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Home , Fujiyoshida, Fuji Five Lakes, Kawaguchiko Station, Mon (architecture), Mount Fuji, Shinto shrine

Explore ... 03. THE YOSHIDA TRAIL | 04. FUJI SUBARU LINE 5TH STATION | 05. & 06. TRAIL MAP & ACCESS 07. CLIMBING PLANS | 08. HUTS | 09. PREP, GEAR & TIPS

History Natural Legacy Imagery & Scenery SUN TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6

The ascent of Mount Fuji via the Yoshida Trail was Mount Fuji’s volcanic activity contributed not A striking standalone strato-, Mount Fuji Events historically conducted as part of a religious only to the beautiful natural landscape we see is arguably the most recognized mountain in the pilgrimage by worshippers of of the today but also shaped the lifestyles of those who world. It’s distinct shape, identifiable even by 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 mountain also known as “Fujiko” followers. lived at its base, and continues to do so today. mere silhouette has persisted as a source of , home to Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji The landscape and geological remnants, artistic inspiration as well as a prevailing symbol 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Sengen , the historic entrance to this however, are perhaps the most widely of . Depicted within the famous works of pilgrimage route, is thus inextricably linked to appreciated as they are the most easily viewed, renowned ukio-e painter Katsushika , their story. Evidence of Fujiyoshida’s large role in explained and accessed. The 5 lakes that make Mount Fuji takes on different forms and 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 accommodating and guiding these pilgrims can up the Fuji 5 Lakes area, the “tainai” (womb) characteristics depending on where the be seen throughout the upper ward or tree molds and the “Jukai” (sea of trees) spectator stands. Of the numerous vantage 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 31 “Kamiyoshida” district of the city where remains forests are all part of the natural landscape left points within Japan, the northern base and the 31 of Oshi Pilgrim Inns still line the main thoroughfare behind by large lava flows, and command the Fuji 5 Lakes offer some of the best & most sought leading toward Mount Fuji. largest number of tourists in the region. after viewing/shooting spots! JULY AUGUST

7.22 (F) 69th Annual Fuji Mountain Race 8.26 (F) & 8.27 (S) Yoshida Fire Festival

The Fuji Mountain Race is a rigorous, physical & mental The Yoshida Fire Festival or “Yoshida no Himatsuri” is held every challenge that is often considered the most difficult climbing year on August 26th to appease the goddess of Mt. Fuji and to race in Japan. The race is divided into two courses, the 5th keep the volcanic eruptions at bay. Yoshida no Himatsuri also Station course (15km) and Summit course (21km). cermonially serves as the closing ceremony of the Fuji climbing season. For this lively two day festival, named one of Japan’s 7.23 (S) Shiseisai / City Summer Festival three most unique festivals and celebrated for over 500 years, the entire community joins to watch the burning of large A very local festival celebrating the city’s founding and local “taimatsu” torches and the parade of two large Omikoshi culture. Performances & delicious festival foods[15:00 - 21:00] (portable ) through the streets. The Fire Festival is one of

Fujiyoshida’s most prized cultural possessions, and this year’s [ FUJIYOSHIDA CITY ] ...and beyond festival promises to live up to its reputation. 10.~15. EXPLORE FUJIYOSHIDA CITY & FUJIGOKO

FIREWORKS ON THE [introducing: FUJIKAN JIKAN] app designed by Keio University as part of a city renovation 8.01 (M) 20:00 ~ Lake initiative that has digitized a series of tourism cards made by 8.02 (T) 19:30 ~ Lake Saiko the city (as seen below) to promote local stores, cultural & 8.03 (W) 20:00 ~ Lake Motosuko historical sites, restaurants, etc. The app displays location 8.04 (Th) 20:00 ~ Lake Shojiko [ FUJIGOKO ] details alongside short video clips on an interactive map 8.05 (F) 19:30 ~ Lake Kawaguchiko and is available in English. See what treaures of your own you can find in this charming, historic city. CONTACT US Access International Affairs Desk (IAD) Fujiyoshida City Hall 6-1-1 Shimoyoshida Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi

(+81) 0555-24-1236 [email protected]

USEFUL ACCESS RESOURCES FOR TRAINS FOR BUSES

Public Transportation in Japan is remarkably clean, efficient and reliable. Information on buses navitime.co.jp highway-buses.jp and trains to the Fujigoko Area and Fujiyoshida City can be found at any major train station. Climbing Mt. Fuji FUJI SUBARU LINE 5th STATION THE YOSHIDA TRAIL 2016 CLiMBiNG SEASON start finish FUJINOMIYA TRAIL

