How to Climb Mt. Fuji?

Those who have not conquered it dream about it, those who have are forever inspired by it. Mt. Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan with its unrivaled magnificence and beautiful conic shape, is the prominent and most recognized symbol of Japan. Nowadays more and more travelers are adding a Mt. Fuji climb to their Japan “to do” list. In fact, numerous travelers now visit Japan just to climb Mt. Fuji making it one of the most climbed mountains in the world.

However, do not underestimate the climb. Mt. Fuji is characterized by severe altitude gains, quickly shifting weather and sharp inclines. The climb is unlike any high-altitude expedition one will ever try.

Do not believe the blogs and others who say, “Climbing Mt. Fuji is easy.” While it is true under ideal conditions that some people have climbed Mt. Fuji in sneakers, jeans, and a sweatshirt, there are still many more who have attempted the climb using similar inadequate provisions and were miserably unsuccessful.
(How Hard is it to Climb Mt. Fuji)

Many people ascending Mt. Fuji for the first time underestimate the climb in three key areas. First, they miscalculate the total time it takes to climb Mt. Fuji. Typically it takes between six to seven hours to climb up the mountain and another three to four hours to descend. This is if you are leaving from the 5th station. (Mt. Fuji Bullet Train Access)

Secondly, the weather is easily misjudged. Extreme changes can occur despite weather forecasts. The weather on Mt. Fuji can never be accurately predicted. Unexpected rainstorms, thunderstorms, and heavy windstorms are common and hikers must be suitably prepared with the proper equipment. Have a look at Mt. Fuji current Weather Forecast: (Also GREAT resource for weather information in Japan is the Japan Meteorological Agency)

Having the proper gear greatly enhances the quality of your experience. The better equipped and the better quality the equipment is, the greater chance your excursion will be safe and comfortable. Quality gear is the best protection from the elements and provides a superior overall experience on your quest of Mt. Fuji. (Equipment list for a Mt. Fuji Climb)

Thirdly, many underestimated the elevation gain, which is approximately 1,500 meters or 4,900 feet from the 5th station on the Yoshida Route to the summit. This rapid ascent tests the limits of your physical and mental fitness. The air thins out as the elevation rises; thus, walking becomes difficult. Taking 2 days and staying in a Mountain Hut to avoid rushing your climb is recommended to get able rest and sleep and split your hiking time. Mountain hut lodgings on Mt. Fuji are fairly simple, offering dormitory style bunk beds with blankets and sleeping bags. Do not expect hotel type conditions with separate rooms. Reservations are taken care of if you join a group or private tour. However, if you plan your own climb you will have to make your own mountain hut reservation.

Regardless of age, with proper gear and preparation, reaching the peak of Mt. Fuji is possible and extremely gratifying. As you stare down at the world below, the huge sense of accomplishment can be overpowering. And when you realize just how high you have climbed, it is truly a satisfying and memorable experience. It’s hard to put it in to words, but sometimes when you watch the sunrise from the summit on a clear morning – it is a spiritual experience. (2-Day Mt. Fuji Climb Schedule)

To climb sacred Mt. Fuji in the footsteps of historic pilgrims is to bond with a faith of great purity and devotion that is unique to Mt. Fuji. Due to the unparalleled beauty and near perfect symmetrical cone shape, Mt. Fuji is often selected as the theme of paintings, poems and literature. It made the World Heritage list due to the culture significance of the mountain.

Our professional English speaking mountain guide is proud to take you on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure to experience nature at its finest. My Tokyo Guide specializes in guided ascents up Mt. Fuji. Below are the assorted Mt. Fuji climbs we offer which will take you to the summit of Mt. Fuji and the top of Japan. My Tokyo Guide has guided thousands of clients successfully and safely and to the summit of Mt. Fuji. With so many successful climbs, we're confident that your experience will be amazing.

2-Day In-Season Climb