Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776.24 m (12,389 ft) above the sea level. An active stratovolcano that last erupted in 1707–08, Mount Fuji lies about 100 kilometres (62 mi) south-west of Tokyo, and can be seen from there on a clear day.
Mount Fuji's exceptionally symmetrical cone is a well-known symbol of Japan and it is frequently depicted in art and photographs, as well as visited by sightseers and climbers. It is one of Japan's "Three Holy Mountains" along with Mount Tate and Mount Haku.
Fuji Subaru Line starts from lake Kawaguchi to the fifth stage of the Mt. Fuji. It's a toll road about 30kms in length and takes about 40minutes. You can go up to the 2,305ms in height.
The Fuji Subaru Line is closed to private vehicles from August 5th-16th, 2011 for peak climbing season. During this time, extra buses are available from Fuji Hokuroku Park in Fujiyoshida and Kawaguchiko Station. The road is open throughout most of the year, weather permitting.
The 5th Station, at the end of the Subaru Line Toll-way, is the largest station on Mt. Fuji with the most facilities and services. The 5th Station has souvenirs shops, restaurants, toilets, and a viewing platform. There is also a large guidance center where local firefighters and police are stationed, and a small post office. There is a Safety Guidance Center a short distance from the start of the climbing trail at the 5th Station, where you can get information on the climbing route, post messages, and get help with injuries and other trouble.
The Fuji Subaru Toll-Road provides vehicle access to the 5th Station, cutting the traditional climb in half. Most climbers choose to climb Mt. Fuji from the 5th Station. The hike from the 5th Station to the summit takes approximately 5-7 hours depending on one’s pace, so many climbers choose to start at 9-11pm and climb through the night to reach the summit in time to see the sunrise. The hike back down to the 5th Station takes about 3-4 hours. Many bottlenecks are created due to the crowds, making it difficult for climbers to climb at a faster pace along various parts of the trial.
Please remember that Mt. Fuji is considered a sacred mountain to the people and culture of Japan. Your consideration and respect for the mountain and its inhabitants will be very much noticed and appreciated.
