Beginning May 20, those planning to hike the Yoshida Trail at Mount Fuji between July 1 and September 10 will need to reserve one of the 4,000 daily slots.
These new regulations will especially affect those aiming to witness the sunrise from Japan’s highest peak. The Yoshida Trail, the most popular of the four trails on Mount Fuji, is used by over half of the mountain’s visitors.
According to the mountain’s website, nonrefundable, non-changeable reservations will get hikers through a gate at the Yoshida Trail’s fifth station entrance between 4 p.m. and 3 a.m. Hikers can book their spot on the trail until the day before their trek. Additionally, bookings can be made for groups of up to 100 people.
The site noted that “reservations will be closed” if the daily limit is exceeded. It also highlighted that last year, there were only five days when climbers surpassed the 4,000-person threshold.
Where Is the Trail?
Mount Fuji is on Honshu, Japan’s largest island. At 12,389 feet high, the popular peak is the country’s tallest. The Yoshida Trail is along the mountain’s north, on the “Yamanashi Prefecture side.”
How Much Is the Reservation Hiking Fee?
Making a reservation will require paying a “hiking fee.” Securing your daily slot will cost 2,000 yen, or about $13. A 1,000 yen donation to Mount Fuji’s conservation is also suggested.
Mount Fuji stated that refunds will only be granted if it is responsible for the trail’s inaccessibility. Those needing a mountain hut for their trip will have to book and pay for that separately.
What Is the Reason for the Reservation System?
Due to the influx of hikers ascending to see the sunrise, the restrictions are set for overnight mountain climbers. Mount Fuji shared an infographic stating, “Access restrictions will be imposed to prevent overcrowding and to ensure climbers do not ascend without taking proper rest.”
