3.8
(7)





Experience the majesty of Mount Fuji on a unique 2-day guided ascent with minimal crowds! Hike alongside Shinsaku, a local UIMLA certified guide who combines extensive Mount Fuji climbing knowledge with healthcare expertise, guaranteeing your safety and enhancing your enjoyment to the fullest.
Private
2 Days
Jul - Sep
Intermediate
Intermediate
Join me, a local UIMLA certified guide for a unique 2-day ascent of Mount Fuji!
Escape the peak season rush and experience the beauty of Mount Fuji in a more serene setting!
Our adventure begins at Shin-fuji Station - from there, we'll travel to the Fujinomiya 5th Station, where you'll have 1-2 hours to relax and adjust to the altitude. While you acclimatize, I will provide essential gear and safety instructions to make sure our ascent is a safe one.
Once prepped, we'll begin our ascent on the Fujinomiya trail's bypass path, trekking to our mountain hut for check-in and a delicious dinner.
An early start awaits on Day 2! We'll determine the wake-up time together, aiming to catch the glorious sunrise. We'll say goodbye to the mountain hut and prepare for the final push to the summit!
Celebrate your incredible achievement at the top, soaking in the sublime views and perhaps even circling the crater rim. Following our time at the peak, we'll begin our descent via the Gotemba Trail, returning to the 5th Station.
To soothe those tired muscles. we can also opt for a relaxing visit to a natural hot spring (onsen) on the way down. Finally, we'll reach the designated drop-off point, marking the successful completion of your unforgettable Mount Fuji adventure!
Let's conquer this legendary peak together! Hike alongside an experienced local guide who combines extensive Mount Fuji climbing experience with healthcare expertise. Just contact me and I'll handle the rest.
Meeting point
8:00 am: Meet up with the guide at the hotel in Shin-fuji station.
8:05 am: Departing for 5th station (Guide will drive)
9:15 am: Acclimatization while providing instructions
11:00 am: Entering the trail
15:00: Arrival at the mountain hut
17:00: Dinner
20:00 Lights off
4:30 am: Wake-up & Breakfast (Summit at sunrise is NOT in our itinerary)
5:30 am: Start ascending (3 hours to the summit)
7:30-8:30 am: Summit arrival (Circle around the crater, Shrine, post office and rest)
9:30 am: Start descending (4 Hours 30min to the trailhead)
12:00-12:30 pm: Arrival at the trailhead 5th station
Accommodation
We'll be staying in a traditional, cozy mountain hut.
Please note that the hut fee is not included and client is responsible for the accommodation cost. Also, Placing the payment to E-S does not mean securing the accommodation (mountain hut) Guide will check the availability and book upon confirmation of order.
Estimate accommodation cost: : JPY 10K for check-in weekday or Sunday
JPY 12K for check-in Saturday, July-14 and period between Aug-4 through 14th.
Disclaimer
If someone in the group develops the severe symptoms of suspected high altitude sickness, the guide will make a decision to descend the trail even if we don’t reach to the summit.
Previous, recent, regular and frequent hiking experience is required to attend this trip. Especially off season, the guide will assess the client ability to complete the full distance and their background. Failure to comply with guide’s instructions about preparation may result in alternative activities without the cancellation.
The guide may decide to turn back or use an evacuation route when necessary due to adverse weather conditions, earthquakes, volcanic activity, or client performance.
Clients are responsible for all accommodation costs, including those of the guide.
In unexpected circumstances requiring an extended stay in the mountains, clients will be responsible for additional costs at the mountain hut, including the guide’s expenses.
Clients are responsible for cancellation costs for reserved huts if the group cannot reach the planned accommodation.
All instructions given by the guide must be followed at all times.
The guide reserves the right to refuse service to anyone deemed unfit for participation in the activities.
If the required gear is not brought as listed, clients will not be allowed to join the trip. The guide may request clients to buy or rent the necessary gear before heading to the trailhead. Any additional transportation costs for detours to rental or outdoor shops will be charged to the client.
The guide reserves the right to cancel or reschedule a climb if weather conditions do not allow for a safe trip. If you cannot attend the rescheduled climb, you are eligible for a refund.
The guide is not responsible for any loss or damage to personal property during activities. It is recommended to pack belongings in a dry bag and store fragile items in proper cases.
If a participant is not fit enough to reach the planned hut or summit, the guide may ask them to stop the climb and return to the trailhead or nearest hut.
During the guided ascent, clients must stay with the group and follow the guide at all times. If a client attempts to leave the group or goes missing, the guide will file a missing report with the local police and initiate a search effort. The guide will also make efforts to locate the individual until the group safely returns to the trailhead.
Summit at sunrise ascent will not be offered in this trip.
