Climbing up Mt. Hoei 2,693m(8,835ft) is a great hike with amazing crater views and the grandeur of Mt. Fuji along the way. Panoramic vistas from the saddle are spectacular in all directions as far as you can see the pacific ocean! Being above clouds is like touching heaven. Trail is in great shape and well marked. Trekking the trail with volcanic ash, rocks and gravels is rather draining, particularly when ascending. While this is a short hike (3hrs RT) starting from Fujinomiya trailhead at 2,400m(7,874ft), it’s strenuous at times. Particularly the slope climbing up 273m(895ft) vertical from the Hoei’s first crater to the saddle is rather challenging due to high altitude and volcanic ash, rocks and gravels mixed trail. The reward at the summit is worth the effort, however.
Mount Hōei (宝永山, Hōeizan) is a flank volcano on the southeastern side of Mount Fuji. It emerged as a result of the eruption of Mount Fuji in December 1707 – February 1708. It rises 2,693 m (8,835 ft) above sea level, and its name comes from the Hōei era.
For Mt. Fuji summit climb video: