Location
2017年6月10日
Climbing Fuji FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about climbing Mt. Fuji.
*Please be aware that this information is only for the Yoshida-Guchi climbing trail on the Yamanashi-Prefecture side.

Are there limits to the number of climbers allowed on Mt. Fuji?

Yes. As of the 2024 climbing season, there is a 4000 climber per day limit for climbing from the 5th station to the top. There is a gate at the 5th station, which will be closed once the limit is reached. Additionally, the gate will be closed every day at 4pm until 3am. If you have a reservation at a mountain hut, you'll be able to pass regardless of the limit or time, (of course you still have to pay the entrance fee).

For reference, in 2023 the daily number of climbers reached above 4000 on five days. You can generally expect the Obon season (about Mid to late August) to be the most crowded time.

Starting in 2024 there will be an online reservation system for climbing the Yoshida-Guchi trail above the 5th station.

When can I climb Mt. Fuji?

The official climbing season in July 1st to September 10th. This means that the mountain huts are open, and all services are available at the Subaru Line 5th Station. Please be aware that due to increasing traffic, the Fuji-Subaru Line closes to personal vehicles from mid-July through early Septmber. Visitors to the 5th station must take a bus from Mt. Fuji Station, Kawaguchiko Station, or the Mount Fuji Parking Lot.

Fatalities occur every year on off-season Mt. Fuji, even among experienced climbers, due to falls and exposure. Do not underestimate the severity of conditions during the off-season.

The official stance of Fujiyoshida City and Yamanashi Prefecture is "Please refrain from climbing Mt. Fuji during the off-season."


Off-Season January
February
March
April
May
June
Official Climbing Season
and Fuji-Subaru Line Closure
to Private Vehicles
July
August
September 1-10 September 11-30
Off-Season October
November
December


How do I make a mountain hut reservation?

Mountain Hut Reservations are not required to climb Mt. Fuji, however climbers without a mountain hut reservation will be unable to pass the 5th station gate from 4pm to 3am every day. Regardless of mountain hut reservation, all climbers must reserve and pay the climbing entrance fee.
Please refer to the mountain hut list below to find the contact information for the hut you would like to stay..
 
When making your reservation please provide your name, the number of people who will be staying, and whether or not you will require meals. You will be sometimes asked what country you are coming from.
 
You must call and secure accommodation prior to ascent. Please be mindful that reservations fill quickly particularly on weekends, national holidays, and the first two weeks of August.
***The International Affairs Desk does no longer makes reservations on behalf of foreign climbers. Please contact the huts directly. Mountain Huts typically employ English speaking staff during the climbing season.
Location Mountain Hut Capacity Telephone Number
8.5 Station Goraikokan 150 0555-73-8815
8th Station 8th Station Tomoe-kan 200 0555-24-6511
Mount Fuji Hotel 350 0555-24-6512
Gansomuro 200 090-4549-3250
Hakuunso 300 0555-24-6514
Horaikan 180 0555-24-6515
Taishikan 360 0555-24-6516
7th Station Toyokan 320 0555-22-1040
Torii-so 250 0555-84-2050
Fuji Ichikan 130 080-1036-6691
Kamaiwa-kan 250 080-1299-0223
7th Station Tomoe-kan 150 0555-24-6521
Hinode Pavilion 150 0555-24-6522
Hana-Goya 150 0555-24-6523
6th Station Satomidaira / Seikanso 100 0555-24-6524
5th Station Mount Fuji Miharashi 80 0555-72-1266
Komitake Shop shop only 0555-72-1476
Komitake Shrine Hut 30 0555-72-1475
Sato-Goya 100 0555-23-1807

How difficult is the climb?

The difficulty of the climb varies according to each individual climber's aptitude and prior climbing experience. Mount Fuji is the most ascended peak in the world and is climbed by people of all ages and climbing abilities from around the world. However, there are some very particular challenges associated with climbing Mount Fuji's terrain. The terrain is very loose and is composed of small rocks and volcanic debris. Climbing on this type of terrain makes it particularly difficult to secure your footing and can cause additional strain on knees and ankles, It's somewhat similar to running in the sand. Additionally, even though the climb is not very technical, it is steep, particularly toward the top. At its steepest point, parts of the trail necessitate climbing on rocky surfaces using hand holds to assist with footing. Needless to say appropriate footwear is absolutely crucial.

