The Japan Guides

Mount Fuji 2026: Climbing Season Opens July 1 With Pre-Registration

· 2 min read Travel News
Lake Kawaguchiko with Mount Fuji in the background, Japan

Contents

  1. Pre-registration is required on all trails
  2. Daily caps and gate times
  3. Gear requirements
  4. Getting to the trailhead

Mount Fuji’s official climbing season begins on 1 July 2026, with the Yoshida Trail — the most popular of the four routes — opening first. The Shizuoka trails (Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya) follow on 10 July. The season closes on 10 September. For anyone planning a Japan summer trip with Fuji on the itinerary, this is the critical booking window.

We have a full Mount Fuji climb guide covering every trail, but here is what has changed or been confirmed for 2026.

Pre-registration is required on all trails

Walk-up climbing is no longer permitted during the official season. All climbers on all four trails must pre-register and pay the ¥4,000 (approximately USD 27) climbing fee through the official Fujisan Climbing website before arriving at the 5th station. The fee covers trail maintenance, safety patrols, environmental protection, and sanitation facilities. On-the-day registration at the trailhead is not available.

Daily caps and gate times

The Yoshida Trail has a daily cap of 4,000 climbers. Gates on all trails close between 2pm and 3am to deter dangerous overnight “bullet climbing” — attempting the ascent and descent in a single continuous push without rest or preparation. Climbers with mountain hut reservations may pass through the gate, but an early start remains strongly advised.

Gear requirements

Climbers must show they have appropriate equipment, including waterproof hiking boots, rain gear, and warm layers. Even in July, summit temperatures drop below 5°C and winds can be severe. Mountain huts along the Yoshida Trail provide shelter, basic provisions, and stamping of the traditional Fuji climbing certificate for those doing the overnight ascent.

Getting to the trailhead

Most climbers base themselves in Kawaguchiko for the Yoshida Trail or in Hakone for access to the Shizuoka-side routes. Direct buses from Tokyo Shinjuku Station to Fujisan 5th Station run throughout the climbing season and are the easiest way to reach the starting point without a car. For guided Fuji day trips and climbing experiences, options depart from Kawaguchiko throughout the season.

With Fuji permits for peak weeks (mid-July through mid-August) typically filling within hours of a day opening, we recommend booking as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.