Mount Fuji - description and location. Mountains of Japan - the basis of the Land of the Rising Sun The highest point in Japan
Mount Fuji is a recognized symbol of Japan. It would seem that this is completely logical, because her ideal cone is known to both old and young. Today I will tell you 10 interesting facts about the stratovolcano that rises in the center of the island of Honshu and is the center of Fuji-Hakone-Izu - the country's most famous national park.
1. Mount Fuji is the most recognizable natural object in the world. According to various surveys, the vast majority of people can identify the famous Japanese mountain, regardless of their country of residence.
2. At the same time, curiously, the Japanese themselves did not pay attention to Mount Fuji for a long time. The mountains located, for example, in the vicinity of Kyoto were considered much more sacred here. This city was the historical center of the country, and accordingly, there were much more sanctuaries there. As a result, it was the local mountains that were considered the abode of especially powerful and influential goddesses.
3. The Europeans who arrived on the islands were the first to pay close attention to Fuji. The newcomers from the Old World were delighted by the shape of the mountain, which was an almost perfect cone. However, this is again logical, because the correct geometric proportions were consistent with European ideas about beauty.
4. Fuji is a “female mountain”. It's all about the rivers. In Japan, they originate in the mountains, and water, according to Eastern philosophy, is the embodiment of the feminine principle Yin. Accordingly, the mountains here have always been considered the habitat of goddesses, and Fuji is no exception to the rule. According to beliefs, several goddesses “live” here, but the main one is Sengen-Sama or Asama, whose temple is built on the top of the volcano. According to legends, the goddess lives on a sparkling cloud above the crater, her symbol is sakura, Sengen-sama looks like a beautiful and young girl, and invisible servants serve her. According to local beliefs, the duties of the goddess include protecting the mountain from evil, and Sengen-sama also helps to attract good luck. In order for fortune to be favorable to you, you just need to watch the dawn in the temple of the goddess on the top of Fuji.
5. However, Sengen-sama is not the only goddess who lives on Fuji. It is believed that the amazing Luminous Woman lives on the mountain, who once seduced the emperor and then destroyed him. The supernatural male creature O-ana-mochi also lives here - he guards the crater of the volcano.
6. Interestingly, one day Fuji suddenly changed her gender. This happened during the time of Japanese militarism (1930-1945). At this time, the mountain became one of the elements of state ideology and was positioned as a symbol of masculinity and strength. Accordingly, they spoke about the volcano exclusively in the masculine gender. And after the war, Fuji became a symbol of the new democratic Japan, and, as they say, its female gender was returned to it.
7. Fuji is Japan's highest mountain, and climbing it, which can be done in July and August, is one of the main attractions of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. And here's what's interesting. The Japanese also adopted the very idea of hiking as a sporting or entertaining pastime from the Europeans. Historically, climbing to the peaks of the mountains on the islands was considered a sacred ritual and was undertaken solely for the purpose of close communication with the gods. It was also not customary in Japan to admire the views from the top, because if you have already climbed a mountain in order to communicate with supernatural creatures, then you should not look down, but up, into the sky.
8. Today, climbing the volcano can be done from the foot or from the 5th level (the Japanese divided the slopes of Fuji into 10 levels or gome). The most popular routes are Kawaguchiko, Subashiri, Gotemba or Fujinomiya. By the way, there is a legend that all the sand that crumbles from the slopes of the mountain during the day due to a huge crowd of pilgrims magically returns to the surface of the volcano that same night.
9. Japanese folk wisdom says: “He who has never climbed Mount Fuji is a fool, and he who has climbed twice is doubly a fool.” The proverb can be translated as follows: a smart person will rise to the top, but only once in his life. However, every year approximately 200,000 people turn out to be “such smart” - according to statistics, this is how many people climb to the top of the volcano on their own two feet, and only 30% of them are foreign tourists.
