fuji 5th Station (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Starting from the Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station (approximately 2,300m above sea level), the trailhead for the Yoshida Trail, this course (4 routes) allows you to enjoy the nature on the slopes of Mt. Fuji. It includes the Yoshida Trail, which has been used as a trail for centuries, as well as parts of the Shojiguchi Trail and the Onakado Trail. Nature commentary is also available for groups.
Yoshida Trail (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- This is an ancient trail that starts at Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine in Fujiyoshida City and leads to the summit. It merges with the Yoshida Trail 6th station at the 6th station.
- Combining this with a hike from the Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station to the summit, you can experience a climb that traces the history of people climbing from the base to the top of the mountain.
Mt. Fuji Recreation Forest Hiking Course (Shizuoka Prefecture)
- This trail network consists of 13 courses located in the area between 1,200 and 2,500 meters above sea level on the southern slopes of Mt. Fuji. You can enjoy the diverse natural beauty of the Mt. Fuji area, including the Hoei Crater, Futatsuzuka, and Gotenba.
- Part of the course includes the historic Suyamaguchi Trail, allowing you to enjoy nature while tracing its history.
Other hiking trails
Kanto Fureai Trail (Metropolitan Area Nature Trail)
- This is a long-distance nature trail that circles the Kanto region, encompassing one metropolis and six prefectures. It includes some of the most representative mountains of the Kanto region, such as Tanzawa, Takao, Chichibu, and Tsukuba. There are many hiking courses suitable for beginners, so it's a good idea to use it in sections to get used to hiking.
- Long-distance nature trails have also been developed in other regions.
Recommended hiking trails to experience Mt. Fuji
If you plan to actually hike the trails, please be sure to check the latest information separately.
Nature of Mt. Fuji
Nature of the Mt. Fuji area in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
The Mt. Fuji region belongs to the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and encompasses the beautiful, well-proportioned stratovolcano Mt. Fuji, which was formed by volcanic activity approximately 10,000 years ago, the Fuji Five Lakes (Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko) which were dammed up by its eruptions, the parasitic volcanoes Hoeizan and Omuroyama, and the surrounding areas. The surrounding area features distinctive natural features such as wind caves, ice caves, lava tree molds and circular landforms left behind by lava flows, a natural forest of mixed coniferous and broadleaf trees covering 30 km², the Aokigahara forest, hemlock and fir forests in the subarctic coniferous forest zone, dwarf larch trees above the treeline, and alpine plant zones near the Onakado trail.
Extent of the Mt. Fuji area within Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park
Park plan (scale 1/50,000 or 1/25,000)
Characteristic natural resources that can be seen on Mt. Fuji
Topography/geology
Basaltic stratovolcano
It was formed approximately 10 years ago at the foot of Mount Komitake, and its current conical shape was created by the eruptive activity of Old Fuji Volcano and New Fuji Volcano.
Mount Hoei and Hoei Crater
Please enter text here. In 1707 (Hoei 4), a massive eruption occurred, creating the Hoei Crater and forming a vast volcanic wasteland of volcanic ash on the east side. Volcanic activity has been dormant since this major eruption.
The Hoei Crater consists of three craters, and the Suyamaguchi Trail, which flourished during the Edo period, was destroyed by this eruption.
Lava caves and lava tree molds
Please enter text here. Low-viscosity, easily flowing basaltic lava spread over a wide area, creating numerous lava caves and lava tree molds, among other unique landforms, at the foot of the mountain.
Lava tubes are believed to have formed when gases and other substances were released from within the flowing lava. Lava tree molds, on the other hand, are cavities left behind when a lava flow knocked down trees, and the trees were burned to ashes within the lava.
Osawa Collapse
The Osawa Collapse is a valley formed by erosion just below the western summit of Mt. Fuji. It is believed that the volcanic ash fall was less on the eastern side of Mt. Fuji, resulting in a larger valley.
Spring water, etc.
