This blog post is all about climbing Mount Fuji and everything you’d need to know to do so.
Climbing Mount Fuji is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget, but let me tell you, it’s not a walk in the park.
We tackled the climb ourselves, and our knees are still aching!
If you’re thinking of hiking Japan’s most iconic mountain, you’ll need a bit of preparation, some determination, and a sense of adventure.
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Here’s everything you need to know before taking on the incredible challenge of climbing Mount Fuji.
RELATED Climbing Mount Fuji blog posts to read:
- Fuji Matsuyama Base Review: The Best Place To Stay Near Mount Fuji
- How to Spend An Amazing 3 Weeks in Japan: Travel Route
- The Ultimate 3 Days in Osaka Japan Guide & Itinerary
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When is the Best Time to Climb Mount Fuji?
The official climbing Mount Fuji season is from July to September, when the weather is at its most stable, and the mountain facilities are open.
This is the safest time to climb, and you’ll also have access to mountain huts, rest areas, and first-aid stations along the way.
If you’re not confident planning the logistics (especially with weather and timing), going with a certified guide can take a lot of stress out of the day and help you pace properly.
A Mt. Fuji hiking tour is a good option if you want someone experienced to handle route decisions and hut planning.
Keep in mind that due to over-tourism, climbers are now required to purchase a climbing ticket to help maintain the trails and facilities.
The fee is about 1,000 yen, and while you can buy this on the mountain, I’d recommend booking it in advance online. They can sell out, so you don’t want to be turned away!
If you’d rather have a visual representation of this blog post, I also put together a 3-minute TikTok video detailing every part of the climb (and my struggles) which you can watch here or below:
Where to Stay When Climbing Mount Fuji
We stayed in the Fuji area the day before climbing Mount Fuji to check out the area and suss out our climb.
If you choose to do something similar, I’d highly recommend Fuji Matsuyama Base Guest House.
We had a private, traditional-style room with shared bathroom facilities and large shared lounge area.
The host was extremely helpful around climbing Mount Fuji and it was in a great location, close to bus stops and the main town.
RELATED Climbing Mount Fuji blog post to read: Fuji Matsuyama Base Review: The Best Place To Stay Near Mount Fuji
Choosing Your Mount Fuji Climbing Route
There are four main routes for climbing Mount Fuji, each offering a different experience. Here’s a quick rundown of the options:
1. Yoshida Trail (Easiest and Most Popular)
This is the route we took, and it’s the one I’d recommend unless you’re an experienced hiker with all the gear.
It’s the most popular trail, with plenty of mountain huts, rest areas, and first-aid stations along the way.
- Starting Point: Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station
- Estimated Climb Time: 5-7 hours ascent, 3-5 hours descent
2. Subashiri Trail
A quieter trail with forested paths in the beginning, but it eventually merges with the Yoshida Trail near the top.
- Starting Point: Subashiri 5th Station
- Estimated Climb Time: 6-8 hours ascent, 3-5 hours descent
3. Gotemba Trail
The longest and most challenging route, with fewer facilities and a greater elevation gain. This is for those who want a tougher climb.
- Starting Point: Gotemba 5th Station
- Estimated Climb Time: 7-10 hours ascent, 3-6 hours descent
4. Fujinomiya Trail
The shortest route but also the steepest. If you’re short on time but want a challenge, this might be your trail.
- Starting Point: Fujinomiya 5th Station
- Estimated Climb Time: 4-7 hours ascent, 2-4 hours descent
Day Hike or Overnight Stay on Mount Fuji?
We opted to climb Mount Fuji all in one day.
There is also another option to take two days at it, by staying on the mountain overnight and therefore splitting up your climb and taking it easier.
If I was to do it again, I might opt for the two-day option instead to break it up.
1. Day Hike Up Mount Fuji
It is possible to hike Mount Fuji in one day, but only if you start early.
We caught the first bus up to the 5th Station (around 5:00 AM) and managed to catch the last-but-one bus back down.
If you’re planning a day hike, this is the way to do it. Just make sure you pace yourself and keep an eye on the time.
