The Yamanashi prefecture in Japan has implemented new regulations for climbers seeking to ascend Mount Fuji’s Yoshida Trail. From July 1 to September 10, climbers must make reservations in advance and pay a fee. The new rules aim to address issues such as overtourism, littering, and rushed climbing, which have posed safety risks. Only 4,000 climbers will be allowed on the trail each day, with 3,000 slots available for online booking at a fee of approximately $18. The remaining 1,000 slots can be booked in person on the day of the climb.
Climbers can reserve their slots through the Mount Fuji Climbing official website, jointly managed by the Environment Ministry, and the two home prefectures of Mount Fuji, Yamanashi and Shizuoka. There are four “5th stations” halfway up the mountain where the four trails of Yoshida, Fujinomiya, Subashiri, and Gotemba start towards the summit. Climbers must choose whether to do a day hike or stay overnight at available huts along the trail. Those without reservations for overnight huts will not be permitted to climb between 4 p.m. and 3 a.m. to prevent rushed ascents without proper rest.
Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki expressed his gratitude for the understanding and cooperation of climbers in conserving Mount Fuji. The Shizuoka prefecture, southwest of Mount Fuji, has been charging climbers a voluntary fee since 2014 and is exploring additional ways to balance tourism and environmental protection. In 2023, the total number of climbers on Mount Fuji during the climbing season was 221,322, according to the Environment Ministry. These measures come as a town in Shizuoka plans to install a large black screen to obstruct views of Mount Fuji due to overcrowding by tourists.
Over-tourism has become a significant issue in popular tourist destinations in Japan, such as Kyoto and Kamakura. Since the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, foreign visitors have increased, attracted by the country’s weaker yen. Last year, Japan welcomed over 25 million visitors, and it is expected that the numbers in 2024 will exceed nearly 32 million, a record set in 2019, according to the Japan National Tourism Organization. Efforts are being made to implement measures to balance tourism with environmental protection and the preservation of cultural heritage sites like Mount Fuji.
Overall, the new regulations imposed by the Yamanashi prefecture for climbers seeking to ascend Mount Fuji’s Yoshida Trail aim to address issues of overtourism, littering, and rushed climbing. By limiting daily entries, requiring advanced reservations, and implementing a fee system, authorities hope to protect the iconic volcano and ensure the safety of climbers. Other popular tourist destinations in Japan are also grappling with the challenges of over-tourism, prompting the need for sustainable solutions to manage visitor numbers and preserve the country’s cultural and natural heritage.
