Mount Fuji : Highest Peak in Japan

Standing tall at 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji (富士山, Fujisan) is Japan’s tallest and most iconic mountain. A near-perfect volcanic cone that has inspired generations of poets, painters, and pilgrims. It has a resemblance of Mt. Mayon in my home country, the Philippines. Located between Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures, Fuji is more than a natural wonder. It's a symbol of Japan’s spirit, embodying beauty, endurance, and tranquility.

What makes Mount Fuji Unique?

Climbing Mount Fuji isn’t just an outdoor adventure. It's a spiritual journey through Japan’s living history. Fuji is an active volcano, and its terrain shifts from lush forests at the base to barren volcanic gravel near the summit. Reaching the summit at dawn and watching the sun rise over a sea of clouds is one of the most breathtaking experiences in Japan. It’s not just a view, it's a feeling of renewal and awe. I tried to make it to sunrise on top of Mt. Fuji, but due to delay in logistics I only made it to see the sunrise half way of hiking and still the feeling is unexplainable and truly amazing.

The view from 2,500 meters above sea level overlooks Shizuoka Prefecture, blanketed by a sea of clouds.

When is the best time to hike Mount Fuji?

The official climbing season is early July to mid September. As of 2024 they made some changes in the climbing rules due to the vast volume of hikers that want to hike Mt. Fuji. There will be preregistration needed so please checkout and download the Mt. Fuji App. Please avoid weekends and national holidays if you want a smaller crowd.

The hiking trails

There are 4 main hiking trails going up to the peak. 

Yoshida trail 

• Most Popular and beginner friendly. It starts at Fuji Subaru line 5th station in Yamanashi Prefecture. This was the first trail I hiked in August 2023. There are many huts and rest stops available.

  Subashiri trail

• Less popular and it is located in Shizuoka Prefecture. The trail merges with Yoshida trail near the summit. This trail is also good for beginners.

  Gotemba Trail

• Considered as the longest trail among the four, less crowded and recommended for experienced hikers. If you have better endurance this trail is for you.

  Fujinomiya trail

• Shortest and the hardest trail among the four because it has steep terrain. Ideal for experienced hikers and definitely the most fulfilling trail in my opinion. I hiked this trail for the second time on Mt. Fuji.

  Average hiking time is about 5-8 hours and the descent is usually averaging from 3-5 hours. As of 2025 I am now down to 2 more trails and I wish to finish all trails before 2027.
  

The Torii gate at the end of Fujinomiya trail.

Getting there from Tokyo

Private Car

• From Tokyo, take the Chuo Expressway (for Yoshida) or Tomei Expressway (for Shizuoka routes).

• Travel time: 2–3 hours depending on traffic.

• Parking is available at designated areas, with shuttle buses to the 5th stations during peak season.

Public Transport

• From Shinjuku Station → Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station (Yoshida Trail)

• Direct highway bus (~2.5 hrs.)

• Alternative Routes:

• Via Mishima, Gotemba, or Fujinomiya Stations for southern trails.

My sample day trip Itinerary (Optional not recommended)

I hiked Mt. Fuji twice, using public transportation the first time and using a private car the second time. I would definitely recommend if you do a one day hike itinerary you have a private car so that you don’t need to worry about the bus schedule.

One day Itinerary hiking Mount Fuji. Not for Beginners.

Final thoughts

Having hiked countless peaks across Japan, Mount Fuji remains in a league of its own. It’s not the most technical climb but it’s the most memorable.

Each step upward feels symbolic. a test of will, patience, and endurance. There is this saying

🗻 “A wise person climbs Fuji once, but only a fool climbs it twice.”  Japanese Proverb

I will definitely climb back to this mountain as many times as I can and will cherish every moment I have standing at the highest peak of Japan and saying to myself 

“We did it again.”

Until the next adventure!

Cheers!

Jeric(Moses)

Where should we go NEXT?

Where should we go NEXT?

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