Mount Fuji is 3776 meters high, which makes it the tallest
mountain in Japan. The perfectly shaped mountain is
also an active volcano that last erupted in 1708. Because
of its majestic appearance it has been worshipped and
considered a sacred deity that ascetic monks revered.
The snowcapped visage of Mount Fuji has been iconic in
many artistic outlets and is now known as one of the
symbols of Japan. On a clear day you can ride the
Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo to Osaka and see
the mountain in the distance. If you wish to see the
mountain from another angle then you can enjoy the view
from the Fuji Five Lakes (Fujigoko), which are located at
the base.
Mount Fuji is one of the Three Holy Mountains in Japan
along with Mount Tate and Mount Haku. In 2003 it was
designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When hiking
season begins at Mount Fuji it becomes very popular for
climbers to reach the top before the sunrise. There are
trails made for people to follow and the travel time varies
depending on the station you depart from. Also visibility
of Mount Fuji tends to be better in the early morning and
late evening.
