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Why is it Necessary to Prepare Equipment for Climbing Mount Fuji?
Since Mount Fuji was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, the number of tourists from all over the world traveling to Japan to conquer and admire the beauty of this mountain has been increasing.
However, some tourists often forget that besides being a tourist destination, Mount Fuji is also a real, active volcano. Along with the fact that Mount Fuji is only open to the public in the summer, many tourists come here wearing T-shirts, shorts, and even flip-flops. This is completely unsuitable for mountain climbing, not ensuring safety, and most importantly, unable to optimize your mountain climbing experience.
In present times, to ensure no such instances occur, UNESCO personnel will demand that you prepare before you truly embark on your journey here. If you're found to lack the minimum equipment for mountain climbing at the initial safety checkpoint (Mt. Fuji safety guidance center), unfortunately, you'll be denied access to the mountain climbing area for your safety. You'll always be required to have adequate hiking gear to demonstrate that you've prepared well.
Therefore, mountain climbing gear is MANDATORY. This helps you optimize your Mount Fuji conquest experience and above all, for your own safety. Take a look at what you can prepare for your mountain climbing journey below!
Essential Gear
Most of Mount Fuji's trails are covered with volcanic ash, so you'll find it quite challenging to walk with regular athletic shoes. It's best to use a good pair of hiking shoes, particularly long-distance hiking shoes as their soles are designed to grip unstable terrain. Additionally, opt for high or mid-cut hiking shoes to keep your ankles stable and avoid ankle sprains.
Weather conditions on Mount Fuji are highly changeable. A raincoat is a MUST-HAVE when climbing the mountain. It's especially recommended to use separate rain gear (raincoat and rain pants) as it provides better protection than a poncho. You can't use this type of rain gear on Mount Fuji because the wind blows strongly from all directions, making you really wet. Conversely, separate rain gear will perfectly cover your body and prevent rainwater from getting inside, keeping you dry and warm. A raincoat can also be used to protect your body from the wind. Wearing a fleece jacket under the raincoat will help you stay warm.
A 30L backpack is sufficient and recommended for climbing Mount Fuji. You don't need to bring any sleeping equipment such as tents because camping on Mount Fuji is prohibited. Rain cover for the backpack is also essential. You should prepare a specialized backpack cover. In addition, electronic devices such as mobile phones or digital cameras are encouraged to be placed inside a ziplock bag.
The temperature after station 8 drops to freezing. Therefore, any long-sleeved warm jacket is a MUST-HAVE item. Specifically designed fleece jackets for mountain climbing have some advantages such as a quick-drying system and thermal function. Sweat or rain-soaked jackets not only wet your clothes but also lower your body temperature, making you very cold.
Gloves will be very useful not only to protect your hands from the cold but also for mountain climbing. There are many rocks on Mount Fuji, sometimes you have to use your hands to climb up or down. Additionally, it's better if the gloves have thermal and waterproof functions.
During the daytime, the heat from the sun is very intense. To avoid getting dizzy, you need something to shade your head from the strong heat.
The lightweight Nylon fabric of Long Hiking Pants provides stretch for comfort during long walks. The pants are made of durable and quick-drying material, ensuring comfort for your long walk. The snug comfort allows you to move freely, avoiding any injuries on unstable terrain and rocky areas. Note that you should not wear jeans or shorts.
Equipment You Might Need
Hiking with a trekking pole will help balance your body, reducing the strain and fatigue on your legs. If you don't exercise regularly, a trekking pole is very useful.
If you plan to witness the sunrise atop Mount Fuji, you must carry a flashlight. To catch the sunrise, you need to leave the hut around 1:00-2:00 a.m. Therefore, you need a lighting system for the dark trail to reach the summit. Even if you don't intend to watch the sunrise, it's advisable to bring a flashlight for a safe return to station 5. You may not return before sunset or may be unable to walk due to injury. Hence, a lighting system such as a handheld flashlight or a headlamp is very useful. Also, don't forget to bring spare batteries!
Posted by: Lam Tran
Keywords: What to Prepare Before Climbing Mount Fuji? – Mount Fuji Tourism
