The March 11 Earthquake/Tsunami has left many to ponder whether it is safe to travel to Japan, let alone climb Mt. Fuji. Amidst all the calamity, Fuji Mountain Guides does not wish to downplay any of the affects this disaster has had on Japan, its people, and the surrounding country side.
For the past month, our company has been dedicated to serving those afflicted by the tsunami in Northern Japan by delivering various supplies, as well as volunteering to help clear debris out of peoples houses and various schools which are being used as evacuation centers. FMG's head guide, Luke Cummings has been volunteering up north with his house church since March 14th, 3 days after the quake. To read more about the work FMG has been involved in over the past month please read the house church blog http://www.kamizoku.wordpress.com During this time, we also feel it is necessary to leave a message of reassurance for those who still wish to travel to Japan and climb Mt. Fuji. Although Mt. Fuji is an active volcano, the recent earthquake has not caused any rise in activity on its part. The Fuji-Yoshida city (one of the cities surrounding Mt. Fuji) continues to take readings on volcanic activity and has reported there to be nothing abnormal following the M9.0 earthquake. The road leading up to the Kawaguchi-ko 5th station is set to open on April 27th. The climbing season is still set to begin in July although this is never set in stone due to the varied amounts of snowfall each winter.
Please rest assured that the earthquake has not caused an increase in volcanic activity on Mt. Fuji. Therefore, FMG will continue to offer its advertised tours for the 2011 Mt. Fuji climbing season!
We will continue to monitor Mt. Fuji for any possible changes to the 2011 climbing season and updates will be posted here in the future!
Thanks for taking the time to read this and we hope that this has encouraged you to come and climb Mt. Fuji!
Cheers,
The FMG Crew
