Mountains of Japan. Mount Fuji in Japan (photo, story about it) Mount Fuji in Japan

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Cheerful trills of birds, the wind gently swaying the branches of trees, through which the rays of the gentle sun make their way ... All this idyll was suddenly interrupted by the sharp sound of an ax blow. Such a description, of course, is somewhat reminiscent of a frame from a horror movie. In fact, everything is not so scary, but rather the opposite. The ax in the hands of my daughter is more associated with being in some godforsaken place. In reality, we were in one of the most intriguing hotels in Japan - Hoshinoya Fuji, one of the latest hotels to open in the Hoshino Resorts hotel group. This hotel is the fourth in a row, which became part of the Hoshino Resorts, opened in Karuizawa, Kyoto and Okinawa.

The concept of the hotel is quite simple: it claims to be Japan's first glamorous holiday destination. This is the word commonly used when trying to describe modern luxury. A distinctive feature of the hotel is that it is essentially a campsite.

The hotel is located on a wooded mountainside, not far from Lake Kawaguchi. This place offers an unrivaled view of Mount Fuji. Guests can enjoy the fresh air, go horseback riding, watch the sunrise in a canoe, or simply admire the amazing starry sky.

Despite the fact that the hotel is organized in the form of a campsite, it is still much more comfortable to sleep in it than in an ordinary tent. Guests can stay in one of 40 comfortable "cabins" scattered along the mountainside.

Perhaps this hotel claims to be a big and friendly family. Due to the fact that a few years ago we were vacationing in Japan with kids, this deprived us of the opportunity to enjoy this somewhat unusual type of vacation. It combines modern design and a distinctive camping culture. I decided that this is the perfect place to relax with my three-year-old daughter.

After a train journey on two trains from Tokyo and a taxi ride from Kawaguchiko Station, we finally arrived at the reception, protected by an unusual glass panel. Friendly staff immediately asked which of the proposed bags we want to use. I chose a gray bag, but my daughter Kiko's face shone with joy when she saw a small but very beautiful pink bag. Each of the bags contained everything needed for camping, including a flashlight and binoculars.

Getting into the jeep, we went to the territory where the hotel was directly located. We were greeted there by the friendly Natsumi Nagase, one of the young staff of the hotel. Before enjoying the beauty of the local landscape, we went up the narrow forest path leading to the Cloud Terrace of the hotel, shrouded in a veil of white clouds. A string of wooden scaffolding was located throughout the hotel.

Our first stop was the dinner table. Meal sets were already waiting for visitors, surrounded by seats that were neatly dressed in cozy blankets. We were given striped aprons, after which we were led to the next table. There were mountains of fruits, vegetables, cheeses and meat products on it.

« Come here Nagase said as she handed us two dough balls. " It's time to cook pizza" she added. Glamping, as it turned out, involves self-cooking. Kiko liked this idea very much. She gladly took on the cheese, tomato sauce and sausages. We cooked pizza in a small clay oven. After baking, we are happy to enjoy the unsurpassed taste of our pizza, washed down with grape juice. Kiko and I were not only full, but also insanely satisfied. A special feeling of joy and delight came when we saw a landscape of indescribable beauty stretching before our eyes. Nagase said that all the guests especially admire the beauty of nature when they are full. At the same time, she smiled playfully.

Then it was time to get acquainted with our cubicle room, which was supposed to be our home for a few times during our stay here. Walking through the forest, we continued to admire nature. Here they noticed small buildings with glass facades. It means they've already arrived. Pushing open the large wooden doors, I saw a rather cozy but uncomplicated interior. The room was filled with amazing white light. Through the glass walls, there was a perfect view of Mount Fuji, which we could observe in all its glory.

Nagase said that we are very lucky with the weather, which is extremely changeable in these places. Mount Fuji, due to the often changing weather, can not be seen so well every day. Our accommodation turned out to be a manifestation of true classic Japanese design: minimalism was felt in everything, the furniture was made of light-colored wood. The slightly sloping ceiling heightened the sense of space and freedom. We really liked the idea of ​​underfloor heating. In addition, the room had warm and such homemade blankets. In the room we also found rubber boots, which guests often use during bad weather, a thermos from which you can pour healthy local herbal tea. Of course, as in all hotels, our room had high-quality toiletries.

I immediately realized that you can have a good rest here. It was especially pleasing to be able to enjoy the wonderful dawn, when the rays of the morning sun would illuminate our room through the glass walls. At this time, Kiko was already jumping merrily on the bed.

Despite the fact that I was well aware that getting to the hill is not so easy with a small child, we nevertheless decided to go there. Kiko climbed on my back and for a few minutes I turned into a “mom taxi”. I made my way up the slope, carrying on my back the most expensive load - my daughter.

