In Japan, a town near Mount Fuji has put up an 8-foot fence with dark netting to block scenic views of the mountain from tourists who have been causing disruption in the area. The barrier was intended to prevent illegal parking, jaywalking, littering, and trespassing by selfie-taking tourists who were not respecting the area. However, tourists have already poked at least 10 eye holes through the barrier to get a clear view of the mountain, frustrating town officials.
The town of Fujikawaguchiko, west of Tokyo, has been dealing with an overwhelming number of tourists in recent months, causing disruptions to the lives of local residents. Despite the efforts to block views of Mount Fuji, many in the town still want guests to be able to enjoy the beauty of the mountain and take photos. However, the increase in tourists has led to issues such as blaring car horns, charter buses filling up parking lots without permission, and difficulties for local businesses to operate normally.
Koichi Ide, a 72-year-old who runs a local dental practice that has been around for 75 years, has been particularly affected by the influx of tourists in the area. He has had to deal with disruptive behavior from tourists, including a bride in a wedding dress and patients struggling to access the clinic. The situation has become unbearable for Ide and other residents who are now facing challenges due to the large number of tourists visiting the area.
In a bizarre turn of events, some tourists are now visiting the location not to see Mount Fuji, but to view the barrier that has been put up to block the scenic views of the mountain. This behavior has been described as a lack of manners and a shame by town officials who are frustrated by the lack of respect shown by some tourists. The town is experiencing a struggle to balance the desire to attract tourists to view Mount Fuji with the need to protect the area and ensure that residents can continue to live peacefully.
The situation in Fujikawaguchiko highlights the challenges that tourist towns face when dealing with an influx of visitors who do not respect the local community or environment. The town’s efforts to block views of Mount Fuji have backfired, with tourists finding ways to circumvent the barrier in order to get a better view of the mountain. This has led to frustration among officials and residents who are struggling to find a balance between promoting tourism and preserving the beauty of the area.
Ultimately, the situation in Fujikawaguchiko serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible tourism and respecting the communities and environments that tourists visit. While the town may want to attract visitors to view Mount Fuji and experience the beauty of the area, it is crucial that tourists do so in a respectful and sustainable manner. By working together to address the challenges posed by overtourism and promoting a culture of responsible travel, tourist towns can ensure that visitors and residents can coexist harmoniously and enjoy the benefits of tourism without causing harm to the local community.
