Japan has plenty of cultural and natural heritage, but Mount Fuji alone dwarfs almost everything because of its impressive height and significance.
Apart from being one of the top attractions around the globe, Mount Fuji is also a sacred symbol of Japan.
From people worshiping it to witnessing its anger in the form of Mount Fuji Eruptions, there are plenty of Mount Fuji facts that visitors must learn to understand its impact and significance.
The history of Mount Fuji is long and interesting.
Mount Fuji’s present-day symmetrical cone shape and its snow-capped peak withhold a fascinating Mount Fuji eruption history that ultimately shaped it.
So, let’s jump in and take a look at various Mount Fuji facts and history, from its impressive height and Mount Fuji eruption details to its long history.
Mount Fuji History
The ever-present grand peak of Japan has a rich history dating back over 600,000 years.
Mount Fuji began in the Pleistocene epoch due to the interaction of three adjacent tectonic plates.
As these forces collided, magma came up from the Earth’s mantle in various stages of formation over the centuries.
During the Jomon period (14,000-300 BCE), indigenous people witnessed Mount Fuji turning into its distinctive symmetrical cone.
The fascinating turn in Mount Fuji’s history came during the Nara Period (710-794 CE), which marked an era when Mount Fuji began acquiring spiritual significance, eventually becoming a sacred site.
A marked prominence in the Mount Fuji history is observed during the Heian Period (794-1185 CE) when it was referred to as “Fuyo-Shan.”
It became more than just a sacred symbol and gained more prominence in Japanese culture.
The Shugendo Practitioners and ascetic monks started worshiping Mount Fuji as a source of spiritual energy.
With cultural prominence, it became a source of inspiration for several artists, such as the Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.”
Its significance and symbolism transcend the national boundaries of Japan as it was declared one of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites in June 2003.
Today, Mount Fuji stands proudly as a guardian of Japan’s horizon, symbolizing national pride and resilience.
The prominence of Mount Fuji in Japan and in the hearts of visitors worldwide reflects the harmonious blend of geological wonder, cultural significance, and spiritual reverence.
So, get your Mount Fuji tickets now to witness this grand peak that encapsulates such rich and vast history.
Note: Visiting Mount Fuji requires a lot of consideration due to its several changing factors. Read Tips for visiting to make your Mount Fuji tour hassle-free and memorable.
Beyond this, know about how to reach and how long to spend so that your journey is smooth and you don’t miss out on anything due to lack of planning,
Mount Fuji Eruption History
Most of the interesting facts about Mount Fuji stem from its long history and an unmissable part is the Mount Fuji eruption history.
Mount Fuji is an active Stratovolcano, which is built up of alternate layers of lava and ash due to eruptions throughout its thousands of years.
All of this started almost 600,000 years ago during the late Pleistocene with gradual Volcanic activity.
Magma rose from Earth’s mantle, paving the way for the eventual formation of Mount Fuji.
Mount Fuji has erupted more than 15 times since the year 781. However, there are two of the most explosive and violent eruptions in recorded history.
One of the prominent eruptions in the Mount Fuji eruption history is during the Hōel era in 1707. It was explosive in nature and lasted for 16 days.
During the eruption, Mount Fuji ejected 0.8 cubic kilometers of ash, blocks, and bombs. Volcanic ash reached as far as Tokyo.
The Hōel eruption had widespread consequences as it expelled massive amounts of Ash, impacting weather patterns and agriculture as far as Edo, which is modern-day Tokyo.
It left a mark in the region, influencing cultural and societal practices. Before the Hōel era, there was another significant Mount Fuji eruption.
The second most significant Mount Fuji eruption was the Jogan eruption in 864-866 CE. It was effusive in nature with lava flows.
The lava flow covered a large area on the mountain’s north side and divided a lake into Lake Shoji and Lake Sai, two of the Fuji Five Lakes.
It also formed the Aokigahara Forest, also known as the Sea of Trees, on top of the hardened lava. Aokigahara Forest is now one of the must-visit attractions near Mount Fuji.
The Jogan eruption lasted for 10 days and it ejected a huge amount of cinders and ash that fell as far away as the ocean.
These were the two significant Mount Fuji eruptions, one explosive and another effusive in nature, during the last 2000 years.
Mindblowing Fact: Even though Mount Fuji is still considered an active volcano, it has been dormant since its last eruption in 1707.
It is still considered active due to its location in a tectonically and seismically active region.
