Hikers beware – you will now have to pay to climb one of the most popular routes up Mount Fuji.
Effective from July 1, 2024, visitors wishing to hike the popular Yoshida trail up to the mountain will have to pay a fee to gain access to the route.
The news comes after Japanese authorities decided to take action in a bid to protect the UNESCO World Heritage Site from over tourism which has resulted in masses of discarded rubbish being dumped on the trail, as well as serious congestion issues that have impacted hiker safety. The Yoshida trail is the most popular ascent thanks to its easy access from Tokyo and the presence of several mountain huts that offer accommodation as well as meals for hungry hikers.
From July, hiker numbers will also be restricted to 4,000 a day and climbers will be prevented from attempting the ascent between 4pm to 2am every day, until the conclusion of the summer climbing season in mid-September.
While officials have yet to reveal the fee total, it has been announced that a gate will be installed at the entrance to the Yoshida trail where the toll will be collected. Proceeds from the tax will go towards the construction of shelters along the trail for use during a volcanic eruption.
Currently, hikers are encouraged to provide a donation of ¥1,000 (Dhs24.90) that goes towards preservation of Mount Fuji.
