Can You Still Hike Mt. Fuji? Accessing the 5th Station in the Off-Season

2025年11月1日

Forest trail leading up to Mt. Fuji’s 5th Station, a historic pilgrimage route

When most people think of climbing Mt. Fuji, they picture the busy summer months of July and August, when thousands of climbers make their way to the summit.

However, what many don’t realize is that Mt. Fuji doesn’t completely “close” when the official climbing season ends. Even in autumn, you can still access part of the mountain—up to the 5th Station.

TOC

When is the Official Climbing Season?

The “official climbing season” specifically refers to the period when the trails are open all the way to the summit of Mt. Fuji. If your goal is to stand at the very top, you must plan your visit within this window:

Yoshida Trail: July 1st – September 10th
Subashiri, Gotemba, and Fujinomiya Trails: July 10th – September 10th

Outside of these dates, the mountain “closes” to the summit for safety reasons, but as mentioned below, the 5th Station remains a fantastic destination!

Important Note: These dates are not fixed and can vary from year to year depending on snowfall, trail conditions, and safety checks. It’s always a good idea to check the latest announcements before you plan your trip!

How Far Can You Go in Autumn, and Until When?

Even out of official season, you can usually hike the 5th Station until early to mid-November, depending on snowfall.

It’s not the full climb, but the views and fresh mountain air are still worth it!

5th station view Mt.Fuji — The view from the 5th station

Tips for Visiting in Autumn

Check road conditions: Access depends on weather, so always check official announcements before you go.
Dress warmly: Even if it feels mild at the base, temperatures at the 5th Station can be close to freezing in October or November.
Enjoy the fall colors: Around October, the forests at the lower elevations are painted in stunning reds and yellows.

Final Thoughts

If you missed the summer climbing season, don’t worry—you can still experience Mt. Fuji in a quieter, more relaxed way by visiting the 5th Station in autumn.

It’s a great way to enjoy Japan’s most iconic mountain without the intense effort of climbing to the summit.

With KOKO JOURNEY, a local guide can also show you around and make your visit even more memorable.