In general, the season to climb Mount Fuji is the approximate two-month period of July 1 to August 26. During this time, mountain lodges and other facilities, including first-aid stations, the Safety Guidance Center, and so on, are open, helping to ensure a comparatively safe and comfortable climb. There are five major climbing trails on Mount Fuji: the Kawaguchiko-guchi, Yoshida-guchi, Fujinomiya-guchi, Subashiri-guchi and Gotemba-guchi. Each of these has their own distinct characteristics, and it is important to consider factors such as your physical stamina, schedule, etc. in choosing the best trail for you. Today, climbers generally take the Kawaguchiko-guchi Trail.
The Kawaguchiko-guchi Trail
The Kawaguchiko-guchi Trail starts at the fifth station, which marks the end of the Subaru Line toll road. Of all the trails on Mount Fuji, this is the most well known. It merges with the Fujinomiya-guchi Trail and the Subashiri-guchi Trail at the sixth and eighth stations respectively. With 24 lodges between the seventh and eighth stations, where climbers can stay the night or rest anytime, this trail is considered a comfortable climb.
The Yoshida-guchi Trail
The Yoshida-guchi Trail starts at the Sengen Shrine of Fujiyoshida City. This trail was utilized for worshipping Mount Fuji, a practice that was common during the Edo period (1603?1867). It merges with the Kawaguchiko-guchi Trail at the sixth station and continues all the way to the summit. Amongst Mount Fuji’s trails, this is the only route by which climbers can walk the entire way to the summit from the first station.
