Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic peak and a UNESCO World Heritage site, has long attracted climbers from around the world. However, its growing popularity has brought serious concerns, from overcrowding to environmental degradation. To address these issues, authorities in Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures, which share the mountain, have introduced stricter measures for the upcoming 2025 climbing season.
One of the most significant changes is the implementation of a mandatory 4,000 yen ($27) climbing fee. This fee, which is double the amount introduced in 2024, aims to support conservation efforts and manage the high volume of visitors. In addition to paying the fee, climbers must reserve a slot in advance, as the number of daily visitors will be capped at 4,000. This limit is designed to reduce congestion on the trails and minimize environmental impact.
Governor Koutaro Nagasaki of Yamanashi Prefecture emphasized the importance of these measures, stating that they are crucial to preserving Mount Fuji for future generations. Authorities hope that the combination of a fee increase and visitor restrictions will deter unprepared or casual climbers while ensuring that those who make the journey do so responsibly.
Another new requirement is a short safety class and test for climbers starting their ascent from Shizuoka Prefecture, which provides access to three of Mount Fuji’s four main trails. Officials have observed that many climbers arrive without proper hiking gear, including those wearing sandals or lacking sufficient water and protective clothing. The safety test is meant to ensure that all hikers understand the risks associated with the climb and follow essential guidelines.
Furthermore, new time restrictions will be enforced to prevent a practice known as “bullet climbing,” where hikers attempt to ascend and descend the mountain in a single day without adequate rest. To discourage this dangerous trend, the trails will be closed between 2 p.m. and 3 a.m. for those who have not booked an overnight stay in one of the mountain huts. These huts, located along the trails, offer a resting place for climbers who wish to break up the journey into a safer and more manageable two-day trip.
Japan is not alone in facing the challenges of overtourism. Other popular destinations across the country have also begun implementing measures to control tourist numbers. The Itsukushima Shrine, home to the famous “floating” torii gate near Hiroshima, introduced an entry fee in 2023 to manage the influx of visitors. Meanwhile, the winter resort town of Otaru has had to hire security personnel to regulate crowds.
Beyond Japan, other parts of the world are also struggling to find a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving their cultural and natural heritage. From heavily congested European cities to ecologically fragile sites in Southeast Asia, governments are increasingly resorting to entry fees, timed visits, and stricter regulations to manage tourism’s impact.
As authorities continue to refine their approach to sustainable tourism, Mount Fuji’s new regulations serve as a test case for how famous landmarks can remain accessible while protecting their natural beauty and historical significance.
