Japanese Town Erects Mesh Barrier to Deter Tourists from Mount Fuji Viewing Spot

Japanese Town Erects Mesh Barrier to Prevent Overcrowding at Mount Fuji Viewing Spot

In an effort to deter the ever-growing number of tourists flocking to a popular viewing spot for Mount Fuji, a Japanese town has mounted a large mesh barrier. The town of Fujikawaguchiko in Yamanashi prefecture took this drastic measure to address the issues caused by tourists who were littering, trespassing, and breaking traffic rules in their quest for the perfect photo of Japan’s most famous sight.

The plan to erect the barrier made headlines last month, with officials expressing frustration over the behavior of visitors, mostly foreigners, who were disregarding local regulations. Parking illegally, ignoring smoking bans, and overcrowding the area to capture the snow-capped mountain behind a convenience store were some of the reported problems faced by residents.

Workers swiftly installed the black netting measuring 2.5 by 20 meters on Tuesday, completing the task by late morning. Local resident Michie Motomochi, who runs a traditional Japanese sweet shop, expressed hope that the barrier would prevent dangerous activities in the area.

While some tourists, like Christina Roys from New Zealand, expressed disappointment at the barrier obstructing the iconic view, they also acknowledged the necessity of such measures to ensure safety and preserve the beauty of the site. Roys noted the overcrowding and traffic hazards posed by the influx of visitors.

The issue of overtourism is not unique to Fujikawaguchiko, as other popular destinations in Japan, such as Kyoto, have also faced challenges with managing the increasing number of tourists. To address safety and environmental concerns, authorities have implemented measures like entry fees for certain attractions and online booking systems to regulate visitor numbers.

As the tourism industry continues to thrive in Japan, balancing the benefits of increased visitors with the need to protect cultural and natural heritage remains a pressing issue for local communities. The installation of the mesh barrier at the Mount Fuji viewing spot serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible tourism practices to ensure the sustainability of popular destinations.