Why Japan is planning to block panoramic views of Mount Fuji

The Japanese authorities announced that they will be installing huge barriers to block the view of the mighty Mount Fuji to tackle the unruly behaviour of tourists.

An official from Fujikawaguchiko town confirmed that the construction of the mesh net – 2.5 metres (8ft) high and the length of a cricket pitch at 20 metres – will begin as early as next week. The authorities stated that they are taking these measures to control the badly behaved tourists who have been flocking to take pictures of the iconic mountain peak.

“It’s regrettable we have to do this, because of some tourists who can’t respect rules, leaving litter behind and ignoring traffic regulations," the town official told The Japan Times.

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The latest action by the Japanese authority against over-tourism came after residents of Kyoto’s geisha district banned visitors from visiting small private alleys this year.

The town blocked access to “paparazzi” tourists who harass and trouble the globally recognised Japanese women artists

Why are they taking this measure?

The authorities believe that the decision to install a net would protect the town’s infrastructure and preserve the tranquillity of the nearby area.

Over the years, a growing influx of foreign tourists has put a major strain on popular destinations in Japan which leads to concerns about sustainability and visitor behaviour.

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In March this year, reports started to emerge that the country is planning to collect an entry fee of ¥2,000 per person to limit the number of trekkers to Mount Fuji.

A gate is expected to be installed at the entrance to the Yoshida Trail, known as the fifth station, on the Yamanashi side of Mount Fuji. The town authorities will be stationed outside the gate to collect fees from climbers. The plan will be implemented from July 1 when the climbing season will commence.

Meanwhile, local officials have emphasised that the Lawson store in Yamanashi has become the preferred spot for pictures because it offers views of Mount Fuji majestically standing behind one of Japan’s ubiquitous convenience stores.

“A reputation has spread on social media that this spot is very Japanese, making it a popular photo location," an unidentified Japanese official told The Japan Times. This has caused major problems of crowding that stretch beyond the pavement next to the Lawson store.