Climbing Fuji FAQ

ページID：0001292 更新日：2025年1月6日更新印刷ページ表示

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.＜外部リンク＞

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."

表1
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.＜外部リンク＞
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.

表2
Location	Mountain Hut	Capacity	Telephone Number
8.5 Station	Goraikokan＜外部リンク＞	150	0555-73-8815
8th Station	8th Station Tomoe-kan＜外部リンク＞	200	0555-24-6511
	Mount Fuji Hotel＜外部リンク＞	350	0555-24-6512
	Gansomuro＜外部リンク＞	200	090-4549-3250
	Hakuunso＜外部リンク＞	300	0555-24-6514
	Horaikan＜外部リンク＞	180	0555-24-6515
	Taishikan＜外部リンク＞	360	0555-24-6516
7th Station	Toyokan＜外部リンク＞	320	0555-22-1040
	Torii-so＜外部リンク＞	250	0555-84-2050
	Fuji Ichikan＜外部リンク＞	130	080-1036-6691
	Kamaiwa-kan＜外部リンク＞	250	080-1299-0223
	7th Station Tomoe-kan＜外部リンク＞	150	0555-24-6521
	Hinode Pavilion＜外部リンク＞	150	0555-24-6522
	Hana-Goya＜外部リンク＞	150	0555-24-6523
6th Station	Satomidaira / Seikanso＜外部リンク＞	100	0555-24-6524
5th Station	Mount Fuji Miharashi＜外部リンク＞	80	0555-72-1266
	Komitake Shop	shop only	0555-72-1476
	Komitake Shrine Hut	30	0555-72-1475
	Sato-Goya＜外部リンク＞	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＜外部リンク＞

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

2024 Climbing Season Buses:

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.＜外部リンク＞ 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＜外部リンク＞.

Fuji-Subaru Line Road Map.＜外部リンク＞

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")＜外部リンク＞

If you are concerned about locker availability, consider using a "Takkyubin" delivery service, such as "Kuro-Neko"＜外部リンク＞ or "Sagawa Takkyubin"＜外部リンク＞ 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.＜外部リンク＞ 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

PDF Lists

Mt. Fuji Climbing Map [PDFファイル／4.77MB]