Essential gear list:
High top boots Helmet Backpack (20-30L) with rain cover Hydration (1L or similar) Waterproof rain jacket & pants (Gore-Tex preferred) Trekking poles Headlamp Fully charged Sunscreen & Lip balm Sunglasses Extra clothes in Ziplock bag (underwear, socks, shirt, towel) Fully charged Power bank Day hike food such as Rice balls, power bars, chocolate Travel Insurance Gloves (optional) Hat or cap Synthetic base layer Insulation as mid layer (Freece) 100 yen coins (for bathroom JPY200 each use) Passport Medicine (such as pain relief) Towel Gaiters Toothbrush Down jacket
What experience and how fit do I need to be to climb this mountain? Is this program suitable for children or older people?
[Eligibility to Participate]
Participants must be between 15 and 65 years old and in good general health. Those outside this range may be accepted on a case-by-case basis—please consult your guide or trip coordinator in advance.
This trip is designed for hikers who engage in recent, regular, and frequent hiking or physical activity. All participants will undergo a thorough pre-screening to assess their current ability to complete the 2-day ascent.
-- Day 1 involves approximately 4 hours of hiking with significant elevation gain.
-- Day 2 consists of a 3-hour ascent and 3-hour descent, requiring sustained endurance.
While no technical climbing or mountaineering experience is needed, a strong level of physical fitness and endurance is essential. We evaluate current readiness—not past achievements—based on recent fitness activity and physical condition.
Participants over 65 years old must provide verifiable evidence of their current fitness level (e.g., Strava, Garmin, or other fitness data).
In the event of a medical emergency, evacuation may be significantly delayed due to the mountain's remoteness.
The guide reserves the right to turn back any participant showing signs of difficulty—such as an inability to maintain pace, gait instability, or signs of altitude-related distress. No refunds will be issued in such cases.
To ensure safety and maximize summit success, we only accept individuals or groups who demonstrate a high likelihood of completing the climb under these conditions.
Do you offer hiking tours besides Mt. Fuji? Or tours that can be combined with a Mt. Fuji ascent?
Yes! If you have at least three days, I highly recommend the Hakuba Three Peaks Circuit in the Japanese Alps. This 3-day trek offers breathtaking alpine scenery, a chance to experience Japanese mountain culture in a traditional hut, and expert guidance to ensure a safe and rewarding adventure. Learn more: https://www.explore-share.com/trip/Hakuba-Three-Peaks-Circuit-Japanese-Alps/
What is the average daily hiking duration and elevation gain during the trek?
This hike involves approximately 4 hours of physical activity on Day 1 and 7 hours on Day 2. If you are unsure about completing the ascent in a single day, we recommend choosing the 2-day hike with an overnight hut stay. While this option reduces the risks associated with high altitude and is more suitable for those with less hiking experience, we strongly encourage you to train before traveling to Japan. To build endurance, consider a preparatory hike with significant ascent and descent.
The elevation gain from the 5th station to the summit of Mount Fuji is approximately 1,500 meters (4,921 feet). The risk of developing altitude sickness increases with rapid elevation gain. Staying at the hut may help your body acclimate, and the guide will monitor your condition while assisting with acclimatization. A gradual ascent and proper breathing techniques, taught by the guide, can help minimize symptoms caused by low oxygen levels at high elevations.
For important advice on high-altitude travel, please refer to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website by searching "Travel to High Altitudes CDC" in your browser.
Can we view the sunrise from the summit during this trip ?
While summiting at sunrise is a popular goal for many climbers, our standard itinerary prioritizes viewing the sunrise from the hut, typically located around the 8th station. Ascending from the 8th station at 2 AM or earlier carries significant risks, including falling rocks, slips, injuries, and an increased likelihood of altitude sickness due to lack of sleep.
If you are interested in the optional "Summit at Sunrise Ascent," please consult your guide upon reaching the hut on Day 1. However, this option may not be available if the weather conditions or forecast indicate severe conditions, the group's overall physical performance is inadequate, or if a participant exhibits serious symptoms of altitude sickness.
The optional ascent requires an additional fee of JPY 100,000 excluding tax and transaction fee, payable via tap-to-pay credit card or Apple Pay.
Where will you pick me up on the morning of our climb?
The pick-up location is flexible if your booked hotel is located within the Mount Fuji area, including Fujiyoshida, Kawaguchiko, Gotemba, Mishima, or Shin-Fuji. If you are traveling from Tokyo Station via bullet train, the guide will pick you up at Mishima or Shin-Fuji Station at around 8 AM. Exceptions apply if the number of people in the group exceeds 4, due to vehicle restrictions. Please consult your guide or coordinator for details.
Please note that pick-ups are NOT offered from Tokyo or the Hakone area due to concerns about heavy traffic, which may significantly impact our itinerary. If you have any concerns regarding transportation, please consult with the coordinator when inquiring about the trip.