2. Overnight Stay on Mount Fuji
If you want to catch the sunrise at the summit (known as “Goraiko”), consider staying overnight at one of the mountain huts along the route.
These huts are basic, offering a place to sleep and meals, but they book up quickly, so reserve your spot in advance.
You’ll wake up very early to hike the final stretch to the top, but I’ve heard it’s an experience worth having.
Mount Fuji Stations and How They Work
Mount Fuji is divided into 10 stations, with the 1st Station at the base and the 10th Station at the summit.
Most people climbing Mount Fuji start at the 5th Station, accessible by bus.
Here’s a quick overview:
- 5th Station: The main starting point, with shops, restrooms, and information centers.
- 6th-9th Stations: Rest areas and mountain huts, where you can take breaks and refuel.
- Summit (10th Station): The ultimate destination, where you can explore the crater and enjoy panoramic views.
You can also opt to get a walking stick stamped at each station on the way up. It’s a unique souvenir that shows your progress up the mountain, and is also very popular.
8 Essential Hiking Tips for Climbing Mount Fuji
Below are essentials you must take with you when hiking Mount Fuji.
I’ve also included some tips of things we found useful and mistakes we made that we hope you avoid.
1. Clothing
Wear layered clothing, as temperatures change dramatically throughout the climb. Pack a waterproof jacket, warm hat, gloves, and sun protection.
2. Pack Essentials
Bring plenty of water, snacks, a head torch, walking sticks, a first-aid kit, and good hiking boots.
3. Download the Mt. Fuji App to Your Phone
This shows you the trail you’re following, keeping you on track. It also times your climb so you can see how long it takes you.
This acts as a compass, which is really handy to see where the next station is and if you’re heading off the trail at any point.
4. Sun Protection
Don’t forget sunscreen! We learned this the hard way and ended up with some serious sunburn. So remember, you’re above the clouds, and much closer to the sun!
Even though it may feel cold, or it’s cloudy, still keep applying SPF during your hike.
5. Altitude Sickness
Take it slow and stay hydrated. It’s common to experience dizziness or nausea at higher altitudes, so be prepared.
6. Weather Awareness
The weather can change quickly, so check the forecast before you start and be prepared for sudden rain or cold winds.
7. Respect the Environment
Carry all your trash back down with you, and respect this sacred site by following Leave No Trace principles.
8. Catch the First and Last Bus
For day hikers, catching the first bus up is crucial.
Also, make sure you know the time of the last bus back from the 5th Station as you don’t want to be left with a long walk back!
Getting Back from Climbing Mount Fuji
After climbing Mount Fuji, we realized there were no taxis or buses running from the 5th Station back into town.
With stiff legs and exhaustion setting in, we faced a 50-minute walk until a kind stranger offered us a lift.
So, learn from us. Arrange transportation in advance if you’re finishing late in the day!
Is Climbing Mount Fuji Worth It?
Absolutely! Despite the sore knees, sunburn, and aching muscles, climbing Mount Fuji was one of the most rewarding experiences of our trip to Japan.
Standing at the summit, looking out over the clouds, and knowing you’ve conquered Japan’s highest peak is something you’ll never forget.
Just make sure you’re prepared, pace yourself, but enjoy every step of this incredible journey!
RELATED Climbing Mount Fuji blog posts to read:
- Fuji Matsuyama Base Review: The Best Place To Stay Near Mount Fuji
- How to Spend An Amazing 3 Weeks in Japan: Travel Route
- The Ultimate 3 Days in Osaka Japan Guide & Itinerary
- Japan Rail Pass Review: The Ultimate Guide to Japan’s Trains
- Japan Cherry Blossom Season: Everything You Need to Know
By Orlagh Shanks
Orlagh Shanks is the Editor of Orlagh Claire, an award-winning travel and lifestyle blog.
After working in the PR & Influencer Marketing industry, Orlagh quit her job to travel Asia for 12 months and moved to Sydney, Australia where she is now a full-time travel blogger and content creator sharing travel tips and recommendations for all 30 of the countries she’s visited so far.
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