It is an approximate 6 km (3.7mi) hike from the 5th Station to the summit, however there is a 1500 m (4900 ft) elevation gain. Most complete the ascent from the 5th Station in approximately 5-7 hours. Descending to the 5th Station typically takes approximately 3-4 hours. Unfortunately for speedier climbers, congestion on the trail can sometimes make it difficult to climb at a desired pace.

Many people are surprised by the difficulty of the descending trail. This is in partially due to climbers growing weary after a taxing ascent and being faced with similarly difficult terrain on the way down. Please be aware that it is an equally steep descent and due to the nature of the terrain there is often a lot of dust that gets kicked up. Climbers are encouraged to bring along a mask or some type of fabric to avoid inhaling dust. Similarly it is suggested to carry sunglasses for eye protection.

Does it cost money to climb Mt. Fuji?

Yes, starting in 2024 climbing season, there will be a 2000yen entrance fee and 1000yen requested donation to climb Mt. Fuji. Climbers are requested to make an online reservation, and will be charged for the entrance fee and donation at that time. Climbers without an online climbing reservation may still be able to pay the fees and climb from the 5th station on the day of, as long as the climber limit of 4000 people has not been reached. Online Reservation Information

Do I need to stay at a mountain hut when I climb Mt. Fuji?

No, it is not mandatory for climbers to stay overnight at a mountain hut.  However you will not be allowed to pass the 5th station gate between 4pm and 3am without a mountain hut reservation. Also, many climbers find that breaking the climb into two phases and staying overnight is a welcome chance to rest and acclimate to the altitude. For those who do not utilize the huts as a form of accommodation, mountain huts along the Yoshida Trail may still serve as rest areas where climbers can purchase food and drinks, get their climbing stick branded, and use restroom facilities (for a fee).

Do people climb during the day?

As of 2024, you will basically only be allowed to start the climb during the day (3am - 4pm), unless you have a mountain hut reservation. The 5th station gate will be closed from 4pm to 3am to everyone without a reservation.

How do I get to the 5th Station?

・By Bus from Fujisan and Kawaguchiko Stations
Ascending Buses *Beware that highlighted times will not arrive at the 5th station in time for gate closure
Fujisan Station Kawaguchiko Station Fujisan Parking Oniwa Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station
6:30 6:40 6:50 7:29 7:35
7:30 7:40 7:50 8:29 8:35
8:30 8:40 8:50 9:29 9:35
9:30 9:40 9:50 10:29 10:35
10:30 10:40 10:50 11:29 11:35
11:30 11:40 11:50 12:29 12:35
12:30 12:40 12:50 13:29 13:35
13:30 13:40 13:50 14:29 14:35
14:30 14:40 14:50 15:29 15:35
15:30 15:40 15:50 16:29 16:35
16:30 16:40 16:50 17:29 17:35
17:30 17:40 17:50 18:29 18:35

Descending Buses
Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station Oniwa Fujisan Parking Kawaguchiko Station Fujisan Station
7:45 7:49 8:20 8:30 8:40
8:45 8:49 9:20 9:30 9:40
9:45 9:49 10:20 10:30 10:40
10:45 10:49 11:20 11:30 11:40
11:45 11:49 12:20 12:30 12:40
12:45 12:49 13:20 13:30 13:40
13:45 13:49 14:20 14:30 14:40
14:45 14:49 15:20 15:30 15:40
15:45 15:49 16:20 16:30 16:40
16:45 16:49 17:20 17:30 17:40
17:45 17:49 18:20 18:30 18:40
18:45 18:49 19:20 19:30 19:40


Private Vehicles: The Fuji Subaru Line Tollway is closed in peak season from July 5th to September 10th to private vehicles. Private Car Restrictions from July 5th to September 10th. Parking during the restriction period will be available at Fujisan Parking Lot next to the Fujiyoshida Expressway Interchange. Parking is 1000yen. Roundtrip Shuttle buses from Fujisan Parking to the 5th Station will be available approximately every 30 minutes, see schedule below. 45 minute ride. Round Trip Tickets 2500yen. Elementary students half price.

Shuttle Bus Operation Times:

Monday to Friday (excluding August 13th, 14th, 15th, and 16th -- see schedule below)
Ascending (Mt. Fuji Parking to 5th Station) 5:00am to 5:30pm
Descending (5th Station to Mt. Fuji Parking) 6:00am to 6:30pm
 
Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and August 13th, 14th, 15th, and 16th.
Ascending (Mt. Fuji Parking to 5th Station) 4:00am to 5:30pm
Descending (5th Station to Mt. Fuji Parking) 5:00am to 6:30pm

By Highway Bus directly to the 5th Station from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo.
See www.highwaybus.com.

