Tips on Climbing Mt. Fuji

Japan's most famous mountain is Mt. Fuji. Make your stay in Japan a memorable one by experiencing climbing its highest mountain.

A Mt. Fuji hiking stick(kongo-zue) is very helpful and a favorite souvenir you might want to have. This sticks can be purchase at Mt. Fuji's 5th station. Insignias into the stick marking the meters hiked costs around 4000 in Yen so it would be good to bring an extra cash with you. The best season to hike Mt. Fuji is during summer and here are some preparations and precautions you need to know:

Adequate Clothing and Equipment

The weather on Mt. Fuji is unpredictable. It is usually very cold in the morning and during the night even it is summer. It is advisable to wear removable layers such as T-shirt, sweater and jacket so that you will not be too hot while hiking and descending and not too cold at the summit. Go with polyester, wool or nylon-synthetic material.

-Raingear
-Warm Jacket
-Thick socks
-Hat
-Gloves
-Small Towel
-Toilet Paper
-Gaiters
-Sturdy Hiking Boots
-Flashlight
-First Aid Kit
-Sunglasses
-Water
-Food
-Sunscreen
-Sandals

Many of these items can be brought in the stores at Mt. Fuji's 5th Station but of course its more expensive.

Climbing Precautions

• Do not stray from hiking path. If you do, there is a greater possibility of encountering rock slides or getting lost.
• Do not be in a hurry. Hike the mountain slowly and be careful not to overexert yourself. It is better to take frequent short breaks rather than to stop only a few times for long periods of rest.
• If you find breathing difficult, take a good rest. If your breathing does not improve, start descending.
• If a person is injured or sick, perform the necessary first aid, carry him/her to the nearest mountain hut and contact a doctor. There should be one standing by at the 7th station.
• If you hike the mountain at night, hike with care. In rocky areas, be especially careful of your footing. It is easy to stumble and fall.

Descending Precautions

• Do not run down the mountain.
• Do not stray from the path while descending, it is possible to take the wrong path and end up on the wrong side of the mountain.
• At the 8th Station the path divides in two. Do not take the path to the right that goes to Subashiri. Take the path to the left (the Kawaguchiko/Subaru route）which goes to the 5th station bus stop. Stick to the side of Yamanashi Prefecture.
• It is easy to lose your way in heavy fog, so be cautious and take the correct path.

I hope this could be of help to those who attempt to climb Mt. Fuji. Special mention to the MWR-Outdoor Recreation Center for this useful informations.