Mount Fuji, an iconic UNESCO World Heritage site representing Japan’s cultural and natural significance, is taking action to address overcrowding concerns by introducing new regulations for climbers. The mountain has been grappling with issues such as human traffic jams, littered foothills, and poorly equipped hikers. Notably, some individuals have been attempting the ascent wearing inappropriate footwear, such as sandals, adding to the challenges faced by this popular Japanese landmark.
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In an effort to address the issue of overcrowding on Mount Fuji, the Yamanashi prefectural government, which oversees the management of the mountain, has recently voted to introduce a fee of 2,000 yen (INR 1108) per climber. This decision aims to reduce congestion and ensure a safer climbing experience for visitors.
Also, to make the climbing experience wholesome, visitors may take out some time to understand the local culture. Mount Fuji is a sacred mountain in Japan, and there is the age-old tradition of ascending Mount Fuji from its foothills. This is a part of the rich heritage of the Fuji-ko and Oshi cultures, which have long supported the worship of this sacred mountain. By integrating these cultural aspects into the climbing experience, it is possible for the visitors to foster a deeper connection between climbers and the mountain’s spiritual significance.
Coming back to the issue of overtourism, as per reports, the local government intends to implement a daily cap of 4,000 climbers to alleviate congestion and minimise environmental impact. Additionally, the introduction of new guides tasked with ensuring safety along the trails signifies a concerted effort to manage the influx of visitors responsibly. These guides will play a crucial role in educating climbers about proper mountain etiquette, such as refraining from sleeping beside the trail, avoiding the ignition of fires, and dressing appropriately for the conditions. The mounting foot traffic on the 3,776-metre (12,388-foot) mountain underscores the need for proactive measures to preserve its natural beauty and cultural significance.
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Prefectural data indicates that in 2019, five million individuals climbed Mount Fuji, marking a notable increase of three million since 2012. If reports are to go by, overtourism on Mount Fuji is also leading to issues such as littering, increased CO2 emissions, and irresponsible behaviour among hikers.
Overtourism woes in other parts of Japan
Since Japan’s reopening post-pandemic, the issue of overtourism has gained prominence, particularly in regions like Kyoto and Hatsukaichi. In Kyoto’s esteemed Gion quarter, concerns have been raised by locals regarding the behaviour of tourists, who flock to photograph and sometimes intrude upon the geisha community. Despite efforts by the city, such as displaying signs discouraging photography, some residents feel these measures are inadequate. If reports are to go by, the locals feel that there should be imposition of fines or tickets to help tackle this issue.
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Similarly, Hatsukaichi town in Hiroshima prefecture has experienced the ramifications of overtourism. Home to the renowned floating shrine torii gate, part of a historic Shinto complex dating back 1,400 years, the town has seen a surge in visitor numbers. To manage the influx and ensure the preservation of the site, the town introduced a nominal tourist tax of 100 yen (INR 55) per visitor to the shrine, starting in October 2023.
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