At least 200,000 climb Mount Fuji annually during its climbing season from July through mid-September. And there are many activities around Mount Fuji to enjoy. Climbers take the Yoshida trail, which is paved up to station five and features steps en route.
Mount Fuji has erupted 75 times since 1707, including the Hoei eruption which covered Tokyo with burning ash drifts. Its impressive outline inspired Hokusai paintings such as Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji as well as many beliefs throughout history.
1. Climbing Mount Fuji
Climbing Japan’s highest peak, Mt Fuji is an unforgettable journey. This iconic peak has long inspired poets and artists but is within reach for even novice hikers thanks to well-maintained paths and lack of technical sections that make climbing easy (though be wary of thin air at higher altitudes).
Official climbing season on Mount Fuji runs from mid-July to mid-August when most mountain huts open. No guides are necessary and hiking equipment rental services are readily available during this period, although it can become quite crowded during this timeframe. To avoid crowds altogether, book your tour through a company offering off-season 2-day tours of the mountain.
Mount Fuji offers numerous trails leading up to its summit, each one boasting its own special characteristics and charms. Climbers often prefer Yoshida Trail as it provides ample facilities and clear path markings; plus its average ascent/descent time span of five to seven hours makes for a relaxing hike!
To challenge yourself further, the Gotemba trail presents higher elevations and rougher terrain that require greater stamina for ascending to the summit. To avoid crowds during off-season, consider splitting your ascent over two days by staying overnight in a mountain hut.
2. Lake Kawaguchiko
Mount Fuji is one of Japan’s most recognizable symbols, and while only climbable during certain months of the year, its surrounding area offers plenty of entertainment throughout the year. Museums abound as do thrill rides at Fuji Q Highland amusement park – offering something for all in the Lake Kawaguchiko area.
Lake Kawaguchiko is one of five lakes surrounding Mt Fuji and stands out as being particularly tourist friendly with an extensive selection of hotels and outdoor activities to choose from. Visitors to Kawaguchiko during summer months can take part in windsurfing, boat trips, and sports fishing for Japanese white crucian carp and wakasagi.
Many spots offer great views of Fuji Mountain reflecting in Lake Suwa, especially during spring when cherry blossoms bloom or autumn when trees turn color. You might even get lucky enough to catch a closer view from Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station; though on such an occasion you must hope that visibility conditions permit.
Yamanashi Precious Stone Museum, set along Lake Yamanashi, offers visitors an educational yet photo-worthy opportunity. Offering valuable gems from around the globe and being popular among visitors as a popular photo spot, this small but informative museum should not be missed by any visitor.
3. Forest Adventure
Mount Fuji is one of the most recognizable symbols of Japan, and when asked to name one of its most defining characteristics it will undoubtedly come out at the top. Not only is its peak breathtaking to climb but its surroundings offer visitors plenty of activities from family-friendly crafts projects to BBQ and onsen experiences – something is sure to please all visitors near this iconic mountain!
Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, or simply Mt Fuji, is the country’s main shrine and an ideal viewing spot. Its iconic Chureito Pagoda has become one of the most recognized images associated with Mt. Fuji, making a visit one of the must-do activities around Mount Fuji.
Kawaguchiko Panoramic Ropeway – more commonly referred to as “the Rabbit and Tanuki Cable Car” – provides spectacular views of both Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchiko from Mount Tenjo’s summit while giving stunning panoramas. The cable car gets its name from Japanese folk tales about two animals said to inhabit mountains like these; hence its nickname!
Fuji Q Highland Amusement Park provides thrill-seekers with an exhilarating rollercoaster experience, boasting four roller coasters as the 79-meter Fujiyama, Do-Dodonpa, and Eejanaika–each holding records in its respective category. You can also ride a Ferris wheel and relax in an onsen with stunning views of Mt Fuji.
4. Aokigahara Forest
If you are looking for out-of-the-box activities around Mount Fuji, Aokigahara Forest has long been considered one of the most dangerous suicide spots worldwide. This eerily quiet forest of hemlock fir and Japanese cypress trees stands beneath Mount Fuji’s grand peak and boasts long been associated with suicidal tendencies and ghost stories; visitors to Aokigahara are frequently warned against making any drastic decisions here and are urged to reconsider them; signs are posted throughout Aokigahara asking for assistance if any visitors consider ending their lives here and patrols are present to monitor for potential suicide attempts and prevent them before taking place.
Although Aokigahara may have an unfortunate name, it remains an excellent and unique hiking destination; many sightseeing tours around Mount Fuji include a stop here. Lava caves within the forest can be explored via guided tours led by guides wearing helmets and protective boiler suits; two popular examples are Narusawa Ice Cave and Fugaku Wind Cave.
Winter visitors to Japan will also witness forests transformed by a thin coating of ice, turning trees into stunning natural sculptures. This remarkable sight is celebrated at Saiko Yacho-no-Mori Park through illuminations. Additionally, this park serves as a bird reserve, being visited all year long by numerous wild species.
