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Towering 3776m above sea level, Mt Fuji isn't just Japan's highest peak—it's an iconic symbol steeped in centuries of cultural and religious significance. As one of Japan's "Three Holy Mountains," Mt Fuji has attracted climbers and pilgrims alike since the 7th century.
A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mt Fuji offers a unique opportunity to experience Japan's rich history. Climbing Mt Fuji is Japan's best adventure!
There are 4 trails on Mt. Fuji and our primary route is the Fujinomiya Trail on the South side of the mountain.
Note: You'll often hear the trailhead referred to as the "5th Station." In Japan, mountain summits are considered the 10th station, making the 5th Station roughly the halfway point for each route. Mt. Fuji has four trails, each with its own 5th Station at varying elevations.
The Fujinomiya 5th station is at an elevation of 2400m making it the highest trailhead on Mt. Fuji.
We choose the Fujinomiya trail as it is the most direct path to Mt. Fuji's summit and offers breathtaking panoramas on clear days. Hikers can gaze across Hakone, the Izu Peninsula, and the vast Pacific Ocean.
Upon arrival to the summit, the Okumiya Shrine and the famous Post Office awaits. The Fujinomiya trail is the most direct route to the Kengamine peak and is only an additional 30 mins to the highest point after reaching the crater rim.
The ascent and descent trails are one and the same however, on private tours, given good conditions, there is an option to link with the Gotemba trail through the Prince route and visit the Hoei crater of Mt Fuji's last eruption in 1707.
A beautiful day near the top of Mt. Fuji with the Pacific Ocean in the background.
From the Fujinomiya 5th station or the trailhead (2400m) to the summit (3776m) takes roughly 5 hours and about 3-4 hours for the descent making it the shortest of the 4 trails.
But don't let that fool you, it's still a challenging climb! Although you'll have less distance to cover compared to the other trials, the ascent is steep and rocky. Though there will be no scrambling (climbing with your hands), the trail features lots of big steps and precarious foot placement.
Additionally Mt. Fuji is infamous for its volatile weather. A climb to the summit of Mt. Fuji guarantees that at one point you will be dry, wet, hot and cold. From scorching hot and humid summer conditions to snowy winter conditions, one should always expect for the weather to drastically change in an instant. Almost any type of weather you can imagine can be experienced at any given moment on Mt. Fuji and being prepared with the necessary equipment will be key for a successful climb.
Not only weather! Though Mt. Fuji is not at an elevation where supplementary oxygen is needed, all climbers will feel the altitude to varying degrees. Some may only experience a slight shortness of breath but others may experience dizziness, nausea or other effects of the elevation which may affect your climb.
*Serious altitude related complications are rare outlier cases on Mt. Fuji.
Understanding the Challenge
During the in-season, the trails are well-maintained, but the altitude and steep incline can be challenging, especially for those not used to hiking. The climb is more of an endurance test than a technical one, but proper fitness is key to ensuring you enjoy the journey and reach the summit safely. Additionally, be prepared to carry a heavy backpack containing essentials like food, water, extra clothing, and gear for overnight stays in mountain huts if you plan on spreading out the climb.
Fitness Level: What You Need
You don't need to be a top level athlete to climb Mt. Fuji, but a moderate level of fitness is recommended.
Here are some fitness goals to aim for:
Training Tips
Additionally it is advised to also go hiking/ walking with a 5-10kg backpack to simulate what you would be carrying at all times on your Mt. Fuji hike.
In summation, what makes climbing Mt. Fuji so difficult is its steepness, rugged/ rocky terrain, elevation, volatile weather and sheer length of climb while carrying equipment.
While climbing Mt. Fuji in a single day is certainly possible, it demands a significant physical effort and a long, arduous journey. For those who wish for a chance to witness the sunrise from the summit, a long standing Fuji tradition, an overnight stay is necessary. Mountain huts are only open between July 10- September 10 making the 2
While climbing Mt. Fuji in a single day is certainly possible, it demands a significant physical effort and a long, arduous journey. For those who wish for a chance to witness the sunrise from the summit, a long standing Fuji tradition, an overnight stay is necessary. Mountain huts are only open between July 10- September 10 making the 2-day in-season climb the only option for this experience.
For 1 day climbs, the return trip (on the mountain) demands about 10 hours on your feet and including transport times, it is usually about a 15 hour day.
On 2 day climbs, the trip is broken up in to (for the most part) an ascent and descent day.
*Off-Season trip with Mt. Fuji Guides
Mt. Fuji can be climbed year-round. While true winter conditions demand specialized skills, the weeks preceding and following the official climbing season offer excellent climbing opportunities. Mt. Fuji Guides/ Fuji Outdoor will be operating tours from June 20th to October 15th, 2025, with the officia
*Off-Season trip with Mt. Fuji Guides
Mt. Fuji can be climbed year-round. While true winter conditions demand specialized skills, the weeks preceding and following the official climbing season offer excellent climbing opportunities. Mt. Fuji Guides/ Fuji Outdoor will be operating tours from June 20th to October 15th, 2025, with the official in-season spanning July 10th to September 10th, 2025.
The in-season is the only time 2-day tours are offered, as it's the only time the mountain huts along the trail, including the summit's Shrine and post office, are open. This time boasts the mildest temperatures (though the summit can still drop to just above freezing) and rarely experiences snow.
During the off-season just before and after the official climbing period, the mountain huts are closed, and trails are no longer maintained. However, climbing conditions don't yet necessitate technical winter ascent skills. Note that no purchases can be made at the huts, and colder conditions, including occasional snow, should be anticipated.
Although 1-day tours are the only option in the off-season, climbers can enjoy a less crowded Mt. Fuji experience.
