Climbing Mount Fuji, a World Heritage! (A Complete Guide to the Yoshida Trail)
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Necessary Gears for Climbing Mount Fuji
Climbing Mount Fuji requires courage and suitable gears are essential as well. So, please prepare all necessary climbing gears before departure.
Clothes
The difference in temperature between the foot and the summit of the mountain may exceed 20 ℃, while the temperature at night or at the summit can be around 0 ℃. You need more protection against coldness when resting in a mountain hut or waiting for sunrise at the summit than during climb. Layered dressing is recommended for the upper body and three layers of separates are preferable, for example, a synthetic fiber sweater between a tee shirt that wicks away sweat and a warm-keeping down jacket.
※ Besides, waterproof jackets and trousers are recommended as it is not practical to carry an umbrella.
Shoes
Being one of the most important trekking gears, a pair of lightweight, sturdy, high-top climbing shoes made of nylon, which can cover ankles, is most suitable for climbing Mount Fuji. And thick, durable, warm-keeping, moisture-wicking hiking socks can protect your feet and suit you best.
※ But it is inadvisable to wear two pairs of socks, which may blister your feet.
Backpack and other necessities
You had better buy a big backpack from a store selling climbing gears. And a backpack rain cover is to be taken to shield your backpack from rain and morning dew.
Necessities
- Water bottle: The larger, the better. You must drink ample water during climbing.
- Food: Climb sap your strength and you are expected to have calorific food ready.
- Hat & sunglasses: They are recommended because there are high-level UV radiation at altitude.
- Mask and towel: They are shields against flying dust.
- Gloves: They protect your hands from coldness and scratch.
- Head lamp (or flashlight): If you are to climb at night, a headlight, which allow freedom of your hands, is preferable to a flashlight, and spare batteries are also recommended.
- Trash bag: There is no dustbin on the mountain.
- Cash: You might need some Japanese 100-yen coins as the toilets for the mountain huts are pay-per-use and cost either 100 yen or 200
- Change of clothes
Optional items
- Trekking pole: It reduces the stress on your knees when you descends a mountain, while two poles can help to keep your balance.
- Oxygen canister: Oxygen can prevent altitude sickness or refresh you. Oxygen canisters are also sold in mountain huts but at high price (around 2,000 yen).
- Earplugs: If you are to have an overnight stay in a mountain hut, earplugs can keep out surrounding noise including snoring.
- Wipe: There is no water for washing up on Mount Fuji.
With all the said gears, you are sure to avoid considerable trouble!