Kouhai (first climb)

Um… can I ask anything I don’t understand?

Column series

Articles (Series Index)

Learn your first Mt. Fuji climb through a friendly chat between a veteran and a first-timer.

A step-by-step series in senpai–kouhai dialogue. Read from Episode 1 in order.

Senpai (experienced climber)

Let’s cover season, routes, huts, and gear—step by step!

Learn in dialogue

Big topics in speech bubbles—easier to skim and remember than walls of text.

Read in order

Overview → route → hut booking → gear… follow the prep flow from Episode 1.

Summary each episode

Checklist-style wrap-ups at the end of every piece for pre-trip review.

View all articles↓ Start from Episode 1 for the best flow

Your First Mt. Fuji Climb

A guided series for first-time climbers: season, routes, hut booking, gear, and more.

Reading order9 / 9 episodes (published)
  1. Episode 1

    Mt. Fuji 2026 Season & the Big Picture

    Overview of the 2026 climbing season, hut stays, and how to plan your first Mt. Fuji trip—in a senpai–kouhai dialogue.

    Read this episode →
  2. Episode 2

    How to Choose a Climbing Route

    Differences among Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya—and why many beginners start on Yoshida.

    Read this episode →
  3. Episode 3

    Yoshida Route Hut Booking Tips for Beginners

    A senpai–kouhai dialogue on the basics of booking mountain huts on the Yoshida trail for your first Mt. Fuji climb.

    Read this episode →
  4. Episode 4

    Stay at the 7th or 8th Station?

    Comparing hut stays on Yoshida at the 7th vs 8th station—elevation, summit plans, and tips for beginners.

    Read this episode →
  5. Episode 5

    Gear and Packing Basics

    Clothing and gear for Mt. Fuji—how to use our packing list and what beginners often miss.

    Read this episode →
  6. Episode 6

    Food, Water, and Toilets on the Mountain

    Hut meals, how much water to carry, paid toilets, and etiquette on Mt. Fuji.

    Read this episode →
  7. Episode 7

    Descent, Buses, and Parking

    Safe descent, Yoshida-route buses, and parking—plan your way home before you climb.

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  8. Episode 8

    Decisions in Bad Weather

    When to turn back on Mt. Fuji—thunderstorms, wind, fog, cold, and hut-stay options for beginners.

    Read this episode →
  9. Episode 9

    Subashiri, Gotemba & Fujinomiya Compared

    How the three non-Yoshida trails differ—season, distance, huts, and who each route suits.

    Read this episode →

Other articles

Acclimatizing at the 5th Station Before You Climb

Before you take your first step up Mt. Fuji, spend at least an hour at the 5th Station. Here's why acclimatization matters and how to use that time wisely.

Flora, Wildlife, and the Natural Environment of Mt. Fuji

Discover the plants, birds, and unique volcanic landscape you'll encounter on Mt. Fuji — plus rules to follow and tips for enjoying nature along the way.

Pacing and Rest Strategy to Summit Mt. Fuji

Learn how to pace yourself on Mt. Fuji with concrete tips on step size, rest timing, hut-by-hut targets, and how to recover when your rhythm breaks.

How to Train Your Body for Mt. Fuji

Get your body ready for the 3,776 m summit with a practical training plan covering cardio, strength, local hikes, and what to do the final weeks before your climb.

Sun Protection at High Altitude on Mt. Fuji

Learn why UV radiation intensifies as you climb Mt. Fuji and get practical advice on sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, balaclavas, and protecting your lips and ears.

How to Prevent Altitude Sickness on Mt. Fuji

Learn how to prevent altitude sickness on Mt. Fuji with practical tips on pacing, acclimatization at the 5th Station, recognizing symptoms early, and whether Diamox is right for you.

Avoiding Crowds: Best Timing for Mt. Fuji

Plan your Mt. Fuji climb around the crowds. Learn which weeks are packed, which are calm, and how new entry rules are changing the experience for everyone.

Mt. Fuji: History, Shinto Faith, and UNESCO Heritage

Discover how Mt. Fuji became Japan's most sacred peak — from ancient Shinto worship and Edo-period pilgrim clubs to its 2013 UNESCO World Cultural Heritage inscription.

Headlamp Selection and Night Climbing Tips

Planning a night climb up Mt. Fuji? Learn how to pick the right headlamp, what to watch out for in the dark, and how to manage crowds and pace for a safe summit push.