Mount Fuji Adopts Online Reservations Amid Rising Concerns of Overtourism

Mount Fuji, Japan's tallest peak, will require online reservations for climbers using the Yoshida Trail starting July 1. The move aims to address overtourism by setting a daily limit of 3,000 hikers who must book their climb and pay a fee in advance. 

This reservation system begins accepting entries on May 20 at 10 p.m. and applies to the climbing season from July 1 to Sep. 10.

Mount Fuji Reservation Tackles Overtourism Concerns

Mount Fuji has become increasingly popular, drawing around 300,000 visitors each season to its four trails. 

The Yoshida Trail, being the most accessible from Tokyo, experiences the highest foot traffic, leading to issues like congestion and litter. Previously, up to 4,000 climbers per day could access this trail, but the new system reduces that number to ensure a safer and more sustainable experience. 

The USA Today reported that climbers who secure their online reservation will pay a 2,000 yen (about $13) non-refundable fee and receive a QR code for trail access.

The remaining 1,000 spots are available for climbers who opt to pay on the same day of their hike, provided they arrive before the limit is reached. To further manage the crowd, a gate at the fifth station will regulate access from 4 p.m. to 3 a.m., encouraging climbers to rest and reducing night-time overcrowding. 

This is particularly important as many aim to reach the summit by sunrise.

Local efforts to preserve the environment around Mount Fuji include the Fujisan Club, a nonprofit that has collected 850 tons of trash from the mountain's foothills since 2004. 

Additionally, the nearby resort town of Kawaguchiko is taking measures against tourist disruptions by planning to install a mesh net to prevent unauthorized photography from private properties.

Related Article: New Era for Mount Fuji: Japan Announces Hiking Fee to Safeguard Trail

Fujikawaguchiko Plans to Block Popular Mount Fuji Viewpoint

In Fujikawaguchiko, a town near Mount Fuji, officials are moving forward with a plan to obstruct a popular but problematic viewing spot of the mountain. The viewpoint, which provides a unique perspective of Mount Fuji rising from the roof of a local Lawson convenience store, has attracted a large number of tourists. 

This increase in visitors has led to congestion and inappropriate behavior, including littering and smoking, in front of a nearby dental clinic.

The town had announced at the end of April that it would install opaque black screens to block the view from the sidewalk across from the store. Although the posts for the screen were erected quickly, there was a delay in obtaining the necessary 20-meter wide and 2.5-meter tall screen, according to Sora News 24.

However, the local government has now resolved the sourcing issues and expects to install the screen by May 21, barring any weather delays.

To further address safety concerns, the town is also installing barriers along the road to prevent jaywalking. These changes are aimed at improving local conditions and safety, though they will unfortunately deny locals and visitors the cherished view of Japan's iconic peak from this spot.

Read Also: Why Is Mount Fuji So Famous in Japan? Exploring Its Cultural and Natural Significance