The number of fatalities on Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji has increased during this year’s climbing season, with local authorities issuing stark warnings about the dangers posed by inexperience, unpredictable weather, and altitude sickness. So far, six Japanese nationals have lost their lives while climbing the 3,776-meter mountain, marking a troubling rise compared to previous years.
Causes of Fatalities on Mount Fuji
Of the six climbers who died this year, five are believed to have succumbed to the effects of altitude sickness, exacerbated by bad weather near the summit. The sixth fatality was caused by a fall, authorities reported. According to Paul Christie, founder of the Walk Japan travel company, even experienced climbers can find themselves in perilous situations when conditions deteriorate rapidly.
“Many of the people who climb Mount Fuji every year are relatively inexperienced,” said Christie, who has been appointed by the Japanese government as an ambassador for tourism. “Too many underestimate the mountain, the weather, the terrain, and overestimate their abilities, and that’s when bad things happen.”
Climbing Season and Routes on Mount Fuji
The official summer climbing season began on July 1 on the Yamanashi prefecture side, home to the popular Yoshida trail. Meanwhile, the Shizuoka prefecture side, which features the Fujinomiya, Subashiri, and Gotenba routes, opened on July 10. This season, two hikers lost their lives on the Yamanashi side, while four died in Shizuoka, surpassing the total of four fatalities from last summer. The climbing season for all routes is set to close in September.
Altitude Sickness and Weather Conditions Contribute to Deaths
Local authorities reported that the men who died were all between the ages of 50 and 70. They likely suffered from altitude sickness worsened by cold conditions at high elevations, leading to cerebral and pulmonary oedema – a dangerous accumulation of fluid in the brain and lungs.
Aya Ichikawa, an official from Fuji City’s tourism division, noted that the fame of Mount Fuji, combined with its perceived accessibility, attracts many climbers, both Japanese and foreign. However, overcrowding on the trails, particularly by those attempting rushed climbs without proper acclimatization, has created additional hazards.
Overcrowding and the Dangers of “Bullet Climbing”
This summer, as many as 20 percent of the climbers were foreign tourists, contributing to congested trails and increased safety concerns. To mitigate overcrowding, prefectural authorities have implemented a registration scheme requiring climbers to register in advance. Yamanashi prefecture has also introduced a 2,000 yen (US$13.62) entry toll to manage the number of climbers each day.
One particularly risky practice is known as “bullet climbing,” where individuals attempt to complete an ascent and descent without resting at the mountain huts located along the trails. While the goal is often to reach the summit in time to witness the sunrise, the lack of acclimatization increases the risk of altitude sickness, Ichikawa explained.
“We know that the six men who died were at or very close to the top of the mountain and were likely affected by the altitude and the cold,” she said. “That is why we are trying to stop ‘bullet climbing’ and encourage people to rest at the mountain huts to acclimatize.”
Safety Precautions and Equipment for Climbers
To better inform climbers, authorities have launched a website offering real-time updates on weather conditions, route congestion, and advice on necessary equipment, such as appropriate clothing, hiking boots, and helmets. Following the recent fatalities, national broadcaster NHK has been actively sharing the website and advising climbers to prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions, which can include freezing temperatures even during the summer months.
Expert Advice for Safe Climbing
Christie, the tourism ambassador, emphasized that climbing Mount Fuji should not be taken lightly and recommended that prospective climbers hire experienced guides. “Climbing Mount Fuji is on the bucket list of a lot of people who come to Japan, but it would be a huge mistake to underestimate the mountain,” he cautioned.
“I would suggest that anyone planning an ascent go with registered and experienced guides, heed their instructions on equipment, the pace that you climb at, and be alert to anyone in the group who does not feel well or is displaying signs of illness,” Christie added. “Mount Fuji is a serious mountain, and it cannot be taken lightly.”
Conclusion
Mount Fuji, despite its allure as a world-famous destination, presents significant challenges to climbers, particularly those who are inexperienced or ill-prepared. The increase in fatalities this season underscores the importance of understanding the risks posed by altitude, weather, and the physical demands of the climb. By following safety guidelines, registering in advance, and ensuring proper acclimatization, climbers can better protect themselves while enjoying the majesty of Japan’s tallest peak.