Hikers make their way to the summit of Mount Fuji along the Yoshida trail in August 2019. (Joseph Ditzler/Stars and Stripes)
TOKYO — Hikers who aspire to summit Mount Fuji on its most popular trail can expect a “strict” inspection of their clothing and gear at the entry gate for the second year in a row, according to Yamanashi prefecture.
Inspectors from the prefecture will conduct “three-set gear checks” for hikers on the Yoshida trail on the northern side of the mountain, according to a prefectural news release April 27.
Congestion on the popular mountain is creating environmental and safety concerns and costing local governments for upkeep and rescues. Last year, 205,100 people climbed Mount Fuji, with 59%, or about 121,068 hikers, taking the Yoshida trail, according to the Japan Ministry of the Environment.
Many accidents and rescues result from improperly clothed or equipped hikers navigating the rocks and cinders on the volcano’s flanks. Light clothing, such as T-shirts, shorts and sandals are significant safety concerns, according to the prefecture.
“Even in the summer, temperatures at the summit can drop below freezing, and the descent route consists mostly of loose rocks,” the release states. “Insufficient gear has repeatedly led to serious accidents.”
The trail is scheduled to open July 1 and close Sept. 10, according to the release.
Hikers approach the torii gate near the summit of Japan’s Mount Fuji in August 2019. (Joseph Ditzler/Stars and Stripes)
The three items required are hiking boots or appropriate mountain footwear, two-piece rainwear consisting of jacket and pants, and clothing appropriate for cold weather, such as a fleece or warm jacket.
Again this year, hikers must reserve a spot on the Yoshida trail and expect to pay 4,000 yen, or $25.44, in admission fees. The prefecture began accepting reservations April 27 for trail access, the release states.
The prefecture two years ago erected a trail gate at the 5th station and began limiting hikers to 4,000 per day.
Hikers should expect strict gear inspections at the entry gate, an official at the Mount Fuji Tourism Promotion unit of the prefectural office said by phone Thursday.
Improperly dressed hikers will not be allowed past the gate, he said. However, stores at the station sell approved items.
The 5th station gate is closed from 2 p.m. to 3 a.m. except for those with reservations at mountain huts.
Some Japanese officials may speak to the media only on the condition of anonymity.
Mount Fuji is a popular destination for Japanese and foreign tourists and in recent years crowds have increased.
Three other trails in Shizuoka prefecture lead to the summit: Subashiri, Gotemba and Fujinomiya.
Shizuouka also charges a 4,000 yen climbing fee to use its trails, according to the prefecture’s website. Prior payment can be made through a Shizuoka prefecture FUJI NAVI app, but payment can also be made at the gates without the app.
Registration opens May 8, according to the website. There is no limit to the number of people who can access the trails in the prefecture.
Hikers are also required to complete an online course covering rules, etiquette, hiking safety and environmental protection before they attempt the hike.
AloJapan.com