Mount Fuji - an active volcano with the almost perfectly symmetrical cone and with the elevation of 3776 metres (12389 feet) is the highest peak in Japan and certainly one of the most popular landmarks of this country.

The mountain is a favourite subject among artists but also for tourists because of the picturesque landscape, created by its size and shape. When the days are clear, it is possible to see the mountain from Tokyo.

For locals, Mount Fuji is also a sacred place. It is one of the Three Holy Mountains, beside Mount Tate and Mount Haku. It is recognised as the Special Place of Scenic Beauty and listed on the World Heritage List as a cultural site.

The climbing season is open from early June to early October. In other months and when snow falls, climbing the mountain is prohibited.

The peak season for climbing is from July 20 to the end of August, when the school vacation season begins. Also, the mountain is full of visitors during the Obon Week, the annual Buddhist event, which takes place during the mid-August. This is a very crowded period that climbers sometimes must queue at some passages.

There are four trails leading to Mount Fuji`s summit - Yoshida Trail, Subashiri Trail, Gotemba Trail and Fujinomiya Trail. Each of them is marked with a different colour. When choosing a path, consult the official site for Mt. Fuji Climbing. Taking these routes is convenient for most visitors with decent climbing skills.

Walking around the crater takes about an hour. There is a weather station next to the highest point, just across the Yoshida Trail.

The Sun rises between 4:30 am and 5:00 am in the summer, and the view from the summit is a truly unique experience.