JULY SEPT. YOSHIDA TRAIL 1 10 Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station Climbing from the 5th Station The 5th Station of Mount Fuji is not at all what one might expect. Aside from being the most popular base point from which the largest number of climbers climbing distance time ascend, non-climbing visitors from all over the world also assemble here to Fujiyoshida Tourist experience the surreal excitment of standing atop one of the world’s most Information Center ascent 7.5 km 6 hours coveted peaks. The 5th Station accommodates these visitors by offering a (0)555-22-7000 range of opportunities to experience the mountain in alternative ways. Due to descent 7.6 km 3 hours its tremendous accessibility and quirky atmosphere, the 5th Station continues Kawaguchiko Tourist to be a popular destination for people of all cultures, ages and interests. SUBASHIRI TRAIL Information Center GOTENBA TRAIL ALTITUDE AT STARTING POINT ALTITUDE AT FINISHING POINT (0)555-72-6700 2,304 meters 3,720 meters Shops & Restaurants Historically, the ascent of Mount Fuji via the Yoshida Trail was conducted as a A variety of gift shops and restaurants give even Climbing from the Base route 2 those less inclined to climb an opportunity to religious pilgrimage from Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, the historic “Yoshidaguchi Climbing Trail” experience being on the mountain and returning entrance to the trail, to the summit by worshippers of the mountain. The route home with a souvenir. Restaurants serve an array of by which they ascended is outlined here. Since the introduction of the Subaru Mount Fuji themed meals while the shops often climbing distance time Line which made it possible to drive directly to the 5th station the lower carry a wide variety of Mount Fuji goods. portions of the traiil were greatly forgotten; a shame for multiple reasons. It is ascent 10.9 km 5 hours the only route by which climbers can experience the historic legacy of Mount descent 10.9 km 3.5 hours Fuji ascent, a huge contributor to its designation as a UNESCO World Cultural Mount Fuji Komitake Shrine Heritage Site. Moreover , it is the only portion of the trail that falls below the Mount Komitake is the “parent” of Mount Fuji as we treeline, offering an altogether different experience. Historic ruins of old tea ALTITUDE AT STARTING POINT ALTITUDE AT FINISHING POINT know it today. The continuous eruption of Mount houses that once lined this portion of the trail still remain and offer a glimpse Komitake & Kofuji led to the formation of Mount 860 meters 2,300 meters into man’s long and rich history Fuji’s current iconic shape. The Komitake Shrine was with the mountain. built in 937 AD & continues to be an important spiritual site for followers of the Mount Fuji faith. route 1 5th station Ochudo Hiking Trail The Ochudo hiking trail begins at Mount Fuji 5th th station ↑65 min 1.5 km Station & runs parallel to the summit. This trail offers 4 ↓30 min some of the best views of the Fuji Five Lakes while remaining far less intense than a Mount Fuji ascent. rd station This trail was once seen as a right of passage & was 3 only accessible to those who had ascended the mountain three times or more. 2nd station ↑50 min 2.0 km ↓40 min FUJISAN STATION ⇔ 5TH STATION 1st station CHARACTERiSTiCS OF THE CLiMB FUJIKYU BUS LINE・CLIMBING SEASON SCHEDULE ① Not technical but steep with gravel & volcanic debris ② Requires handholds in some particularly steep areas FUJISAN STATION 5th STATION MT. FUJI BUS FARE umagaeshi ③ Foot traffic is common especially during peak season DEPARTURE ARRIVAL DEPARTURE ARRIVAL ADULT CHILD ④ The trail switches back in a zigzag pattern 6:30 7:35 8:00 8:55 7:10 8:15 8:30 9:25 oishichaya ↑60 min 3.8 km \1,540 \770 ↓50 min 8:10 9:15 9:30 10:25 teahouse ONE-WAY FUJISAN STATION SENGEN SHRINE 9:00 10:05 10:30 11:25 ⇔ 9:30 10:35 10:50 11:45 nakanochaya FUJIKYU BUS LINE・CLIMBING SEASON SCHEDULE 10:00 11:05 11:30 12:25 \2,100 \1050 teahouse 11:00 12:05 11:50 12:45 11:30 12:35 12:20 13:15 ROUNTRIP ↑80 min 3.6 km ↓60 min FUJISAN STATION SENGEN SHRINE 12:00 13:05 12:50 13:45 kitaguchi hongu This is the UMAGAESHI 12:40 13:45 13:55 14:50 fuji sengen shrine bus which happens to DEPARTURE ARRIVAL DEPARTURE ARRIVAL 13:40 14:45 14:30 15:25 stop at Sengen Shrine. 14:40 15:45 15:10 16:05 If you wish to begin 9:10 9:20 10:05 10:15 15:40 16:45 17:10 18:05 All climbing times are approximate your ascent from the 10:30 10:40 11:25 11:35 16:40 17:45 18:00 18:55 & will vary greatly depending on UMAGAESHI trailhead 12:40 12:50 13:35 13:45 17:50 18:55 19:00 19:55 stay on the bus until 13:50 14:00 14:45 14:55 18:40 19:45 19:50 20:45 climbing experience & aptitude the end of the line 15:00 15:10 15:55 16:05 18:55 20:00 20:40 21:35

