[Japan] Climbing Mount Fuji is actually not difficult (Descent) [Part 4/4]

Hard worked reaching the summit of Mt Fuji, after exploring for half an hour, it's time to prepare for the descent.

The final section of Mt Fuji climbing, the descent.

The shops on the summit were still closed.

It takes about an hour to walk around the summit of Mt Fuji - the dormant volcano. However, because we were among the first group of climbers, the shops up on the summit and the path to Kengamine are still closed.

The full view of the volcanic crater at the mountaintop.

Looking down from the crater, can see my shadow in a glare.

There are many torii gates at sea, but this torii gate is above the sea of clouds.

The mountaintop is relatively open and often windy. It's best not to get too close to the cliffs when enjoying the scenery. Even with the help of a hiking pole, I stumbled several times.

The descent from Station 8 is done through a dedicated downhill path designed for descending.

The view of descent route is spectacular, facing the vast sea of clouds.

We retraced our steps along the path we climbed to return to the 8th station.

The descent path is a continuous zigzag. Signage is clear no need to worry about getting lost.

The entire descent path is paved with red volcanic stones.

The descent route is specifically designed for hikers to descend. The path is covered with gravel, which not only reduces the pressure on the knees during the descent but also allows for a semi-sliding movement, saving energy. However, there are drawbacks to the gravel descent path: sand and stones can enter the shoes with each step, so it's best to bring shoe covers to prevent them.

During the descent, it's when trekking poles come in most handy.

The descent path is covered with gravel, making a long journey easier with sand and stone shoe covers.

In addition to that, trekking poles are most effective during the descent. They are not only used for collecting commemorative stamps but also help distribute the upper body weight and reduce the load on the thigh muscles. They are definitely essential equipment.

Pay special attention to the signage during the descent and choose the designated downhill path.

There are ample signs along the way, so there's no need to worry about getting lost.

*If you walk back along the climbing route, it would become more difficult as the climbing path becomes a steep cliff when reversed, putting more strain on the joints.

The descent path doesn't have railings and may appear untended. In fact, this is the best way to conserve nature.

Occasionally, you may encounter bulldozers used to transport supplies up the mountain.

On this day, I descended with the company of the vast sea of clouds. Along the way, I looked at the boundless white sea of clouds. Despite the hardships, it was fulfilling. Walking on the endless zigzag path, forgetting how many turns I've taken, I walked for about two hours and finally returned to the 6th station.

Crossing the clouds, there is a stark contrast to the endless view before the climb.

Thick clouds and mist in the mountains significantly reduce visibility.

Underneath the clouds is another world, a vast expanse of confusion. The gradually warming air tells me that I have returned to the human world. I cheered on the climbers coming from the opposite direction, disappointed by the weather, telling them that the sea of clouds is just ahead.

Ordered a Fujiyama curry rice at the restaurant in 5th station.

When I returned to the 5th station, I felt a bit unfamiliar. It only took two days in the mountains to have this feeling. No wonder people say that spending seven days in the mountains is like a week in the real world. Before leaving Mount Fuji, I went to the restaurant at the 5th station to have the last meal on the mountain and ordered the Fujiyama-shaped curry rice, reminiscing.

The shops on the mountain were not open, so I could only send the postcards from the 5th station.

Unfortunately, the shops on the mountain were not officially open, otherwise, I could have stamped the postcards with the stamp of the 10th station. Helplessly, I brought the postcards with only the stamp of the 5th station back to the trailhead to send them (these limited edition postcards were purchased in Lake Kawaguchi in advance).

A few hours later, we returned to the starting point of yesterday's climb. Looking back from the bus station, I could no longer see Mt Fuji, it's hiding behind the clouds.

On the return flight, I kept looking out the window at the scenery. Normally, I would be fast asleep before takeoff, but I had no desire to sleep just so I could see Mount Fuji one last time. I think I have fallen in love with this lovely Mount Fuji during this short two-day journey.

This mountaineering trip was truly unforgettable, and given the opportunity, I will definitely challenge Mount Fuji again from another climbing route.

In just two days, I have come to understand why the Japanese have a special affection for Mount Fuji.

=== End of the journey, thank you for reading ===

Related Articles:

Preparation [Part 1/4]
Japan-Fujiyama-Preparation.html

Climbing [Part 2/4]
Japan-Fujiyama-Hiking.html

Sunrise Summit [Part 3/4]
Japan-Fujiyama-Summit.html

References:

"Mount Fuji Summit Certificate" Service

www.fujisan3776.com/form.cgi?id=summit

Mount Fuji Information Website
www.fujiyama-navi.jp/

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