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To prevent Mount Fuji from falling victim to “overtourism” and to protect the local ecological environment, the Yamanashi Prefecture government in Japan has made a controversial decision this summer. They have installed gates along the Mount Fuji hiking routes to strictly control the number of hikers and the timing of hikes. This initiative has sparked a heated debate both domestically and internationally.
As a renowned landmark of Japan, Mount Fuji attracts thousands of hiking enthusiasts each year who seek the unparalleled thrill of conquering this majestic volcano. However, the frequent human activity has put pressure on Mount Fuji’s natural ecology, even posing the risk of “overtourism,” a severe issue that the local government cannot ignore.
After thorough research, the Yamanashi Prefecture tourism department decided to install an 8-meter-long, 1.8-meter-high iron gate at the fifth station of the Yoshida Trail, the main hiking route up Mount Fuji. This gate will enforce strict controls on the number of hikers and the hiking hours. The specific measures include closing the gate from 4 PM to 3 AM the following day to prohibit nighttime hiking. Additionally, if the number of hikers reaches 4,000 for the day, the gate will be closed earlier. All hikers must pay a 2,000 yen passage fee at a toll booth and wear a wristband resembling a “pass” before passing through the gate. This initiative aims to curb “bullet climbing” (hiking non-stop day and night) and manage the crowd during peak hiking periods, allowing Mount Fuji to recover and restore its damaged natural ecology. However, hikers who have reserved accommodation in the mountain huts are exempt from these restrictions and can pass freely.
In preparation for these regulations, the Japanese government has meticulously planned. They will conduct a simulation exercise on June 19, reenacting the entire process from ticket purchase and inspection to passing through the gate. This is to ensure that all procedural details are clear and to avoid any confusion during the official implementation.