3 4 Trail Map Trail Access DIRECT BUSES to 5TH STATION Be careful to stay on the correct trail when descending! The Yoshida Trail FROM ￥2,700 ONE-WAY Munatsuki To Summit 2015 Climbing Season: 7/01 ~ 9/14 Descending Edoya Route To reach DEPART ARRIVE ( バスタ ) the highest point on TOKYO 5th STA. Expressway Bus Terminal Mt. Fuji, hike around the 6:45 9:10 Subashiri Tomoekan crater to Kengamine. Make Trail Edoya a full loop of the crater in 7:45 10:10 Fujisan Hotel Summit Mountain Hut 3,776m about 1.5 hours. 8:55 11:20 to 9:45 12:10 Goraikokan 160 min. 10:45 13:10 Ascending Tomoekan (8) Route Fujisan Hotel 12:45 15:10 Hakuunso Gansomuro Gansomuro 13:45 16:10 Hakuunso Climbing Time Horaikan 14:45 17:10 Yoshida Taishikan 5-6 hours 15:45 18:10 Trail *all times are approximate 16:45 19:10 To Fujiyoshida/Kawaguchiko 8th Station Emergency Toyokan 3,100m 17:55 20:20 Refuge Toriiso Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station 19:25 21:50 Fujiichikan Yoshida Trail Bus station & shops Kamaiwakan 100 min. Mt Fuji Management Office Subashiri Trail Tomoekan (7) Ochudo Hiking Trail FROM THE FUJI FIVE LAKES Hinodekan Climbing Trail To Kawaguchiko Follow the yellow signs Subaru Line to be sure you remain 7th Station Fujisan Station Hanagoya on the Yoshida Trail on 2,700m P DEPART ARRIVE (Fujiyoshida City) Post Office STATION 5th STA. your descent. If you DEPART ARRIVE descend the Subashiri 60 min. 6:40 7:35 STATION 5th STA. ← LEFT = GOOD Trail you will end up in ? P = VERY BAD 7:20 8:15 → RIGHT Safety Guidance Center Komitake Shrine Shops & Restaurants FUJI SUBARU LINE CLOSED 8:20 9:15 6:30 7:35 6th Station 9:10 10:05 7:10 8:15 2,390m 9:40 10:30 8:10 9:15 Seikanso 5th Station Mount Fuji is not accessible by 10:10 11:05 9:00 10:05 30 min. 7/10 - 8/31 10:40 11:30 9:30 10:35 Ochudo Hiking Trail personal vehicle for greater part of the climbing season Satogoya 11:10 10:05 10:00 11:05 P 11:40 12:30 11:00 14:45 Fuji Subaru Line 12:10 13:05 11:30 12:05 5th Station The Fuji Subaru Line was completed in 1964 offering for the first time in ADULTS 5th Station 12:50 13:45 12:00 13:05 history an opportunity for visitors to gain access to the mountain above the ￥1,540 ONE-WAY 45 min. 2,305m treeline without ascending by foot. 13:20 14:10 12:40 13:45 Gozaishi Shrine 13:50 14:45 13:40 14:45 ￥2,100 ROUNTRIP 4th Station It is currently open all year round with the exception of hazardous weather 14:50 15:45 14:40 15:45 Climbing Time 15:50 16:45 15:40 16:45 5-6 hours and the climbing season during which it only remians open to buses and CHILDREN large vans. Those who plan on driving to Mount Fuji should plan on parking 16:50 17:45 16:40 17:45 Omuro Shrine personal vehicles and taking a bus to the 5th Station. 18:00 18:55 17:50 18:55 ￥770 ONE-WAY 85 min. 18:50 19:45 18:40 19:45 ￥1,050 ROUNTRIP to Fujinomiya/Fuji-shi 19:05 20:00 18:55 20:00 to Gotemba The Fuji Subaru Line is closed to private Umagaeshi vehicles during the following period: FOR ENGLISH GUIDANCE BUSES to THE BASE AREA The Yoshida80 Trail min. 7/10 ~ 8/31 R138 Extra shuttle buses to the 5th Station will be available at Mt. , Motosuko Fujiyoshida Tourist (0)555-22-7000 FROM MT. FUJI STATION Kawaguchiko Station & Hokuroku Park. Information Center Nakano Chaya Sengen Shrine Nakanochaya Umagaeshi DEPART ARRIVE DEPART ARRIVE DEPART ARRIVE 80 min. Kawaguchiko Tourist (0)555-72-6700 STATION SHRINE STATION STATION SHRINE Yamanakako Fuji Subaru Line Information Center 9:10 9:20 9:10 9:30 9:10 9:40 Shojiko P Sengen Toll Gate 10:30 10:40 10:30 10:50 10:30 11:00 12:40 12:50 12:40 13:00 12:40 13:10 Shrine www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/index.html 13:50 14:00 13:50 14:10 13:50 14:20 850m R300 bus-en.fujikyu.co.jp/ 15:00 15:10 15:00 15:20 15:00 15:30 R139 www.city.fujiyoshida.yamanashi.jp/div/english ￥370 ONE-WAY ￥500 ONE-WAY Fujisan R358 Station Kawaguchiko Station Saiko ATTN: JR EAST PASS SPECIAL 5-DAY RAIL PASS FOR NON-JAPANESE PASSPORT HOLDERS Kawaguchiko