Kinmeisui・Ginmeisui
Spring water is produced by the undulating terrain at the mountaintop.
Kinmeisui
Akisui
Konoshiro Pond
It's a puddle-like pond at the mountaintop, which dries up during the dry season.
Izumigataki
A small waterfall located near the junction to Yoshida Trail 5th Station, on the way from Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station to 6th Station. Almost no water flows during the summer months.
flora
Plants that grow in volcanic wastelands
A vertical distribution can be observed, ranging from hilly areas at an altitude of 700m to alpine areas above the treeline at around 2,500m.
Because the vertical distribution from the foot of the mountain to the summit can be clearly seen, it has long been classified and referred to as grassy mountain, tree mountain, and burnt mountain.
In recent years, the deer population has increased in the mid-mountain forest zone, leading to problems with grazing. There are concerns that the deer's grazing will significantly alter the forest's flora.
Plants that grow in volcanic wastelands
On the eastern slopes, where thick layers of volcanic ash fell during the Hoei eruption, plants such as *Cirsium japonicum*, *Arabis sieboldii*, and *Polygonum weyrichii* are characteristically found in the sandy and gravelly areas.
mushroom
A variety of mushrooms grow in the Forest Zone up to the vicinity of the 5th station.
Landscapes, natural phenomena, etc.
The Shadow Cast by Mt. Fuji
As Mt. Fuji is an isolated peak, its shadow stretches across the ground as the sun sets, and on clear days, it can be seen from the trail.
Clouds hanging over Mt. Fuji
Winds blowing from Suruga Bay and Sagami Bay hit Mt. Fuji, creating complex wind patterns near the summit. Depending on the wind direction, speed, and humidity near the summit, unique cloud formations such as lenticular and hanging clouds can occur, and the shape of these clouds can provide a rough forecast of the weather.
Nature observation facilities on Mt. Fuji
You can find detailed information about Mt. Fuji's volcanic formation, characteristics, and distinctive flora and fauna at related facilities and websites.
Kawaguchiko Field Center
They offer guided walks utilizing the natural forest that formed on the Mt. Fuji Kenmaruo lava flow. The Funatsu Tainai tree molds, located on the same grounds, are among the largest lava tree molds in the area, created by the Mt. Fuji lava flow, and are designated as a natural monument. Visitors can observe the inside of the lava tree molds.
401 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture 0301-6603
Phone: 0555-72-4331
Yamanashi Prefectural Mt. Fuji Science Research Institute (formerly: Yamanashi Prefectural Environmental Science Research Institute)
Outdoor facilities such as the ecological observation garden and nature trails allow visitors to observe the ecosystem and wild birds of the northern foothills of Mt. Fuji. Lava tree molds formed by the eruption of Mt. Fuji can also be observed. The park also organizes events such as Mt. Fuji lava flow observation tours and wild bird and wild plant observation tours.
5597-1 Kenmaruo, Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture 403-0005
Telephone: 0555-72-6211 (representative)
A website explaining the nature of Mt. Fuji
History and Culture of Mt. Fuji
Historical and Cultural Resources of Mt. Fuji
Around Mt. Fuji, there are numerous historical and cultural resources, including many Asama Shrines, as well as remnants of the Fuji-ko pilgrimage, which was popular during the Edo period.
On June 22, 2013, it was registered as Japan's 13th World Cultural Heritage site under the name "Mt. Fuji – Object of Worship and Source of Artistic Inspiration."
The constituent properties that have become World Cultural Heritage sites can be found below.
Scenes from the summer mountain opening ceremony at Komitake Shrine.
A facility for learning about the history and culture of Mt. Fuji.
The following are some of the surrounding facilities that offer exhibits, explanations, etc.
For more details about the Special Place of Scenic Beauty, Mt. Fuji, please click here.
Facilities for learning about Mt. Fuji, etc.
Facilities for learning about Mt. Fuji, etc.