Climbing Mount Fuji
Most begin the climb at Lake Kawaguchi, in the resort area north of the mountain, after about a two-hour train ride from Tokyo. The official climbing season runs from July 1 to August 27, but the mountain shelters at all ten stations along the various climbing routes are open from April to mid-November. Climbing the mountain “out of season” (especially in wet weather) not recommended, but people do it anytime.
From Kawaguchi you will take a local bus to Go-gome ("Fifth Station") on the northern slope, from where you can begin the five-hour climb to the top. You can also get here directly from Tokyo by bus from Shinjuku Bus Station; Travel time is about 2.5 hours. If you are coming from Kyoto or Osaka, a train or bus will take you to the Fujino-miya route, which runs along the southern slope.
Real pilgrims begin their climb around midnight, reaching the top by sunrise. The trail is well marked, and therefore there is no risk of getting lost. In addition, getting up at night allows you to do without spending the night in one of the shelters with shared dormitories (the conditions are, to be honest, terrible). You can stop to rest at the seventh or eighth station. Bring warm clothes with you, wear comfortable shoes, a hat and gloves. At the top you can only buy snacks from vending machines, so it’s worth stocking up on provisions, and most importantly, a thermos of coffee or tea.
In one respect, Fuji is like any other mountain - going down is much easier than going up. More adventurous climbers can make their way back along the volcanic sand-strewn descent to Shin-Go-gome ("New Fifth Station"). You simply straddle your backpack or piece of cardboard and slide down. From Shin-Go-gome, the bus will take you to the town of Gotemba, where you can change to another transport.
Neighborhoods of Fuji
Don't limit your visit to these places to just the mountain. The five lakes of Fuji, arching around the foot of the mountain from the north, offer excellent fishing, boating and hiking. The largest is Yamanaka-ko. Kawaguchi-ko is the most popular, probably due to the presence of excursion boats plying along the northern shore, from which in calm and clear weather you can admire the perfect mirror image of Fuji in the water. Sai-ko has the best trout fishing, and Shoji-ko is the smallest, most beautiful and relatively undeveloped by man. Motosu-ko is the most transparent and deep.
Between Sai-ko and Shoji-ko lies the dense and mysterious Jukai Forest. ("Sea of Trees"), notable for being easier to get into than to get out of. Volcanic rock makes a magnetic compass completely useless. Many commit fornication here, some deliberately: the eerie Jukai is a perennial favorite among suicide bombers, and local authorities annually comb the forest in search of bodies that would otherwise never be found. Just south of Motosu-ko, the sparkling 26m Shiraito Falls are a much nicer spot for a picnic.
Fuji or Fujiyama
The highest point in Japan is Mount Fuji or Fuji. It rises 3776 meters above sea level. Japan's highest peak is an active volcano. Although it is believed that its activity has not ceased (the last eruption was at the beginning of the sixteenth century). Mount Fuji is located at the junction of three tectonic plates: the Eurasian, Philippine and Okhotsk.
Situated on top of several ancient volcanoes, the surrounding area retains traces of violent volcanic activity, which can be divided into four stages. It was thanks to them that the highest peak in Japan acquired its modern appearance. It all started with the eruption of andesite lava, which formed the Sen-Komitake volcano. It was replaced by an eruption of basaltic rocks that created Komitake. This was the basis for “Old Fuji”, it happened about 80 thousand years ago.
Young Fuji
In Japan, the highest peak is called "Young Fuji". The young man is approximately 11 thousand years old. And about five thousand years ago, for a millennium, the volcano erupted continuously.
The slopes of Japan's highest mountain are rugged with hundreds of crevices and craters. Lava outcrops clogged the streams and rivers that originated north of the volcano, resulting in the formation of the Five Lakes of Fuji.
More than a hundred side craters and crevices opened on the slopes of the volcano. Lava flows blocked the rivers and streams, the headwaters of which were located north of the volcano, in the Misaka Mountains, and this is how the Five Lakes of Fuji arose.
The slopes of Fuji have almost ideal conical shapes, considered in Japan the standard of beauty and harmony.
