Managing Overcrowding at Mount Fuji with Visitor Cap and Entry Fee

Mount Fuji, a symbol of Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is implementing new rules for climbers due to worries about overcrowding.

Issues such as overcrowding, trash on the foothills, and poorly dressed hikers - including some in sandals - are causing problems at this famous Japanese destination.

To reduce overcrowding on Mount Fuji, the Yamanashi prefectural government has decided to implement a fee of 2,000 yen ($13) for each climber from now on.

Koutaro Nagasaki, the governor of Yamanashi Prefecture, stated that by implementing strict safety measures for climbing Mount Fuji, they aim to preserve this world treasure for future generations.

To bring back traditional mountain climbing at Mount Fuji, we aim to explore the Fuji-ko and Oshi culture that have long been associated with worshiping the mountain. These cultural aspects will be connected to the mountain climbing experience, as they are deeply ingrained in the religious values of the region.

Fuji-ko is a religion that is unique to the mountain and plays a significant role in the local culture.

Toshiaki Kasai, a representative from the World Heritage Fuji Division in Yamanashi Prefecture, mentioned to CNN that there will be a daily limit of 4,000 climbers enforced by the local prefecture.

Furthermore, new guides will be introduced to ensure safety on the trails. These guides will help climbers understand and follow proper etiquette on the mountain, such as refraining from sleeping beside the trail, starting fires, or wearing inappropriate clothing.

In recent years, it has become evident that the 3,776-meter (12,388-foot) mountain is facing challenges due to an excessive number of visitors, although Kasai did not specifically mention the term "overtourism."

This 2023 photo shows a crowd of visitors beginning their Mount Fuji ascents.

This 2023 photo shows a crowd of visitors beginning their Mount Fuji ascents.

Mathiad Cena/AFP/Getty Images

According to data from the prefecture, five million people climbed Mount Fuji in 2019, which is an increase of three million from 2012.

Masatake Izumi, an official from the Yamanashi prefectural government, highlighted that overtourism is the main issue affecting Mount Fuji. This has led to problems such as litter, higher CO2 emissions, and irresponsible hikers.

In 2023, a volunteer named Tomoyo Takahashi shared with CNN her initiative to encourage visitors to donate 1,000 yen ($7.50) for the upkeep of the mountain.

She expressed her disappointment that not everyone contributes the 1,000 yen, stating her belief that a higher mandatory entrance fee should be implemented to ensure that only those who genuinely value Mount Fuji's heritage visit.

Now, Takahashi will get her wish.

Related article

‘Geisha paparazzi’ are back in Kyoto – and the Japanese city is ready to take action

Japan’s tourism headaches

Overtourism has become a growing problem in Japan ever since the country reopened after the pandemic.

Locals in Kyoto's historic Gion quarter are worried about the increasing number of tourists who visit to take photos and sometimes bother the geisha who reside and work there, leading to them being called “geisha paparazzi.”

Some locals in the city feel that the signs and placards asking visitors not to photograph geisha are not sufficient. The neighborhood council has suggested issuing fines or tickets as a possible solution.

In Hatsukaichi, a small town in Hiroshima prefecture, the famous orange "floating shrine" torii gate has also been affected. The town is part of a 1,400-year-old Shinto complex.

Starting in October 2023, visitors to the shrine are now required to pay a small fee of 100 yen (equivalent to 33 cents). This fee, known as the "tourist tax," is used for the upkeep and maintenance of the shrine and its facilities.

A special mention to CNN’s Emiko Jozuka and Hanako Montgomery for their contributions to this report.

Editor's P/S:

The article highlights the growing concerns over overcrowding and environmental degradation on Mount Fuji, a revered symbol of Japan. The implementation of new measures, including a mandatory fee for climbers, aims to preserve the mountain's natural beauty and cultural significance. As a traveler, I appreciate the efforts to protect this iconic landmark. However, I urge visitors to adopt responsible practices, such as respecting the mountain's sacred status, properly disposing of waste, and following designated trails. By working together, we can ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the majesty of Mount Fuji.

The article also sheds light on the larger issue of overtourism in Japan. While tourism can bring economic benefits, it's crucial to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving local communities and natural resources. Initiatives like introducing tourist taxes and enforcing regulations can help mitigate the negative impacts of overtourism. It's essential for authorities and tourism operators to work hand in hand to find sustainable solutions that benefit both visitors and local residents.