Basic Information and Tips You Should Know Before Climbing Mount Fuji
Registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2013, Mount Fuji is recognized around the world as a symbol of Japan.
It overflows with diverse attractions, from its magnificent natural beauty and cultural value to the breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.
Many people dream of taking on the challenge of climbing Mount Fuji, an experience that could become a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
This article introduces everything you should know before climbing Mount Fuji—including the rules and etiquette of the climb, necessary preparations, important precautions, and potential risks. It also summarizes the latest information on entry management and access restrictions.
If you are planning to climb Mount Fuji, we encourage you to read through to the end—both to help protect and preserve the sacred beauty of the mountain and to ensure a safe and enjoyable climbing experience.
When Is the Climbing Season for Mount Fuji?
The climbing season for Mount Fuji typically runs from early July to early September. The exact opening dates are announced on the official website around July each year, after confirming the status of remaining snow and the safety of the trails.
Since the opening dates vary depending on the trail, especially if you plan to climb in early July, be sure to check the latest information.
Generally, the number of climbers increases from mid-July onwards, and the trails become particularly crowded on weekends and during the Obon holiday period (August 13 to August 16).
To enjoy a more comfortable and safe experience, it is recommended to plan your climb for a weekday or early September.
Average Monthly Temperatures on Mount Fuji
The annual average temperature at the summit of Mount Fuji is -5.9°C (21.4 ºF), and even in the peak of summer in August, it only reaches around 6.4°C (43.5 ºF), resembling midwinter conditions. It’s said that for every 100 meters you ascend, the temperature drops by about 0.6°C, and for every meter per second increase in wind speed, the perceived temperature drops by 1°C.
Thunderstorms and rain are also common, and weather conditions can change daily. So be sure to check the weather forecast before your climb.
Additionally, the temperature around the 5th Station and the summit can differ by about 10°C, and it’s not uncommon for temperatures to drop below 0°C (32 ºF) before sunrise. So it is important to be prepared for significant temperature differences.
Below is a table summarizing the monthly average temperatures at the summit of Mount Fuji. Use this information to ensure you have adequate cold-weather gear and preparations.
| January | February | March | April | May | June | July | August | September | October | November | December | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average temperature (℃) | -18.2 (- 0.8 ºF) | -17.4 (0.7 ºF) | -14.1 (6.6 ºF) | -8.8 (16.2 ºF) | -3.2 (26.2 ºF) | 1.4 (34.5 ºF) | 5.3 (41.5 ºF) | 6.4 (43.5 ºF) | 3.5 (38.3 ºF) | -2.0 (28.4 ºF) | -8.7 (16.3 ºF) | -15.1 (4.8 ºF) |
Essential Items and Clothing for Climbing Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji may have relatively well-maintained mountain huts and trails, but you should not underestimate the journey to Japan’s highest peak at 3,776 meters.
Proper preparation is essential to ensure your safety and enjoyment during the climb. Here are two categories of necessary clothing and essential items to gather before your departure.
Clothing and Equipment
- Hiking boots
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For the long journey and steep, gravelly paths, high-cut hiking boots with firm soles are the best choice.
Don’t forget to break them in to prevent blisters. - Rainwear
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Prepare a waterproof and moisture permeable jacket and pants that are separate pieces (instead of an umbrella or poncho, which are not recommended).
Choosing a slightly larger size is recommended to better protect against strong winds and rain. - Cold weather gear
- A down jacket or sweater that is lightweight and easy to carry is best for your climb.
- Headlamp (with spare batteries)
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It’s essential to have a light source for walking after sunset when visibility is poor.
Even if you don’t plan to hike at night, you should bring one in case of unexpected circumstances. - Backpack
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We recommend a sack-style backpack that keeps both hands free.
Aim for a 30-liter size with a waist belt to reduce strain on your shoulders. - Climbing attire
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Layering with quick-drying materials like synthetic fibers or wool is recommended.
Wear clothing that allows for easy regulation of body temperature. - Gloves
- In addition to sunburn and cold protection, gloves also help prevent injuries from falls or when placing hands on rocky terrain.