Interesting things about Fuji
Today, the top of the highest mountain in Japan is crowned with a Shinto shrine, and there is also a weather station there. You can climb the mountain from the beginning of July to the end of August. This route is very popular; many tourists climb the mountain. Half of the journey can be done by bus, exploring the surrounding area. The further ascent to the top takes about five hours. The ascent time depends on physical fitness and weather conditions.
Due to active construction in the Fuji area, a lot of forest is being cut down, which has worsened the ecological condition of the sacred mountain. Tourists leave behind a large amount of garbage. This problem is so serious that military units are involved in solving it.
Fuji is one of the most recognizable symbols of Japan, a sacred place, and a source of national pride for the Japanese, embodying for them a common culture, nation, country, symbolizing Beauty, Harmony, Purity.
Mount Fuji is included in the list of the main attractions of Japan - the Land of the Rising Sun, which is divided into many islands. To find out where Mount Fuji is located, you need to analyze the geography of Japan.
As mentioned above, Japan is divided into islands, highlight here: Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku. The most developed and largest is the island of Honshu. Here is Tokyo, the capital of Japan and the largest metropolis in the world, and 90 kilometers from it is an active stratovolcano called Fuji.
It is now generally accepted that the volcano is weakly active, since its last eruption occurred in 1707–1708. The mountain has inspired many poets and artists since ancient times. However, it still does this today, simultaneously serving as a place of tourism, pilgrimage and an object for photography. Every day, travelers flying into Tokyo visit the volcano, either on their own or as part of a tour.
Mountain name
The name Fujiyama is shrouded in mystery: there is no exact version of the origin of the name, but there are various assumptions. In particular, the story “Taketori Monogatari” mentions that the name of the volcano is a derivative of the word “immortality”, or the phrase “many soldiers”.
Japanese ethnic etymology claims that the name arose from the word “incomparable.” Other sources interpret the name as “inexhaustibility.”
In Edo times, one scientist put forward a version: “Fuji” arose from a word meaning “a mountain standing slenderly...”. Others are of the opinion that the name originated from the phrase “... long slope.”
It should be noted that each of the above versions has its right to exist, but in the works of scientists who have studied this topic, too few weighty arguments are given to accept one or another version as the only correct one.
Errors in the title
People, out of ignorance, often pronounce “Mount Fuji,” which is a mistake - the official name of the mountain is Fuji. However, there is a chance that everything can change, because the word “Fujiyama” is considered correct in many countries.
Structure of the volcano
Mount Fuji on the map is located above an extended line along which some earth blocks are submerged under others, which is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Fuji is located at the junction of three plates.
This area is marked by centuries of activity and frequent eruptions. Historically, there are several stages of the volcanic process as a result of which Mount Fuji was formed.
- The emergence of andesitic lavas to the surface and the formation of the Sen-Komitake volcano. Later it was replaced by Komitake, a basalt volcano.
- Formation of "Old Fuji".
- The emergence and development of "Young Fuji".
- Frequent volcanic explosions and repeated outpourings of lava over the next millennia. Now, as a result of explosions, magma from the basalt comes to the surface. Numerous craters formed on the slopes.
The lava was blocked by rivers originating in the mountains called Misaka. From here came the Fuji Five Lakes, the most popular resort destination in Japan.
Returning to the history of the volcano, it is necessary to note the largest eruptions of basaltic magma to the surface. They occurred in 800, 864 and 1707–1708. The latter is characterized by incredible force, when a new crater formed in the east of the mountain, resulting in ash emissions that covered some parts of Tokyo. Volcano Fuji has an almost perfect conical shape, which makes it quite aesthetic and pleasing to the eye.
Five Lakes of Mount Fuji
It is impossible not to mention an important attraction associated with Fuji. These are five lakes that arose at the foot of the mountain. Their height is approximately 1 thousand meters. From here it is most convenient to start climbing the mountain and enjoy the view of the volcano.
