Facing an unprecedented crisis of overtourism and environmental degradation, Japanese authorities have been forced to take drastic action at one of the world's most iconic landmarks. Mount Fuji, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is implementing a radical new management plan for the upcoming climbing season to tackle dangerous overcrowding and rampant pollution.
The centrepiece of the new strategy is a permanent, imposing black barrier installed at the entrance to the Yoshida Trail on the Yamanashi prefecture side. This physical barrier, coupled with a strict gate system, will be used to enforce a daily cap of 4,000 climbers. Access will be denied once this limit is reached.
Financial and Environmental Cost of Access
Climbers aiming to conquer the Yoshida Trail will now face a mandatory fee of ¥2,000 (approximately £10). This is not a simple entrance fee; officials have clarified that the charge is specifically for conservation efforts, funding much-needed measures to protect the mountain's fragile ecosystem and manage the overwhelming volume of waste left by visitors.
The situation reached a tipping point last year when a staggering 221,322 climbers ascended the volcano during the July-September season. On certain days, the trails became so congested that they resembled urban rush hour, creating what officials termed 'bullet climb' conditions—dangerous, rushed ascents by unprepared day-trippers.
Beyond the Summit: A Multi-Pronged Approach
The new regulations extend beyond the famous climbing routes. In a bid to manage the sheer volume of sightseers, the local government will also begin charging visitors ¥1,000 (£5) to enter a popular viewing platform for the mountain. This move aims to thin the crowds that descend on the area, often contributing to traffic chaos and littering without ever setting foot on a trail.
These measures represent a significant shift in how Japan manages its natural treasures. The focus has moved from promoting tourism at all costs to implementing sustainable practices that prioritise preservation and safety. The world will be watching closely to see if this bold strategy can save Mount Fuji from being loved to death.
