Mount Fuji is the most famous landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site in Japan. Although inactive, Mount Fuji is still considered an active volcano. The last eruption took place in 1707. The Japanese people respect Mount Fuji as a sacred mountain. It has been valued for centuries as a representation of power, beauty, and purity.
The mountain appears frequently in Japanese literature and art. Along with tourists, pilgrims also travel there in large numbers. Thousands of people climb Mount Fuji each year. Although the climb is difficult, it is also worthwhile. From the summit, climbers experience amazing views.
In this article, we will look into the location, height, history, characteristics, eruption, and some interesting facts about Mount Fuji.
Mount Fuji
Overview – Mount Fuji
A complete overview of Mount Fuji is provided in the Table below:
| Category |
Information |
| Name |
Mount Fuji (富士山, Fujisan) |
| Location |
Honshu, Japan |
| Elevation |
3,776 meters (12,388 feet) |
| Type |
Stratovolcano |
| Last Eruption |
1707 |
| Prominence |
3,776 meters (12,388 feet) |
| Isolation |
1,540 kilometers (957 miles) |
| Climate |
Subarctic at summit, temperate at base |
| Vegetation |
Lush forests at lower slopes, barren at higher elevations |
| Religion and Culture |
Sacred symbol of Japan, revered in art, literature, and mythology |
| Tourism |
A popular destination for hiking, climbing, sightseeing, and hot springs |
| Accessibility |
Multiple trails and transportation options are available |
| Unique Features |
Nearly perfect conical shape, snow-capped peak, five Fuji Lakes |
| Challenges |
Altitude sickness, weather conditions, crowded trails |
Mount Fuji Location
Mount Fuji, often known as Fuji-san, is a beautiful stratovolcano on Japan’s largest island, Honshu. It is Japan’s tallest peak and a symbol of Japanese culture that attracts visitors from all over the world.
- Latitude and Longitude: Mount Fuji is situated approximately between 35.3606° N latitude and 138.7274° E longitude.
- Prefectures and Surroundings: Mount Fuji lies on the border between Shizuoka Prefecture to the southwest and Yamanashi Prefecture to the northeast. It is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which is known for its stunning natural landscapes such as hot springs, lakes, and woods.
- Proximity to Tokyo: Mount Fuji’s location is famous for its proximity to Tokyo, Japan’s capital city. It is located roughly 100 kilometers (60 miles) southwest of Tokyo, making it easily reachable for day outings or weekend vacations for both locals and tourists.
Mount Fuji Height
Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, is recognized as a symbol of natural beauty and cultural significance:
- Elevation Above Sea Level: Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest peak, reaching 3,776.24 meters (12,389 ft) above sea level.
- Relative Height:
- Prominence: Mount Fuji has a prominence of 3,776 meters (12,389 feet) above the surrounding ground, which equates to its top elevation. This prominence contributes to its unique appearance and importance in the landscape.
- Isolation: Mount Fuji is a single summit, with no other mountain exceeding its height within a large distance, enhancing its significance and majesty.
Mount Fuji Eruption
The following are some of the notable eruptions of Mount Fuji:
1. Komitake and Old Fuji
Mount Fuji has been a site of volcanic activity for millions of years, with the earliest known volcano being Mount Komitake, which became active 700,000 years ago. Mount Ashitaka, located to the south-east, was also active during this time. Around 100,000 years ago, Komitake triggered a new eruption called Old Fuji, reaching 3,100 meters and releasing large amounts of scoria, volcanic ash, and lava.
2. New Fuji
Mount Fuji experienced 4,000 years of inactivity after the Old Fuji period, ending around 5,000 years ago with the re-emergence of New Fuji. Eruptions of New Fuji include lava flows, magma, scoria, volcanic ash, collapses, and side eruptions, making it a “department store of eruptions.”
The Gotemba Mud Flow
Around 2,300 years ago, the east face of a volcano collapsed, causing lahars to flow down to the Gotemba area, reaching the Ashigara plain and Suruga Bay across Mishima city, resulting in liquid mud accumulating over an area as wide as Mishima city.
Jogan Eruption
In 864, Mount Fuji experienced a massive eruption on its north-east side, resulting in a massive lava flow. The eruption, which lasted for 10 days, caused destruction and loss of life. The eruption began near Mount Asama and spread as far as Kai province. The lava filled Senoumi lake, dividing it into Saiko and Shojiko, now known as Aokigahara lava, which is now covered by the dense Aokigahara forest.
Hoei Eruption
In 1707, the Great Hoei eruption occurred after the Great Hoei earthquake, which severely damaged Osaka and created seismic activity in Mt. Fuji. This caused basaltic lava to rise from the bottom to the higher dacitic magma chamber at 8 km deep, causing a Plinian eruption. The Genroku earthquake, which struck Japan in 1703, had a similar effect on Mt. Fuji but with less severity. On November 11, 1707, Osaka suffered greatly due to a violent earthquake. On December 16, 1707, Mount Fuji erupted, causing cinders and ash to fall in Izu, Kai, Sagami, and Musashi, spreading volcanic ash and scoria as far as Edo (now Tokyo).
Since 781, New Fuji has erupted 16 times. Many of the eruptions occurred during the Heian period, with 12 between 800 and 1083. Inactive periods between eruptions could stretch hundreds of years, as in the case of 1083-1511, when no eruptions were recorded for more than 400 years. There have been no eruptions since the Hoei eruption in 1707-1708, which occurred approximately 300 years ago.
History of Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji, an iconic symbol of Japan, has a long history that is linked with culture, religion, and natural events.