The majority of tourists visit the lakes not to climb to the top of the volcano. There are many other entertainment options here. For example, one of the tallest roller coasters in the world (located in an amusement park). The resort itself is attractive with the opportunity to relax and admire the volcano up close.
General characteristics of the lakes of Mount Fuji
The lake group consists of Yamanaka, Kawaguchi, Sai, Shoji and Motosu. Each has distinctive features: for example, Lake Kawaguchi is the largest, Shoji is the smallest, Yamanaka has a high water level, and Motosu has depth. They are fresh.
The Five was formed in ancient times: about 50-60 thousand years ago as a result of huge lava flows that solidified and formed boundaries that fenced off the waters of local rivers. However, Motosu, Shoji and Sai are connected to each other through underground drains.
The image of a volcano in Japanese and international culture
On canvases and in descriptions of poets, Mount Fuji appears covered with ice and has a sharp peak. In ancient times, it was believed that the smoke coming from it was the product of the elixir of immortality lit in the depths of the mountains, and the one who conquered Mount Fuji would receive its secret and gain eternal life.
However, cultural scientists and Japanese studies note that the poetic image of a volcano and the real one have significant differences. This is explained by the fact that the artists of the Edo period did not set themselves the goal of reproducing a realistic image of Fuji - they showed its beauty and aesthetics, but that’s all.
In addition, Fuji does not have eternal ice - in late summer there is no snow on the tops of the mountain, and its slopes are depicted as sharp, inaccessible, steep, which can only be conquered by God's chosen one (in reality this is far from the case, as evidenced by regular excursions and trips to the mountain).
Few foreigners know that at the top of the volcano there is a Shinto shrine and other buildings that are sacred to Shinto. The territory of Mount Fuji is in his possession.
In addition to Shinto buildings, there is a post office and a weather station on site. At the top there is an active life: both religious and scientific, which is very typical for the Japanese.
Climbing
During the summer seasons, there is a rescue service and hospitable “huts” on the slopes - cafes where you can buy food, drinks and even sleep. The summer months are the most favorable months for conquering the peak, as long as there are no snow deposits. Foreigners arriving in Tokyo often have questions about where Mount Fuji is and how to get to it, but this problem is solved quite quickly, since there are a great many paths leading from the capital of Japan to the foot of the mountain!
Geographically, the mountain is divided into 10 levels. From the fifth level there are four paths leading up. Any of the routes takes 3–8 hours without rest, the descent takes 2–5 hours.
In addition to tourist routes, there are paths intended for bulldozers that deliver food and other materials to the mountain huts and souvenir shops located on the top of the mountain. But bulldozers are also designed to evacuate people in trouble and in need of medical care. For tourists, such routes are a huge danger, since they do not provide special protection from the stones that regularly fall from the top of the mountain. But on such roads you can often meet cyclists who prefer to climb by other routes at their own peril and risk.
Ecological situation
Fuji is a landmark and national monument protected by an international organization, and therefore throwing out garbage and causing damage to the ecology of the mountain in other ways is strictly prohibited.
This is evidenced by signs placed everywhere. And also, when climbing the mountain, each tourist is given a free bag for storing garbage. Stores that have their own trash cans allow it to be partially emptied.
There are special dry toilets on the mountain. They are paid (cost 200 yen). Some operate automatically using solar panels.
Thus, Mount Fuji is a historical, ecological, ethnic and natural site of worldwide fame and importance. It gained even greater fame (especially among teenagers and young adults) with the release of anime series and manga about the daily life of Japanese schoolchildren, where it was repeatedly depicted as a popular and sacred place.
Mount Fuji (Fujiyama), located on the island of Honshu in Japan, is one of the most famous mountains in the world, along with peaks such as Everest and the Matterhorn. You can't go to Japan and not see this mountain.
Mount Fuji is an active cone-shaped volcano that is considered sacred and serves as a pilgrimage site for both Buddhists and Shintoists. At the top of the mountain there is a temple and a post office.
