What essentials do you need when touring Japan's majestic Mount Fuji?

Buzz

Mount Fuji, merely uttering its name brings forth images of Japan: a mist-shrouded peak, a winter wonderland covered in snow. However, have you ever considered a vast Mount Fuji adorned with ancient greenery, a protector of many years? Conquering Mount Fuji is a joy in your Japan travel, as I recently experienced during my tour.

Mount Fuji is shrouded in snow throughout the chilly winter.

If the vast and towering Mount Fuji seems daunting, fear not. For those with robust health, ascending Mount Fuji is quite normal, taking around 4.5 hours without much rest. With good stamina, you can reach the summit, touching the white clouds in your journey.

However, for those with weaker health or less inclination towards physical activity like myself, even halfway up, breaths become labored. Yet, the enthusiasm and lively atmosphere among friends overshadow the fatigue. Encouraged by the spirited camaraderie, I continue the ascent to the mountain peak. Knowing that our 5-day, 4-night Japan tour includes climbing Mount Fuji, I had prepared well for my stamina. For a whole month, I engaged in morning runs and evening walks to fortify myself. Despite the preparation, ascending Mount Fuji demanded perseverance, deep breaths, and the spirited encouragement from fellow travelers.

The path to conquer Mount Fuji

Before embarking on our Japan journey, our group meticulously chose the best approach to climb Mount Fuji. With four girls in the group, each with varying fitness levels, our male counterparts were hesitant about midway switches. Thus, following the tour guidance from Globaltravel, our department head selected the Yoshida trail to climb Mount Fuji, starting from Fuji Subaru Line 5th.

This route, known for its popularity and ease of ascent, was a favored choice. Moreover, as we ascended, we encountered numerous roadside inns, providing ample time and resting points along the journey.

Scaling Mount Fuji during peak season

Despite rumors of crowded mountain ascents during peak times, our journey was relatively tranquil. There were a few groups climbing, and the trail wasn't overly congested, eliminating the need for extended waits. If you opt for the busy climbing season, be prepared for potential delays in reaching the summit, well beyond the expected time. Keep this in mind when planning your ascent.

For those less accustomed to physical exertion like us, the gradual and non-steep path we chose was convenient and ensured our well-being. Additionally, the route suited for professional or frequent hikers with robust health is the Fujinomiya trail, starting from Fujinomiyaguchi 5th. From my understanding, this route offers a quicker ascent, but with steeper inclines, demanding excellent physical stamina.

Alongside, the mountain trail designed for professionals or regular fitness enthusiasts is the Fujinomiya route, commencing from Fujinomiyaguchi 5th. This path, as I've gathered, allows for a faster ascent, but with several steep inclines, requiring considerable physical strength.

Our group, comprising three women, opted for this less adventurous route, as it lacks rest stops along the way. Depending on your health condition, you can choose a Mount Fuji climbing route that suits you.

Prepare all personal belongings and necessary items for climbing Mount Fuji

Regardless of the chosen route, thorough preparation of personal items and essential tools is crucial. While there may be some eateries along the mountain trail, finding specific items can be inconvenient. Therefore, ensure you have a lightweight and compact travel backpack. Also, pack a flashlight, a water bottle (preferably with ion supplements and electrolytes), seaweed-wrapped rice balls (for backup when restaurant food isn't feasible), a long-lasting and waterproof phone with a power bank, protective eyewear, and a non-professional mountaineer's oxygen canister.

Firstly, select a lightweight travel backpack that can accommodate plenty of items without causing discomfort. Prepare essentials such as a flashlight, a water bottle with ion supplements and electrolytes, seaweed-wrapped rice balls for emergencies, a long-lasting and waterproof phone with a power bank, protective eyewear, and a non-professional mountaineer's oxygen canister.

Essentials for Mount Fuji Expedition

Especially, prepare lightweight sportswear for easy movement, and remember to bring warm clothes. Even in summer, temperatures drop significantly at the mountain's summit, risking illness without proper preparation. Consider purchasing specialized mountaineering attire, a waterproof set including pants and a hooded jacket, and hiking boots with excellent traction. A trekking pole is highly beneficial for ascending and descending, alleviating fatigue. Don't forget to pack some cold medicine, saline bandages, and antiseptic for unforeseen scrapes and scratches.

According to the Mount Fuji conquering experience in Japan, it's advisable to climb in the afternoon. This timing allows you to witness the world's most breathtaking sunset upon reaching the summit. This is one of the reasons why Mount Fuji attracts climbers, my friends.

We followed this advice, waking up after a night's rest, having a hearty breakfast, and reorganizing our belongings by noon, marking the start of our ascent. Despite the fatigue, the joy of standing atop the mountain, touching the slow-moving clouds, and feeling small amidst nature made it all worthwhile.

Hong Nhung

Authored by: Tran Tuyet

Keywords: What essentials are needed for climbing Mount Fuji on a Japan tour?

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the essential items to bring when climbing Mount Fuji?

When climbing Mount Fuji, it's important to bring lightweight gear such as a compact travel backpack, water bottle with electrolytes, flashlight, seaweed-wrapped rice balls, protective eyewear, and a power bank. Don’t forget warm clothing, mountaineering attire, trekking poles, and cold medicine for a safe and comfortable journey.

How difficult is it to climb Mount Fuji for beginners?

Climbing Mount Fuji can be challenging for beginners, especially without sufficient stamina. If you're less accustomed to physical exertion, the climb might be demanding, but with proper preparation and choosing a suitable route like the Yoshida trail, the ascent becomes more manageable. The camaraderie and spirit among fellow climbers can also provide motivation.

What is the best route to climb Mount Fuji for beginners?

The Yoshida trail is a popular choice for beginners. Starting from the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, this route offers a gradual ascent with plenty of resting points along the way. It's suitable for climbers with varying fitness levels and ensures a more comfortable experience compared to steeper paths like the Fujinomiya trail.

How long does it take to reach the summit of Mount Fuji?

The time it takes to climb Mount Fuji depends on your fitness level and the chosen route. For those in good physical condition, it may take about 4.5 hours to reach the summit. However, it’s important to consider factors like altitude, breaks, and weather conditions, which can all influence the time required.

What is the best time of day to climb Mount Fuji?

Climbing Mount Fuji in the afternoon is ideal as it allows you to reach the summit in time to witness the breathtaking sunset. The cooler temperatures and serene atmosphere at that time can make the experience even more enjoyable and rewarding.