★ FLEXIBLE 5-DAY PASS ADULTS (12 & older): ￥ 22,000 VALID FOR ANY 5 DAYS WITHIN 14 DAYS OF PURCHASE PRICE CHILDREN (6~11): ￥ 11,000 R137 R139 A special discounted pass available only to short term JR EAST TRAVEL SERVICE CENTERS to Otsuki to Kofu WHERE to PURCHASE visa (valid for under 90 days) holders and non-Japanese Fujikyu Line passport holders. Gain unlimited access to the JR East Chuo Expressway to Kofu Intl Terminal railway for a full 5 day period. For further details visit: Narita Airport Terminals 1・2・3 This map was created and most recently updated by the Fujiyoshida City Hall International Affairs Desk (2015) ☞ www.jreast.co.jp/e/eastpass For questions please contact the International Affairs Desk at (+81)555-24-1236, www.city.fujiyoshida.lg.jp, [email protected]

5 6 Climbing Plans Mountain Huts

All plans below require accommodation at a mountain hut. Please see the MOUNTAIN HUT MANNERS SAMPLE PLANS BASED ON POPULAR REViEWS Moutain Hut page for more information FIRST & FOREMOST... REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS ARE KEY “When in Rome...” a particularly useful idiom whilst visiting Japan, a country A mountain hut is a hut on a mountain, not a luxury with long-standing, deeply-engrained cultural values. This is especially true PLAN A PLAN B PLAN C hotel. The huts come with no fancy amenities. They when relying on unique services such as those offered at the mountain huts exist to shelter climbers from the harsh evening on Mount Fuji. The main things to be conscientious of are punctuality, the 1 Night / 2 Days 1 Night / 2 Days 2 Nights / 3 Days conditions of Mount Fuji & offer a space to rest before volume of your voice & general respectfulness of the mountain hut & continuing their ascent. They are simple lodgings with fellow climbers. The following simple rules should be observed to avoid any Sunrise @ the summit Sunrise @ a mountain hut Treeline hike & sunrise simple meals & simple expectations. It is each mutual disappointments and/or faux pas. climber’s responsibility to come well-informed of the If you make a reservation, show up (& not too late or you will be huts’ expectations regarding etiquette and conduct ① unable to stay even if you have a reservation). If you know you will and to abide by them respectfully. be unable to keep a reservation you MUST call & cancel. DAY 1 Arrive at the 5th Station in the late DAY 1 Arrive at the 5th Station in the late DAY 1 Start the first leg of your ascent in morning & have a relaxed lunch morning & have a relaxed lunch the early morning from the while adjusting to the altitude. while adjusting to the altitude. “Umagaeshi” trailhead located ② Once in the mountain hut, consider it “quiet time.” There are many Start climbing in the afternoon & Start climbing in the afternoon & above “Nakanochaya” & below other weary travelers staying in the hut alongside you. Be respectful arrive at a 7th or 8th station moun- arrive at a 7th or 8th station moun- the 1st station (see Map on p. 4) of their down time & recuperation. tain hut around 5:00 pm. tain hut around 5:00 pm. Arrive at the 5th station in the The Yoshida Trail mountain huts have been in operation for a very afternoon & spend some leisurely ③ NiGHT Catch some sleep until around NiGHT Rest well & enjoy the sunrise from long time & have their own way of doing things. It is their job to run midnight & depart for the summit. the comfort of your mountain hut time exploring. The “Ochudo” or an efficient, properly functioning hut. If they give you instructions Middle Trail is a trekking course (i.e., ask for you to retire to your sleeping area from the common that circles the mountain from the DAY 2 Welcome sunrise from the summit DAY 2 Continue your ascent to the dining room) do not take it personally & follow their instructions. They around 4:30 am. Take the time to summit during the day while its 5th station & offers wonderful views mean you no disrespect. hike around the crater (ohachi light & less crowded. Enjoy the meguri). Descend to the 5th daytime view & take the time to NiGHT 1 Rest well at a mountain hut at the station at your own pace. circle the crater (ohachi meguri). 5th to 7th station. ADDITIONAL MOUNTAIN HUT INFO Descend to the 5th station at your Mountain huts not only serve as places of accommodation but also own pace DAY 2 Continue your ascent to the Taishikan (8th Station) summit during the day while its ◆ sell water & food, & manage restroom facilities along the trail which light & less crowded. Enjoy the can be used for a fee. daytime view & take the time to Unfortunately the International Affairs Desk The only accepted method of payment on Mount Fuji is CASH. This is circle the crater (ohachi meguri). at Fujiyoshida City Hall no longer makes SUNRISE REPORT Descend to an 8th station ◆ true of all services & facilities including payment at a mountain hut. early july 4:20 am mountain hut at your own pace. reservations at mountain huts on behalf of Carry ample cash with you on your ascent. late july 4:30 am foreign climbers. Those interested in NiGHT 2 Rest well & enjoy the night view of securing a reservation at a mountain hut ◆ Expect to pack up & take home all of your trash with you. early august 4:40 am city lights that twinkle like stars late august 4:50 am below & actual stars above. Wake must do so directly. Please be aware that around 4:30 am to enjoy the reservations are absolutely mandatory WHEN MAKING A RESERVATION... sunrise from the comfort of your and walk-ins will not be accommodated. Please be ready to provide the following type of information: mountain hut. Name, # of Persons, Date of Stay, Meals (0, 1, 2), Contact Info

