As the saying goes, “Rain or shine, the adventure begins,” and that’s exactly how my day hiking Mt. Fuji kicked off. With the weather showing no mercy, we started our ascent in the pouring rain—more like raining cats and dogs! There’s something about beginning a climb in those conditions that puts you in the mindset of determination and excitement, even when you know the road ahead won’t be easy.
The rain came down in sheets as we scaled steep, slippery rocks. My boots were soaked within minutes, and every step felt like a challenge. But there’s something exhilarating about battling the elements, knowing that each grueling moment brings you closer to the summit.
Somewhere along the way, I stopped to get my first stamp on my Mt. Fuji walking stick. It’s such a cool tradition—the stamps are more than just a record of progress; they’re little reminders of the journey.
The climb didn’t let up after that. Each stage presented another challenge as we pushed higher through the mist and rain.
By the time we reached the 8th station, exhaustion was starting to creep in, but the excitement of being so close to the top kept me going. We rested there for a while, waiting for the sunrise—a magical moment that hikers on Mt. Fuji anticipate.
At around 5:19 AM, the clouds parted just enough to witness the sun slowly breaking through the horizon. Watching the sunrise from such a height, even while shivering, was unforgettable. It felt like a reward for the effort put in so far. I noticed some hikers were already descending, but that didn’t faze me. I was almost at the summit, and there was no way I was going to miss the final stretch.
The last bit of the climb was a true test of endurance. The air was thinner, and each step seemed to take more energy than the last. But when I finally reached the summit and got my stamp, it was pure euphoria! Standing at the highest peak of Japan, gazing into the Mt. Fuji crater, I felt like I was on top of the world. The sense of achievement was overwhelming.
After spending a while at the summit, soaking in the views and the feeling of accomplishment, we started the descent. This part of the hike comes with its own set of challenges. The weather changed dramatically as we made our way down—one moment it was sunny, and the next, the wind whipped through the clouds, bringing a chill. The view while descending was breathtaking, though. The landscape opened up, offering panoramic vistas of the valleys below, bathed in light.
By the time we made it back down, I was completely exhausted, sunburned from the change in weather, and covered in dust. My legs were jelly, and every muscle ached, but it didn’t matter. I had done it. I had hiked to the top of Mt. Fuji, braved unpredictable weather, and earned my summit stamp. Achievement unlocked!
Looking back, the climb was more than just a physical challenge—it was a reminder of the beauty of persistence and the thrill of adventure, no matter what obstacles nature throws in your way. If you ever get the chance to hike Mt. Fuji, rain or shine, do it. You’ll come down not only with sore legs and a collection of stamps but with memories that will last a lifetime.
charventurous 