For all the travel and hiking enthusiasts, Mt. Fuji climbing season for this year has started. If climbing Mt. Fuji has been on your bucket list, the time to check that list has arrived. Attracting thousands of people around the world to embark upon this adventurous journey, Mt. Fuji welcomes warmly as the trial opens from July 1 and ends on September 10. There are 4 trails from which the hikers can reach the top of the majestic Mt. Fuji.
- Fujinomiya Trail
- Yoshida Trial
- Gotemba Trial
- Subashiri Trail
While Fujinomiya, Gotemba, and Subashiri Trails welcomed the hikers from July 10, it is Yoshida Trail which has started early, i.e. from July 1. Being the shortest trail among the 4 trails, Fujinomiya trail takes 5 hours to climb and 3 hours to return to the 5th station.
We will be focusing on the Fujinomiya trail and providing an insight on what’s needed for your climbing experience.
Preparations to climb Mt. Fuji 2024
Registration
Climbers need to make a free online registration this year before embarking on the journey to the top. The overflow of tourists every year has pushed officials to take a new step starting this year. One can provide all the required details while registering and once the form is submitted, the climbers will be receiving an email with a QR code, which works as a gateway to start the climbing.
Hut reservation
Hikers who wish to do the overnight climbing and watch over the sunrise this year must have a reservation on one of the huts. Hikers without the reservation are restricted to climbing between 16:00 to 3:00 in the morning. Reservations for the huts can be made online or by phone.
However, if you are one of those who prefers to complete the trail at once and take a good rest or a power nap afterward, SLEEEP | JP. Fujinomiya could be a perfect spot offering overnight and napping plans, which will be discussed later.
Gears and Clothes Preparation
One must be aware of the gears that should be used and prepare it before ascending. A comfortable set of lightweight summer clothes would make a wonderful start. But don’t forget to bring yourself warm clothes, which are needed at the top. One might need to bring a down jacket, trousers, gloves, and hats. Staying overnight at a higher altitude might be challenging depending on the people.
The weather at the mountain could change unexpectedly and one might face rain while climbing. Getting a raincoat beforehand would be helpful.
Shoes provide a great grip while ascending/descending and an ankle support is a must for the smooth experience.
Other important gears include the hiking stick which works like a wonder when descending. A torch light with extra batteries is highly recommended if the plan is to climb at night time.
Foods and Drinks
Buy enough food and drinks beforehand. Heavy snacks are recommended. If buying beforehand is not possible, one can buy the cooked meals at the station’s food court which is open during the daytime.
If you are staying overnight in the hut, you can choose desired meal plans upon reserving.
Transportation schedule Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station
One can travel to the Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station either by bus or taxi. Private vehicles are not allowed to pass to the Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station. While taxis are available anytime, buses have a fixed schedule.
Napping and Overnight plans
The hike to Mt. Fuji could be tiresome by the end and all one could think of is “I need some good sleep”. Traveling to another city right after finishing up the hike not only adds a pressure physically but mentally as well. Aiding to these pressure, SLEEEP | JP. Fujinomiya has introduced a Napping plan for the guests who could use a power nap to recharge and start the next adventure right away.
The Overnight plan is for the guest who wishes to stay at the base of Mt. Fuji for more than a night. The capsule hotel, located 2 2-minute walk from the Fujinomiya bus station, has extracted the attractions and hidden gems in and around Fujinomiya so the stay after hiking Mt. Fuji can be relaxingly fun.
If you are leaving Fujinomiya anyway but would like to take a quick shower for the fresh journey, a shower plan is available as well.
Best Wishes to the Climbers
Mt. Fuji witnesses over 200,000 footfalls every year so every person has a different experience and POV. It depends on the health condition of the hikers and how their experience would turn out to be. Altitude sickness is common among the hikers. While the normal ascending and descending time from Fujinomiya trail is 8 hours, some people finish early while others take more than 10. Bringing up oxygen cans could be helpful, not just for you but for someone who might need it during the journey.
Sunrise from Mt. Fuji could be something that could forever be etched in one’s mind. Weather is a major factor that could change the experience.
Ending this blog with the famous quote-
It’s not the destination, it’s the journey. - Ralph Waldo Emerson.