The following are some nearby facilities that offer exhibits and explanations about the nature, history, and culture of Mt. Fuji.
| Name | Outline | Location/contact information, etc. |
| Yamanashi Prefectural Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center (external link)(North Building: Former Fuji Visitor Center) | Opened on June 22, 2016, this facility serves as a hub for disseminating information about the value of the World Heritage site Mt. Fuji, preserving and passing on Mt. Fuji to future generations, and promoting regional development centered on tourism. Visitors can fully experience the World Heritage site Mt. Fuji through various sounds, lights, and interactive exhibits. | Zip code:401-0301 6663-1 Funatsu, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture Phone: 0555-72-0259 Entrance fee: free Museum Holidays (South Building): Fourth Tuesday (North Building): Open all year round |
| Fujisan Museum (external link) (Formerly: Fujiyoshida City Historical and Folk Museum) |
Visitors can learn about the natural features of Mt. Fuji through a three-dimensional model projected with images, and enjoy the history and nature of the area, including the Fuji-ko pilgrimage, through state-of-the-art videos and exhibits. Outside, a reconstructed house of a Shinto priest who guided the Fuji-ko pilgrimage is on display. | Zip code:403-0005 2288-1 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture Phone: 0555-24-2411 FAX: 0555-24-4665 Admission fee: Fee * Adult: 400yen Elementary, junior high and high school students: 200 yen |
| Yamanashi Prefecture Mt. Fuji Science Research Institute (external link) (Formerly: Yamanashi Prefectural Institute of Environmental Science) |
In addition to conducting extensive environmental research within Yamanashi Prefecture, the facility offers access to books, videos, and other materials related to Mt. Fuji. Outdoors, there is an ecological observation garden where visitors can observe the unique natural features of Mt. Fuji. | Zip code:403-0005 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture Kenmaruo 5597-1 Telephone: 0555-72-6211 (representative) Email:www-admin@mfri.pref.yamanashi.jp Entrance fee: free |
| Mt. Fuji Radar Dome Museum (External Link) | The radar dome that was removed from the mountaintop in 1999 has been relocated, and the history of weather observations at the mountaintop is on display. | Zip code:403-0006 1936-1 Araya, Fujiyoshida City, Yamanashi Prefecture Phone: 0555-20-0223 Admission fee: Fee * Adult: 610yen Elementary, junior high and high school students: 410 yen |
| Shizuoka Prefecture: Mt. Fuji World Heritage Site Center (external link) |
The Shizuoka Prefectural Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center, characterized by its inverted cone-shaped exhibition building covered with wooden latticework, is a facility where visitors can experience a simulated climb of Mt. Fuji and learn about its nature, culture, history, and more. | Zip code:418-0067 5-12 Miyamachi, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture Phone: 0544-21-3776 Admission fee: General 300 yen Group (20 or more people): 200 yen *Admission is free for university students and younger, those aged 70 and over, and people with disabilities (proof required). |
| Tanuki Lake Nature Interaction Center (external link) | This facility, located on the shores of Lake Tanuki, serves as a base for nature-based activities. The main facility includes an area where visitors can experience the caves of Mt. Fuji. Nature observation tours of the area around Mt. Fuji are also held here. | Zip code:418-0107 633-14 Saori, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture Phone: 0544-54-5410 Entrance fee: free |
| Mt. Fuji Jukuno Mori (External Link) | The Sky Theater offers a dynamic viewing experience of Mt. Fuji through Japan's largest model of the base of Mt. Fuji and a 3D screen. | Zip code:412-0008 1380-15 Inno, Gotemba City, Shizuoka Prefecture Phone: 0550-80-3776 Entrance fee: Free Admission fee: Fee * Adult: 300yen 150 yen for elementary and junior high school students (Tenku Theater) |
| Susono City Mt. Fuji Museum (external link) | The museum showcases the unique natural features of Mt. Fuji, including its formation, topography, geology, and flora and fauna, through exhibits and videos. They also conduct surveys and observation events along the Suyamaguchi trail. (Currently closed) |
Zip code:410-1231 2255-39 Suyama, Susono City Phone: 055-998-1325 Admission fee: Fee * Adult: 210yen Elementary and junior high school students 100 yen |
Facilities around Mount Fuji
On a larger map Facilities around Mount Fuji Show
Photo album
The beautiful form of Mt. Fuji
This collection features websites showcasing the beautiful scenery of Mt. Fuji, the views from Mt. Fuji, and information about its nature, history, and culture.
