Japan removes Mount Fuji barrier after successfully managing overtourism

A barrier installed in Japan to block a popular view of Mount Fuji has been removed temporarily, after it successfully reduced the disruption caused by tourists. Fujikawaguchiko had installed a large screen back in the month of May following complaints from residents about crowds of mainly international visitors creating chaos while attempting to photograph the iconic volcano.

The town decided to lower the screen on August 15 in anticipation of an approaching typhoon and has opted not to reinstall it for now. “We wanted to observe the effects of its removal,” the town official told AFP.

“While there are still some visitors at the site, we no longer see many people abruptly darting into traffic to cross the road,” the official added.

Photos taken from the narrow sidewalk outside a dentist’s office became popular online, showcasing the snow-covered peak of Mount Fuji dramatically visible behind a convenience store.

The town’s efforts to manage the influx of disruptive tourists garnered international attention as record numbers of visitors flocked to Japan over the summer, leading to some local discontent. The official from Fujikawaguchiko mentioned that the barrier could be reinstated if the tourist influx resumes and begins to cause further issues.

Apparently, back in May, Authorities in Japan had erected a barrier in front of a popular photo spot due to issues with tourism and littering. Visitors had traveled there to take pictures of a Japanese store, Lawson, with Mount Fuji visible in the background. Locals reported that litter was being left at the site, and tourists were overcrowding the pavement and even climbing on nearby buildings to get photos. This was not the first location to install a fence to curb the excessive photo-taking by tourists.

More about Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is Japan’s iconic volcano. It is noted for its majestic beauty and cultural significance. Standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet), it is the tallest peak in Japan and one of the nation’s most recognizable landmarks. Its near-symmetrical, snow-capped cone shape has made it a symbol of Japan, featured prominently in art, literature, and folklore.