If your gear is found to be insufficient upon meet-up and requires additional rentals or purchases, the guide may need to make an unplanned detour to Fujiyoshida City, provided that our scheduled meet-up is outside of Fujiyoshida. In such cases, an additional fee will apply. The cost for a detour of up to one hour is JPY 30,000 including tax, payable via tap-to-pay credit card or Apple Pay. Please communicate with your guide beforehand to avoid this situation.
Where will our trip end?
The guide will provide transportation to the nearest station, Shin-Fuji, at no additional cost after the hike concludes.
If you wish to return to other locations such as Fujiyoshida City or the Kawaguchiko area, an additional fee of JPY 30,000 (including tax) will apply, payable via tap-to-pay credit card or Apple Pay.
Do you know of any rental gear providers? I’d like to minimize my luggage weight.
Yes, we provide information about a rental gear provider called Yamarent, along with an exclusive 10% discount code for clients who book a trip with us. To be eligible for the discount, you must make a reservation online in advance.
If you have the opportunity to visit the Yamarent rental shop in Tokyo or Fujiyoshida before your trip, you can try on and pick up your gear there. If visiting in person is not possible, they offer the option to ship the gear directly to your hotel or to the 5th station of the Fujinomiya Trail, where we will begin our ascent. Please ensure you select the correct trailhead, as mistakenly choosing a different location may result in missing your gear. If this happens, the itinerary may be significantly affected, requiring a return trip to Yamarent in Fujiyoshida. Any associated costs, such as hut cancellations and additional transportation, will be invoiced. To avoid this, please share your reservation information with your guide beforehand.
Regardless of your climbing date, please ensure all necessary gear is prepared in advance to allow sufficient time for the climb and to ensure a successful trip.
Returning the gear is a straightforward process, and our guides are familiar with the procedure.
What happens in the event of bad weather?
Mount Fuji stands alone without surrounding peaks, making its weather highly unpredictable. Reaching the summit is not always possible due to strong winds, lightning, or heavy rain. In such cases, the guide may decide to turn back for safety reasons. If the hike is cut significantly short, the guide may offer an alternative activity based on an on-site discussion with the client.
Only clients who understand and accept the possibility of itinerary changes or an early descent based on the guide’s judgment are eligible to participate in this trip. Cancellation due to severe weather will occur only in the event of a significant typhoon directly impacting the region or if an official weather warning is issued; otherwise, the ascent will proceed as planned. The trip will not be canceled in advance unless a typhoon or an official weather warning poses a direct threat to the area.
Can I join a group?
No, only private tours are available to ensure better group management.
What is the best time of year for this hike?
We are accepting bookings from July 1 through September 10. Since we are a team of guides, if my availability is fully booked, I will assign one of my experienced fellow guides to lead you or your group.
If you are interested in a post-season 2-day ascent, please consider our sister tour, "Off-season Ascent of Mount Fuji in Japan," available until October 10. This tour follows the Subashiri Trail. https://www.explore-share.com/trip/off-season-ascent-Mount-Fuji-Japan/
How can I get to the trailhead/meeting point?
The guide will pick you up from your hotel in Fujiyoshida, Gotemba, Mishima, or Shin-Fuji at no additional cost. If you are traveling from Tokyo Station on the morning of Day 1, pick-up is available at either Mishima or Shin-Fuji Station at around 8 AM. Please plan your trip accordingly and purchase your bullet train ticket in advance.
Elopement in Mount Fuji : Can we have a photographer, videographer, or porter in addition to the guide for our special elopement-style experience ?
Yes, we can arrange for a photographer, videographer, or porter in addition to the guide for your special elopement-style experience. Please let us know your specific requests, such as the type of coverage you’d like (photo, video, or both) and any special moments you want to capture.
Additional costs will apply, depending on the service provider’s availability and the logistics involved. If you're interested, we recommend making arrangements in advance to ensure availability. Let us know how we can help make your elopement experience unforgettable!
Where can we store our large luggage while we are climbing the mountain?
The hotel will store your luggage until we return from the mountain, even after checkout. A recommended place to stay in Shin-Fuji is "Toyoko Inn Shin-Fuji-eki Minami-guchi," which can be booked through Booking.com or similar platforms. In Mishima, "Fujisan Mishima Tokyu Hotel" or "Dormy Inn Mishima" has been popular among my clients in the past. After you pick up your luggage in Mishima or Shinfuji, you can proceed to your next destination by bullet train, such as Kyoto, Tokyo, or Osaka.
Are there any special requirements, such as permits, insurance, or vaccines, that I should consider before the tour?
No permits are required for this trip. However, a fee of JPY 4000 per person will be required when entering the trail between July 10 and September 10, as per the new regulations. It is strongly recommended that you have international travel insurance to cover potential medical expenses, including hospital admission, treatment, and repatriation to your home country in case of an emergency. Travel insurance can provide significant financial protection in unforeseen situations. While no specific vaccines are required for this trip, having an updated tetanus shot within the last 5 to 10 years may be beneficial, as there is a risk of injuries involving dirt or rough terrain. In case of minor injuries, we will provide basic first aid during the trip.
