#110 Tram system in Mt. Fuji
Will the introduction of the LRT system being considered by Yamanashi Prefecture at Mt. Fuji lead to a fundamental solution to the problem?
Mt. Fuji on the Shizuoka Prefecture side opened on October 10, ushering in the full-blown climbing season on Mt. Fuji, which is in full swing this year. Various restrictions have been imposed on the Yoshida Route on the Yamanashi Prefecture side of the mountain to prevent bullet climbing. On the Shizuoka Prefecture side, where the mountain opened on January 10, entrance fees and restrictions on the number of climbers have not been imposed for various reasons. Still, depending on future developments, similar measures may be implemented.
There is ongoing discussion in Yamanashi Prefecture regarding the permanence of the World Heritage site, with the idea of a mountain railroad swirling in the background. In this post, I would like to give you the latest information on climbing Mt. Fuji and the current status of the mountain railroad project underway on the Yamanashi Prefecture side.
There are two primary routes to climb Mt. Fuji. During the season, it is easy to get to the trailheads, and there are huts at various points. Many climbers may consider it an extension of day hiking, so I suspect that many climbers consider it an extension of their day hiking. As someone like me who has been climbing mountains for decades, I want to summarize a few things about Mt. Fuji.
Essential Facts about Mt. Fuji
Mt. Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters, 583 meters higher than the second-highest mountain, Kitadake. Based on the calculation, the temperature drops 0.6 degrees Celsius for every 100 meters in elevation, and the temperature is 22 to 23 degrees Celsius lower between Tokyo and the summit of Mt. Fuji, which is easily below freezing.
Mt. Fuji is a dormant volcano and a single peak, and the weather changes dramatically with elevation. Strong winds near the summit can be fatal, especially since no windshield is on the route beyond the forest limit. The strength of the wind is unimaginable. The video of the Shizuoka Prefectural Police rescue team stranded in strong winds shows you cannot survive with light equipment.
Since it was registered as a World Heritage site, Mt. Fuji has become increasingly popular, and climbers of all ability levels visit the mountain, which is out of proportion to its elevation. Therefore, some people wearing sandals, short pants, etc., unthinkable for regular mountaineering, are seen.
The rapid increase in tourists from abroad tends to push themselves too hard due to schedule restrictions. A tight schedule is sometimes fatal to mountaineering.
Regulations on the Yamanashi side (Yoshida Route)
Since the start of this season, the following rules have been mandatory on the Yoshida Route, mainly to prevent bullet climbs.
The gate is closed from 4:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. the next day (no climbers except those with reservations at mountain lodges can climb at night).
Limit the number of climbers per day to 4,000.
A toll of 2,000 yen is mandatory, and a voluntary sponsorship of 1,000 yen is encouraged.
The number of climbers is posted on SNS as needed. The number of climbers is published on social networking sites as required.
Please take a look at my past post on climbing Mt. Fuji.
Shizuoka Prefecture side
There are three routes on the Shizuoka Prefecture side (Fujinomiya, Subashiri, and Gotemba), but they have no restrictions in any way like those on the Yamanashi Prefecture side. However, please keep in mind that the road to the trailhead will be closed to private cars until the end of the season on September 10, so only buses will be allowed to enter the mountain.
The difference in regulations between the Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefecture sides is due to the difference in jurisdiction, and the Shizuoka Prefecture side will consider how to respond to the rules while watching the number of visitors.
This season, the number of visitors on the Fujinomiya route in Shizuoka Prefecture, where no restrictions exist, may increase.
What is the Mt. Fuji LRT Concept?
Mt. Fuji LRT Concept is the concept of using the Fuji Subaru Line, a toll road connecting the foot of Mt. Fuji and the fifth stage of the mountain. The distance is 25 to 28 kilometers, and to emphasize the scenic beauty of the area, an underground power supply system without overhead wires is being considered. The LRT=Light Rail Transit will be closed to general vehicular traffic to control visitors and will also allow for visits during the winter season.
The above clip is quoted from the Yamanashi Prefecture HP.
However, there are other reasons why Yamanashi Prefecture is so concerned about the LRT. The Subaru Line currently has no lifelines, such as water or electricity, at its terminus, and the LRT will enable the underground installation of lifeline functions on the track. Mt. Fuji's problems of congestion and environmental impact, and depending on how the situation improves in the future, it may be stripped of its World Heritage designation. Mt. Fuji's designation as a World Heritage Site makes a world of difference in terms of economic benefits and other aspects. The prefecture and the country are so sensitive about avoiding it at all costs.
The LRT is a desirable option for the average climber and international tourists who climb only once, except for the high price. However, considering the total construction cost, the time frame, and the detailed environmental impact of building this system, it is understandable that the conversation could be better, and the arguments for and against the project are head-to-head. The political aspect of the issue, which is to maintain the World Heritage designation first, needs to mesh better with the discussion of preserving the natural resources of Mt. Fuji.
Finally
Even if existing roads are to be used, it is essential to present a logical outlook based on a detailed scientific study of the environmental impact and the economic benefits of constructing large-scale infrastructure more than 20 km from the foot of the mountain. Specialists should calculate the financial resources. World Heritage status deprivation pressure should not lead to a hasty conclusion.
It is necessary to reset the assumption that the current number of visitors should be maintained or even increased and first to discuss what is best for preserving Mt. Fuji's natural environment. It should not become a negative legacy that only leaves regrets after it has been built.
On the Shizuoka Prefecture side, four climbers have been confirmed dead in less than a week. I pray for the souls of those who lost their lives and ask those who plan to climb Mt. Fuji to be careful and climb the mountain safely.