Fuji

In evening flame, this unusually shaped volcano is something what you cannot forget. Fuji is similar kind of symbol of Japan as for example Statue of Liberty is of United States, maybe.

Fuji is a symbol of nature for Japanese, and some semi-professional photographers are only concentrating on photographing Fujisan.

It is said that when Japanese watch Fujisan from airplane after returning from overseas travel, they feel something comfortable.

After all, Fujisan is such a solid, massive mountain, which isn't going to go anywhere. Interest rates and stockmarkets fluctuate, people come and go, but Fujisan is a symbol of security.

In fact, Fujisan has been place of pilgrimage for over thousand year. Mount Fuji has been active volcano until 1300 century. Last time it erupted in 1707.

It will erupt again, some day.

Occasionally there comes little gusts of steam from the crater which is a clear evidence that Fuji is still active volcano, although now in dormant state.

Fujisan is located in very volcanic ground on national park of Izu-Hakone, which is known from two relatively large scale eruptions in early '90.

It's possible to climb to Fujisan when there is no snow in the top of it. Usually this period is from May to September.

There are small log houses built on the mountain where it's possible for traveller to rest. Often people start climbing in the late evening, reaching the top when sun is rising. It's described as a very intensive and physically demanding experience.

Where is Fujisan?

As 3778 metres high, Mount Fuji is the most highest point in Japan. It's located in Yamanashi prefecture. Few cities close to Fuji are Kofu, Tsuru, Gotenba, Susono, Fujinomiya and Numazu.

Mt. Fuji is in fact quite far from Tokyo. Usually people imagine it's very close to Tokyo, because sometimes you can catch a glimpse of it from here.

Mount Fuji is called Fuji-san by Japanese, and only in a rare occasion "Fuji-yama". Generally it is said that only foreigners use "Fuji-yama".

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