Introducing the New Reservation System for Climbing Mount Fuji’s Yoshida Trail Starting in 2024

Starting in 2024, climbers planning to ascend Mount Fuji via the Yoshida Trail will need to navigate a new reservation system designed to manage the number of visitors and minimize environmental impact. This article details the new system, aiming to ensure a sustainable and enjoyable experience for all visitors to Japan’s most iconic peak.

Details of the New Reservation System

The “Fuji Climbing Official Site,” managed by the Council for the Proper Use of Mount Fuji, a cooperative effort between Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures, announced the introduction of this system. Reservations will begin on April 20 at 10:00 AM, with a required passage fee of ¥2,000 per climber.

Key Aspects of the Reservation System

• Mandatory Pre-Payment: Climbers must pre-pay a ¥2,000 passage fee to access the Yoshida Trail. This fee is required to help manage the trail’s maintenance and ensure the safety and sustainability of the climbing experience.
• Exclusions: The fee does not cover mountain hut accommodations, which must be booked separately.
• Deadline for Pre-Payment: Payments can be made until 11:59 PM the day before the intended climbing date. Once the daily limit of reservations is reached, no further bookings will be accepted for that day.
• Daily Climber Limit: The daily limit for climbers on the Yoshida Trail is set at 4,000. Of these, 3,000 slots are available for advance reservation, while 1,000 slots are reserved for same-day bookings.
• Refunds: If climbers who have pre-paid do not pass through the fifth station gate by 4 PM on the day of the climb, they will face restrictions, although those staying in mountain huts are exempt. Refunds will be issued if the trail is closed due to prefectural decisions.
• Conservation Donations: The site also encourages climbers to contribute to the “Mount Fuji Conservation Cooperation Fund,” which can be paid together with the passage fee, aiding in further conservation efforts.

Background and Reason for the Change

The new system was prompted by issues encountered during previous climbing seasons, notably the excessive crowding at the summit during sunrise and a high incidence of bullet climbing, where climbers ascend and descend rapidly within a short period. To address these challenges, the site announced on April 17 that it would install a gate at the Yoshida Trail entrance at the fifth station and implement traffic control measures.

Operational Details

The climbing restrictions will be in place from July 1 to September 10, from 4 PM to 3 AM. The number of climbers will be capped at 4,000 per day, with 3,000 slots available for advance reservation and 1,000 slots for same-day bookings, excluding those who have booked accommodations in mountain huts.

Conclusion

This new reservation system for the Yoshida Trail is a significant step towards preserving the natural beauty of Mount Fuji while ensuring the safety and satisfaction of its many visitors. By regulating the number of climbers and encouraging responsible climbing practices, these measures aim to maintain the integrity of this world-renowned site. Prospective climbers are advised to plan well in advance and stay informed about the latest updates through the official Fuji Climbing site.

For more information and to make a reservation, please visit the official Fuji Climbing Reservation Site.