Mount Fuji may charge for rescues outside climbing season

In September, the governments of Yamanashi and Shizuoka, the two prefectures that share Mount Fuji, announced plans to charge climbers for rescue operations in some cases when they go up outside the season.

Fuji's official climbing season lasts for about two summer months. All four official routes are open only until 10 September. After that, the mountain huts and first-aid stations close.

Climbing outside the season is far more dangerous: someone in trouble can be left on the mountain without the usual support. Both prefectures strongly advise people not to climb during this period.