This is why some regions on Mount Fuji are designated as restricted zones, which are prohibited for hikers to access.
Visitors should read our detailed Mount Fuji climbing guidelines before their visit. If you are trekking to the top, learn about Help & Rescue Requests as well.
Mount Fuji Height
Mount Fuji’s history shows its gradual prominence amidst violent eruption records.
However, the biggest allure of the mountain is the height of Mount Fuji.
It was probably due to its impressive height that it became a point of fascination in the past and has remained this way even to this day.
The first recorded measurement of Mount Fuji height was done as early as during the Edo period in 1603-1868.
During this era, Mount Fuji height was found to be 3,776 meters (12,389 ft) above sea level. The survey was conducted by Japanese cartographer and astronomer Ino Tadataka.
It was the beginning and part of the systematic approach to understanding the topography of Japan.
In the modern era, due to refinement in measurement techniques, the most recent survey measured Mount Fuji height at 3,776.24 meters (12,389.3 ft) above sea level.
This precision was achieved through satellite-based mapping, GPS Technology, and advanced surveying technology.
Note: Even though guests can visit Mount Fuji throughout the year. There are specific periods throughout the year when the weather and other factors align for the best possible experience.
Learn about the best time to visit Mount Fuji for the incredible views and a memorable tour.
Height of Mount Fuji 5th Station
Beyond the height of Mount Fuji Summit, the height of Mount Fuji 5th Station is relevant for most as it is the starting point of all the trails.
Four Mount Fuji 5th Stations are located on the different sides of Mount Fuji at different elevations, making all of these trails different.
These four Mount Fuji 5th Stations are the four trails’ starting points and pose different challenges.
The fastest route trail is the Fujinomiya Trail, which starts from the Fujinomiya Trail 5th station, the highest of all the 5th stations at 2400 m (7874 ft).
It takes hikers only 5 hours to reach the Mount Fuji summit from Fujinomiya 5th Station.
Even though it is the fastest, the Yoshida Trail, starting from the Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station, is the most popular choice.
The lowest Mount Fuji 5th Station is the Gotemba Trail New 5th Station, which sits at an elevation of 1450 m (4757 ft).
The Gotemba Trail New 5th Station is the starting point of the Gotemba Trail, which is the slowest to the top, taking almost 7 hours.
Learn about the Mount Fuji departure points to know everything about the trails and 5th stations.
| Mount Fuji Trail | Mount Fuji 5th Station | Elevation of 5th Station |
|---|---|---|
| Yoshida Trail | Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station | 2300 m (7545 ft) |
| Subashiri Trail | Subashiri Trail 5th Station | 2000 m (6561 ft) |
| Gotemba Trail | Gotemba Trail New 5th Station | 1450 m (4757 ft) |
| Fujinomiya Trail | Fujinomiya Trail 5th Station | 2400 m (7874 ft) |
Even though visitors can only climb Mount Fuji during the climbing season, access to the Mount Fuji 5th Station is open throughout the year.
The Mount Fuji 5th Station offers a great view of the peak and the nearby Fuji region. Visitors can get the to experience the popular attractions in the area.
The combo tickets allow visitors to explore multiple attractions and visit the 5th station.
A Mount Fuji guided ticket is ideal for those who want an enriching visit and allows them to understand the significance of this iconic mountain.
Beyond this, there are private tickets for guests who want a customized itinerary to explore Mount Fuji as they want.
So, let’s check out the list of top Mount Fuji tickets travelers can get for a memorable and fun day touring Mount Fuji.
| Mount Fuji Tickets | Features | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|
| #Mt Fuji, Hakone Lake Cruise from Bullet Train | Mount Fuji Tickets (Subaru 5th Station).Lake Ashinoko Cruise. Hakone Ropeway tickets. One-way vehicle ride. One-way bullet train (Shinkansen) ride to Tokyo Station. Lunch optional upgrade available. | ¥22,000 (US $158)/Adult ticket |
| #Mt Fuji, Hakone, Lake Ashi Cruise Bus trip from Tokyo | Mount Fuji Tickets (Subaru 5th Station).Lake Ashinoko Cruise. Hakone Komagatake Ropeway tickets.An expert professional English-speaking guide. Lunch optional upgrade available. | ¥19,500 (US $140)/Adult ticket |
| Mount Fuji Entry Tickets. Round-trip transportation. A bilingual guide, English and Chinese. | ¥11,630 (US $82)/Adult ticket | |
| #Scenic Spots of Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi 1 day Bus Tour | A ten-hour long day trip to the Fuji area in an air-conditioned vehicle. Visit Chureito Pagoda to catch the iconic view of Mount Fuji in the background. A visit to Lake Kawaguchiko and Oishi Park. A visit to Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nemba on the banks of Lake Saiko. | ¥12,300 (US $89)/Adult ticket |
| A comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned bus. An expert bilingual guide in English and Chinese. Tickets for the sightseeing cruise in Lake Ashi. Tickets for the Hakone ropeway up to Mount Hakone. Visit Owakudani Valley. | ¥14,174 (US $98)/Adult ticket |
Top 10 Facts about Mount Fuji
Apart from being a towering presence, Mount Fuji holds a special place in Japan’s culture, history, and heritage.
