Mount Fuji officially opened for the climbing season on July 1, 2026, introducing a mandatory entry fee for visitors [1].
The reopening marks the start of the annual summer window for hikers to reach the summit. The introduction of new financial and safety regulations aims to manage the high volume of traffic and ensure climber safety on the mountain's challenging terrain.
Approximately 1,800 people entered the mountain via the Yoshida route in Yamanashi Prefecture on the first day [1]. Under the new rules, climbers must pay an entry fee of 4,000 yen [1]. The regulations also require hikers to receive safety instructions before beginning their ascent; 27 people received this instruction on the opening day [1].
While the Yamanashi-side routes opened on July 1, reports differ regarding the Shizuoka-side routes. Some sources indicate they opened simultaneously on July 1 [2], while others state the Shizuoka-side routes do not open until July 10 [3].
Simultaneous with the mountain's opening, Kanagawa Prefecture held a beach-opening ceremony at Katase Higashihama beach in Fujisawa City [1]. Families gathered at the coast to mark the start of the summer swimming season, coinciding with the traditional start of the mountain climbing period [1].
The Yoshida route remains one of the most popular paths to the summit due to its accessibility. The implementation of the 4,000-yen fee represents a shift in how the region manages the environmental, and logistical impact of mass tourism during the peak summer months [1].
“Approximately 1,800 people entered the mountain via the Yoshida route on the first day.”
The introduction of a mandatory fee and safety briefings suggests a transition toward a more regulated tourism model for Mount Fuji. By monetizing access and enforcing instructional requirements, authorities are attempting to curb overcrowding and reduce the frequency of emergencies on the trails, mirroring global trends in sustainable tourism for high-traffic natural landmarks.
