Mount Fuji trails mandate fees to combat over-tourism
Beginning in the new tourist season, accessing the trails leading to Mount Fuji will cost 4,000 yen (approximately CAD 39). The authorities in Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures are implementing these changes to manage over-tourism.
The authorities of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures in Japan have decided to introduce fees for using the trails leading to Mount Fuji. They are concerned about excessive tourism, so starting in the new season, which begins in June, every tourist will be required to pay 4,000 yen (CAD 39).
New rules on the trails
In Shizuoka prefecture, where three of the four main trails - Fujinomiya, Gotemba, and Subashiri - are located, additional restrictions have been set. From 2 PM to 3 AM, access to the trails will only be permitted for those with reservations at huts located in the higher parts of the mountain to discourage night climbing and ensure tourist safety.
In Yamanashi prefecture, where the popular Yoshida trail is located, restrictions were already put in place last year. Entrance to the route was prohibited after 3 PM, and the daily number of tourists was capped at 4,000 people. A fee of 2,000 yen (CAD 19,5) was also introduced, which will now increase to 4,000 yen.
Investments in safety
According to the Kyodo agency, the revenue from the fees collected by Shizuoka prefecture will go toward salaries for trail management staff and investments to enhance tourist safety.
Mount Fuji, standing at 3,776 metres above sea level, has been listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 2013 and attracts hundreds of thousands of climbers each year.
The climbing season on Mount Fuji lasts from June to September, and the new regulations aim to not only protect the environment but also improve the comfort and safety of visitors. These changes respond to growing concerns about heavy tourist traffic and unsafe behaviours by some climbers.