What is your role as a hiking guide?
As a hiking guide, my primary responsibility is to ensure your safety, well-being, and enjoyment throughout the journey. I offer expert guidance on navigation, pacing, and techniques for overcoming challenging terrain, while also providing preventive measures to avoid potential risks. I ensure that the group adheres to proper hiking practices, including appropriate clothing, hydration, nutrition, rest breaks, and the selection of essential items for your backpack.
In addition to my guiding role, I serve as an English-Japanese interpreter and a registered nurse, ready to address any health concerns that may arise during the trip. I also share valuable insights into the environment, the volcano, cultural nuances, and the history of the area, enhancing your overall experience. My goal is to ensure you return safely while providing a memorable and enriching adventure.
4.5
(32)
Guide Agency
Languages
English | Japanese
Certificates
JMGA | UIMLA
Baskar
We did a 2-day Mount Fuji On Season Ascent in Japan group tour of 3 families with Hama & Guides’ Team. Our experience with this guide was so bad. He constantly pushed his to claim the entire with very little breaks. Also, one of the hiker had a severe sprain that needed attention and he refused to stop for 40 minutes to give her basic attention and medication citing safety to stop. He may call himself a certified guide. However, he is definitely not the friendly guide. Also, he left us stranded at the 5th station instead of dropping us at the train station like original plan. He brought a 5 pages contract and made me sign right before taking the hike. Guide made us pay for his stay at the base station hut and for his usage of rest room. Zero customer friendly guide and will not recommend him.
Gabrielle
Hama provided an exceptionally safe, enjoyable and successful hike to the summit of Mt Fuji and return to the 5th Station for our family including our 10 year old son! Hama was informative the entire trek providing factual information about Mt Fuji, helped me descend the summit when I was becoming anxious, whilst keeping track of our itinerary and return time to make our next flight! We throughly enjoyed this once in a life time experience and could not have completed the trek if it was not for our professional, respectful guide Hama!! So very thankful and grateful.


Dorian
I recently booked a guided two-day hike to Mt. Fuji and was incredibly fortunate to be paired with Hama as our guide. Simply put—Hama was the best guide I’ve ever had. From start to finish, he was knowledgeable, resourceful, and deeply committed to our safety and well-being. He knew the trails like the back of his hand, set a great pace for our group, and always made sure we were well taken care of. What impressed me even more was that Hama is also a registered nurse. When my father-in-law experienced some issues with his toe, Hama stepped in and handled it with care and professionalism. He went above and beyond throughout the trip—constantly checking on us, making sure we had what we needed, and ensuring we were mentally and physically ready for the challenge ahead. One thing that really stood out was how thoroughly he prepared us before the hike. He did a full gear and fitness checklist with us, making sure we were truly ready. A word of advice to future hikers: this is a physically demanding hike, and being unprepared can result in your guide turning you back for your own safety. Hama takes this responsibility seriously, and it’s part of what makes him such an outstanding guide. This was, hands down, one of the best experiences I’ve had—and Hama was a huge part of that. If I could give ten stars out of five, I would. Highly recommended!




Peter
First of all I want to say that our guide was experienced, well prepared, checked the weather conditions and climbing options to the mountain peak. He was very much concerned about safety as well. On the other hand he strictly followed his plan and did not show empathy and understanding for us as his clients. We didn't have a good start when checking the equipment - of course he has the experience but denying to take some more warm clothing was exaggerated. That caused already some discomfort before even starting the ascend. This discomfort built during the climb since our guide was not taking our wishes into account. He tried to control all aspects of the climb (possibly due to safety concerns) and did not seem to understand that i.e. from time to time a short stop to enjoy the view does not cause harm. It seemed that any deviation from his plan was not expected and acceptable which led to several occurences when he treated my wife disrespectfully and led to the point that he stopped comminicating with her at all and only talked to me and through me. At least we did not have an open argument but the situation became very uncomfortable to us. At that point we decided that we cannot continue and stopped the ascend after quite a short time and returned. Overall it was an unpleasant experience, I try to attribute the friction we experienced to cultural differences and lack of empathy. Nevertheless I think our guide is doing well with a group of travellers that are willing to strictly follow his instructions and his plan - but if you expect some individuality he may not be the right person for you.
Frederick
Hama was a great guide and made sure to take care of everything for the trip. He was helpful before, during, and after the trip by accommodating my requests and last minute change of plans, his communication was great and always remained in contact leading up to the trip. This was an adventure that I will remember the rest of my life and would certainly recommend anyone looking to climb Fuji to go with Hama!
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