Geological Formation
Mount Fuji is a stratovolcano formed over hundreds of thousands of years of volcanic activity. Its current shape and structure have been created by countless eruptions and geological events.
Cultural Significance
Mount Fuji, a major tourist destination in Japan, has been regarded as the “number one” peak in the known world by the three countries of India, China, and Japan since 1600. The summit has been respected since ancient times, and women were prohibited from visiting until 1872 when the Japanese government banned female exclusion laws. Tatsu Takayama, a Japanese woman, became the first woman to climb Mount Fuji in 1832.
Ancient samurai and shōgun Minamoto no Yoritomo held yabusame archery tournaments on the mountain. Sir Rutherford Alcock was the first foreigner to climb Mount Fuji in 1860, followed by Lady Fanny Parkes in 1867 and photographer Felix Beato two years later. Mount Fuji is currently a popular international tourist and mountain climbing destination, with the famous phrase that “a wise person will climb it once in their lifetime.”
Geographical Features of Mount Fuji
The following are the geographical features of Mount Fuji:
- Stratovolcano: Mount Fuji is a stratovolcano, characterized by its steep, conical shape formed by layers of hardened lava, ash, and volcanic rocks.
- Elevation: The summit of Mount Fuji reaches an elevation of 3,776.24 meters (12,389 feet) above sea level, making it the highest peak in Japan.
- Prominence: Mount Fuji’s prominence, or relative height above its surrounding terrain, is approximately 3,776 meters (12,389 feet), equal to its summit elevation.
- Isolation: Mount Fuji is a single peak, with no other mountain exceeding it in height within a large distance, enhancing its importance and beauty.
- Geological Formation: Over hundreds of thousands of years, Mount Fuji has been shaped by several eruptions and geological processes, resulting in its current structure and features.
- Surrounding Plains: The fertile plains surrounding Mount Fuji are used for agriculture, with fields of crops extending up to the base of the mountain.
- Location: Mount Fuji is located on Honshu Island, Japan’s largest island, and crosses the border between Shizuoka Prefecture to the southwest and Yamanashi Prefecture to the northeast.
- Views: Mount Fuji’s advantageous location gives amazing views from several viewpoints throughout the region. On clear days, its symmetrical cone is visible from as far away as Tokyo, Yokohama, and even sections of the Chubu region.
Interesting Facts About Mount Fuji
Here are some interesting facts about Mount Fuji:
- Mount Fuji is an iconic symbol of Japan, representing beauty, resilience, and national identity.
- In 2013, Mount Fuji was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural significance and natural beauty.
- Mount Fuji has a tradition of climbing, attracting thousands of climbers each year during the climbing season (July to September).
- Mount Fuji has inspired several artists, poets, and writers throughout history, featuring prominently in Japanese art, literature, and culture.
- Mount Fuji has spiritual significance in Japanese culture, as it is thought to be the home of gods and spirits.
- Mount Fuji is often referred to as “Fujisan” in Japanese, emphasizing its cultural importance as a national symbol.
- Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano, with its last eruption occurring in 1707-1708.
- Mount Fuji’s accessibility from major cities like Tokyo and Yokohama makes it a popular destination for tourists and climbers.
- Climbers often climb Mount Fuji to view the stunning sunrise from its summit, known as “Goraiko” in Japanese.
- Mount Fuji is surrounded by five scenic lakes, known as the Fuji Five Lakes, offering beautiful views of the mountain.
Conclusion – Mount Fuji – Eruption, Height, Location, & Facts
In conclusion, Mount Fuji is a natural wonder that has attracted the hearts and minds of people all around the world. It is Japan’s tallest peak, rising at 3,776 meters (12,380 ft). Mount Fuji, a dormant volcano, has erupted over 15 times since 781. The latest eruption occurred in 1707. Mount Fuji is a respected symbol for Japan. It is frequently represented in art and literature. The mountain is a famous tourist site. Thousands of people climb Mount Fuji each year. Mount Fuji is a stunning sight. It serves as a reminder of nature’s powerful forces. Mount Fuji also represents the Japanese people’s resilience and determination.
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FAQs on Mount Fuji – Eruption, Height, Location, & Facts
What is Mount Fuji’s height?
Mount Fuji’s summit reaches an elevation of 3,776.24 meters (12,389 feet) above sea level, making it Japan’s tallest peak.
Is Mount Fuji an active volcano?
Yes, Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano, although it has been relatively dormant in recent centuries.
When did Mount Fuji last erupt?
The most recent major eruption of Mount Fuji occurred between 1707 and 1708.
Can you climb Mount Fuji?
Yes, Mount Fuji is a popular hiking destination, attracting thousands of climbers during the climbing season from July to early September.
How long does it take to climb Mount Fuji?
The climb of Mount Fuji typically takes around 5-10 hours, depending on the starting point and the climber’s pace.
What is the best time to climb Mount Fuji?
The climbing season for Mount Fuji is from early July to early September, when weather conditions are most favorable.
What is the weather like on Mount Fuji?
Weather on Mount Fuji can be unpredictable, with temperatures dropping significantly at higher elevations and the possibility of sudden storms.
Are there accommodations on Mount Fuji?
Yes, there are mountain huts or hojo along the climbing routes of Mount Fuji, providing basic accommodations and supplies for climbers.
Can you see Mount Fuji from Tokyo?
Yes, on clear days, Mount Fuji is visible from Tokyo, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) northeast of the city.
Is Mount Fuji a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes, Mount Fuji was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013, recognizing its cultural significance and natural beauty.
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