- Hat and sunglasses
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Hats and sunglasses are essential for preventing heatstroke, protecting against UV rays, and shielding from sand and dust.
A hat with a chin strap is best to prevent it from being blown away by the wind. - Two or three towels
- Having 2-3 towels is highly versatile for wiping sweat or rain, providing warmth, and substituting as a bandage when needed.
Essential and Useful Items
- Water
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Regular hydration is essential during the climb.
Prepare 1-2 liters (about a quarter to half a gallon) and purchase more locally if needed. - Trail snacks
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High-sugar items like chocolate, candy, and nuts are ideal for quick energy.
Pack them in ziplock bags for easy access. - Sunscreen
- Necessary for protection against UV rays due to prolonged exposure to sunlight
- Plastic bags
- Use them to store trash; littering is against the rules.
- Wet wipes
- Useful for wiping hands and cleaning off dirt at mountain huts where water is scarce (there are no washbasins)
- Cash (coins)
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At Mount Fuji, cash payment without change is standard.
Credit cards are not accepted.
It’s useful to have extra 100-yen coins for tips at toilets and purchasing water. - Climbing map
- Prepare to check your current location and trail.
- Extra clothes
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Helpful for managing your condition if you get wet from rain or sweat
Socks and underwear are considered crucial items by many past climbers - First aid kit and health insurance card
- Necessary in case of injury or illness requiring treatment at a hospital
- Disposable heat packs
- Handy in extreme cold
- Portable charger
- Ensure your smartphone stays charged for using hiking GPS apps, taking photos/videos, and keeping in touch with family and friends about your safety.
Risks of “Bullet Climbing”
First and foremost, bullet climbing (called dangan tozan in Japanese) is extremely dangerous, and we strongly urge you to avoid it for the sake of your own safety.
Bullet climbing refers to a style of ascent where climbers aim to reach the summit in a short, continuous push during the night to catch the sunrise, without taking breaks or sleeping.
In the context of Mount Fuji, one starts from the 5th Station in the evening, attempts to summit overnight, and descends immediately thereafter (typically a 0-night 2-day schedule).
This approach skips adequate rest and acclimatization, leading to a higher incidence of climbers falling ill, and it has become a concern in recent years.
Nighttime climbing reduces visibility and diminishes judgment and concentration due to fatigue, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.
Especially in high mountains like Mount Fuji, there are various significant risks involved. To safely enjoy climbing, avoid bullet climbing, prepare appropriate gear, and ensure sufficient sleep, rest, and cold weather protection. Plan your climb according to your experience and physical fitness, and allocate ample time and schedule flexibility. We will explain the main risks of bullet climbing and their countermeasures. Please make use of them and prioritize safety.
Altitude Sickness Occurs Due to an Inability to Adapt to Environmental Changes
Altitude sickness is caused by the body’s inability to adapt to environmental changes such as decreased air pressure and reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. Major symptoms include headaches, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and lightheadedness. In severe cases, it can lead to difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, and potentially death.
Sleep deprivation and lack of physical fitness due to bullet climbing increase the risk of altitude sickness, making it extremely dangerous. Therefore, a well-planned climb with sufficient rest and sleep is essential as a preventive measure.
Regular hydration, limiting ascent rates, and taking preventive medication like acetazolamide are effective strategies. Early recognition and proper management are crucial because altitude sickness is more manageable when symptoms are recognized early. Remember, preventing severe symptoms is more important than managing them once they occur.
Hypothermia Can Occur Even in Midsummer
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat due to factors like moving in windy or rainy conditions, dropping temperatures, or a damp environment, resulting in a core body temperature below 35°C (95 ºF). Symptoms include feeling cold, uncontrollable shivering, and impaired movement and thinking. Severe cases can lead to loss of consciousness or death.
Even in midsummer, Mount Fuji, where temperatures can drop below freezing, poses a risk of hypothermia. Attempting bullet climbing, especially in light clothing, increases the risk significantly.
