Mount Fuji: Tips for Choosing the Perfect Time to Visit

Timeless Japanese Icon

At 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji is not only the highest mountain in Japan but also a sacred symbol in Japanese culture. The beauty of the peak changes dramatically through the seasons, offering different experiences for visitors, from conquering the peak in summer to admiring the snow-capped scenery from afar in winter.

The first snow of the season, or "hatsuyuki", is a much-anticipated event in Japan that signals the arrival of winter. However, in recent years, the phenomenon has tended to arrive later, a sign of the changing of the seasons in Japan.

The ideal time to explore Mount Fuji

Choosing when to visit depends entirely on the experience you are looking for. Each season brings out a different beauty in Mt.

Summer (July - September): Conquer the mountain peak

This is the official and safest climbing season. Every year, around 200,000 people make the journey to the summit to witness the sunrise from above – an experience considered sacred. The routes are well-maintained with rest stops, but visitors still need to be physically fit and dress appropriately for sudden temperature changes.

Spring and Fall: Viewing from afar

In spring (March - May) and autumn (October - November), the clear weather and little cloud cover are ideal conditions for fully enjoying the beauty of Mt. Fuji. Visitors can combine their trip with cherry blossom viewing or enjoying the red maple leaves. Places such as Lake Kawaguchiko in the Fuji Five Lakes region are the best places to see the beauty.

Tourists view Mount Fuji covered in the first snow of the season, from Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, October 23. Photo: Kyodo — Tourists view the first snow of the season on Mount Fuji, from Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, on October 23. Photo: Kyodo

Winter: The magical beauty of white snow

Winter brings the most iconic image of Mount Fuji, with its snow-capped peak standing out against the blue sky. Climbing during this time is restricted and only for experienced climbers with proper equipment. However, this is a great time to relax at onsen resorts and admire the mountain from afar.

A helicopter photo shows the first layer of snow covering Mount Fuji on October 23. Photo: Kyodo

Cultural and spiritual significance

In Shinto, Mount Fuji is worshiped as a deity. On the summit of the mountain is a shrine dedicated to the goddess Konohanasakuya-hime, the guardian deity of Mount Fuji. For the Japanese people, the first snow of the season is not only a natural phenomenon but also has a profound meaning, associated with the spirit of the sacred mountain.

Note for visitors

Getting there: The Mt. Fuji area is easily accessible by bus or train from Tokyo, with a travel time of approximately 2-3 hours.
Clothing: If climbing in summer, prepare layers of clothing as temperatures drop sharply at higher altitudes. For other seasons, warm clothing is necessary.
Weather: Always check the weather forecast before your trip. The mountain is often covered in clouds, so be patient to get the best photos.
Climate Impact: Global warming is changing Japan's seasons, which could affect snowfall and climbing conditions. Travelers should stay up-to-date with the latest information when planning.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/nui-phu-si-bi-quyet-chon-thoi-diem-hoan-hao-de-ghe-tham-397811.html