The Four Main Trails Up Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, or 富士山 (Fujisan, Mount Fuji) as it's known in Japan, has four official climbing routes, each starting from a different 五合目 (go-gome, fifth station), which means "fifth station" in Japanese (romaji: go-gome). They're not equally popular, and they're definitely not equally difficult.
The 吉田 (Yoshida, Yoshida Trail) Trail on the north side is by far the busiest route. It starts from Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station at around 2,300 metres and takes most hikers between 5 and 7 hours to reach the summit at 3,776 metres. No wonder, as it has the best transport connections from Tokyo and the highest concentration of mountain huts, called 山小屋 (yamagoya, mountain hut), along the way.
Yoshida vs. Subashiri
If you want fewer crowds, the 須走 (Subashiri, Subashiri Trail) Trail on the northeast side is a solid alternative. It merges with the Yoshida Trail above the eighth station, so the upper section is the same either way. What makes Subashiri special is the descent path through a forested lower section, which feels genuinely different from the lunar landscape most people associate with Fujisan.
The 御殿場 (Gotemba, Gotemba Trail) Trail is the longest and toughest of the four, starting at just 1,440 metres. It's a full-day commitment and sees the fewest tourists. My tip? If you're an experienced hiker and want a real challenge without the crowds, Gotemba is worth the extra effort. Just don't underestimate the sandy descent section known as 大砂走り (osunabashiri, great sand run), which literally translates to "sand run" and is actually one of the most fun parts of the whole mountain.
The Fujinomiya Trail
On the southwest side, the Fujinomiya Trail is the shortest route to the summit and the most popular on the Shizuoka side. It starts at 2,400 metres and is known for its steep gradient. Convinced yet that choosing the right trail matters? It genuinely does, especially if you're travelling with people of different fitness levels.
When Can You Actually Climb Mount Fuji?
Here's the kicker: you can't just show up whenever you feel like it. The official climbing season runs from early July to mid-September. Outside of those dates, the mountain huts are closed, the trails are unmaintained, and weather conditions can turn dangerous fast. Snow and ice above the eighth station are common even in June.
The Yoshida Trail officially opens on 1 July each year. The other three trails, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya, typically open around the same time but sometimes a few days later depending on snow conditions. The season ends around 10 September for most trails, though exact dates shift slightly from year to year.
Speaking of which, the best weather window is generally mid-July to late August. Early July can still be cold and foggy, and late September brings unpredictable autumn storms. If you're targeting a sunrise climb, known in Japanese as goraiko, aim for a weekday in late July or early August. Weekends in that window can be extremely congested.
New Rules and Daily Limits You Need to Know
Plot twist: Fujisan now has a gate. From the 2024 season onwards, the Yoshida Trail introduced a physical barrier at the fifth station that closes at 4 pm and reopens at 3 am. This was specifically introduced to stop so-called "bullet climbing," or midnight ascents by unprepared tourists who rush up without proper gear or rest.
Before I forget, there's now a daily cap of 4,000 climbers per day on the Yoshida Trail. Once that limit is reached, the gate stays shut. No exceptions. This is a direct response to overtourism, and honestly, it was overdue. In peak season, Fujisan was seeing up to 3,000 people on the trail simultaneously on a single night, causing dangerous bottlenecks near the summit.
Entry Fees and What They Cover
There's also a mandatory conservation fee of 2,000 yen per person on the Yoshida Trail. This isn't optional, and it isn't a donation box situation. The fee covers trail maintenance, environmental protection efforts, and the staffing required to manage the new gate system. The Fujinomiya, Gotemba, and Subashiri trails have their own voluntary conservation fees, typically 1,000 yen, though these may also become mandatory in future seasons.
No joke, the 4,000 climber daily cap filled up on multiple days during summer 2024, turning away visitors who had travelled specifically for the climb. If you're planning your trip around Fujisan, book your accommodation near the trailhead early and start your hike as early in the day as possible.
Safety, Gear and Practical Tips for Japan Travellers
Ever wondered why so many people get into trouble on Fujisan despite it being a "beginner" mountain? The altitude is real. At 3,776 metres, altitude sickness, or kochou-sho in Japanese romaji, affects a surprising number of climbers, especially those who ascend too fast. Headaches, nausea, and fatigue are common above the eighth station.
What I especially like about the mountain hut system is that it gives you a built-in reason to pace yourself. Staying overnight at a yamagoya around the seventh or eighth station, reaching the summit for goraiko, and descending in daylight is genuinely the best way to do this mountain. It's safer, more enjoyable, and far less miserable than a sleep-deprived night climb.
Pack layers. Even in August, summit temperatures regularly drop to 5 degrees Celsius or below, and wind chill makes it feel colder. Trekking poles, a headlamp, rain gear, and plenty of snacks are non-negotiable. The convenience stores, or konbini, at the base stations are your best friend for last-minute supplies. Classic Japan, isn't it? You can fuel a mountain expedition with onigiri from a Lawson.
Wild, isn't it? One of the world's most recognisable mountains is also one of the most accessible, yet it still catches people off guard. Respect the rules, respect the altitude, and Fujisan will reward you with one of the most memorable mornings of your life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to book a climbing permit in advance?
There is no advance permit system as of 2024, but the Yoshida Trail has a daily cap of 4,000 climbers. Arriving early in the day is the best way to make sure you're not turned away at the gate.
How long does it take to climb Mount Fuji?
Most hikers take between 5 and 8 hours to reach the summit, depending on the trail and fitness level. The descent takes around 3 to 5 hours. An overnight stay at a mountain hut is strongly recommended for safety and to see the sunrise.
Is there an entry fee to climb Mount Fuji?
Yes. The Yoshida Trail charges a mandatory conservation fee of 2,000 yen per person. Other trails currently have voluntary fees of around 1,000 yen, but this may change in future seasons.
