Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan will begin charging climbers for off-season helicopter rescues if they fail to submit climbing plans. The measure aims to deter risky climbs outside the official July 1 to Sept. 10 season, following an increase in incidents involving stranded hikers.
The new fee system aims to reduce the number of dangerous off-season climbs on Mount Fuji, potentially lowering rescue costs for local authorities and improving safety for hikers by encouraging adherence to official climbing periods and preparedness.
Yamanashi Prefecture in Japan will begin charging climbers for helicopter rescues during Mount Fuji's off-season if they fail to submit climbing plans, according to announcements made on Monday. The prefecture aims to deter reckless climbs outside the official climbing season, which typically runs from July 1 to September 10.
Both Yamanashi and neighboring Shizuoka Prefecture have reported a rise in off-season climbs, some of which have resulted in hikers becoming stranded. The severe weather conditions and closed first-aid stations during the off-season increase the risks. The proposed fee structure, with one suggestion being around 8,000 yen for every five minutes of rescue operations, is intended to encourage preparedness and discourage unnecessary risks.
Authorities are also considering other conditions for imposing fees, such as whether the rescued individual was inadequately equipped, while emphasizing that saving lives remains the top priority. The prefectural government plans to strengthen safety measures by requiring climbing notifications for ascents above the sixth station during the closed season. The new system is slated for introduction in September 2027.