Owing to its long history and significant place in Japanese society, plenty of Mount Fuji facts will wow you.
So, let’s list the top 10 interesting facts about Mount Fuji that will surprise you and make you yearn to visit Mount Fuji ASAP.
A Sacred Mountain
Mount Fuji is one of the “Three Holy Mountains,” along with Mount Tate and Mount Haku.
Beyond the scenic beauty and abundant charm, Mount Fuji has been a pilgrimage site for centuries.
Mount Fuji holds spiritual significance in both Shinto and Buddhist traditions, with numerous shrines and temples at the base of it.
The Shinto shrine at the summit of Mount Fuji is called the Sengen Jinja.
An Active Volcano
Mount Fuji is a Stratovolcano. It means that Mount Fuji is made up of layers of lava resulting from gradual eruptions.
Even though Mount Fuji has been dormant since its last major eruption on 16 December 1707, it is still considered an active volcano.
The reason behind this is its location on the tectonically and seismically active region that makes it prone to prone.
Due to this, Mount Fuji is monitored 24/7 to avoid any unfortunate event.
This is also the reason why some portions of Mount Fuji are designated restricted areas that are not accessible to tourists.
Climbing Season
Mount Fuji is one of the beginner-friendly climbs as approximately 200,000 hikers climb Mount Fuji every year.
However, due to harsh weather conditions made more severe in winter make it quite dangerous for the unprepared and novice climbers.
Thus, there is a specific time window each year when you can climb it safely. It is called the climbing season, which starts in early July and ends in late September.
However, it can be difficult for novice and less experienced hikers even during the climbing season.
We do not recommend doing it alone or with your friends without proper guidance. Get a guided trekking tour to make the hike safe.
You will be climbing in a group led by an expert to help you navigate the tricky portions of the trail to enjoy the gorgeous views and make it fun, safe, and memorable.
Fuji Five Lakes
One of the interesting facts about Mount Fuji eruption is the Jogan eruption (864-866 CE), which divided a lake into Lake Sai and Lake Shoji.
Mount Fuji region is blessed with plenty of natural beauty. One of the highlights visible from the 5th station is the Fuji Five Lakes.
As the name suggests, Fuji Five Lakes is a group of five lakes at the base of Mount Fuji. It is one of the must-visit attractions near Mount Fuji.
The five lakes of Fuji Five Lakes are Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Sai, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu.
They provide perfect spots for viewing the iconic snow-covered peak of Mount Fuji and plenty of other activities as well.
You can do fishing, water sports, and winter sports to lake cruises and Ropeways up the hill from the base.
Partly private-owned
One of the most fascinating and fun facts about Mount Fuji is that it is partly privately owned.
From 3,250 m to the top, it is private land even though visitors are allowed to go to the Mount Fuji summit.
Even though most people will say Mount Fuji belongs to everyone, a part of it is still privately owned.
Having said that, currently, it is not owned by a person but the Mount Fuji is part of the Sengen Grand Shrine
From the 8th station and upwards, it is the private property of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha, which owns numerous temples and shrines in the country as well.
If you go back a few centuries, Ieyasu Tokugawa owned the entire mountain, who donated the peak to the shrine in 1606.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
With such immense importance and cultural influence on Japanese society, it is no surprise that Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
However, the surprising part is it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site only in June 2013.
Mount Fuji was included in the list as a cultural property due to its impact on Japanese culture and heritage.
The UNESCO World Heritage Committee called the mountain “Fujisan, a sacred place and source of artistic inspiration.”
It also included several special pilgrimage sites on the route up the mountain. Overall, the property includes 25 sites in both Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures.
