Mount Fuji Implements $27 Entry Fee to Tackle Overtourism
Starting this summer, hikers on any of Mount Fuji’s four main trails will have to pay a mandatory $27 (approx. ₹22,344) entry fee, following a bill passed by local authorities on Monday. The decision comes as overtourism continues to raise concerns about safety, overcrowding, and environmental damage on Japan’s iconic peak.
Last year, the Yamanashi region—home to Mount Fuji—introduced a $14 (approx. ₹21,215) entry fee with an optional donation for the Yoshida Trail, the most popular route. To manage foot traffic, officials also implemented daily entry caps and an online reservation system. Now, for the July–September climbing season, the Yoshida Trail fee will double as part of stricter measures.
Meanwhile, the Shizuoka region, which previously allowed free access, has passed a similar bill, introducing a 4,000 yen (approx. ₹22,333) fee for its three trails. The regulations aim to balance tourism with sustainability, as Mount Fuji sees record foreign visitors.
Despite these restrictions, Mount Fuji remains a top destination. The number of climbers dropped to 204,316 in 2024 from 221,322 in 2023**, indicating the impact of these regulations. As global travel surges, destinations worldwide are adopting similar measures to curb overtourism and promote responsible travel.
With its natural beauty and spiritual significance, Mount Fuji’s preservation remains a priority, ensuring it remains a cherished site for future generations.