Preventive measures include wearing warm clothing layers for temperature regulation, consuming energy-rich trail snacks, and having warm meals and drinks. If hypothermia is suspected, moving to a warm location and descending promptly are strongly recommended.
Mountain Congestion Can Cause Both Mental and Physical Strain
Mountain congestion refers to long queues forming on paths when numerous climbers simultaneously aim for the summit, resulting in slow or halted progress. On Mount Fuji, many climbers ascend seeking the sunrise, leading to the most congestion between the 8th Station and the summit from 3 am to 5 am.
Extended stays at high altitudes pose direct risks such as oxygen deprivation and physical exhaustion, hindering safe climbing conditions. Frustration from waiting can escalate into conflicts, causing both mental and physical strain far beyond expectations.
One of the causes of mountain congestion includes bullet climbers. For the sake of not inconveniencing others, please avoid this style of ascent. Strategies to mitigate mountain congestion include starting your climb at different times, joining guided tours, and choosing weekdays for your ascent.
Falling Rocks and Slips: A Momentary Lapse in Attention Can Be Fatal
Rockfalls and slips during mountain climbing pose significant safety risks. Rockfalls can occur due to various factors, and even small rocks can cause serious danger. Slips often happen on unstable rocky terrain or steep slopes, and can result in fatal falls.
It goes without saying that bullet climbing, which is generally dark and has poor visibility, increases the risk of rockfalls and slips.
To prevent injuries from falling rocks and slips, it’s important to wear a helmet and choose a hiking style that matches your experience and physical ability. Since these incidents can happen unpredictably, maintaining constant focus is also crucial.
During mountain climbing, it’s essential to constantly observe your surroundings, uphold the principle of personal responsibility, and prioritize thorough safety management. Additionally, to mitigate risks like rockfalls, please be cautious not to stray from designated climbing paths.
In the event of an incident, it’s easy to panic, so be prepared beforehand with necessary knowledge. Maintain a calm demeanor, make informed decisions, and take actions such as warning others, ensuring safety, and requesting rescue if needed.
Main Climbing Trails on Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is known for primarily four climbing trails starting from the Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefecture sides. These trails are far apart from each other, offering varying times to reach the summit, different views, and difficulty levels.
Below, we have listed the round-trip durations (excluding rest times, etc.) and difficulty levels in the table for your reference. Depending on your travel plans, physical fitness, and experience, choose the trail that best suits you.
Please keep in mind that the required time can vary significantly based on your physical condition, weather, and congestion.
| Climbing trail | Difficulty level | Duration (round-trip) |
|---|---|---|
| Fujinomiya Trail (Shizuoka) | For beginners | About 8 hours |
| Subashiri Trail (Shizuoka) | For experienced climbers | About 10 hours |
| Gotemba Trail (Shizuoka) | For advanced climbers | About 12 hours |
| Yoshida Trail (Yamanashi) | For beginners | About 10 hours |
The “Mount Fuji App” You Should Install Before Starting Your Climb
While Mount Fuji is equipped with signs and audio guides, there are still quite a few climbers who end up taking the wrong route.
To avoid going off course, be sure to install the dedicated “Mount Fuji App” on your smartphone in advance.
Once you select your climbing route in the app, it will alert you with both sound and vibration if you stray from the path. Even in areas without cell service, you can check your current location using GPS, giving you peace of mind.
The app also offers a feature that displays your estimated arrival time at each point along the trail based on your walking pace. In addition, you can view mountain hut information directly within the app—another reassuring feature. And it’s not only available in Japanese, but also in English.
If you want to climb Mount Fuji safely, make the most of the Mount Fuji App.
Mount Fuji Entry Restrictions You Should Know
In 2025, the climbing rules underwent major changes with the aim of supporting a safe and comfortable Mount Fuji climbing experience.
If you are unaware of the rules described below, you may not be allowed to enter the mountain at all, so make sure to fully understand them in advance.
The restrictions differ depending on whether you enter from the Yamanashi side or the Shizuoka side, but let’s first go over the rules that apply to both.
As for payment, it can be made either directly at the time of passage or in advance when making a passage reservation.
