Mt. Fuji is Japan's highest mountain of 3776 meters. Mt. Fuji is open to the public for climbing, from 1st of July until 31st of August.
Last weekend, I climbed Mt. Fuji with my friends. We started the adventure on Saturday at 20:00. We planned to see the sun rise from the top. We reached the summit after 9 hours and half! The ascension was difficult, a lot of rocks. I used my hands to climb. Moreover, the higher we are, the stronger the slope is.
On the top, it was windy and cold (2 degree). The hole of the volcano is breathtaking, it is so huge, deep and scary. There are beautiful black and red rocks around the hole. I brought couple of them for my collection.
On my way to the top, I met a 7 years old boy with his father. The child was crying while climbing. He is brave. Some people couldn't pursue their way without taking rest. They slept on rocks and sand in the middle of the ascension.
After three hours of rest on the summit (we spent one hour in the long queue for toilet), we started the descension on Sunday morning at 8:30. It took 4 hours. Going back needs more concentration and less physical effort. The way is slippery and rocky. We had to go through clouds where we barely can see. Thanks God, I brought my raincoat, otherwise I would catch a cold.
Now, I am glad that I could realize the most challenging item in my To-do list of my stay in Japan. This experience allowed me to test my stamina. However, once back, my muscles and feet were aching so much. I spent Monday sleeping and relaxing. Today, I feel much more better.
Mt. Fuji needs preparation. The climbing will be easier if you exercise regularly.
The following is a list of item that I think necessary to climb Mt. Fuji:
- A strong climbing stick (cane) is crucial for safe ascension and descension.
- Winter clothes are necessary to keep warm on the summit.
- Raincoat in case of rain.
- Oxygen bottle, especially for people having asthma.
- Food, sweets and minimum 2 liters of water.
- Gloves for climbing with hands.
- Torch and extra batteries. It is better to have a torch that you can attach on your front or hang around your neck so that you have your hands free.
- Rubbish bag because it is forbidden to leave rubbish on Mt. Fuji. You should take everything home.
Posts