DAY 2 Continue your descent to the 5th station at your own pace & bus HUT NAME OPEN DATES PHONE WEBSITE back to the base. 5th Station Satogoya 佐藤小屋 Year Round (0)555-23-1807 www.fuji-satogoya.com “GORAIKO” ご来光 6th Station Sunrise seen from atop a high mountain Seikanso 星観荘 Late-June → Early-Oct. (0)555-24-6524 www.seikanso.jp/english.html photo taken by Rachael Palmer photo taken by Rachael Palmer 7th Station A Note Regarding Single-day Ascents Hanagoya 花小屋 7/01 → 9/15 (0)555-24-6523 www6.ocn.ne.jp/~hanagoya FUJISAN CONSERVATION FUND Hinodekan 日の出館 7/01 → 9/10 (0)555-24-6522 www10.plala.or.jp/hinodekan/hinodekan.html A report issued in March 2011 by the Ministry of Environment shows that 28% of Tomoekan (7) 七合目トモエ館 7/01 → 9/10 (0)555-24-6521 www.mfi.or.jp/tomoekan all first-time climbers of Mount Fuji opt to climb in one day, a style of climbing Climbers are encouraged to Kamaiwakan 鎌岩館 7/01 → 9/10 080-1299-0223 www.kamaiwakan.jpn.org called 弾丸登山 (Dangan-Tozan) or “bullet climbing.” This number is drastically donate the optional climbing higher for foreign climbers who make up 30% of all annual climbers. fee. The money raised is used Fujiichikan 富士一館 7/01 → 9/13 080-1036-6691 www.mfi.or.jp/fujiichikan toward conservation efforts on Toriiso 鳥居荘 6/30 → 9/10 (0)555-84-2050 www.toriiso.com the mountain. Mount Fuji is the most climbed mountain in the world due in part to its relative Toyokan 東洋館 6/30 → 9/12 (0)555-22-1040 www.fuji-toyokan.jp lack of technical difficulty. Unlike most of this size, a Mount Fuji A minimum donation of 1,000YEN ascent does not necessitate professional experience or is standard but any amount is 8th Station equipment, & bus services allow climbers to start their ascent from above the greatly appreciated. The fee treeline. However, At 3776m (12,388ft), Mount Fuji is one of the highest can be paid at the Fuji Subaru Taishikan 太子舘 6/28 → 9/10 (0)555-24-6516 www.mfi.or.jp/taisikan *** standalone peaks in the world with a very unique terrain. It is important not to Line 5th Station of Mount Fuji. Horaikan 蓬莱館 7/01 → 9/10 (0)555-24-6515 www.horaikan.jp underestimate the challenges associated with climbing a mountain of this Hakuunso 白雲荘 7/01 → 9/15 (0)555-24-6514 www5c.biglobe.ne.jp/~fujisan nature. This being said, many people of all ages, nationalities &climbing Those who donate Gansamuro 元祖室 7/01 → 9/13 (0)555-24-6513 www.mfi.or.jp/fujisan/index.html aptitude summit every year. will receive a small wooden momento Fujisan Hotel 富士山ホテル 6/30 → 9/10 (0)555-24-6512 www.fujisanhotel.com *** made with timber Tomoekan (8) 八合目トモエ館 7/01 → 9/10 (0)555-24-6511 www.mfi.or.jp/tomoekan The most important point is that climbing any mountain without proper from Mt. Fuji preparation & rest can be hazardous. It is essential for all prospective climbers to be well-informed & well-prepared for their ascent regardless of their 8.5th Station The pin reads: “Certi�icate of Cooperation climbing plan. The difficulty of the climb will depend greatly on each Goraikokan 御来光館 7/01 → 9/10 (0)555-22-7751 www.goraikoukan.jp/english individual climbers prior climbing experience & aptitude. in the Conservation of Fujisan” *** Mountain Hut Booking Service available: https://www.fujimountainguides.com/mountain-hut-reservations.html

