MOUNT FUJI TRAIL FEES DOUBLE—VISITORS KEEP COMING
Revenue surge despite higher price
Yamanashi Prefecture said entrance fees on Mount Fuji’s popular Yoshida Trail generated ¥590 million this season, more than double last year after the per-climber charge rose from ¥2,000 to ¥4,000. Despite the increase, visitor numbers for the July–early September period were largely unchanged, suggesting demand remains resilient for Japan’s most famous peak. Officials said proceeds will fund crowd control, trail repairs, and safety measures.
Managing overtourism and safety
Authorities introduced caps and more checkpoints this year to curb congestion and reduce litter, following complaints about “bullet climbing” attempts without proper gear. Local leaders argue higher fees and stricter rules are necessary to protect fragile alpine terrain and emergency services. Tourism groups are watching whether similar measures could expand to other routes next season as climate and overtourism pressures persist.
