At nearly 80 years old, Martyn Bould MBE set his sights on Japan's most iconic peak: Mount Fuji. This wasn't just another tick off a bucket list. It was a personal and physical challenge tied to a powerful purpose: raising funds for the Cayman Islands Red Cross.
With previous summits of Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua behind him, Martyn turned to Explore-Share to find the right certified local guide for this adventure. On August 28, 2025, he reached the 3,776-meter summit of Mount Fuji with the expert guidance of Chikako ("Chika"), and with a message of resilience, generosity, and inspiration for generations to come.
Why Climb Mount Fuji at 80?
"I love a challenge," Martyn told us. "And Mount Fuji is such an iconic and sacred mountain—it was a natural next mountain to climb."
This two-day climb, though shorter in duration than his past expeditions, required the same level of preparation, commitment, and discipline.
Training for a Guided Mount Fuji Climb
Starting in May 2025, Martyn committed to a rigorous training routine: he gave up his daily glass of wine, dropped 20 pounds, and intensified his fitness regimen with step training, weighted packs, and daily workouts, often climbing the 120 steps of Camana Bay’s Observation Tower.
What to Expect on a 2-Day Yoshida Trail Mount Fuji Tour
"While the elevation is lower than Kilimanjaro and Aconcagua, the pitch and underfoot terrain of very uneven volcanic rock made it more challenging," Martyn said.
He and Chika began their climb from the 5th Station on the Yoshida Trail. They spent the night at the Taishiken Hut on the 8th station, before making a cold, dark summit push at midnight. After 10+ hours of climbing and 5,025 vertical feet gained, Martyn stood under the summit Torii gate at sunrise.
"The view above the clouds was unforgettable," he said. "And the last few steps to the summit, Chika literally pulled my 89kg, 1.905m body to the top."
The Role of a Certified Local Guide in Japan
Martyn credits much of the climb’s success to Chika’s professionalism and care.
"Chika is an outstanding professional guide. She’s extremely knowledgeable and takes time to explain local customs and culture. Her focus is on safety and pacing the climb so it’s enjoyable. Connecting with such talented people across the globe is not easy, but this is where Explore-Share comes in. What a brilliant resource."
Climbing for a Cause: Red Cross Fundraising
This climb wasn’t just for the views. Martyn dedicated the journey to fundraising for the Cayman Islands Red Cross.
"After hurricanes, I see firsthand the devastation people face, no water, no electricity, no communication. The Red Cross brings order. They’re often the first to respond. Their support is essential, and they need ours."
Martyn’s hope is that his journey brings visibility to the Red Cross’s work, even in times of calm. "If a 'mature citizen' climbing mountains keeps their mission top of mind, I’ve done my part."
Support the cause: Donate to the Climb for Red Cross
Life Lessons from Mount Fuji Summit
Martyn’s journey doesn’t stop at the summit. His upcoming book, More Than Just the Climb: Life’s Lessons Well Learned (Unicorn Publishing Group), reflects on six decades of life in the Caribbean, his work in cultural preservation, and the wisdom he’s gathered through travel, marriage, and mountaineering.
"The mountains teach us respect, peace, and the value of nature. Having a great guide not only keeps you safe, it helps you experience the climb more fully."
Asked what advice he would give to others, Martyn quoted a favorite line: "Youth is not a time of life—it is a state of mind."
What’s Next for Martyn Bould?
Martyn isn’t slowing down. He’s already planning his next adventures, including trails in Dominica, Bulgaria, and Australia’s Mount Kosciuszko.
As for peaks still on his bucket list? “All the ones I haven’t climbed.”
And his message to the next generation?
“Look after your health; maintain your fitness. Listen more than you speak. There are no stupid questions. Treat everyone fairly and with respect. And keep climbing.”
Explore-Share is proud to support adventurers like Martyn and to help people around the world connect with certified, local mountain guides who make these journeys possible.
Planning Your Own Mount Fuji Climb
If Martyn’s story inspires you, here are some practical considerations for climbing Mount Fuji:
- Best season: July to early September (official climbing season, although off-season ascents are also an option for more experienced hikers)
- Popular route: Yoshida Trail, with huts for overnight stays
- Duration: 2 days (with overnight at a mountain hut) is the most common
- Fitness level: Moderate — while not highly technical, the climb demands stamina
- Guides: Hiring a certified local guide ensures safety, cultural insight, and pacing
👉 Learn more about booking your own guided Mount Fuji climb
👉 Discover Martyn’s book: More Than Just the Climb – Life’s Lessons Well Learned
