A man was recently rescued from Mount Fuji after attempting to climb it outside the official climbing season. Climbing Mount Fuji is only allowed from early July to early September due to harsh weather conditions. During the off-season, all trails to the summit are closed, making it dangerous for hikers.
The rescue took place in Shizuoka prefecture, where police reminded everyone that climbing during this time is risky. Weather can change quickly, which makes it hard for rescue teams to respond. Additionally, medical facilities along the trails are not open during the off-season, adding to the dangers.
After the rescue, some people on social media criticized the climber for ignoring safety warnings. Many believe he should be responsible for the costs of the rescue missions.
Mount Fuji, standing at 3,776 meters (12,388 feet), is famous for its beautiful cone shape and is a major attraction in Japan. In recent years, authorities have raised climbing fees to manage the number of visitors and address issues related to overtourism.
In 2023, over 220,000 people climbed Mount Fuji during the official season. However, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of following safety guidelines and respecting the mountain’s climbing season.