We spent last weekend in the Mt. Fuji area making preparations for our group climb of Mt. Fuji later this month. Spectacular not only for the imposing volcano that looms large before you but also the all-around magical scenery and country atmosphere, a side-trip to Fuji from one of Japan’s urban centers will certainly recharge those spent batteries.
We welcome those onboard who wish to join us for our climb over the weekend of 25-26 August 2012. All proceeds will go to It’s Not Just Mud, a non-profit volunteer organization based in Ishinomaki that provides disaster relief and grass-roots support to those affected by the March 11 earthquake/tsunami/nuclear disasters. Please click here for more information about the climb and don’t forget to confirm your attendance by this Sunday, 12 August 2012 if you would like transport to/from Tokyo to be arranged for you and included in the price.
For those interested in visiting the area, whether to climb or not, look out for upcoming posts on our Fuji recommendations.
Here are some photos from our recent trip.
Yamanakako Flower Garden (Yamanakako Hanano-Miyako Koen), Mt. Fuji. Don’t really recommend this place as a must-see attraction but if you have a couple of spare hours and want to sit somewhere quiet for a while, it fits that bill. ¥500 entry for adults, ¥200 for children elementary to middle school (price is lowered during the colder months).
Majestic Mt. Fuji watches over the town of Fujiyoshida.
Mt. Fuji has “Stations” along the climbing trails where climbers can stop for amenities. They also let you know exactly how far up you are and act as “mini goals” when climbing – great motivators when you are feeling fatigued. Here we are at the Shrine at 5th Station, the largest of all the Stations at 2300 meters above sea level and the starting point for most climbers.
Entrance to the Shrine at 5th Station, Mt. Fuji.
5th Station, Mt. Fuji. Here you’ll find an information center, cafes/restaurants and shops to buy last minute items for climbing as well as souvenirs. You can drive to 5th station by car, however, the parking lot is almost always full and the traffic moves at a snail’s pace. You might want to consider parking at Fuji Hokuroku Parking Lot and taking the bus, or taking a bus service from elsewhere. Many people wanting to experience the mountain but do not wish to climb come to 5th station as a day-trip. You can do short, family-friendly hikes such as between 4th and 5th Stations. Provided it’s not full, there is parking en route to 5th station where you can park your car and enter hiking trails further down the mountain. Try to avoid weekends when possible. Please note that the Fuji Subaru Line (the road leading to 5th station) is closed to private vehicles during certain periods. For 2012 the dates are 16-18 July and 5-16 August. When the road is closed you can park at Fuji Hokuroku Parking Lot in Fujiyoshida (cost of ¥1000) and then take the bus (¥2000 round trip).
5th Station, Mt. Fuji. You can send a postcard from the 5th Station as well as the summit.
I’d been seeing this limited edition Salty Watermelon Pepsi in stores and curiosity got the best of me. A particularly hot day, I decided to give it a try. Japan is known for its bold flavors, which can be hit and miss, but I must say I’m hooked on this one.
5th Station, Mt. Fuji.
View from 5th Station, Mt. Fuji.
Information Center, 5th Station, Mt. Fuji.
Trail from 4th-5th Station, Mt. Fuji. What happens when we attempt jumping photos.
Trail from 4th-5th Station, Mt. Fuji.
Not long before you pay to enter the Fuji Subaru Line/Highway that will take you up to 5th Station (¥2000 per car), you will drive over a short section of rumble strips that when driven over vibrate and make sound. This isn’t a new concept but what is cool about the ones at Mt. Fuji is that they have been spaced at certain intervals to play a song called Fuji no Yama (ふじの山), a children’s song about Mt. Fuji. If you miss recording it on the way up, don’t worry, there is one around the same place on the other side of the road on the way down. Look out for the musical note painted on the road. Remember that the road is closed to private vehicles during certain periods so best to check before embarking on your journey.
worldview13
Sunday 30th of September 2012
Thank You for these wonderful photos. You are lucky. I was on Mount Fuji on 06.10.2009 but because of the fog I have not seen the mountain. Instead You've got a beautiful day.
tropicalflip
Wednesday 22nd of August 2012
These are wonderful photos! - they reminded me of when I lived in Japan. I love the colors of your photos.
katie buchan
Saturday 11th of August 2012
Lovely pictures- thanks for the motivation! I'm going to be climbing Fuji this week- but we can't decide whether to go by car or bus. How big is the carpark at Hokuroku? We're worried about what happens if we get there and it's full.... Thanks!
Jessica Korteman
Saturday 11th of August 2012
Thanks, Katie! The Hokuroku Parking Lot has a capacity of 1400 cars http://www.yamanashi-kankou.jp/kankou/traffic/parking/fujihokuroku_parking.html On the weekends especially, I can imagine it getting very busy but I guess it would depend on the day/time you are planning to go. Unfortunately there is no way to predict how busy it will be on the day. When are you planning to go and where are you traveling from?
cravesadventure
Friday 10th of August 2012
Great Post - Loved Your Beautiful Photos - thanks so much for sharing:)
Jessica Korteman
Sunday 12th of August 2012
Thank you! Thanks so much for stopping by and taking the time to read and comment. Much appreciated! :)
mysweatyshirt
Friday 10th of August 2012
I'm SO jealous. :P I love hiking! Mt. Fiji~ I need to go there. Thanks for this amazing post!
Jessica Korteman
Sunday 12th of August 2012
Thank you! You should definitely go and I'm sure you will! :)