We Tried It for You: Climbing Mount Fuji
- Published on : 19/06/2026
- by : A.B.
- Youtube
Mount Fuji Summit
@diloz on Flickr, CC BY 2.0
A Challenge to the Sacred Volcano
Japan Experience climbed the country's most sacred mountain, and is here to give you insight on the experience.
As the most sacred peak in Japan, many visitors come to admire Mount Fuji. Among them, the most courageous take on the challenge of climbing to its summit.
At Japan Experience, we carefully select activities that allow you to discover Japanese culture from the inside. These are experiences we’ve personally tested and approved, such as our “ Climb Mount Fuji" in Yamanashi Prefecture. Follow the team: our tour guide has climbed Mount Fuji!
Climbing with Jordan, a tour guide at Japan Experience
His outgoing personality naturally led him to a career working with the public. He joined the Japan Experience team as a tour guide, eager to help travelers discover Japan.
After spending several years in Japan, Jordan stands out for his in-depth knowledge of the country and the joy he takes in sharing his favorite spots, tips, and the country’s hidden gems!
What does he love about Japan? The country’s efficiency:
“Trains run on time, the healthcare system is excellent, and the food offers great value for the price.”
A pop culture enthusiast, Jordan has also been running his own import-export business specializing in manga and anime merchandise for several years.
Jordan, tour guide at Japan Experience!
@Japan Experience
A climb that’s more accessible than it seems
For Jordan, climbing Mount Fuji is above all a mental challenge: “You don’t have to be an athlete to make it to the top, ” he says . “You just have to go at your own pace, take breaks, and stay motivated. Once you reach the summit, the sense of accomplishment is truly worth it. Just DO IT.”
The hike begins at the lowest station (the 5th station) of one of the four hiking trails. You can complete the hike at your own pace: in one day or spread over two days, spending the night in a mountain hut on site.
“It all starts at the 5th station,” explains Jordan. “The trail is fairly well marked, and there are frequent rest stops and restrooms along the way. The ascent usually takes between 6 and 8 hours, while the descent takes about 2 to 3 hours.”
Our guide emphasizes the importance of gear and preparation:
“It’s a physically demanding activity, but you just have to take it one step at a time. You don’t need hiking poles or specialized gear, but good, comfortable shoes are essential.”
Climbing Mount Fuji
@Japan Experience
Climbing Mount Fuji
@Japan Experience
Explore the Mount Fuji region and more with Japan Experience!
What made the biggest impression on him was neither the climb nor the view from the summit, but the descent:
“All along the way, the ground is covered with small volcanic pebbles that are quite sharp and slippery, which makes the descent more difficult than you might think.”
To enjoy the most beautiful sunrise in Japan, it’s all about timing:
“You usually have to wake up around 3 a.m., since the sun rises very early in Japan.”
No matter what season you’re hiking in, you’ll need to dress warmly, as the nights are cool:
“The most important thing: pack warm clothes. You might start the hike in shorts, but at the summit—even in July—you might need mittens, a beanie, and a winter coat.”
The Japan Experience Activity: A 2-Day Climb of Mount Fuji
Climb Mount Fuji, Japan's highest and most sacred mountain, accompanied by a professional mountain guide.
You’ll be taken care of starting in Tokyo, and once there, you’ll follow the Subashiri trail, as it’s generally the least crowded.
You’ll spend the night in a mountain hut, then set out before dawn to complete the climb in time to watch the sunrise from the summit.
Mount Fuji Summit
@diloz on Flickr, CC BY 2.0
Included in the tour: Guide services (English-speaking), round-trip transportation from Tokyo, Shinjuku, or Gotemba, accommodations at Fujisan Hotel, 2 hot meals (on the evening of the first day and the morning of the second), and a drink at the 6th station.
Mount Fuji: A Region to Explore
In addition to climbing Mount Fuji, the surrounding areas offer a wealth of outdoor activities.
Around the five lakes of Mount Fuji, for example, you can enjoy the onsen (hot springs), go hiking in the forest, canoe, or fish on the lakes.
Tenzan Onsen
@Japan Onsen Explorer
Jordan also recommends the famous Fuji-Q Highland, a thrilling amusement park that offers beautiful views of the mountain:
“I recommend going to Fuji-Q Highland for the roller coasters and spending some time in Kawaguchiko to enjoy the scenery, the onsens, and the magnificent views of Mount Fuji!”
Discover Japan Experience's activities in the Mount Fuji region!
Tips from our guide for a great trip to Japan!
According to Jordan, don’t hesitate toset off on an adventure!
“I’d recommend renting a camper van and setting out to explore the country. There are sento bathhouses pretty much everywhere to wash up, 24-hour grocery stores for food, and plenty of clean, convenient places to sleep or take a break.”
As for his favorite region, head towestern Japan, to Hiroshima:
“I highly recommend Hiroshima. Despite its history, I find that this region offers an excellent balance: it has everything you need from a big city, without the overwhelming feel. It’s an area close to both the sea and the mountains.”
Want more news on Japan and Japan travel? Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on Instagram!
