Travel

Foreign Tourists Rush to Climb Mt. Fuji Before Closure

SHIZUOKA, Sep 13 (News On Japan) - With all trails officially closed from midnight on September 11th, Mt. Fuji has entered its winter closure period, marking the end of the 2025 climbing season. Despite the restrictions, some foreign tourists have been seen ignoring the rules and pushing ahead with their climbs.

On September 10th, the news crew visited the Yoshida Trail at the 5th Station. Among those preparing to ascend were a pair of tourists from Mexico. They complied with regulations by entering the trail on September 10th, just before the seasonal closure.

"We started climbing around 5 p.m. on the 10th," one of the climbers said. "We were told that the 11th would be the last day the mountain huts were open."

With all trailheads shut from midnight, these climbers were among the last to make a legal ascent.

"I only had this day free," said another climber. "But I got to see a lot of beautiful views, so I’m glad I went."

In contrast, other tourists were seen ignoring the closures entirely. Several foreign visitors admitted to knowing the trails were off-limits but proceeded anyway.

"Yeah, I knew we weren’t supposed to go in," one said. "But I couldn’t move my schedule earlier, so I had no choice but to climb today."

Another tourist from the United States told reporters, "My friend got injured, so I’m bringing them water," before crossing the barricade and heading up the mountain.

Authorities in Shizuoka Prefecture are warning that violators may face penalties of up to six months in jail or fines of up to 300,000 yen for ignoring the trail closures.

Source: FNN

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