Hostels in Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is an active volcano situated on Japan’s Honshu Island. Also called Fuji-san, it forms part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park and is surrounded by three cities as well as five lakes. The volcano, which last erupted in 1708, is the country’s highest point at 12,389 feet (3,776 meters). It is both one of Japan’s three “holy mountains” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The locality is well-connected to other cities on the island via bus and train terminals. It is just 60 miles (100 kilometers) from Tokyo and 50 miles (80 kilometers) from Mt. Fuji Shizuoka Airport.

Tourists who wish to come face to face with the breathtakingly grandiose Mount Fuji should arrive within the months of July or August. The view changes constantly, depending on the weather and clouds, so there are no guarantees regarding the clarity around the volcano.

If you wish to climb, there are several routes to take from the base of the mountain. The most popular path is the Yoshida route. Be sure to get your walking stick, which earns a stamp at every level and makes an ideal souvenir. Some visitors choose to hike from the base until they reach several stations up. Others take transportation partly up and then begin their trek from one of the higher stations. All level stations have parking and huts, so each individual can decide from what level to start hiking and where to take a break by napping in a hut. Some very fit climbers hike the entire volcano.

The most popular level is Fifth Station, 7,546 feet (2,300 meters) in altitude. Here you will find the largest number of huts, which you can reserve in order to rest between hiking. There is also a rest stop with a mini-mall offering restaurants, restrooms, and souvenir shops. Paragliding can also be pursued at this level.

For individuals who prefer to stay on ground level, they can take a train ride around the massive mountain. There is Children’s World, an amusement park for travelers with kids which provides a petting zoo, go-karts, pony rides, as well as a rollercoaster. If you visit Lake Ashi, you can capture beautiful photos of Mount Fuji while taking a boat ride.

There are many accommodations within the locality of Mount Fuji. Budget-travelers have numerous hostels to choose from as well. The average hostel near Mount Fuji is close to public transportation, boasts an English-speaking staff, clean facilities, and might even offer free bike rentals. Common complaints by hostel guests include insufficient space and the lack of a complimentary breakfast.

Handwritten by local expert for Mount Fuji hostels Jakob Lombardi