In an awe-inspiring display of endurance and spirit, a 90-year-old Japanese man has etched his name into the history books by becoming the oldest person ever to conquer the mighty Mount Fuji.
Kokichi Akuzawa, a sprightly nonagenarian from Chino, Nagano prefecture, reached the summit of Japan's most iconic peak at 3,776 metres (12,388 feet) on Tuesday, July 2nd. His monumental achievement has been officially verified by the Guinness World Records, shattering the previous record held by an 86-year-old.
'I'm the happiest man on Earth,' an elated Mr. Akuzawa proclaimed after his descent, his energy belying his years. 'I want to continue challenging myself as long as I am healthy.'
The ascent was far from a leisurely stroll. Akuzawa embarked on his record-breaking quest from the fifth station on the Yoshida trail, a traditional starting point that still leaves a formidable climb of over 1.5 kilometres in elevation gain. Battling thin air and rugged terrain, he completed the round trip in a remarkable two days, a testament to his incredible physical conditioning and mental fortitude.
This was not Akuzawa's first rodeo on the sacred mountain. A seasoned climber, he has now summited Fuji an impressive ten times, with his first victory over the volcano coming at the youthful age of 77. His story is one of relentless passion and a refusal to be defined by age.
A spokesperson for Guinness World Records confirmed the certification, stating, 'We can confirm that Kokichi Akuzawa has broken the record for the oldest person to climb Mount Fuji.' The organisation is renowned for recognising extraordinary human feats across the globe.
Akuzawa's astounding feat serves as a powerful inspiration, proving that age is merely a number and that incredible goals remain within reach. His triumph on the slopes of Fuji is a celebration of human potential and the enduring power of a determined spirit.
