The iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japanese landmark, Mount Fuji, is implementing new regulations to combat overtourism, including a new tourist fee.?

According to CNN, the popular site endures human-made pollution and large crowds of travelers attempting to climb the mountain, leading to a less than enjoyable experience for all. It also negatively impacts Fuji-ko, or those who worship the mountain.?

The government of the Yamanashi Prefecture voted to charge 2,000 yen¡ªthe equivalent of US$13¡ªto every climber visiting Mount Fuji. Additionally, Mount Fuji will now cap its daily visitor total to 4,000 climbers. New guides will also encourage good manners and mountain safety.?

¡°By strongly promoting comprehensive safety measures for climbing Mount Fuji, we will ensure that Mount Fuji, a treasure of the world, is passed onto future generations,¡± said Koutaro Nagasaki, governor of Yamanashi Prefecture.

¡°In order to revive traditional mountain climbing from the foot of Mount Fuji, we will gain a detailed understanding of the Fuji-ko and Oshi culture that supported Mount Fuji worship. We look to link these cultures to this mountain climbing, as it is rooted in the cultural values of the religion.¡±

According to the prefect, Mount Fuji has grown in popularity over recent years. Five million people hiked the mountain in 2019, a growth of three million from 2012.?

Japan as a whole has been introduced to overtourism since the pandemic-era entry requirements ended, leading to a surge in popularity among travelers from around the globe. Overcrowding and a lack of social etiquette by foreign tourists are among the highest concerns, as is pollution.?

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