
Mount Fuji (富士山 Fuji-san, 3776 meters) also called, as Fujiyama is the most poplar and highest mountain in Japan. Mount Fuji is also one of the most famous volcanoes in the world which located only 50 miles southwest from Tokyo, which contributes to its popularity. Thousands of climbers, tourists, and religious pilgrims ascend to the summit each year.
The volcano rises about 3,500 m above the surrounding plain. Mount Fuji has erupted at least 16 times since 781 AD. Most of these eruptions were moderate to moderate-large in size. The most recent eruption was in 1707-1708 from a vent on the southeast side of the cone. The eruption ejected 0.8 cubic km of ash, blocks, and bombs. Five historic eruptions have caused damage, including the 1707-1708 eruption, but no fatalities. Fuji had two large eruption (VEI=5) in 1050 and 930 BC. The summit offers overnight huts, a volcanic crater and unparalleled views of Japan.
The major attraction of the mountain is certainly the various views it provides that change along with seasons and even as the time flows during a day. During winter, it is a flawless volcanic cone with its snow-capped tops, so winters and early spring are the best seasons to catch the best view of this picture-perfect mountain. The Fuji Five Lakes located on the northern side of the mountain surround the northern side of Mount Fuji, namely: Lake Motosuko, Lake Shojinko, Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanako, and Lake Subarshiri, which are frequently visited by tourists. These lakes provide a good view of Mount Fuji alongside different water sports.
Tip: Get to Mount Fuji: by air: New Tokyo Narita International Airport, Haneda Airport (domestic flights). By
train: Shinjuku (Tokyo) Station to Kawaguchi-ko Station. By bus: Public services; Fuji Visitor Center, 663-1 Funatsu Kawaguchi-ko Town, Yamanashi, 401-301, Japan; Tel: (0555) 720 259. Although the mountain can be climbed at any time of year, the official climbing season is July-August; outside these months, facilities – including lodging huts on the mountain – are closed.