吉田口登山道

The Yoshida trail

A hike to the top of Mount Fuji

A site of pilgrimage since the 7th century, Mount Fuji continues to attract climbers, though most people undertaking the ascent today do so for recreational purposes rather than spiritual ones. During the July to September climbing season, some 250,000 people from Japan and all over the world make the laborious trek to the top, motivated by the satisfaction of having climbed Japan’s highest peak—not to mention the reward of the awe-inspiring views. There are numerous routes of varying lengths and difficulties, the most popular of which is the roughly eight-hour Yoshida Trail. It’s easily accessible, with lots of facilities along the way. For a truly unforgettable experience, make the climb by night—or start in the afternoon and sleep in a mountain hut before an early start—to ensure that you arrive in time to catch the breathtaking sight of sunrise from the peak.