A Bizarre Rescue Story on Japan's Iconic Mountain

In a stunning series of events, a 27-year-old Chinese student living in Japan found himself needing to be rescued not once, but twice from the treacherous slopes of Mount Fuji within just a week. This unusual saga began when he reached the summit of Japan's tallest peak, standing at 3,776 meters (12,388 feet), only to succumb to altitude sickness shortly after.

Returning for a Forgotten Phone: A Risky Decision

Rather than staying away following his initial rescue, the determined climber made the risky choice to return to the mountain on Saturday to retrieve his forgotten belongings, including his cell phone. Unfortunately, this decision led to another bout of illness at an altitude of over 3,000 meters (9,842 feet), necessitating yet another rescue operation.

Navigating the Dangers of Off-Season Climbing

What makes this story even more intriguing is that he embarked on these climbs outside the official climbing season, which typically runs from July 10 to September 10. With trails closed and safety facilities like huts and first aid stations shut down, the risks of ascending Mount Fuji were dramatically heightened.

New Regulations for Future Climbers

In response to growing concerns over overcrowding and safety, local authorities are implementing stricter regulations for climbers ahead of the 2025 season. Starting next year, a permit costing 4,000 yen ($28) will be required, and climbers must book their spots online, limited to just 4,000 visitors a day. This represents a significant increase from the previous year's tourist tax and is aimed at ensuring the preservation and safety of this beloved mountain.

The Importance of Proper Preparation

The issues aren't just about crowd management; they also involve climbers being ill-prepared. Many hikers have faced medical emergencies due to inadequate gear, such as sandals and flip-flops, or by not carrying enough water. To combat these dangers, Shizuoka prefecture now requires aspiring climbers to attend a brief safety class and pass a test before hitting the trails.

Mount Fuji: A Natural Wonder with New Challenges Ahead

As Mount Fuji continues to attract climbers and tourists from around the globe, the challenges and regulations surrounding its ascent highlight the need for greater awareness and responsibility. According to Koutaro Nagasaki, governor of Yamanashi prefecture, the goal is to promote comprehensive safety measures to ensure that this natural treasure can be enjoyed by future generations.