Mount Fuji, which is a component of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is situated on Honshu Island about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013. For centuries, its flawless symmetry has served as an inspiration to poets, philosophers, and artists, making it a classic motif in Japanese art, especially in woodblock prints like Hokusai’s well-known “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji” series.

Mount Fuji is revered as a sacred peak in Japanese culture. It is a pilgrimage site for persons pursuing enlightenment and is connected to the Shinto religion, having shrines devoted to the mountain’s spirit at its base. The mountain itself is said to represent a portal between the divine and the earth, and climbing it has long been a spiritual experience.

The Yoshida Trail, which goes to the top and provides views of the surrounding landscapes, is the most popular path for the thousands of climbers that ascend the peak each summer.

The natural beauty of Mount Fuji is equally as captivating as its cultural significance. Hikers and visitors flock there to take in the breathtaking views during the warmer months. The ascent, which usually takes five to ten hours, depending on the route, offers stunning views, shifting terrain, and the rare opportunity to witness Goraiko, the sunrise from the peak. From fall to spring, the mountain is frequently blanketed with snow, which enhances its spectacular look.

The best time of year to go trekking is from early July to early September, which is also Mount Fuji’s official climbing season. Conditions are severe outside of this time, and the ascent is made more hazardous by snow and ice.

In this blog post, we’ll uncover 30 intriguing and lesser-known facts about Mount Fuji that will make you appreciate this natural wonder even more.

1. Mount Fuji is an Active Volcano

Although Mount Fuji is not currently erupting, it is an active volcano. Its last eruption took place in 1707 during the Edo period, and it is classified as a “stratovolcano,” meaning it’s made up of layers of hardened lava and ash from past eruptions.

2. It’s the Highest Peak in Japan

Standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet), Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain. It is significantly higher than any other peak in the country, with many other mountains in Japan reaching only around 2,000 to 3,000 meters.

3. Mount Fuji is Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2013, Mount Fuji was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural significance as well as its natural beauty. It is celebrated not only for its geological features but also for its role in Japanese art, spirituality, and history.

4. A Sacred Mountain for Pilgrims

Mount Fuji has been considered sacred for centuries. Pilgrims have been ascending its slopes for religious reasons since the 7th century, believing the summit to be a holy place. The mountain is associated with the Shinto religion and was a site for rituals and offerings.

5. The First Ascent Was in the 7th Century

While the exact date of Mount Fuji’s first ascent is unclear, it’s believed that the first recorded climb occurred in the 7th century. Early climbs were done for religious and spiritual reasons, and climbing the mountain was seen as an act of purification.

6. The Mountain is a Popular Destination for Climbers

Each year, more than 300,000 climbers attempt to reach the summit of Mount Fuji, especially during the official climbing season, which runs from early July to early September. The mountain offers several routes to the top, each with varying degrees of difficulty.

7. Mount Fuji Has Five Beautiful Lakes

Surrounding Mount Fuji are five pristine lakes, known as the Fuji Five Lakes. These include Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka, Lake Saiko, Lake Shoji, and Lake Motosu. The lakes offer stunning views of the mountain and are popular spots for boating, fishing, and camping.

8. It’s a Symbol of Japan’s Aesthetic Philosophy

Mount Fuji is often depicted in traditional Japanese art, representing the country’s deep respect for nature. Its iconic shape is featured in famous artworks, such as Katsushika Hokusai’s “Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji.” The mountain represents the perfect balance of nature and is seen as a symbol of tranquility and beauty.

9. Mount Fuji’s Perfect Symmetry

One of Mount Fuji’s most recognizable features is its near-perfect conical shape. This symmetrical form is not only aesthetically pleasing but also a result of its volcanic structure, making it one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.

10. The Mountain Is Made Up of Three Volcanoes

Mount Fuji is actually composed of three volcanic cones: Komitake, Ko-Fuji, and the current Fuji-san. The oldest cone, Komitake, is the lowest and most weathered. Ko-Fuji is the middle cone, and Fuji-san, the present-day peak, is the youngest and most active.

11. The Name “Fuji” May Have a Mystical Origin

The name “Fuji” is believed to have several possible meanings. Some scholars argue that it comes from the Ainu word “Fuchi,” meaning “fire,” while others suggest it is derived from the Japanese words “fujin” (god of fire) or “fuji” (immortal). The origin of the name adds to the mountain’s mysterious aura.

12. Mount Fuji’s Crater is Huge

The summit of Mount Fuji contains a massive crater, which measures about 500 meters (1,640 feet) in diameter. Inside the crater, visitors can find several small lakes and a unique ecosystem.

13. It Experiences Frequent Earthquakes

Due to its status as an active volcano, Mount Fuji lies within the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an area known for frequent seismic activity. Earthquakes are common in the region, and volcanic tremors occasionally shake the mountain.

14. There Are Temples and Shrines on Mount Fuji

Scattered across Mount Fuji are numerous Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, serving as places of worship and offering. These religious sites have been built to honor the mountain’s spiritual significance.

15. Mount Fuji Has Its Own “Climbing Season”

The official climbing season for Mount Fuji is quite short, typically from early July to early September. This is when the mountain is most accessible, with the weather being less severe. Outside of these months, the mountain is often closed due to heavy snowfall and dangerous conditions.