The summer climbing season of Mount Fuji has commenced with new measures to control overcrowding on the popular Yoshida Trail in Japan.
A fee of 2,000 yen ($13) along with an optional donation is now required for hikers on the Yoshida Trail, with a daily cap of 4,000 visitors.
Authorities have introduced online reservations to ensure safety and minimize environmental impact on the country’s tallest mountain.
One hiker, Chetna Joshi, expressed support for the new regulations as a way to show respect to the mountain by limiting the number of climbers.
Due to poor weather conditions, climbers were unable to reach the summit on Monday, but many still found the experience of partially ascending the mountain enjoyable.
The influx of tourists post-pandemic has led to record numbers of visitors wanting to explore or climb Mount Fuji.
Despite being covered in snow most of the year, the mountain attracts over 220,000 visitors during the July-September climbing season.
Many hikers trek through the night to witness the sunrise from the summit, with some facing challenges such as sickness or injury due to hiking without proper breaks.
– ‘Crazy adventure’ –
The Yoshida Trail, which is easily accessible from Tokyo, is the most popular route for climbers, with around 60 percent choosing this path.
There have been reports of tourists attempting the climb without adequate mountaineering gear each summer.
The new measures aim to prioritize safety, with the governor emphasizing the need to protect lives following the discovery of four bodies near the summit.
Climbers like Geoffrey Kula from the US see the adventure as a thrilling experience, despite the preparations required for potentially risky conditions.
– Tourist hotspot –
Japan’s monthly visitor numbers exceeded three million for the first time in March, with Mount Fuji being a key attraction due to its proximity to Tokyo.
The country aims to attract 60 million foreign tourists, having already welcomed over 25 million last year.
While Mount Fuji symbolizes Japan and attracts visitors worldwide, the increase in tourism has raised concerns similar to other popular destinations like Venice.
Residents near Mount Fuji have taken measures to deter tourists from littering and trespassing, reflecting challenges faced by other tourist destinations in Japan.
Issues of overcrowding and disrespectful behavior towards local culture are also seen in Kyoto, where tourists have reportedly harassed geisha.
kh-ap/kaf/sco