7 8 Explore Prep, Gear & Tips The Bare Minimum brent potter Proper Footwear ※ Founder of Fuji Mountain Guides Durable hiking shoes with ample ankle support are a must ※ Bilingual Guide for a Mount Fuji ascent. The trails are composed of loose As a guide for Fuji Mountain Guides, I have volcanic debris & having secure footing is a matter of Beyond safety. Good shoes with good ankle support will also help summited Mt. Fuji over 40 times with 300+ minimize joint strain. first time climbers and I work hard to accomplish the unimaginable — to get the mountain Appropriate Clothing our clients to have FUN climbing Mt. Fuji. Layering is key for any outdoor activitiy particularly in the I’m sharing these tips with you today in the mountains where temperatures & weather can change hopes of putting the “fun” in Mount Fuji for rapidly with little to no forewarning. Layers for your ascent

should consist of: your climbing experience. TIPS FROM A PRO A FROM TIPS ※ INNER BASE LAYER Something light that breathes & wicks but also insulates. ① Get the right gear. Every season I see an exorbitant number of exhausted and miserable climbers on Fuji crumpled up in a corner ※ MID-LAYER and shivering because they’re dressed in jeans and a T-shirt, with a Increasing warmth is key with this second layer. Choose fleece or a similarly warm material. 100yen parka ripped and flapping around them in the wind. Don’t be that person, it’s dangerous and miserable. ※ OUTER LAYER The reality is that Mt. Fuji is an alpine environment with extremely Your outer shell should account for the high possibility of rain on the mountain. You should judge the weight of your outer layer variable and unpredictable weather patterns and temperatures that based on the weather forecast on the morning you climb, but can shift quickly from 20c to 0c. Get the right gear—if you don’t generally-speaking a lightweight rain-resistant jacket should be want to buy gear, you can rent it at the provided URL below. sufficient. Bring rain pants in your backpack just in case. ② Climb in 2 days. Unless you’re a marathon runner or Superman in disguise, an overnight climb of Fuji is likely to be miserable. The sunrise and views can certainly make up for a lot of things, but rather than feeling good about yourself for one hour at sunrise, why not feel good about yourself throughout the entire climb?

Credit: Outdoor Gear Lab By climbing Fuji in two days, you can take your time, enjoy the views, take in the fresh air, and loiter curiously around mountain huts