*This tour is operated by Mt. Fuji Guides
While most associate Mt. Fuji climbs with the official July-September season, experienced adventurers can tackle the peak in the spring shoulder season. As roads reopen, a challenging one-day ascent becomes possible. Expect unmaintained trails with snow and ice, demanding the use of crampons and ic
*This tour is operated by Mt. Fuji Guides
While most associate Mt. Fuji climbs with the official July-September season, experienced adventurers can tackle the peak in the spring shoulder season. As roads reopen, a challenging one-day ascent becomes possible. Expect unmaintained trails with snow and ice, demanding the use of crampons and ice axes. Basic technical mountaineering skills are essential, making these climbs considerably more strenuous than summer treks.
Given the increased difficulty and inherent risks of spring ascents, preparation is crucial. We prioritize safety by conducting a comprehensive briefing and trip planning session the day before the climb. This ensures all participants are fully informed and equipped to handle the demanding conditions. Please note, we do not offer climbs during the true winter season. Spring offers a unique and challenging mountaineering experience for those with the appropriate skills and a strong sense of adventure.
Climbing Mt. Fuji is a bucket-list adventure for many, but it's essential to prepare for the unique challenges this iconic peak presents. While some daring souls have reached the summit in sneakers and jeans, don't underestimate the volatile weather and demanding terrain. The right gear can make or break your climb, ensuring both your safety and enjoyment.
I've stood on Fuji's peak almost 300 times, experiencing every imaginable weather scenario and witnessing firsthand the consequences of ill-preparedness. Over the years, I've refined my packing list for a successful, comfortable climb in any condition.
Understanding Mt. Fuji's Weather Extremes
Mt. Fuji is notorious for its unpredictable weather. You can expect to experience sun, rain, heat, and cold, often in rapid succession. Temperatures can soar above 30°C (86°F) at lower elevations and plummet below 5°C (41°F) at night, even in summer. This extreme variability makes proper gear essential.
Preparation is key to a successful and enjoyable Mt. Fuji climb. By packing the right gear, you'll be equipped to handle any weather conditions and focus on the incredible experience of reaching Japan's highest peak. Remember, this list is a starting point. Adjust it based on your personal needs and preferences. With careful planning and the right gear, your Mt. Fuji adventure will be one you'll never forget.
Here are links to the gear list for your specific tour.
Mountain huts, also known as yamagoya in Japanese, are simple lodges scattered along the various trails leading up to the summit of Mt. Fuji. They offer basic amenities like a place to sleep, food and hiking supplies. Most huts were originally established as emergency shelters and many have been run by the same families for 3-4 generations!
Overnight stays at mountain huts are available during our "in-season" trips between July 10- September 10.
What to Expect Inside:
Why Stay in a Mountain Hut?
Tips for Staying in Mountain Huts:
The accommodations on Mt. Fuji are simple yet very special experiences.
Fuji Outdoor works together with different huts but all are similar to each other.
As the mountain huts on Mt. Fuji are technically emergency shelters, you'll find shared dormitory-style accommodations with bunk beds equipped with blankets and sleeping bags. Be prepared for close quarters, especially during peak climbing seasons like weekends and holidays. While the sleeping arrangements are consistent across most huts, the amenities and service can vary greatly. Since each hut operates independently, expect differences in menus, prices, and even language spoken by staff – English might not be widely available.
The huts are mostly family run over several generations with rich history that offer a unique stay that can only be experienced only on Mt. Fuji!
Ikedakan on the Fujinomiya Trail.
The Fujinomiya Trail leads to the Okumiya Shrine.
Mt. Fuji is a deeply revered spiritual landmark. For centuries, it has held a special place in the hearts of the Japanese people, inspiring countless works of art and attracting pilgrims seeking blessings from the deities believed to reside on its slopes.
The mountain's significance is deeply intertwined with Shintoism, Japan's indigenous religion.
Shinto revolves around the worship of kami – spirits or deities believed to inhabit all things in nature, including mountains, rivers, trees, and even rocks. Mt. Fuji, with its dominating presence and volcanic origins, is considered one of the most sacred mountains in Japan.
The Okumiya Shrine is open during the Official climbing season in the early hours of the morning.
The Shrine may NOT be open at the time we reach the summit on 1 day climbs.
Standing proudly at the crater rim of Japan's tallest mountain, amidst the clouds and volcanic rocks, lies an unassuming summit post office of Mt. Fuji.
A Historical Journey
The story of this unique post office dates back to 1906 when it first opened its doors to serve the growing number of pilgrims and climbers, offering a tangible way for adventurers to share their experiences with loved ones back home.
Over the years, the post office has undergone several transformations, adapting to the changing needs of visitors and the harsh mountain conditions. Today, it stands as a symbol of resilience and determination, a testament to the human spirit's ability to thrive in even the most extreme circumstances.
Messages of Love and Triumph
The summit post office has become a pilgrimage site for couples seeking to express their love in a truly unique way. Many leave heartfelt messages in a special mailbox, hoping that the mountain's energy will bless their relationship.
Hikers also use the post office to send postcards to themselves, commemorating their achievement of reaching the summit. These postcards often become cherished mementos, reminding them of the challenges they overcame and the breathtaking views they witnessed.
A climber standing in front of the Mt Fuji Post office
The kongōzue, also called a "Mt. Fuji walking stick," is more than just a hiking aid. It's a symbol of the pilgrim's journey, steeped in history and spirituality.
Why Climbers Use Kongōzue:
Where to Get a Kongōzue:
Kongōzue can often be purchased at the base of Mt. Fuji, in nearby towns, or even at some of the mountain huts. However, many climbers enjoy choosing their staff beforehand, personalizing it with their own decorations or inscriptions.
A kongozue being branded at a mountain hut on the Fujinomiya Trail.
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