Climbers who ignore safety protocols or attempt off-season ascents on Mount Fuji may face fees for helicopter rescues under a new Yamanashi Prefecture policy.

Yamanashi Prefecture has announced a new policy to charge climbers for helicopter rescue services on Mount Fuji during the mountain's closed season. The measure is part of a broader effort to deter reckless climbing as authorities address an increase in incidents, including those involving foreign tourists. The official climbing season typically runs from July through early September, after which trails are closed due to dangerous conditions.

New Climbing Regulations

Under the new plan, individuals climbing above the 6th Station during the off-season must submit a climbing plan in advance. Authorities will review these submissions and may recommend changes if they determine that a climber's equipment, route, or methods are inadequate. If a climber ignores these recommendations or deviates from their submitted plan, they may be held liable for rescue costs if experts deem their actions reckless.

Rescue Fee Enforcement

The policy specifically targets those who require rescue by a prefectural disaster-response helicopter. Climbers who fail to submit a mandatory climbing plan before an off-season ascent will be charged for any necessary helicopter rescue services. The prefecture intends these measures to curb dangerous behavior on the mountain during periods when trails are officially closed.