About Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest and most iconic mountain, is an active stratovolcano located on Honshu Island. Standing at an impressive 3,776.24 m (12,389 ft), this majestic peak has been a source of inspiration for centuries. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Fuji offers breathtaking panoramic views, rich cultural significance, and exciting outdoor activities. Whether you visit for photography, hiking, or spiritual exploration, this legendary mountain is a must-see destination in Japan.
Renowned for its breathtaking snow-capped summit, Mount Fuji is not just a natural wonder but also a spiritual and cultural icon, attracting millions of visitors, hikers, and photographers each year.
History of Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji has a fascinating geological and cultural history, dating back over 100,000 years. It last erupted between 1707 and 1708, leaving a significant mark on the surrounding landscape. Throughout history, it has been a sacred site for Shinto and Buddhist practices, drawing pilgrims and artists alike. Today, it continues to captivate millions of visitors with its stunning presence and deep cultural roots.
Mount Fuji in Japanese Art and Mythology: Featured in numerous ukiyo-e woodblock prints, Mount Fuji has become a symbol in Japanese culture and mythology, deeply embedded in spiritual beliefs.
Mesmerizing Views of Mount Fuji
Why Visit the Mount Fuji?
Routes for Mount Fuji
From Tokyo:
By Train:
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station.
To get to Kawaguchiko Station, switch to the Fujikyu Railway Line.
Encyclopedia Britannica
By Bus:
Direct highway buses run from Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal to Kawaguchiko Station and the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station.
From Kyoto/Osaka:
By Train:
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station.
Board a local bus that will take you to the Fuji Five Lakes region.
From Nagoya:
By Train:
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Fuji Station.
Transfer to a local bus to reach the mountain's base.
Facts about Mount Fuji
Interesting Facts About Mount Fuji You Should Know Before Visiting
- Mount Fuji is actually made of three volcanoes stacked on top of each other—talk about a volcanic layer cake!.
- Every year, more than 200,000 visitors scale Fuji's peak, many of them only to see the dawn from above the clouds.
- The official climbing season is short but sweet—only about 60 days from July to early September.
- Despite being Japan’s most iconic mountain, Fuji last erupted over 300 years ago in 1707.
- Climbing Mount Fuji once is regarded as sensible in Japanese society, but twice? Perhaps not so much!.
- Its nearly perfect cone shape isn't nature's accident—it’s been refined by centuries of eruptions and erosion.
- On a clear day, you can see Fuji from Tokyo from a skyscraper or even an aeroplane window.
- Mount Fuji has its own postal code—403-0005—and even its own weather station near the summit.
- Pilgrims used to climb Mount Fuji in white robes, viewing it as a sacred path to enlightenment.
- Hokusai’s famous woodblock series 'Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji' helped turn this mountain into a global art icon.
Plan Your Visit: Mount Fuji
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the Mount Fuji: Stay Options, Activities, and Packing Tips
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Mount Fuji depends on your purpose. If you wish to hike, the best season is from July to early September when the weather is stable and trails are open. For sightseeing and photography, visit in spring (March–May) for cherry blossoms, autumn (September–November) for vibrant foliage, or winter (December–February) for its iconic snow-covered peak.
Accommodation
Visitors can choose from a wide variety of accommodations, including luxury resorts, traditional ryokans, cozy guesthouses, and mountain huts for climbers. The Fuji Five Lakes region (Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanakako) and Fujinomiya are popular lodging areas offering stunning views of Mount Fuji.
Activities
Beyond climbing, Mount Fuji offers numerous attractions, including:
* Scenic lake cruises
* Cycling trails around the base
* Cultural visits to Fujisan Sengen Shrine
* Relaxing hot spring baths (onsen) at nearby resorts
* Exploring Aokigahara Forest, known for its mystical lava formations
* Fuji Q Highland, a popular & crowded amusement park near the mountain
Things to Pack
Pack wisely depending on the season:
1. Layered clothing (temperatures vary by altitude and season)
2. Sturdy hiking boots (if planning to climb)
3. Waterproof gear (unexpected showers are common)
4. Thermal gloves and hat (for higher altitudes)
5. Sunscreen and sunglasses (especially in summer)
6. Camera and power bank (to capture breathtaking views)
7. Light backpack and permits (for hikers)