Fuji-Subaru Line Road Map.

Where can I store my luggage? Are there coin lockers available?

Yes, there are coin lockers available at Mt. Fuji Station, Kawaguchiko Station, and the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station. If you need further assistance, arrangements may be made at either the Mt. Fuji or Kawaguchiko Tourist Information Centers.

If you are coming directly from Tokyo to the Fuji Subaru Line (Yoshida Guchi) 5th Station, you can store extra luggage in coin lockers at various hotels and shops at the 5th Station. See link below for more information (machine translated). Unless you are staying at one of the hotels at the 5th Station, coin lockers are accesible only during business hours (generally 9am - 5pm, depending on the shop), so be careful to plan accordingly.

Mt. Fuji Yoshida Guchi 5th Station Coin Locker Information (external link -- scroll down to "Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station")

If you are concerned about locker availability, consider using a "Takkyubin" delivery service, such as "Kuro-Neko" or "Sagawa Takkyubin" to send extra luggage directly to your hotel.

What should I bring with me when I climb Mt. Fuji?

・Warm layered clothing
・Hiking boots
・Rain gear
・Gloves
・Hat
・Mask
・Sunglasses
・Flashlight or headlamp (for night climbing)
・Sunscreen
・Water (at least 4 liters per person)
・Sports drink
・Carbohydrates (rice balls, biscuits, etc.)
・Plenty of ¥100 coins (for restroom fees and the like)
・Cash (absolutely essential if you are staying at a mountain hut; mountain huts only accept cash.)

What facilities and services are available on Mt. Fuji?

At the 5th Station:
The 5th Station, at the end of the Subaru Line toll way, is the largest station on Mt. Fuji offering the most facilities and services. The 5th Station has souvenirs shops, restaurants, toilets, a viewing platform, a guidance center where local firefighters stay, police that are stationed, and a small post office.
 
Along the Trail:
Mountain Huts along the Yoshida trail offer food and beverages for purchase & restroom facilities for a fee.
 
at the summit:
There are small food vendors that sellhot noodles and coffee.

Where can I find more information about climbing Mt. Fuji?

Official Mt. Fuji Climbing Site here. Find more information about Mt. Fuji at the Mt. Fuji Tourist Information Center in Kawaguchiko close to the start of The Fuji Subaru Toll Way. More climbing information is available at the Fujiyoshida Tourist Information Center located at the Fujisan Station and at The Kawaguchiko Tourist Information Center at Kawaguchiko Station.

Can I camp on Mt. Fuji?

No. Camping on Mount Fuji is strictly prohibited.

What time is the sunrise?

・Early July - 4:20
Late July - 4:30

・Early Aug - 4:40
Late Aug - 4:50

What are some tips that others have found helpful?

・Carry 100 yen coins for the toilet facilities
・Headlamps are far more practical than flashlights
・Hiking gaiters are useful during the descent as they prevent loose rock and sand from getting in your shoes
・Hiking poles & traditional climbing sticks (Kongouzue) may be useful during descent but they are in fact rather cumbersome during the ascent
・Some huts will sell hot water inexpensively. Bringing your own cup noodles, instant coffee, and so forth. This is cost effective.
・Bring not only ample water but something to replenish electrolytes (salt) i.e., sports drinks, gels, salt candies.
・Towels come in very handy for sweat or to be draped around the neck to prevent sunburn.
・Be prepared for sudden changes in the weather (carry a backpack with a poncho, extra layers, etc.)
・The hike around the crater offers tremendous views and takes about an hour and a half.
・If you're a fast hiker, climbing during the day may be a more suitable climbing option (there is considerable foot traffic during the night)

Further Questions

If you have any further questions please contact IAD (International Affairs Desk) either by phone or email

Phone: 0555-24-1236 (extension: 638)
Email: iadfuji@city.fujiyoshida.lg.jp

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Mt. Fuji Climbing Map
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Inquiries about contents
Fujiyoshida Office of International Affairs
〒:403-8601
Address:6-1-1 Shimoyoshida Fujiyoshida-shi Ymanashi
TEL:0555-24-1236
FAX:0555-22-0703
E-Mail:Click here.