A lenticular cloud over the mountaintop (from the Biodiversity Center)
The sunrise (from the mountaintop)
It's not just about climbing Mount Fuji!
Recommended ways to enjoy Mt. Fuji
It's not just about climbing Mount Fuji!
Recommended ways to enjoy Mt. Fuji
Views of Mt. Fuji from afar (100 selected landscapes featuring Mt. Fuji)
To better convey the appeal of Mt. Fuji, a symbol of Japan, the Ministry of the Environment and surrounding prefectures, cities, towns, and villages have collaborated to select 100 representative viewpoints of Mt. Fuji in and around Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park as part of the 80th anniversary commemoration of the designation of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. In particular, we hope you will enjoy the beauty of nature, Mt. Fuji itself, distinctive landscapes such as Diamond Fuji, and scenery that has served as the subject matter for works of art such as Ukiyo-e prints, allowing you to better appreciate the charm of Mt. Fuji, which is its outstanding scenery and nature, and the culture rooted in it.
"100 Scenic Views Featuring Mt. Fuji" page (external link)
100 Scenic Views Featuring Mt. Fuji: Leaflet (PDF 1,228KB)
Fujizuka (miniature Mt. Fuji), Fuji-ko (Fuji pilgrimage group), Mt. Fuji 5th station, recommendation for descending Mt. Fuji.
The area surrounding Mt. Fuji is dotted with numerous historical and cultural resources, including many Asama Shrines and relics of the Fuji-ko pilgrimage, which flourished during the Edo period. On June 22, 2013, it was registered as Japan's 13th World Cultural Heritage site under the name "Mt. Fuji – Object of Worship and Source of Artistic Inspiration."
The tabs above allow you to view nearby facilities that offer exhibits and explanations about the nature, history, and culture of Mt. Fuji.
You can also see the sunrise from the 5th station or the mountain hut.
Enjoy a relaxing stay and a safe mountain climb.
The sunrise viewed from the mountain hut
You can see a beautiful sunrise from Mt. Fuji even if you're not at the summit.
To witness the sunrise from the summit, you must leave the mountain hut in the middle of the night and climb the rocky terrain relying on the light of your headlamp.
However, if you stay in a mountain hut and enjoy the sunrise at your leisure, and then head to the summit after it gets light, you can see your footing well, avoid congestion, and enjoy a comfortable climb.
<Yoshida Trail>
You can see the sunrise from anywhere above the 5th station.
List of sunrises viewed from mountain huts (external links) (Mt. Fuji Yoshida Trail Huts Association)
<Subashiri Trail>
Once you leave the Forest Zone, you can see the sunrise from anywhere.
<Gotemba Trail>
You can see the sunrise from anywhere along the route.
<Fujinomiya Trail>
You can see the sunrise from above the new 7th station. (Conditions vary depending on the time of year.)
Tips to avoid crowds
The 5th station on the Yoshida Trail has an observation deck.
Behind the Yoshida Trail 5th Station and the Furumitake Shrine, there is the Mt. Fuji 5th Station observation deck, offering a dynamic view towards the summit. You can also enjoy the sunrise from the observation deck.
It's close to the parking lot and easily accessible. Please feel free to stop by!
Yamanashi Prefecture / Mt. Fuji 5th Station Observation Deck (pref.yamanashi.jp) (External Link)