- Entry Restriction Hours
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2:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. the following day
During the above hours, entry from the 5th Station is not permitted except for those staying in mountain huts. - User Fee (Toll / Entry Fee)
- 4,000 yen
- Advance Reservation / Registration
- A passage reservation or advance registration for climbing is required via the web system
Advance Registration Required for Climbing from the Shizuoka Side
To protect and preserve the sacred and beautiful Mount Fuji, as well as to ensure a safe and comfortable climbing experience, entry management is conducted using the official Shizuoka Prefecture app “Shizuoka Prefecture FUJI NAVI.”
All climbers entering from the Shizuoka side (Fujinomiya Route, Subashiri Route, Gotemba Route) are required to install Shizuoka Prefecture FUJI NAVI and complete the following:
- Advance registration of climbing information (date and time of climb, route, whether staying in a mountain hut, name of the hut, etc.)
- Payment of the entry fee
- Advance learning of rules and etiquette via e-learning (video or text)
- Passing all questions on the Mount Fuji Test
- Receiving an entry certificate (QR code) only those who pass all questions on the Mount Fuji Test will be issued this
At the “Procedure Huts” located near the 5th Station of each climbing route, your entry certificate (QR code) will be verified and you will receive a wristband.
Those who have not completed registration in advance must fill out the required information on paper at the site, pay the entry fee, and spend time at an “On-site Learning Hut” to study the rules and etiquette.
Traffic Restrictions for Climbers Entering from the Yamanashi Side
On the Yamanashi side (Yoshida Route), various restrictions are in place to ensure a safe and comfortable climb of Mount Fuji.
In particular, be aware in advance that if the number of climbers in a single day exceeds 4,000, the gate will be closed.
Gate passage reservations can be made through the Yamanashi Prefecture Mount Fuji Yoshida Route Passage Reservation System. Payment of the passage fee is required in advance at the time of reservation.
In order to make a passage reservation, you must agree to the following requirements:
- Prepare cold-weather clothing.
- Prepare separate-type rain gear.
- Prepare shoes suitable for mountain climbing.
- Do not climb at night without staying in a mountain hut (no “bullet climbing”).
- Do not walk off the designated trails.
- Do not take lava rocks or plants home.
- Do not deface surfaces with graffiti.
- Always take your trash back with you.
- Acknowledge the risk of falling rocks when climbing.
- Acknowledge that Mount Fuji is an active volcano with the potential for eruption.
- Acknowledge that if local staff (such as Mount Fuji Rangers) determine you have violated any of the above requirements, they may refuse you access to the climbing or descending trails.
- If you have companions, explain all of the above requirements to them and ensure their agreement before climbing.
All of these requirements are essential for protecting the beauty of Mount Fuji and enjoying a safe climb. For more details, please refer to the official page.
About the Mount Fuji Conservation Cooperation Fee
The Mount Fuji Conservation Cooperation Fee is a system established to protect the sacred and beautiful nature of Mount Fuji and ensure the safety of climbers.
Its primary purpose is for everyone visiting Mount Fuji to understand its value and cooperate in its preservation.
We hope you will recognize and support the Conservation Cooperation Fee so that the scenery and value of Mount Fuji can be passed down to future generations, and so that climbing can remain comfortable and safe.
The funds collected are used for environmental conservation activities on Mount Fuji (such as the installation and renovation of toilets) and safety measures for climbers (such as maintaining trails and installing AEDs).
Detailed information on the amount and usage of the funds is published on the Official Mount Fuji Climbing Site, so those interested should take a look.
Starting in 2025, the fee will be integrated into the entry fee, and the projects previously funded by the Conservation Cooperation Fee will continue to be supported through the entry fee.
Rules and Etiquette To Be Followed by Mount Fuji Climbers
To protect the sacredness and beauty of Mount Fuji, preserve Japan’s proud traditions for future generations, and ensure your own safety, please adhere to climbing rules and etiquette. Here we will introduce Mount Fuji climbing rules and etiquette, acts prohibited by law, and the Mount Fuji Country Code.
