TOKYO – In an effort to combat overtourism on Mount Fuji, Japanese authorities announced on Monday the introduction of an online booking system for the mountain’s most popular trail.
The initiative comes as Japan’s highest peak faces increasing crowds during the summer hiking season, raising safety and environmental concerns. To mitigate these issues, the Yamanashi region plans to limit daily entries to the Yoshida Trail to 4,000 hikers, who will each be charged 2,000 yen.
To address climbers’ concerns about being turned away after reaching the daily limit, this year will see the debut of online bookings, ensuring guaranteed access through a new gate. “This will allow hikers to plan ahead,” said Katsuhiro Iwama, an official from the Yamanashi regional government, in a statement to AFP.
The online booking system will open on May 20 for the July-September hiking season. A minimum of 1,000 spots will be reserved each day for those seeking on-the-spot entry.
Mount Fuji, usually snow-covered, attracts over 220,000 visitors during the summer, with many making the strenuous climb to its 3,776-meter summit to witness the sunrise. The influx of climbers, some of whom attempt the ascent without breaks, often results in sickness or injury.
The mountain’s popularity also burdens surrounding areas, as tourists flock to capture its scenic beauty. In response, officials at a popular photo spot near a Lawson convenience store are erecting a large black mesh barrier to obstruct the view, following complaints of trespassing, littering, and hazardous road crossings by predominantly foreign tourists.
Japan has seen a surge in international tourism, with March marking the first time monthly visitors surpassed three million. This rise in tourism has also impacted other regions, such as Kyoto’s geisha district, where residents have restricted access to private alleys after reports of tourists rudely demanding selfies with traditionally dressed entertainers.