Credit: Montbell without having to worry about missing the sunrise. What’s more you’ll be exercising when your body is used to exercising which leads to a far more enjoyable time. You’ll find that your ability to appreciate things will be increased because your senses and awareness will Fujiyoshida City & the Fuji Five Lakes remain intact. Of course if you climb in two days, you’ll need to stay in a mountain hut. Don’t show up to mountain hut without having Sites inscribed alongside Mount Fuji as component UNESCO made a reservation first. Backpack World Cultural Heritage Sites in Fujiyoshida & the Fuji Five Lakes Area You should bring a lightweight hiking backpack that fits ③ Climb on the weekdays. Mount Fuji is world famous for its traffic snuggly to the body & can be carried for long periods of jams. Fortunately they’re easy to avoid. If you don’t climb Fuji during time. Having a bag that fits securely is essential for weekends (including Friday) or Obon, you’ll be surprised at how few minimizing strain on the lower back & hips. people there are on the mountain. Mountain huts have room, Water, Food & Snacks workers on the mountain have free time and engage more with customers, and rather than being distracted by crowds, you’ll be Water is not readily available on Mount Fuji. Mountain huts able to focus on more important things—like the ancient pilgrimage along the Yoshida Trail may sell water but a small bottle you’re taking part in and the expansive views around you. can be quite costly. Plan to bring enough water to last through both your ascent & descent. Don’t forget about ④ Take public transportation. Parking at the 5th station can be electrolytes either, sports drink mix is also a good idea. KITAGUCHI HONGU FUJI FORMER TOGAWA HOUSE FUJI OMURO SENGEN KAWAGUCHI ASAMA a total disaster. There are even dates when private cars aren’t SENGEN SHRINE OSHI PILGRIM’S INN SHRINE SHRINE Fujiyoshida City Fujiyoshida Fujiyoshida City Fujiyoshida Kawaguchiko Town Kawaguchiko Bringing along your own food is important for the same allowed up to the 5th station (. Rather than deal with that mess and Town Kawaguchiko reasons as bringing your own water supply. Plan to CARB let parking stress your plans, just take public transportation. There are UP! Your body needs sufficient energy for this intense hike. busses directly from Shinjuku (make a reservation) but also the train + If you can, stop at a Japanese convenience store & look local bus combination is effective and doesn’t require reservations. for “Calorie Mate”, a high calorie biscuit that will supply you with ample energy without weighing you down the Consider climbing with a guide way that rice balls & bread might. Also keep your eye out ⑤ . A guided tour of Mt. Fuji for energy jellies like “Weider IN Jelly” makes little sense to a lot of expats in Japan—as it should. Someone who knows how to communicate in Japanese, how to get around, Other Essentials and has a good amount of hiking experience would probably be best suited climbing Fuji on their own. For the others though—using a Cash (JPY) guiding outfit can significantly de-stress the adventure as climbers YOSHIDA LAVA TREE FUNATSU LAVA TREE OSHINO HAKKAI THE YOSHIDA MOLDS (TAINAI) MOLDS (TAINAI) (EIGHT PONDS) TRAIL Fujiyoshida City Fujiyoshida Oshino Village Oshino Fujiyoshida City Fujiyoshida The only accepted method of payment for anything on can rest assured that logistics are taken care of and that a trained Town Kawaguchiko Mount Fuji is cash! Do not rely on your credit card. wilderness first aid professional is ready to address any medical situations that may arise. More information on guided trips at Protective Eyewear & Mask (for descent) fujimountainguides.com. Lake Lake You should aim to shield your eyes not only from harmful Shojiko Kawaguchiko UV rays, but also from the dust that gets kicked up. The Lake Lake Lake mask will help you avoid inhaling it during your descent. FUJI MOUNTAIN GUIDES Motosuko Saiko Yamanakako Miscellaneous BOOK A TOUR ・ RENT GEAR ・ GET INFORMATION Sunscreen, First-aid Kit, tissues, hand towel, plastic bags for your garbage & any wet clothing, cell phone, headlamp (for evening ascents & in case of emergency) www.fujimountainguides.com

9 10 the chureito pagoda Originally known as the fujisan museum “Fujiyoshida Museum of Local History”, the newly renovated Not only one of the best New & improved city museum museum building includes devoted to telling the story of vantage points of Mount new exhibits, state of the art Mt. Fuji’s spiritual significance. fujiyoshida Fuji but also a meaningful displays as well as English monument of peace. signage and even audio guides. Come discover Fuji 2288-1 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida, City Yamanashi 403-0005 like never before Home to the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine, the historic entrance to 3620 Arakura, Fujiyoshida the Yoshida Trail which remains to this day the single most traveled Yamanashi 403-0011 HOURS: ascending route, Fujiyoshida is truly the gateway to Mount Fuji. Nestled kitaguchi hongu fuji 9:30 ~17:00 at the northern base of this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, ranging Sengen shrine in altitude from 650-900 meters above sea level, the city and the CLOSED: surrounding Fuji Five Lakes area boasts abundant natural beauty and a Historic entrance to the Yoshida Trail. - Tuesdays rich history inextricaly linked to majestic Mount Fuji. - The day after holidays 5558 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida - December 28 ~ January 3 Yamanashi 403-0005 ENTRANCE FEES: PLAN 1 An ancient resting beneath large pines in the Suwa Forest, (Kitaguchi - Adults : ￥400 / ￥320 (Group) Hongu) Fuji Sengen Shrine served as a focal point of Mt. Fuji worship during the - Children: ￥200 / ￥160 (Group) Period. The main shrine, two subordinate shrines, and the massive cedars standing high PLAN 2 above the complex were inscribed alongside Mt. Fuji as component UNESCO World - Adults : ￥800 / ￥600 (Group) Cultural Heritage Sites in June of 2013. This historic setting marks the beginning of the - Children: ￥450 / ￥350 (Group) Yoshida Trail, where pilgrims would pray before their religious pilgrammage up to Mt. Fuji's summit. Mt Fuji's main deity, Konohanasakuyanohime, is thought to be enshrined here alongside her husband and father. The shrine is host to many events throughout the year, serving as the area's main . Its biggest event is the Yoshida Fire Festival, but is also used for New Year's Hatsumode events, 7-5-3 Ceremonies, a large Children's Day Event, many weddings, an annual torchlight performance, the opening ceremony to kick off the Mt. Fuji Climbing Season, and others. The large wooden gate of Sengen Shrine is over 18 meters in height. It is one of the largest wooden gates in Japan and according to tradition is rebuilt slightly larger every six decades. Near the top of the torii is a sign board which reads "Sangoko Daiichizan," meaning the highest mountain among the three countries [, India, and Japan]. The Goshinboku, or Sacred Trees, are a particulary fascinating element of the shrine compound. Three of the original sacred trees remain, and measure over 23 meters in diameter. These trees are said to be over 1000 years old. Credit: Kiyomasa Miyashita oshi pilgrim’s inn (former togawa residence)

