Elevation Profile
Route Map
About This Route
The Yoshida Trail is the most popular and well-equipped route to the summit of Mount Fuji. Starting from the Fuji-Subaru Line 5th Station at 2,300 meters, the trail ascends gradually through a series of switchbacks with clear signage and frequent rest stops.
The trail splits into separate ascending and descending paths above the 8th station, which helps manage congestion. Most climbers depart the 5th Station around 10 PM to reach the summit by dawn — this timing allows you to witness the famous "goraiko" (sunrise from the summit).
The Sunrise Climb
The quintessential Fuji experience is reaching the summit in time for sunrise. From the 5th Station, most climbers need 5-7 hours to reach the top. Departing between 9-11 PM gives you a comfortable buffer, with time to rest at the summit before the sun appears around 4:30-5:00 AM in midsummer.
Station-by-Station Breakdown
5th Station
2,300 m
Trailhead with parking, shops, restaurants, and restrooms. Last reliable facilities. Arrive early — parking fills by 8 AM on weekends.
6th Station
2,400 m
Short 30-minute walk from 5th Station. First mountain huts appear. Trail becomes steeper with wooden steps.
7th Station
2,700 m
Multiple hut complexes (Toyokan, Hinodekan). Most climbers rest here. The air starts feeling thin — pace yourself.
8th Station
3,100 m
Trail splits into ascending and descending paths. Several huts including the large Fujisan Hotel. Above treeline — exposed terrain.
8.5 Station
3,250 m
The "horse zone" — rockier terrain. Some hikers experience altitude symptoms here. Slow and steady wins the race.
9th Station
3,460 m
Near the summit crater rim. Muroyama hut is the last refuge before the top. Wind picks up significantly.
Summit
3,776 m
Kusushi Shrine, weather station, and the highest post office in Japan (summer only). Walk the Ohachi crater rim for 360° views.
Mountain Huts
8 huts along the Yoshida Trail. Reservations strongly recommended in peak season.
| Hut Name | Station | Elevation | Sleep | Meal | Toilet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tomoe-kan | 7th | 2,750m | ~150 | Curry rice, noodles | Yes (200 yen) |
| Toyokan | 7th | 2,800m | ~200 | Meals available | Yes (200 yen) |
| Hinode-kan | 7th | 2,850m | ~180 | Dinner & breakfast | Yes (200 yen) |
| Kamaiwa-kan | 7-8th | 2,950m | ~120 | Simple meals | Yes (200 yen) |
| Goraiko-kan | 8th | 3,050m | ~200 | Full meals | Yes (200 yen) |
| Fujisan Hotel | 8th | 3,100m | ~350 | Dinner & breakfast | Yes (200 yen) |
| Horaikan | 8.5th | 3,250m | ~100 | Simple meals | Yes (200 yen) |
| Muroyama | 9th | 3,460m | ~80 | Noodles, snacks | Yes (200 yen) |
Booking Tips
Most huts accept reservations by phone (Japanese only) or through online booking platforms. Prices range from 7,000-12,000 yen per night including dinner and breakfast. Without a reservation, you may be able to pay for a short rest (~2,000 yen) during off-peak times.
Pros
- Most facilities of any route (8 mountain huts)
- Best route for beginners — clear signage throughout
- Separate ascending and descending paths reduce congestion
- Best availability of food, water, and restrooms
- Multiple escape points if you need to turn back
- Frequent shuttle buses to 5th Station from Tokyo
Cons
- Most crowded route — can feel like a queue on weekends
- Less solitude and wilderness experience
- Descent path is steep on the knees
- 5th Station parking fills early on weekends
- Hut reservations book up weeks in advance for peak season
- Headlamp traffic jams during the night climb
What to Bring
Essential gear for the Yoshida Trail. Check the full Fuji gear checklist for a complete list.
Clothing
- Layered clothing system (base, mid, outer shell)
- Warm jacket (down or synthetic — summit temps near 0°C)
- Rain jacket and pants (afternoon thunderstorms common)
- Warm hat and sun hat
- Gloves (essential for the summit)
Footwear
- Hiking boots with ankle support
- Extra socks (wool or synthetic)
- Gaiters (optional, for volcanic dust)
Safety & Navigation
- Headlamp with fresh batteries (night climb essential)
- First aid kit with blister supplies
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (UV is intense at altitude)
- Emergency whistle
- Mobile phone (coverage available on most of trail)
Food & Water
- 2-3 liters of water (refills available at huts for 300-500 yen)
- High-energy snacks (nuts, bars, chocolate)
- Cash (5,000-10,000 yen — huts don't accept cards)
- Electrolyte supplements
Seasonal Notes
July marks the opening of the climbing season. The first week sees fewer crowds but possible snow patches near the summit. By mid-July, all huts are fully operational and the "sunrise climb" season kicks into high gear. Weekends in late July start getting busy — book huts in advance.
Average summit temperature: 5°C. Afternoon thunderstorms become more frequent as the month progresses.
August is peak season. The Obon holiday (mid-August) brings the heaviest crowds — the trail can feel like a queue from 8th Station upward. All facilities are open and running at full capacity. Weather is generally most stable, but afternoon thunderstorms remain a risk.
Average summit temperature: 5-8°C. This is the best weather window, but also the most crowded.
September offers thinner crowds and cooler temperatures. Some huts begin closing after September 1, so check availability before climbing. Weather becomes more unpredictable — cold fronts can bring snow even in early September. The trail officially closes September 10.
Average summit temperature: 0-5°C. Carry extra warm layers and be prepared for early-season winter conditions.