Walking along the forest paths is a real exploration of nature. Making our way through the fog, we came to a round tent, which was made in the Moroccan style from the inside. Here, on comfortable soft pillows, we rested after a grueling ascent. After that, we went to Cloud Terrace with a smooth wooden deck. There were comfortable chairs around the fire.

A glass-fronted library adjoins the terrace. You can find many interesting books in it, which guests leaf through with a cup of tea, or, as Kiko did, you can try to make a doll out of dried lavender. Next we went to the fire.

A few minutes later glamping master Satoshi Chishiro appeared. He demonstrated before us the skill of the samurai, using wooden swords. Tashiro also taught Kiko a kind of master class in the use of safe weapons. After that, he handed the swords to his daughter and invited her to repeat. Kiko, with pleasure and diligence, began to swing the piece of wood, breaking through the purest mountain air. Holding my breath, I watched my daughter's efforts.

Such an active walk and exercise in the fresh air woke up our appetite. We ate, as they say, various dishes on both cheeks. Especially delicious was a tender meat steak made from deer meat that lived on the slopes of Mount Fuji. A whole range of colorful and so delicious salads was also presented. Kiko ate her special children's meal, a beef burger, battered shrimp, and corn and rice soup, with particular gusto. All dishes are served in wooden plates and bowls.

On the way back, Kiko finished eating some kind of gingerbread in chocolate cream. Reaching the room, Kiko jumped off my back and ran to take a shower. After that, my daughter just instantly fell asleep, thus giving me a chance to relax and admire the beauty of Mount Fuji.

The next morning we got up very early. After a small snack of fresh fruits and bread, we went to the local lake Kawaguchi, where you can go canoeing. The beauty of the lake simply amazed us. The triangular contour of Mount Fuji, reflected in the crystal clear lake, left a special impression. Floating on the lake, we saw dense green forests and red Shinto gates. It was all very romantic, Kiko even began to hum some gentle melody.

Back at the hotel, we found the so-called wooden "morning box" on the terrace. It contained picnic treats: bread, a Spanish omelette, soup, yogurt, and fresh fruit. There were even salads. They especially surprised us, as they were decorated with edible flowers, striking in their beauty. Kiko even thought that these were not flowers, but butterflies!

We spent the last few hours before leaving in the woods near Cloud Terrace. I was finally able to sit in a comfortable chair, and also did not miss the opportunity to relax in a yoga pose. But it was time to get back to reality. After being warmly embraced by Nagase, Kiko climbed into the car. As soon as the car started moving, Kiko asked: Will we come back here again?»

There is no snow on the top of Mount Fuji this winter. For the locals, this is a real curiosity, even the old-timers cannot remember that in winter the mountain peak was not decorated with a snow-white hat. People living at the foot of Mount Fuji are puzzled over why there is no snow on the 3,776-meter peak this winter.

Winter mountaineering on Fuji of yesteryear

Usually, looking out of the window at the winter peak of Fuji, the Japanese see its snow-covered majestic view. But this year, the top of the mountain remains in dark colors. The reason for this is the record high air temperature for these places. Despite the fact that almost the entire Japanese archipelago feels the sudden cold of winter, snow remains a rarity here. From above, you can see the white edge of the snow, which, like a snake, winds along the slopes of Mount Fuji. But this is just a ski run made of artificial snow.

Mount Fuji in January

Sato-Goiya, a peculiar modern mountain hut located at the fifth station of Fuji, is a place where daredevil climbers can stay. But this year, the owner of the hotel, Tamotsu Sato, suffers huge losses. And it's all to blame - climate change, which led to the lack of snow at the top. He claims this is the first time this has happened in his 20 years at Sato-Goiya. Due to the lack of snow, climbers who love winter mountaineering do not want to come here this year.

Based on online publications.

October 12, 2015, 15:50 The top of Mount Fuji was wrapped in a snow-white blanket 11 days later than usual

Mount Fuji during momiji red maple season

From the first days of October, the top of the most revered mountain in Japan has always been trying on a snow-white hat. The reflections of the snow on the top are incredibly in harmony with the yellowed foliage of trees and shrubs located further down the mountainside. This year, however, the start of a natural phenomenon that Japan calls Fuji's first snow has been delayed.

The local meteorological laboratory reported that this autumn the snow on the summit appeared as much as 11 days later than usual! What, in fact, could be seen by both locals and tourists. According to the official announcement from the city (pref.), the snowfall began both in the area of ​​the ninth station of Fuji, located at an altitude of 3700 meters, and on the top of the mountain.

