Mt. Fuji Introduces Entry Fee & Daily Cap in 2025

(Source: Upsplash)
Climbing Mt. Fuji in 2025? New ¥4,000 Fee and Restrictions You Need to Know

Mt. Fuji is Japan’s most iconic natural landmark—but starting in July 2025, climbing it is going to look a bit different. To protect the environment and improve safety for everyone, both Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures are introducing new regulations that will affect how and when climbers can access the mountain.

The most significant changes include a ¥4,000 climbing fee, new entry restrictions, and in some cases, mandatory registration and training. Whether you're a first-timer or a returning climber, here's what you need to know before you lace up your boots.

Why the Change?

With over 220,000 climbers visiting Mt. Fuji each year, the mountain has faced serious challenges. Overcrowded trails, littering, injuries, and trail damage have prompted both prefectures to take action.

In particular, the Yoshida Trail—the most popular route—has become heavily congested during peak climbing season. These new measures are designed to limit overcrowding, reduce accidents, and preserve the environment for future generations.

What’s Changing on the Yamanashi Side (Yoshida Trail)

The Yoshida Trail, located in Yamanashi Prefecture, is the most frequently used path up Mt. Fuji, especially by first-time climbers. From July 2025, climbers using this route will encounter:

• A ¥4,000 fee per person, payable when passing through the gate at the 5th Station.
• A climber cap of 4,000 people per day. Once that number is reached, access will be restricted.
• Time-based entry limits: No entry is allowed between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., unless you have a prior reservation to stay at a mountain hut.

The 5th Station will be outfitted with digital gates to enforce these rules. If you don't have a reservation and arrive during restricted hours, you won't be allowed to start your climb. Entry data and restriction updates will be available via the official Mt. Fuji website and their official X (formerly Twitter) account: @official_mtfuji.

In addition, climbers may be denied entry if they are not properly equipped or if they ignore the advice of on-site mountaineering guides. Yamanashi officials strongly encourage inexperienced climbers to use the support of licensed guides.

What About the Shizuoka Trails?

On the southern side of Mt. Fuji, the Fujinomiya, Gotemba, and Subashiri trails are managed by Shizuoka Prefecture. While these routes won't have a climber cap, they will still enforce a detailed entry protocol.

Climbers using these trails must:

• Register in advance through Shizuoka’s official preregistration system
• Complete an e-learning course about climbing safety and Mt. Fuji preservation
• Pay the ¥4,000 climbing fee per person
• Submit a hiking itinerary before climbing
• Reserve a mountain hut if planning to climb between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., during which trail access is restricted

Unlike Yamanashi, Shizuoka does not currently limit the number of daily climbers, but is focused on accountability, preparedness, and education to manage climbing conditions.

Details for registration will be posted on Shizuoka Prefecture’s official Mt. Fuji climbing site closer to the start of the season.


(Source: https://www.fujisan-climb.jp/en/for-every-climber.html#block5)

Know Your Trail: Which Mt. Fuji Route is Right for You?

Mt. Fuji has four main trails, each with its own starting point, difficulty level, and scenery.

• Yoshida Trail (Yamanashi):
  Most popular and beginner-friendly, with plenty of huts and facilities. Subject to the new cap and gate system.
• Fujinomiya Trail (Shizuoka):
  Shortest trail to the summit in terms of distance but quite steep. Great for experienced hikers based in southern Japan.
• Subashiri Trail (Shizuoka):
  Quieter, forested in the lower half, and merges with Yoshida near the top. A good alternative to avoid crowds.
• Gotemba Trail (Shizuoka):
  The longest and least crowded trail. Recommended only for seasoned climbers due to its steepness and minimal facilities.

Each trail has its own charm—and now, its own set of rules. Make sure you choose the route that suits your skill level, location, and climbing goals.

Let CallButler Handle the Hard Part

Planning to climb Mt. Fuji in 2025? With new rules, fees, time restrictions, and registration systems depending on the trail you choose, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed before you’ve even started your journey. That’s where CallButler comes in. Whether you need help reserving your climbing date, paying the climbing fee, booking a mountain hut, arranging transport to the 5th Station, or just figuring out what gear you’ll need, we’ve got you covered. We’ll even handle the Japanese-language websites and registration processes for you, so nothing gets lost in translation. Think of us as your personal concierge for all things Japan—here to take care of the logistics so you can focus on the experience. Just tell us what you need, spend your credits, and we’ll do the rest.

Make your Mt. Fuji climb unforgettable—for all the right reasons. Let CallButler help you summit stress-free.