Darren YeohIf you’re looking to climb Mount Fuji this year, be prepared to pay extra for access to the hiking trails! Starting this summer, climbers will face a unified entry fee across all four main trails. Here’s what you need to know about the new Mount Fuji climbing fees.
Mount Fuji climbing fees
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Starting this summer, avid hikers looking to conquer Japan’s most famous mountain will have to pay an entry fee of 4,000 Yen (approximately SGD 36) to access the four main trails on the mountain. Previously, hikers only needed to pay a 2,000 Yen fee if they wanted to access the popular Yoshida Trail in Yamanashi. The double in price, and the implementation of Mount Fuji climbing fees on the other main trails come into effect following approvals by both the Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectural assemblies. The revenue will fund staff costs and safety improvements, replacing the previous 1,000-yen donation system.
Also read: Japan is Considering a Dual Price System That Could Mean Higher Price for Foreign Tourists
Why is there a climbing fee for Mount Fuji?
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This fee, doubled from the previous fee for the popular Yoshida trail in Yamanashi that was implemented last year, aims to combat overcrowding and environmental damage on the 3,776-meter peak, which has seen a record influx of foreign tourists.
In addition, Shizuoka prefecture has introduced an ordinance to restrict access to its Fujinomiya, Gotemba, and Subashiri trails between 2 pm and 3 am, effective May 9, before the July climbing season. This measure aims to curb “bullet climbing,” the dangerous practice of summiting without rest. Only climbers with mountain lodge reservations will be permitted access during these hours.
Also read: 8 Places for Great Views of Mount Fuji
Do I need to make a reservation to hike Mount Fuji?
Furthermore, the Yamanashi region has implemented a cap on daily entries and online reservations for the Yoshida trail, reflecting concerns about safety and environmental degradation. These measures, along with the new fees, contributed to a slight decrease in overall climber numbers. While numbers are still below pre-pandemic levels, officials emphasize that “200,000 hikers is still huge,” highlighting the need for restrictions to ensure climber safety.
Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 2013, draws hundreds of thousands of climbers annually during its July-September climbing season. The symmetrical mountain, immortalized in artworks like Hokusai’s “Great Wave,” last erupted approximately 300 years ago and is known as one of the best locations in Japan to watch the sunrise.
