Mount Fuji view to be blocked amid tourist overcrowding

Japanese authorities, fed up with the disruptive behaviour of poorly behaved foreign tourists at a popular photo spot with views of Mount Fuji, are taking action. They plan to install a massive barrier to block the view, aiming to deter crowds from gathering in the area. The barrier will be a 2.5-meter (8ft) high mesh net, stretching the length of a cricket pitch at 20 metres. Construction is set to begin as early as next week, as confirmed by an official from Fujikawaguchiko town.

The decision to implement this measure reflects the regrettable necessity brought about by the actions of some tourists who consistently fail to respect rules, resulting in littering and disregard for traffic regulations. It represents the latest step taken to address the issue of over-tourism in Japan. Earlier this year, residents of Kyoto’s geisha district took similar action by banning visitors from accessing small private alleys in an effort to preserve their community.

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Record numbers of overseas tourists are travelling to Japan, where the number of monthly visitors exceeded 3 million in March for the first time.

Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, can be photographed from many spots in the resort town of Fujikawaguchiko. This viewpoint is particularly popular because the majestic – and active – volcano appears behind a Lawson convenience store, which are ubiquitous in Japan.

The decision to install a large barrier at a popular photo spot in Japan is driven by the regrettable behaviour of some tourists who fail to respect rules, leaving litter behind and ignoring traffic regulations. This action represents the latest response to over-tourism in Japan, following measures such as the ban on visitors from small private alleys in Kyoto’s geisha district earlier this year.

In March, Japan welcomed a record-breaking number of over 3 million overseas tourists, highlighting its growing popularity as a travel destination. In the scenic resort town of Fujikawaguchiko, Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest and active volcano, is a major draw for visitors. One of the most sought-after spots for capturing the iconic mountain is where it can be seen behind a Lawson convenience store, a familiar sight across Japan. This spot has become famous for its unique blend of natural beauty and modern convenience, attracting tourists seeking the quintessential Japanese experience.

Despite the town’s efforts, including traffic signs and repeated warnings from security guards, tourists continued to disregard the rules. As a final measure, the town in the Yamanashi region opted to install a large screen.

This decision was made not only to address the issue of unruly behaviour but also to protect a nearby dental clinic. Tourists have been known to illegally park at the clinic and even climb onto its roof to capture photographs.

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The town officials expressed regret over having to take such drastic action, but they emphasised that the screen will remain in place until the situation improves. It reflects the town’s commitment to finding solutions to the challenges posed by tourism.

Since the pandemic-era border restrictions were lifted, Japan has experienced a surge in tourism, prompting the government to actively promote visitor numbers. However, this growth hasn’t been universally welcomed, especially in Kyoto, where residents have voiced concerns about tourists bothering the city’s geisha.

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To alleviate congestion, hikers using the most popular route to climb Mount Fuji will be charged JPY 2,000 each this summer, with a limit on the number of climbers allowed.

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