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Big in Japan: How to climb Mount Fuji
There is only another week or so left in the Fuji climbing season...If you're living or traveling in Japan, and you haven't yet climbed the country's most famous peak, get to it!! And of course, if you happen to need a little inspiration for the 12,388 foot (3776 meter) climb, then hopefully today's Big in Japan will fit the bill.
There are few images more iconic of Japan than Mount Fuji (???, Fuji-san), the country's highest mountain, which also happens to be a near-perfect volcanic cone. In a country obsessed with order and harmony, Fuji is a natural manifestation of Japanese ideals.
Straddling the borders of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures, Fuji is located just west of Tokyo, and is visible from the city on a clear day. Considering that the mountain is within easy striking distance of the world's largest megalopolis, it should come as no surprise that Fuji attracts legions of would-be climbers every summer.
While you certainly need to be in reasonable shape to attempt a summit of the mountain, you needn't be a professional climber. Want more info? Keep on reading (^_^)
The official climbing season for Fuji runs from July 1st to the end of August. Although
the snowcap is absent during this time, you still need to be prepared for subzero temperatures at the summit.Dressing in layers is a good idea, as is bringing along a hat and gloves. While you don't need technical equipment to make it to the top, good hiking shoes are a must, as is a reliable flashlight (torch).
If you're coming from Tokyo, JR Highway Buses depart from the bus terminal outside of Shinjuku Station West Exit (新宿西口), arriving at Kawaguchiko 5th Station (河口湖五合目). While there are many routes up to the summit, the Kawaguchi route is the most popular since it has ample places to eat, drink and rest along the way.
Indeed, this is Japan, so you shouldn't expect a true wilderness experience. On the contrary, there are actually ramen shops, vending machines and souvenir stalls at the summit! However, half the fun of the climb is slurping down a hot Cup o' Noodle with other climbers, and there really is nothing quite like the taste of ramen at altitude.
With that said, don't underestimate the difficulty of the climb. Tradition dictates that you must watch sunrise (御来光, goraiko) from the summit, so you will need to set out from Kawaguchko 5th Station around 8 or 9pm, and climb straight through the night. While times vary, the ascent takes on average 4-8 ho
urs, and the descent another 2-4 hours.Want to learn more about Mount Fuji, Japan's most iconic image? Check out Thursday's installment of Big in Japan for 'Fun Facts about Mount Fuji.'
** All images were taken by yours truly, which is proof that we here at Gadling actually do visit the places that we write about!! **
Filed under: Asia, Japan, Big in Japan
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
ji.guo Aug 19th 2008 10:25PM
nice photos matt. also there's actually a road up the mountain, which you're not suppose to use, but came in handy on the trek down since the dirt is soft, unlike the stones they line the footpath with
Matthew Firestone Aug 19th 2008 10:26PM
Thanks Jerry - I know exactly the road you're talking about, and it's certainly a good discovery!
Nippon Blogger Aug 20th 2008 9:14PM
I think it's important not to overly romanticize Fuji-san. The mountain is being literally loved to death. See the following link (http://blognippon.blogspot.com/2008/08/properly-shitty-mountain.html)
I would recommend also investigating Ontake-san in Nagano prefecture. It's much more pristine and offers much better views of Japan's north, central, and southern Alps, as well as Fuji-san. Here's a blog that has some information (http://otakimura.blogspot.com/2008/07/opening-mountain-ontake-kaizan.html)
Fuji-san may simply be better enjoyed from afar.
Matthew Firestone Aug 20th 2008 9:17PM
Thanks for the comment - this is actually the second time I've climbed Fuji. The first time was 5 years ago, and it was such a miserable experience that I vowed never to it again. And eight hour climb through black volcanic rock devoid of plant life isn't most people's idea of 'scenic,' and lines of up to 2 hours at the top to watch the sunrise sure isn't 'tranquil.'
Anyway, this time I tried to focus on the historical and cultural significance of the mountain, which put things in better perspective. I also went with a good group of friends, which probably made all the difference in the end!!
Again, thanks for the great links!