For the safety and enjoyment of all climbers, it’s essential for each person to be mindful. Before climbing, thoroughly review these guidelines and refrain from behaving in ways that deviate from common sense or cause inconvenience to the mountain or others.
Shizuoka Prefecture Asks You to Follow These Rules
- It’s dangerous! Absolutely do not engage in night bullet climbing (climbing at night without staying in a mountain hut).
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- There are risks such as hypothermia and other health dangers, as well as the risk of rockfall and other disasters.
- At night, it is not possible to use mountain huts without a reservation. - Do not engage in behaviors that inconvenience other climbers.
- Avoid making noise, setting up tents, making fires, graffiti, or sleeping on the climbing trails or in the toilets.
- Stay on the designated climbing trails.
- Uphill climbers have priority on the climbing trails.
- Do not litter.
- Always carry out your trash.
- Protect your life! If you experience physical discomfort or if the weather worsens, descend promptly.
- Keep in mind that the weather on Mount Fuji can change suddenly.
- Pay sufficient attention to the descent time.
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- At night, arranging a taxi can be challenging.
- Pay close attention to the shuttle bus schedules, especially at the Fujinomiya 5th Station and Subashiri 5th Station for your return.
- Due to potential exhaustion, the descent may take longer than anticipated. Plan at your own pace and ensure you descend early with ample time.
- The last shuttle bus departs at 7 pm from Fujinomiya 5th Station and at 6:45 pm (7:45 pm on weekends) from Subashiri 5th Station.
Acts Prohibited by Law
- Collecting plants and animals
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- Do not pick flowers, fruits, or collect insects.
- Walking off the designated climbing trails can impact valuable ecosystems, so please stay on the designated paths. - Taking lava or stones
- Taking small stones home or even moving them is strictly prohibited.
- No graffiti allowed
- Graffiti on buildings is definitely not allowed, and it’s prohibited on rocks and stones as well.
- Setting up tents and making fires
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- There are no designated camping sites on Mount Fuji, so staying in mountain huts is necessary.
- Campfires are strictly prohibited.
- Due to the risk of fire, please be mindful of your surroundings when using burners or stoves, and use them away from mountain huts and crowds. - Pets and other animals must not be let loose.
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- Releasing animals is prohibited within special protection areas.
- Refrain from bringing pets into mountain huts or hiking with pets.
- The climbing trails of Mount Fuji are covered with volcanic gravel, which could potentially harm pets’ paws if they accompany you on the climb.
Mt. Fuji Country Code
- We pledge to pass on beautiful Mt. Fuji to future generations.
- We pledge not to use vehicles except on designated roadways.
- We pledge to stop the engine in the parking areas.
- We pledge not to take away any animals or plants.
- We pledge to take all trash home with us, never littering on Mt. Fuji.
- We pledge not to bring unnecessary things to Mt. Fuji in the first place.
- We pledge not to stray off the trails.
- We pledge not to write graffiti in memory of reaching the summit.
- We pledge not to damage lava tree molds and any other special geological features.
- We pledge to keep the toilets and other public facilities clean.
Frequently Asked Questions About Climbing Mount Fuji
Q
How much does it cost to climb Mount Fuji?
For a two-day, one-night climb, you should budget around 20,000 yen in total.
Note: This does not include round-trip transportation to and from Mount Fuji.
Q
How long does it take to climb Mount Fuji?
The duration varies depending on the trail, but it generally takes about 8 to 11 hours for a round trip. The popular Yoshida Trail, suitable for beginners, takes around 10 hours (excluding breaks).
Wrap-up
We have introduced the essential knowledge you should have before climbing Mount Fuji, including the rules and etiquette for the climb, the necessary items, the dangers of “bullet climbing,” and the efforts being made in entry management and restrictions.
Mount Fuji offers a variety of unique attractions that cannot be experienced anywhere else—its sacredness, its beautiful and majestic scenery, and its distinctive terrain and natural environment.
To preserve its irreplaceable value for the future and ensure a safe climb, it is important not only to follow the rules but also to understand the significance of cooperating with regulations and conservation activities.