Mt. Fuji Introduces Online Booking Fee and Visitor Limits
Yamanashi Prefecture introduced new rules and systems for climbers in May 2024. Aimed at easing congestion and improving safety, the changes affect the popular Yoshida Trail in Yamanashi.
Online reservations and entry fees
As of May 20th 2024, climbers need to book their spot online and pay a 2,000 yen (around $13 USD) entry fee in advance. A maximum of 4,000 climbers per day will be allowed, with 3,000 slots available for online booking and the remaining 1,000 open for visitors paying fees at the trail reception on the day.
The online reservation system will go live at 10pm on May 20th via the official Mt. Fuji Climbing website operated by Yamanashi Prefecture. Bookings can be made up until the day before your planned climb date, with a maximum of 100 people allowed to reserve at once. Payment is accepted by credit card or QR code, with no refunds given.
Night closures and hut stays
In addition, Yamanashi will set up an entry gate at the 5th Station, closing the trail between 4pm and 3am daily. The only exceptions will be for those with advance reservations who plan to stay overnight at one of the mountain huts - preventing any "bullet climbing" attempts.
The iconic 3,776m peak straddles Yamanashi and Shizuoka Prefectures and is designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. While no entry fees will be introduced for Shizuoka's three trails, the prefecture will trial a pre-registration system asking climbers to inform them of their plans.
Mt. Fuji climbing season
The typical Mt. Fuji climbing season runs from July to early September each year. So if you're planning an ascent this summer, be sure to book your spot on the Yoshida Trail well in advance!
Tokyo DisneySea Unveils Magical New 'Fantasy Springs' Area
DisneySea Peter Pan Fantasy Springs area (C) Kyodo News
Attention theme-park fans! Tokyo DisneySea is getting a fantastical new addition this summer. The all-new "Fantasy Springs" themed area was unveiled to the media this week, ahead of its grand opening on June 6th.
Frozen, Peter Pan and Tangled
Inspired by the worlds of classic Disney films like Frozen, Peter Pan, and Tangled, this 140,000 square meter realm will transport visitors into an enchanting fantasy land. The area comprises three distinct zones - Frozen Kingdom, Rapunzel's Forest, and Peter Pan's Never Land.
Roast beef-flavoured popcorn
Among the highlights are four all-new attractions spread across the lands. Scattered springs gush water choreographed to music, while intricate rock carvings featuring beloved Disney characters like Elsa and Peter Pan adorn the landscape.
Foodies can even try a special roast beef-flavoured popcorn - a first for any Disney resort. The 320 billion yen ($2 billion) expansion will increase Tokyo DisneySea's total area by around 20%.
A storybook hotel stay
As part of the sprawling Fantasy Springs, guests can completely immerse themselves in make-believe by staying at the new Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel. This whimsical resort will be the sixth Disney hotel in the Tokyo resort.
To enter Fantasy Springs, a Standby Pass (available free of charge) or Disney Premier Access (available for a fee) for eligible attractions at Fantasy Springs will be required in addition to a Park ticket. Disney Premier Access and Standby Pass are available in limited numbers.
Tickets for Tokyo Disney Resort
Tickets for Tokyo Disney Resort are available via the Klook website.
Where to Go, Stay and How to Communicate in Japan
Japan is an incredible travel destination, but a vastly different culture and language can sometimes make it daunting, and not just for first-timers.
But it need not be that way.
As a long-time Japan explorer, in my latest blog post I share some of my best ideas and essential tips to help you visit like a seasoned pro, stress-free.
I also cover the top destinations for a quick first visit, lodging options that offer an authentic experience, hidden treasure towns worth going off-the-beaten-path for, and how to overcome the language barrier through smart prep and mindset adjustments.
Click the button below to ensure your travels in this one-of-a-kind country are rewarding adventures rather than ineffective expeditions.
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