A toll road on Mount Fuji has reopened to traffic for the sightseeing season.
The road known as Fuji Subaru Line in Yamanashi Prefecture, west of Tokyo, connects the 5th station of Japan’s tallest mountain with foothills. It is fully or partially closed from winter to early spring when snow accumulates.
Tourist buses and other vehicles began heading for the 5th station of the mountain at around 9 a.m. on Saturday, when the toll gate opened.
About 2,300 meters above sea level, Japanese and foreign tourists at the station snapped photos under a blue sky. Some played with snow.
A couple in their 80s from Kumamoto Prefecture said they were happy to realize their long-cherished wish of visiting the mountain. They said they felt like they were on cloud nine in the spectacular scenery.
A man in his 50s from Tochigi Prefecture said he was lucky with the perfect weather. He said it was warmer than expected and he did not need his jacket.
A couple in their 30s from the United States said they were glad to see the magnificent view unique to Japan.
The road’s operator says the full opening came five days earlier than last year.
AloJapan.com