Mount Fuji, Hiking from Sea to Summit

The optimal time for this hike is from the end of September to the beginning of October, as temperatures in lower elevations, including urban areas, begin to drop during this period. It is advisable to avoid July and August due to the increased risk of heat-related health issues. Hydration and nutrition are of paramount importance, particularly in remote areas such as forests, where water sources and food supplies are unavailable. Ensuring an adequate supply of both water and food is essential for the safety and success of the hike.

We will book a cozy, authentic Japanese-style accommodation called "Kikusui" in Fujinomiya City, located near the Fujisan Hongu Sengen Shrine and Wakutama Pond, for the entire duration of our trip. Kikusui can accommodate large groups and guide while maintaining privacy. After each section of the hike, we will return to the accommodation. A kitchen is available if you prefer to cook your own meals, or you can visit nearby restaurants and shopping malls to purchase food and supplies for the next day. Please note that booking accommodation is the client's responsibility and is not included in our pricing.

Regarding transportation, the guide will arrange taxi for our pick-ups from the accommodation in the morning and for transfers at the end of each section hike. The timing may vary depending on our pace and the trail conditions. Please note that payment for transportation is not included in the pricing.

Completing the hike in 3 days is indeed challenging and more suitable for advanced hikers. We recommend consulting with your guide to discuss the possibility of extending the trip to 4 days for a more comfortable experience.

This specialized journey takes you from the sea to the summit of Mount Fuji, offering the unique experience of witnessing the mountain from various perspectives along the way. Mount Fuji has been a sacred site for hundreds of years, and throughout the hike, you’ll discover how the local people regard it as a holy place. The ascent through the moss-covered forest, where few people venture, provides a deeply spiritual experience. Along the way, you may encounter stone statues dedicated by mountain priests, adding to the reverence and serenity of the journey.

We will follow the original path used by ancient climbers of Mount Fuji. After the construction of the road to the 5th station, this path was largely abandoned and is seldom used, making it a rare and special route to experience the mountain’s rich history.

Since our itinerary ends on the opposite side of Mount Fuji at the 5th station of the Yoshida trail, please book your hotel in Fujiyoshida city or the Kawaguchiko area for the day we conclude our journey. It is essential to dispatch your luggage from your hotel in Shin-Fuji (southern side of Mount Fuji) ahead of our ascent, a day before our meet-up. Hotel personnel will arrange for your luggage transportation through a courier service called Black Cat (Kuronekoyamato or Yamato Transport). Your luggage will be delivered to your next hotel within one day and can be tracked online. Please arrive with appropriate attire and your backpack for the 3-day sea-to-summit ascent.

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.