Inspired Art and Literature
Mount Fuji, beyond its impressive height which makes it grand, is also a symbol of resilience.
Its distinctive conical shape has made it a subject of artistic and cultural significance, inspiring literature and art.
Many works of art and literature find inspiration in the lofty peaks of Mount Fuji, such as the famous poem “I climbed Mount Fuji, so I’m a wise man.”
The most prominent and noteworthy is Hokusai’s woodblock print series called “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.”
It is a series of 36 distinct prints that capture the view of Mount Fuji from various vantage points in different seasons.
Views Till Tokyo
With an impressive height of 3,776 m (12,389 ft), Mount Fuji summit is the tallest peak offering sweeping unobstructed panoramic views of the surrounding area.
On cloudless days, guests can see the visible Tokyo Skyline, which provides a unique perspective of the distant city.
On a clear sunny day, guests can see as far as the distant Pacific Ocean. Beyond this, it offers some amazing views of the nearby Fuji region, such as the Fuji Five Lakes.
A few other notable structures that you can see from Mount Fuji include the Chureito Pagoda, Suruva Bay, Lake Yamanaka, and the .
Get Married at the Top
One of the lesser known Mount Fuji information and facts is that you can get married on it. Yes, people can get married at the top of Mount Fuji summit.
Couples can get married at Okumiya Shrine located on the summit of Mount Fuji. The wedding services are offered by Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha.
However, it is only possible during the Mount Fuji climbing season which is from early July to early September.
One thing to note if you are planning to get married here is the lack of space. Wedding parties are limited to a maximum 10 people.
It may not be ideal for a wedding but you can propose at Mount Fuji! Read more about it.
First person to Hike Mount Fuji
One of the most interesting facts about Mount Fuji is the first person to climb it. According to most, a Buddhist monk named En no Gyoja made the first ascent in 663.
However, the British Minister, Sir Rutherford Alcock, was the first known Western climber to climb Mount Fuji in 1860.
The first woman to reach the summit of Mount Fuji was Tatsu Takayama in 1832.
Interestingly, women were prohibited from climbing Mount Fuji beyond the second station until 1872 due to several superstitions.
FAQs
u003cstrongu003eWhat is the eruption history of Mount Fuji? u003c/strongu003e
u003ca href=u0022https://vacatis.com/mount-fuji-facts/#historyu0022u003eMount Fuji eruption historyu003c/au003e is long and filled with both Explosive and Effusive eruptions in the last 2000 years.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIt has erupted more than 15 times since 781 but the two most prominent eruptions are Jogan Eruption in 864-866 CE and Hōel Eruption in 1707.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThe Hōel Eruption had a widespread impact by influencing temperature, precipitation, agriculture, etc. The Jogan eruption divided u003ca href=u0022https://maps.app.goo.gl/nu5xyuC89U5erAQN7u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eLake Shojiu003c/au003e and u003ca href=u0022https://maps.app.goo.gl/gLr5H3wUzXeon2zTAu0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eLake Saiu003c/au003e.
u003cstrongu003eWhen did Mount Fuji last erupted? u003c/strongu003e
The last prominent Mount Fuji eruption was during the Hōel era on 16 December 1707, which lasted for 16 days.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIt had a far-reaching impact on the weather and the fabric of society as far as Tokyo.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eEven though u003ca href=u0022https://www.viator.com/en-IN/Tokyo-attractions/Mt-Fuji-Fuji-san/d334-a86?pid=P00068455u0026amp;mcid=42383u0026amp;medium=linku0026amp;campaign=mtfuji-1u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eMount Fujiu003c/au003e is considered an active volcano, it has been dormant since then. It is now monitored 24 hours a day.
u003cstrongu003eWhen will Mount Fuji erupt again? u003c/strongu003e
Nobody can predict when u003ca href=u0022https://www.viator.com/en-IN/Tokyo-attractions/Mt-Fuji-Fuji-san/d334-a86?pid=P00068455u0026amp;mcid=42383u0026amp;medium=linku0026amp;campaign=mtfuji-1u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eMount Fujiu003c/au003e will erupt again. Just like most of the other natural calamities, Volcanic eruptions are too sudden to predict accurately in the future.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIn the past 2000 years, Mount Fuji has erupted more than 75 times, with the last prominent eruption during the Hōel era in 1707.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eDue to its location in the tectonically and seismically active region, Mount Fuji is monitored 24 hours.
