Conquering Mt. Fuji:
A Guide to Japan’s Iconic Peak

by Dr. Dave Siefkes

Climbing Mt. Fuji is more than just a hike… it’s a cultural, physical, and spiritual journey that draws adventurers from all around the globe. As Japan’s tallest mountain, Mt. Fuji stands at 12,389 feet and offers breathtaking views, a chance to connect with Japanese culture, and a true test of endurance. If you’re planning to summit this iconic peak, here’s everything you need to know for a safe and rewarding experience.

Best Time to Climb
The official climbing season runs from early July to early September, when the weather is relatively mild, and the trails are clear of snow. This is the only period when all facilities, including mountain huts and trail markers, are fully operational. The most popular time to climb is late July to mid-August, coinciding with Japan’s summer holidays.

Expert Tip:
Avoid weekends and the Obon holiday in mid-August to sidestep the crowds. Aim for weekdays for a quieter climb. Clothing and Gear Mt. Fuji’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, with temperatures at the summit often dropping below freezing, even in summer. Proper gear is essential: • Clothing: • Waterproof jacket and pants (layers for warmth) • Moisture-wicking base layers • Gloves, hat, and thermal socks • Gear: • Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support • Trekking poles for stability • Backpack with 20-30 liters capacity • Headlamp (for night climbs) • Sunglasses and sunscreen Optional but Recommended: • Oxygen canister (for altitude sickness) • Lightweight snacks and a 2-liter water bottle

How Long Does It Take?
The time to climb Mt. Fuji depends on the route you choose and your pace: • Ascent: 5-8 hours • Descent: 3-5 hours Most climbers begin their trek in the afternoon, rest at a mountain hut overnight, and resume early morning to reach the summit for sunrise (goraiko, the “arrival of light”). Expert Tip: If you’re an experienced hiker, you can attempt a one-day climb, but this is challenging and not recommended for first-timers.

Routes and Costs
There are four main trails: 1. Yoshida Trail (most popular) – Accessible from Kawaguchiko, with plenty of facilities and mountain huts. 2. Subashiri Trail – Less crowded, with scenic views. 3. Gotemba Trail – The longest and least crowded route. 4. Fujinomiya Trail – The shortest but steepest route. Costs: • Transportation: ¥2,000-4,000 ($15-30) each way, depending on your starting point. • Hut Stay: ¥5,000-8,000 ($35-60) per night, with additional costs for meals. • Entrance Fee (Optional): ¥1,000 ($7) for maintenance and conservation. What to Expect at the Stations Mt. Fuji’s trails are divided into stations, with the 5th Station being the most common starting point for climbers. • 5th Station: Rest stops, souvenir shops, and rental gear are available here. • 6th to 8th Stations: These stations provide huts where you can rest, eat, and even sleep. Restrooms are basic and cost ¥200-¥300 ($1-2) to use. • 9th Station: A final place to catch your breath before the summit.

Summit:
The summit features the famous crater, a small shrine, and postcard services for a unique keepsake. Challenges and Things to Know 1. Altitude Sickness: Symptoms like dizziness and nausea can affect anyone. Take breaks, hydrate, and ascend slowly. 2. Weather Conditions: Sudden rain or strong winds are common. Always check the forecast before climbing. 3. Physical Fitness: The climb is strenuous. Prepare with regular hikes or cardio workouts beforehand. Expert Tip: Stay hydrated and consume small snacks regularly to maintain energy levels.

Additional Tips for a Successful Climb
• Book Your Hut in Advance: Especially during peak season. • Start Early: Night climbs are popular but require extra caution. Starting in the late morning allows for a safer pace. • Carry Cash: For hut fees, restrooms, and snacks—credit cards are rarely accepted on the mountain. • Respect the Environment: Carry all trash back down with you, as there are no waste disposal facilities.

Mt. Fuji is a memorable adventure that requires preparation and respect for nature. The effort is well worth it—standing at the summit as the sun rises over Japan is an experience you’ll never forget. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time climber, Mt. Fuji offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey into Japan’s cultural and natural heart.

The Iconic Hiking Stick of Mt. Fuji:
A Unique Souvenir and Cultural Journey

If you’re planning to hike Japan’s majestic Mt. Fuji, you’ll quickly notice an iconic item in the hands of many climbers: the kongō-zue, or the Mt. Fuji Hiking Stick. This just isn’t a tool for your climb… it’s also a piece of Japanese tradition and a one-of-a-kind souvenir that transforms into a cherished memento by the time you reach the summit.

What Is the Mt. Fuji Hiking Stick?
The Mt. Fuji hiking stick is a lightweight wooden staff, usually made of cedar or pine, designed to assist climbers as they ascend the mountain. Beyond its practical use as a walking aid, the stick serves a ceremonial purpose. As you climb, you’ll encounter huts called yamagaoya where you can have your stick branded with unique stamps (go-shuin) that commemorate your progress on the trail.

How It Works
When you purchase your hiking stick, you start with a blank canvas. At each of the mountain huts along the trail—typically located at different elevation levels—you can stop to have your stick branded. These branding stations use heated irons to burn intricate designs into the wood, marking your journey and accomplishments. Many hikers take this opportunity to rest, hydrate, and collect a stamp as a tangible memory of their climb. By the time you reach the summit, your hiking stick will be adorned with a series of beautiful stamps, representing both the physical and spiritual journey up this sacred mountain.

Cost and Initial Purchase
You can purchase a Mt. Fuji hiking stick at the trailheads of the Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, or Fujinomiya routes. Prices typically range from ¥1,200 to ¥1,500 (approximately $8 to $10 USD), depending on the design and size. The initial purchase includes the bare wooden stick, a small flag with the Mt. Fuji logo, and occasionally a bell for good luck. Some vendors offer customizations like attaching your name or a decorative rope handle. Branding Costs and Total Stamps Available Each stamp costs between ¥200 and ¥400 (approximately $1.50 to $3 USD), and there are around 30 branding stations spread across the major trails. Collecting all the stamps is optional, but many hikers aim to gather as many as possible to complete their stick and preserve their unique story of their climb.

If you plan to collect all the stamps on your chosen trail, budgeting an extra ¥6,000 to ¥8,000 (approximately $40 to $55 USD) for branding is a good idea. Speaking of budgeting, bring plenty of cash including at least 15 of 100 yen coins each… it’s the only way to pay for toilets and other things on the mountain. Prominent Stamps to Look For While all the branding stations offer unique designs, a few stamps hold special significance: 1. Trailhead Stamp: The first stamp marks your starting point and often includes the name of your chosen trail. 2. Fujisan Summit Stamp: This is the most coveted stamp, available only at the summit huts. It often features an image of the iconic Mt. Fuji crater and is a climber’s proudest achievement. 3. Sunrise Stamp: For those who catch the breathtaking Goraiko sunrise at the summit, there is a stamp specifically commemorating this magical moment. 4. Torii Gate Stamp: Found near the Shinto shrines along the trail, this stamp represents the spiritual aspect of climbing Mt. Fuji, a sacred mountain in Japanese culture.

Why It’s Worth It
The Mt. Fuji hiking stick is more than just a souvenir. It’s a record of your journey, a symbol of perseverance, and a connection to Japan’s cultural heritage. Whether you collect a few key stamps or fill the entire stick, it will serve as a meaningful keepsake of your adventure. So, if you’re planning a climb up Mt. Fuji, don’t overlook this charming tradition. It’s a simple yet profound way to engage with the mountain, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Happy climbing! See you at the top.