Mt. Fuji, standing at 3776 meters high, the highest and most photographed mountain in Japan, is often referred to as a symbol of Japan. The mountain has been worshiped by Japanese people for over a thousand years. Climbing Mt. Fuji is a rite of passage for many Japanese, while an increasing number of foreigners has joined the climbing in the past few decades. The best season to climb the mountain is summer. Currently a great number of people climb it as a sightseeing activity. However, the weather and temperature can be volatile, so make sure you carry appropriate equipment with you, including cap, trekking shoes, rain wears, bottled water and some food, etc. Small change (100 yen coins) is also necessary for restroom tips. The official climbing period is July and August, when most of the mountain lodges open during this period. Depending on your pace, the climb up will take five to eight hours, and the descent another three to four. Kawaguchiko (Fujiyoshida) Trail is the most developed and popular Mt. Fuji trail, which offers climbers a last chance to stock on supplies before heading out and merges with Subashiri Trail at the eighth station. There are numerous lodges and some first-aid centers, so you can comfortably climb on this trail. There are other route options to climb up the summit; The Fujinomiya Trail: the shortest route to the summit, and the panoramic view is excellent. But as it is on the unfortunate side climbers will not be able to see the sunrise before the summit. The Gotenba Trail: less crowded than others. Osunabashiri, a wide sand slope, is the unique landscape to this trail. The Subashiri Trail: relatively easy route for the beginners, where they can enjoy various alpine plants. It links with the Kawaguchiko (Fujiyoshida) at the eighth station. Make sure to make a suitable plan according to your own condition (physical and temporal), and then discover the wonderful nature of the volcanic area.