u003cstrongu003eWhy is Mount Fuji famous? u003c/strongu003e
Mount Fuji is the tallest peak in Japan, with an impressive height of 3,776 m (12,389 ft), which is why it is also known as the “Roof of Japan.”u003cbru003eu003cbru003eMount Fuji is known for its picturesque and symmetrical conical form, with the snow-capped summit making for one exquisite sight.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIts prominence in Japanese culture and heritage, along with its rich history, makes it a popular attraction in the world. Get u003ca href=u0022https://www.viator.com/en-IN/Tokyo-attractions/Mt-Fuji-Fuji-san/d334-a86?pid=P00068455u0026amp;mcid=42383u0026amp;medium=linku0026amp;campaign=mtfuji-1u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eMount Fuji ticketsu003c/au003e now.
u003cstrongu003eHow old is Mount Fuji? u003c/strongu003e
According to some, the process of formation began as early as 600,000 years ago, but concretely, it can be said Mount Fuji formed 100,000 years ago.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eGiven Mount Fuji is a Stratovolcano, meaning layers of lava have formed it as a result of gradual eruptions throughout Mount Fuji history.
u003cstrongu003eWho owns the top of Mt. Fuji? u003c/strongu003e
One of the fun facts about Mount Fuji is that it is partly privately owned land. u003cbru003eEven though most people will say u003ca href=u0022https://www.viator.com/en-IN/Tokyo-attractions/Mt-Fuji-Fuji-san/d334-a86?pid=P00068455u0026amp;mcid=42383u0026amp;medium=linku0026amp;campaign=mtfuji-1u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eMount Fujiu003c/au003e belongs to everyone, from 3,360 m to the top, it is private land.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eFrom the 8th station and upwards, it is the private property of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha, which owns numerous temples and shrines in the country as well.
u003cstrongu003eIs Mt. Fuji still active? u003c/strongu003e
Yes, Mount Fuji is considered to be an active volcano even though it has been dormant since its last prominent eruption in 1707.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThe primary reason for treating Mount Fuji as an active volcano is its location in the tectonically and seismically active region.
u003cstrongu003eWhat are the 5 interesting facts about Mount Fuji? u003c/strongu003e
Here are the top 5 interesting facts about u003ca href=u0022https://www.viator.com/en-IN/Tokyo-attractions/Mt-Fuji-Fuji-san/d334-a86?pid=P00068455u0026amp;mcid=42383u0026amp;medium=linku0026amp;campaign=mtfuji-1u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eMount Fujiu003c/au003e to know. u003cbru003eMount Fuji is partly privately owned by Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha from 8th Station and upwards. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eMount Fuji is still considered an active volcano.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eMount Fuji was Japan’s first ski slope.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eCouples can get married at Okumiya Shrine located on Mount Fuji summit. u003cbru003eUntil 1872, women were forbidden from climbing Mount Fuji due to various superstitions.
u003cstrongu003eIs Mount Fuji hard to climb? u003c/strongu003e
Mount Fuji is one of the most beginner-friendly hikes. However, sudden weather changes, steep slopes, and elevation gains make it challenging.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThere are four different Mount Fuji trails, each offering different challenges and conveniences. We do not recommend novice and less experienced hikers to do it independently.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eGet a Mount u003ca href=u0022https://www.viator.com/en-IN/tours/Tokyo/Mt-Fuji-Trekking-1-Day-Tour/d334-297993P8?pid=P00068455u0026amp;mcid=42383u0026amp;medium=linku0026amp;campaign=mtfuji-1u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eFuji guided trekking touru003c/au003e to hike in a group led by an experienced guide to help you navigate the tricky portions of the climb.
u003cstrongu003eCan you climb Mount Fuji in a day? u003c/strongu003e
Yes, many people climb Mount Fuji in a day. Having said that, it requires a lot of endurance and strength to complete it within one day.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eVisitors can take the u003ca href=u0022https://www.viator.com/en-IN/tours/Tokyo/Mt-Fuji-Trekking-1-Day-Tour/d334-297993P8?pid=P00068455u0026amp;mcid=42383u0026amp;medium=linku0026amp;campaign=mtfuji-1u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopener sponsoredu0022u003eMount Fuji guided trekking touru003c/au003e that helps them to reach the Mount Fuji summit in a day.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eWith this tour, you will climb in a group led by an expert at a steady pace and complete this memorable hike safely.