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Know Before Climbing: Mount Fuji Weather & What to Wear

Know Before Climbing: Mount Fuji Weather & What to Wear

Last updated: 19 October 2023

Mount Fuji is one of the most recognizable symbols of Japan and is also the tallest mountain in the country, standing at 3776 meters. Even during the summer months, the temperature at the mountain can drop as low as 6ºC, and the weather can be unpredictable. The base of the mountain is a popular tourist destination during the summer, where the temperature is much cooler than in the city center.

In this article, we will provide you with information on the seasonal climate of Mount Fuji and offer recommendations on what to wear and prepare for your trip in advance.

Table of Contents
  1. When is the Best Time to Climb Mt. Fuji?
  2. The Fuji Climbing Season Summer Climate
  3. Beware of Climate Changes: Spring and Autumn Seasons
  4. Winter Season: A Dangerous Climate for Mountain Climbing
  5. What to Wear When Climbing Mount Fuji
  6. Websites to Check Before Climbing Mt. Fuji
  7. Fujisan Conservation Donation Campaign
  8. Recommended Mt. Fuji Tours

When is the Best Time to Climb Mt. Fuji?

Photo courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Promotion Organization
Photo courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Promotion Organization

The Mt. Fuji climbing season is usually from early July to September 10th. The exact date the mountain opens to climbers may vary depending on amount of snow remaining.

sopon seti / Shutterstock.com
sopon seti / Shutterstock.com

Before climbing Mt. Fuji, you are recommended to submit a 'climbing plan.' Your climbing plan should detail your climbing process, any equipment you're planning to bring or wear, and emergency contact information.

Submitting a climbing plan is great all around - if you encounter any trouble during your climb, it will be easier to search for you. It can also be a good opportunity to make sure your climbing plan is reasonable.

The Fuji Climbing Season Summer Climate

Photo courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Promotion Organization
Photo courtesy of Yamanashi Tourism Promotion Organization

Summer is the season for climbing Mt. Fuji. However, although it is the most suitable season of the year for climbing, there are very few spots with shade, and there is a risk for heatstroke depending on route and location.

On the other hand, higher altitudes mean lower temperatures. Be mindful of your clothing. Avoid those that do not retain heat. It is best to prepare winter clothing.

Another thing to beware of is lightning, which frequently occurs on Mt. Fuji in the summer. It is not uncommon for the weather to change suddenly and for lightning to appear.

If a typhoon is near, winds can be so strong they can knock you off your feet. In these situations, whatever you do, please stop climbing. Not only do the strong winds increase the chances of falling rocks, but temperatures can drop so low, they can result in hypothermia.

Beware of Climate Changes: Spring and Autumn Seasons

Beware of Climate Changes: Spring and Autumn Seasons

You might think that temperatures are usually relatively more stable during the spring and autumn seasons.

However, at Mt. Fuji, temperatures are practically the same as winter, even between late April and early May and mid-to-late November.

Winter Season: A Dangerous Climate for Mountain Climbing

Winter Season: A Dangerous Climate for Mountain Climbing

Naturally, winters on Mt. Fuji are severely cold. Temperatures at the summit can drop as low as -20ºC in January. Snow begins to fall on Mt. Fuji in December and accumulates at higher altitudes. By February, the mountain is likely to be covered in snow.

Mountain climbing outside of the season is hazardous. Be sure to climb only during the established climbing period. Do not enter Mount Fuji in winter or autumn.

What to Wear When Climbing Mount Fuji

Sprint Chanvi / Shutterstock.com
Sprint Chanvi / Shutterstock.com

Depending on the exact location, Mt. Fuji's weather and temperature can vary greatly, even within the same season. For this reason, we recommend dressing in clothes that can accommodate sudden weather changes. To prepare adequately for potential sudden changes, equipment such as rain gear and cold-resistant clothing are essential.

Pay no attention to the temperature of your location when you leave your house to go climbing. Though it may be 30ºC when you leave, the temperature may drop to 0ºC as you approach the summit.

Abhijeet Khedgikar / Shutterstock.com
Abhijeet Khedgikar / Shutterstock.com

Your body will likely heat up as you climb, and you may not actually feel very cold. However, anytime you take a break, sweat dampens your clothes and causes the body to cool. When this happens, you may lose physical strength or even catch a cold. To avoid this, make sure to bring a quick-drying shirt, a light windbreaker, and a sweater to keep warm.

Footwear is also essential when mountain climbing. Hard-bottomed soles are most suitable, and high-cut footwear can prevent gravel and sand from entering.

You will also need a helmet, a headlight, and other equipment for safety when climbing.

Websites to Check Before Climbing Mt. Fuji

Climbing can be a dangerous activity in general, not only on Mt. Fuji. You must also be mindful of the nature and environment of the mountains. When climbing Mt. Fuji, there are certain rules you must follow to protect the environment.

Here are sites that provide information about Mt. Fuji. Each of the sites contains essential information to know before climbing. Be sure to check them thoroughly before your climb!

1. Website by the Ministry of the Environment, Yamanashi Prefecture, and Shizuoka Prefecture

You can access live cameras that show the current surroundings of the climbing points and the summit of Mt. Fuji. This allows you to check the environment beforehand and prepares you for the climb. It helps you understand what you need to prepare before actually setting out to climb the mountain.

2. Site operated by Shizuoka Prefecture

This is a website operated by Shizuoka Prefecture. It primarily provides information about hiking, especially on the Subashiri Route and the Gotemba Route, including safety precautions for those hiking from these routes. Additionally, it explains why Mount Fuji was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides insights into the process leading to its inclusion in the list of World Heritage sites.

Fujisan Conservation Donation Campaign

The Fujisan Conservation Donation Campaign was launched to preserve the beauty of Mt. Fuji for future generations. Climbers are encouraged to donate 1000 yen each, while children and those with disabilities can donate any amount they wish. The money collected from donations is used to fund various projects such as environmental protection measures and safety measures for climbers on Mt. Fuji. You can make payments in person, online, or through convenience stores. Help us preserve the natural beauty of Mt. Fuji by supporting this campaign.

Recommended Mt. Fuji Tours

You can check the weather forecasts for the summit, the foot, and the 5th station of Mt. Fuji. It is extremely important to check for the latest local weather updates before heading to Mt. Fuji.

Always plan responsibly for a safe mountain climb, and consider cancelling or postponing a trip in risky situations.

Written by:

Shiro Tsuchida

Shiro Tsuchida

After graduating from university, Shiro worked with an advertising agency for about a year. Leveraging her experience from a journalism club she was part of during her college days, she began her career as a freelance writer. Based in the Kansai region, she capitalizes on her local insights, writing event coverage and reports spanning genres like art, music, comedy, food, and entertainment within the Kinki area. She also handles photography. Additionally, she focuses on region-specific anecdotes and deep dives into local culture and history. Currently, she regularly contributes articles to more than five media outlets.

*This information is from the time of this article's publication.
*Prices and options mentioned are subject to change.
*Unless stated otherwise, all prices include tax.

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