Mount Fuji is an iconic symbol of Japan and one of the most famous mountains in the world. Located on Honshu Island, Mount Fuji is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Japan. Visitors can explore the mountain’s rich history by visiting the nearby shrines and temples, including the famous Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha. The mountain is also famous for its stunning views, especially during the cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season. For those seeking a more adventurous vacation, climbing Mount Fuji is a bucket list experience.
At 12,400 feet (3,776 m), Mount Fuji is the tallest mountain in Japan and its nearly symmetrical-shaped cone has attained an almost mythical status. It is one of Japan’s three holy mountains and was first ascended by a monk in 663, with women being forbidden to climb it until the Meiji Era, in the late 1800s. The volcano is now dormant and last erupted in 1708.
Mount Fuji, or Fuji-san, as it is more commonly known in Japan, has been the subject for many artists over the years, from the famous “ukiyo-e” woodblock prints of Hokusai to being printed on the back of a JPY 1,000 note. Since its first recorded depiction on a sliding door in the 11th century, the iconic image of Mount Fuji has been used to decorate commemorative stamps, incense holders, lacquerware boxes, ceramics, clothing, and painted scrolls, to name but a few.
Situated less than two hours from Tokyo and accessible by bullet train and private line trains, the Hakone National Park is an area of natural beauty, volcanic and thermal activity and weather permitting, an ideal spot from which to view Mt Fuji.
Most visitors to Hakone adopt a standard circular route around the park, which can be enjoyed over a couple of days. The loop is serviced by various modes of transport, including a cable car, switch-back mountain trains, a ropeway and even a lake crossing on a mock pirate ship.