Have you hiked Mount Fuji? Season started from July 1st every year?

When it comes to Mount Fuji, yes, the official climbing season usually begins on July 1st each year and goes until early September. But from my experience and chatting with locals who hike Fuji often, the exact opening date can sometimes shift depending on the trail conditions. For example, if there’s been heavy snow or bad weather, the start might be delayed a bit. So while July 1st is the standard kickoff, it’s good to check the current trail status before planning your climb.

Mount Fuji isn’t just a tourist spot; many Japanese people also see climbing it as a kind of rite of summer, a personal challenge or even a spiritual journey. But unlike some other mountains in Japan where you can go year-round, Fuji’s trails are strictly open only in this short window for safety reasons.

“What if I want to hike Mount Fuji outside the official season? Is it possible?”

Technically, the trails are closed outside the official season, and climbing is strongly discouraged. The mountain is dangerous in the off-season due to snow, ice, and lack of facilities like mountain huts. I’ve heard of a few experienced climbers attempting it in late spring or autumn, but it’s definitely not for casual visitors. For most people, it’s safer and more enjoyable to stick to July to early September.

“How crowded does Mount Fuji get during the season? Any tips to avoid crowds?”

Fuji can get very busy, especially on weekends and public holidays. Many Japanese climbers tackle it overnight to catch the sunrise from the summit, which means the trails get crowded late at night and early morning. From my own climb, I found starting very late at night (around 10 PM) helped avoid the biggest crowds at the lower stations. Also, weekdays tend to be quieter. If you want a peaceful hike, try aiming for midweek and avoid the peak times.

“Are there any cultural activities related to climbing Mount Fuji that tourists might not know about?”

Yes! Many Japanese climbers visit the Fuji Sengen Shrine at the 5th Station before or after their climb. It’s a traditional practice to pray for a safe ascent and descent. This shrine has been part of Fuji worship for centuries, showing how climbing Fuji is not just physical but also spiritual. While tourists can visit and observe, joining a formal prayer ceremony is usually reserved for locals or those invited.

“What about gear and mountain huts? Do Japanese hikers rent or bring everything themselves?”

Most Japanese hikers bring their own proper hiking gear—good boots, warm clothes, headlamps, and rainwear—because the weather on Fuji can change quickly. Mountain huts along the trail offer places to rest and buy simple meals, but they don’t rent gear. From my experience, renting gear in the nearby towns before ascending is rare and usually done by foreigners unfamiliar with hiking equipment. Locals prepare carefully in advance to avoid trouble on the mountain.

“Can tourists realistically participate in the traditional overnight climb to see the sunrise?”

Absolutely, but it takes some stamina! The so-called “Goraiko” sunrise is a big draw. Many Japanese hikers start climbing around 10-11 PM to reach the summit before dawn. It’s a unique experience but also physically demanding, so I suggest practicing hiking on smaller mountains first. Also, booking a spot in one of the mountain huts for rest during the night can help — prices are around ¥5,000 to ¥7,000 ($35-$50 USD) per night. These huts fill up fast in peak season, so reserve early.

To sum up, while the official climbing season starts July 1st every year, conditions may cause slight delays. The Japanese experience of climbing Mount Fuji goes beyond sightseeing — it’s a mix of personal challenge, spiritual tradition, and summer ritual. If you want to join in, prepare well, respect the mountain’s customs, and consider the timing and crowds carefully. The views and sense of accomplishment at the summit are truly worth it!