There are also special excursions for tourists who want to climb. The mountain is covered with a dense layer of snow 10 months a year, except July and August, so these two months are the most active tourist season.
But climbing Fuji also has its downsides - travelers deprive themselves of the opportunity to admire the mountain from the outside. For scenic spots in Japan with the best views of Mount Fuji, read below:
1. Lake Kawaguchiko
Lake Kawaguchiko was included in the list of 36 places with the best views of Mount Fuji. In certain lighting and angles, the volcano is reflected in the lake. The lake is part of the Fuji Five Lakes. The other four lakes in the area also offer great views of the mountain, but are wilder. The Five Lakes also include Yamanaka, Sai, Shoji and Motosu. The largest lake is Kawaguchiko, and the smallest is Shoji.
Surrounding the lake is a traditional Japanese-style hot springs (onsen) town with many ryokans, restaurants and attractions.
What could be better than admiring Mount Fuji while bathing in hot springs?
2. Hakone
Hakone is a resort town on the edge of Mount Fuji in the southeastern region of Kanagawa Prefecture. The city is famous for its numerous onsen and ryokan, as well as historical monuments and amazing nature. Hakone is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
Many Tokyoites spend their weekends here. Hakone is also a popular tourist destination for foreign tourists.
3. Kamakura
Kamakura is a coastal city in Kanagawa Prefecture, south of Tokyo and an hour's drive from the capital. The city is famous for its giant Buddha statue, which is located on the grounds of the Kotoku-In Buddhist Temple, and numerous other shrines, historical sites and surf beaches. Kamakura Beach offers beautiful views of Mount Fuji.
4. Fuji Shibazakura Festival
The Fuji Shibazakura Festival is held from late April to late May at the Fuji Motosuko Resort in Fujikawaguchiko and is considered one of the most popular festivals in Japan. Tourists from all over Japan come to admire the 80,000 Shibazakura (pink moss) flowers that cover 6 acres of rolling hills in a carpet of bright red, pink and white flowers.
The event takes place very close to Lake Motosuko - one of the Five Lakes of Fuji. At the same time, the festival provides an excellent opportunity to photograph Mount Fuji, as the hills offer magnificent, breathtaking views.
5. Enoshima
Enoshima is a volcanic islet located in Sagami Bay. Enoshima is a fairly popular summer beach destination about an hour's drive from Tokyo near the coastal city of Kamakura. The island is small, about four kilometers in circumference, and offers amazing views of Mount Fuji.
Also on Enoshima is the main shrine of the goddess of luck Benten, the patroness of love and the arts, who belongs to the seven Shinto gods of happiness.
6. Iyashi no Sato
The village of Iyashi no Sato is an open-air museum that recreates a traditional Japanese village. From here you can admire Mount Fuji, imagining that you are looking at it back in the Edo era.
Iyashi no Sato is located in Yamanashi Prefecture in the Fuji Five Lakes region near Lake Saiko. Iyashi no Sato immerses tourists in the Middle Ages. In the village you can see traditional old houses with thatched roofs.
7. Gotemba
Gotemba City is located in Shizuoka Prefecture near Mount Fuji. The city is famous for its huge Gotemba Premium Outlets shopping center, which houses about 200 shops, 50 restaurants and a Ferris wheel.
8. Fuji Q Highlands
Fuji Q Highlands is a large amusement park where guests can ride the fastest, tallest, longest and steepest coasters in Japan. This is a great opportunity to admire Mount Fuji in action while riding a roller coaster at a speed of 172 km/h.
9. Tokyo Sky Tree
One of the best views of Mount Fuji can be seen from the tallest structure in Japan, the Tokyo Sky Tree television tower, which is located in a special area of the capital called Sumida. This tower is considered one of the tallest television towers in the world.
On a clear day in Tokyo, Fuji can be seen quite clearly, although the capital is about 100 km away from the mountain. Tokyo Sky Tree is 634 meters high, significantly taller than the second tallest building in the capital, Tokyo Tower, which is 333 meters high.