Exploring Mount Fuji

Lying 100 kilometres south-west of Tokyo and standing at 3,776 metres high, Mt Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain. Seen on countless travel magazine covers and fridge magnets worldwide, featured on multiple calendars and on postcards, this symmetrical snow-capped cone is not only a sacred mountain for the Japanese, but a grand challenge for both beginner and avid hikers. Due to atmospheric conditions, Fujisan is only open for hikes from July till early September.

Mt Fuji beckon hikers with its 4 unique trekking trails; Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba and Fujinomiya. In year 2016 and 2017, we had success with 3 teams (60pax) summiting Mt Fuji via the Subashiri Trail. At a starting altitude of 2,000 metres, Subashiri Trail is gently sloped, shadowy and beautifully green. The Subashiri route is the second least crowded trail (first being via Gotemba).

After a restful night’s stay at YMCA Tozanso, our Y Treks Fuji teams begun their hike from the Subashiri trailhead, where they set off on a 2-day 1-night journey. Spending a night up at Miharashikan Mt Fuji Mountain Hut (3,400m), hikers woke up before daylight to trek in the dark for the promise of the magnificent sunrise view. Standing high above the clouds, we were at the peak of the mortal world!

Satisfied with the breath-taking experience, we descend the summit with the reward of breakfast back in the hut. Truly, no words can quite encapsulate the first-hand experience of scaling Mt Fuji.

To the nature-goer and seeker of adventure, or someone who simply like a break from our busy city-lives, Y Treks Fuji 2018 will be happening from 30th August to 2nd September 2018. Keen to join? Email Gladys Cheong at gladyscheong@ymca.org.sg.

Contributed by YMCA Outdoors & Adventure Team