Mt. Fuji Climbing Season 2026 Officially Ended on September 10

The 2026 Mt. Fuji climbing season officially ended on September 10. From this date onward, the routes leading to the summit are closed, and travelers are strongly advised not to attempt climbing Mt. Fuji outside the official climbing season.

According to the official Mt. Fuji climbing website, all four major routes — Yoshida, Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya Trails — ended their summit climbing season on September 10. The official website has also updated its status to “Mt. Fuji is currently closed.”

Which Trails Are Closed?

On the Yamanashi side, the Yoshida Trail was officially open from July 1 to September 10.

On the Shizuoka side, the Subashiri Trail operated from July 1 to September 10, while the Gotemba Trail and Fujinomiya Trail opened on July 10 and also closed on September 10.

After the official climbing season ends, the routes leading to the summit of Mt. Fuji are closed.

However, some lower sections may remain accessible for a limited period depending on actual weather and trail conditions. For example, certain sections between the 5th and 6th Stations on the Fujinomiya Trail may continue to be accessible after the main climbing season.

Why Should You Avoid Climbing Mt. Fuji After

Outside the official climbing season, weather conditions on Mt. Fuji can change extremely quickly. Temperatures drop significantly, strong winds become more common, and the risk of snow and ice gradually increases.

More importantly, mountain huts, rescue stations, and many support services begin to close, while communication and emergency rescue capabilities become much more limited.

The official Mt. Fuji website warns that climbing outside the official season is extremely dangerous.

Therefore, for travelers and travel companies planning trips to Japan from mid-September onward, summit climbing should not be included in Mt. Fuji itineraries.

You Can Still Visit the Mt. Fuji Area After the Climbing Season

The end of the climbing season does not mean that the entire Mt. Fuji area is closed.

Travelers can still enjoy views of Mt. Fuji from destinations such as Lake Kawaguchiko, Lake Yamanakako, Oshino Hakkai, and Chureito Pagoda, or visit the Mt. Fuji 5th Station when road and weather conditions allow.

In particular, from late October through November, the Fuji area enters its autumn foliage season, making it one of the most beautiful times of the year to combine Mt. Fuji sightseeing with Japan’s colorful autumn scenery.

One important point to remember: visiting Mt. Fuji and climbing to the summit are two completely different activities. After September 10, travelers can still visit and explore the Fuji area, but summit climbing should not be attempted.

Sources: Official Website for Mt. Fuji Climbing, Yamanashi Prefecture, and Shizuoka Prefecture.