When to climb Mount Fuji? 登山シーズン

Summer, the official season

The official Mount Fuji ascent season takes place between early July and mid-September , with specific dates subject to change depending on weather conditions. For 2018, the various trails are open from July 10 to September 10, except for the Yoshida trail, the most popular, which opens on July 1. This season is the most suitable for climbing , with the various refuges open along the trails and above all much more pleasant weather conditions.

However, do not forget that even in summer, the temperature at the top is on average between 5 and 8 ° C, and that the gales can be particularly refreshing, even chilling!

Crowds to avoid

The two or so months of official opening can seem like a rather limited window on the whole year. And certain times of the summer period are indeed to be avoided if you do not want to be caught in the crowd . Thus, weekends and holidays attract the most visitors, especially during the long weekend of the o-bon festival in August. To avoid the crowds, it is rather advisable to embark on the adventure at the beginning of July, or during the month of September when the students are back on the school benches, the adults at work and the tourists have completed their journey. .

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Sunrise or sunset?

The budding climbers ascend Mount Fuji with the desire to attend the summit either at sunrise or at sunset, two breathtaking images. If ever the sunrise tempts you - the most popular option - know that the sun begins to cross the horizon between 4:30 a.m. ~ 5:30 a.m. and that the average climb time is estimated at 6 hours (although you can get to the top before ). Leave the 5th station around 8 p.m. for more peace of mind . Likewise with the sun setting around 6-7pm, it is advisable to leave from the 5th station around 10am in this case.

What about winter?

Outside of this season, climbing Mount Fuji is not recommended . Even if you want to think outside the box and avoid the crowds, be aware that exercise is dangerous. In addition to the cold, the mountain slopes are covered with ice, and as a lonely mountain, the trails of Mount Fuji are windswept. In addition, the shelters are closed. Enough to encourage caution!

• Read also: Views of Mount Fuji: 5 places to see it better