This particular Oshi Pilgrim’s Fujiyoshida seen from Mount Fuji seen from Fujiyoshida seen from Mount Fuji Station the Kanadorii Gate Inn was inscribed alongside the Chureito Pagoda Mount Fuji as a component UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. It is an annex of the Fujiyoshida Museum of Local History. 3-14-8 Kamiyoshida, Fujiyoshida Yamanashi 403-0005

☆ When searching “Fujiyoshida” on Google Maps, the city boundaries are drawn up the entire side of Mount Fuji. This is due to its long relationship historical Credit: Google Mapsassociation with the Yoshida Trail.

is fujiyoshida WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT Here, visitors can witness the right stop You disembark at Fujisan Station (formerly Fujiyoshida You didn’t really plan ahead. You’re kind of hungry. With your maps in hand, you set out from the station, Fujiyoshida’s historic legacy for you? Station) after a short ninety-minute highway bus ride You’re looking to do some low-key sightseeing, you figuring you’ll explore the area closest to the station by of hosting Fujiko religious from Shinjuku Station at the epicenter of Japan’s urban heard this was a good place for it. foot. As you walk you cannot help but to notice the worshippers of Mount Fuji in one of the oldest standing, jungle. gazes, the curious glances, the giggling school Do you geek out to history? original pilgrim’s inns of the You notice the Tourist Information Center next to the children, perhaps a pointing finger or two. You begin Kamiyoshida area. Records Do you prefer exploring the You are immediately struck by the change in climate bus terminal. You’re greeted by kind staff who do their to realize that you may be an oddity here. Moreover show that when popularity of backroads to visiting touristy and scenery. Fujiyoshida City is consistently between 5 very best to help you in English. You’re grateful for their you keep looking for familiar signs of tourism, for gift Fujiko, the Mount Fuji faith, hot spots? Do you enjoy to 10 degrees cooler than Tokyo on any given day help but still a bit confused. Where should you start? shops, for English signage, to no avail. The discomfort is peaked in the , during any given season due to its relatively high subtle, yet persistent. You consider turning back but the Kamiyoshida area of exploring by foot? Are you altitude evidenced by the vibrant green mountains Find a good map! The Mt. Fuji division of city hall has make better of it. You’ve made it this far afterall, you Fujiyoshida had up to 86 of looking to escape urban that surround the city. created a comprehensive guide map of the intend to see this through. these inns along its main thoroughfare leading up to Japan and experience city that includes a large map and the mountain. Signboards something all together new You take a moment to stretch and breath in deeply, information on local sites, Your unease suddenly dissipates as you make your way can now be found along this only to be taken by the crisp, fresh air that fills your and refreshing? Do you want events, cuisine and to Kanadorii, the main thoroughfare running street providing thorough lungs. The northern base of Mount Fuji is part of the seasonal specialties. north-south directly toward Mount Fuji and find yourself information in English. to witness one of the best Fuji-Izu- National Park, host to a plethora of There are many ways of face to face with Mount Fuji towering before you. It’s views of Mount Fuji? Look no natural landmarks including the jukai or “sea of trees,” enjoying the city and as though you could reach out and touch her. Not HOURS: FUJIYOSHIDA a dense forest that covers the northwestern base of the only is the mountain itself spectacular, you come further, is this maps caters to both 9:30 ~17:00 the place for you ★ mountain and cleanses the local air and water. those traveling by foot across signboards describing the history of this area, and by rental car! the Kamiyoshida area, and of its significance in relation You’ve been here for a mere two minutes and you to Mount Fuji ascent and worship. You realize that the CLOSED: have already experienced two of this area’s greatest lack of gift and souvenir shops is made up for by the - Tuesdays assets. What’s next? tremendous cultural capital and history that exists here. - The day after holidays - December 28 ~ January 3 It is an untapped tourism goldmine and you’ve ventured here before many have dared to. This sensation will stay with you throughout your time here ENTRANCE FEE: as you navigate narrow side streets and pioneer areas - Adults : ￥100 perhaps never yet ventured by foreign tourists. - Children: ￥ 50 11 12 the SHIMOYOSHIDA/NEIGHBORHOODA RETRO AREA BELOVED BY LOCALS AND VISITORS ALIKE

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