First snow on Mount Fuji

Employees of shops located at the fifth station at an altitude of 2300 meters say that over the past few days the temperature has not dropped below 4 degrees Celsius. It was the high temperature that caused such a late appearance of a snow cap on Mount Fuji.

Based on online publications.

October 2, 2015, 15:39 The number of climbers on Mount Fuji in 2018 may be reduced

Tourists climb Mount Fuji

A limit on the number of climbers on Mount Fuji is planned to be set in three years. Such actions are in an attempt to save the World Heritage-listed mountain from all sorts of harm and pollution.

Representatives of the prefectures and , to which Fuji is located, explained that special studies will be carried out. They will help determine the maximum allowable number of tourists by July 2018.

Mount Fuji Conservation Meeting

A draft related government report on the preservation of Mount Fuji as a UNESCO World Heritage Site was published on October 1 last year. The expert commission to study this issue was headed by the former Minister of Education of Japan, Atsuko Toyama.

The results of the mentioned report will be considered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in February this year. The document presents a number of measures aimed at preserving the mountain, which is visited annually by 200,000 to 300,000 climbers, from pollution. Recall that Mount Fuji received the status of a World Heritage Site in 2013.

Each of the prefectures will decide on the optimal number of climbers on each of the four routes per 1 day. The figure will be derived on the basis of careful research, including taking into account surveys that are planned for the next three years.

If necessary, appropriate restrictions will be introduced. Note that the report touches on an issue that, according to the authorities, should reduce the level of pollution. Namely, it is planned to install special toilets along the routes.

Activists collect garbage left after tourists

A preliminary draft for Fuji has already been approved by the World Cultural Heritage Council, which includes the heads of Shizuoka and Yamanashi prefectures, as well as the mayors of the respective municipalities.

According to the prefectural governments, UNESCO will not consider revoking Fuji, even if the mountain's conservation issue is not resolved in a timely manner. But, in fairness, we note that there are already precedents for depriving objects of their status for non-compliance with conservation measures. In particular, the Dresden Elbe Valley and the Arabian Oryx were deprived of their World Heritage status in 2009 and 2007 respectively.

Based on online publications.

September 16, 2015, 10:10 am Mount Fuji Horse Care - Why Are Tourists Worried?

Views on the rules for the humane treatment of animals vary widely around the world. Japan's stance on animal welfare appears to be different from the generally accepted attitude of many Western states. The corresponding message was posted this week by a foreign tourist (whose name is not known, only the initials are known - R.M.). She was concerned about the condition of some of the horses she saw during her visit to Mount Fuji.

Horses on Mount Fuji (photo by R.M.)

« I'm talking about a situation that I and my team witnessed at the fifth and sixth Mount Fuji stations in August. Tourists can travel on horseback between these two stations. During our ascent and descent, I witnessed what I consider to be animal cruelty towards these horses:

• some of them are harnessed in such a way that they are not able to see either people or their other brethren. Some are turned to the wall, deprived of the opportunity to interact with the outside world,
• many horses have foam on the muzzle, most likely from dehydration, since I have not seen a single horse watered or stopped near an available water source,
• horses are tied right in the sun.»

In support of her words, the tourist provided photographs. Also R.M. noted that some of the horses seemed too emaciated to her, and she also saw how the caretaker hit one of them.

The horses are managed by the Fuji Yoshida Riding Association, but the organization's employees do not own the animals. Animals belong to individual citizens who give them for the use of tourists. Animal welfare in the Yamanashi Prefecture area is handled by the Fuji-Tobu Community Centre. Representatives of the center asked the veterinarian to investigate this case and report the results. He agreed to be interviewed for this article, but asked not to be named.

According to the veterinarian, there are currently 19 horses on the side of Mt. Fuji referred to in the message. Sixteen of them are workers, that is, they carry tourists or pull carts. These horses work on a regular basis, some waiting for tourists while others rest away from the public eye.

The remaining three horses are the so-called "retired". They are already in old age, and are not used to transport people. They are here for one reason - to socialize. The fact is that their owners want the horses not to be isolated from their other brethren, but to have the opportunity to “communicate”.

The veterinarian, together with the manager of the Association, compared the results of R.M. photographs of animals, and apparently, they depicted elderly horses.

The veterinarian noted: Horses are quite skinny in appearance, but this is due to advanced age, and is the norm.". True, the specialist was not sure why these three horses were with the working horses, and not rested in the stable. The veterinarian suggests that since they are older animals, the owners may have instructed the staff to monitor them more carefully.

Regarding access to drink, the veterinarian said he saw enough water for the horses to rest. Why there are no open sources, the specialist suggested that most likely it is considered unaesthetic by tourists, therefore, horses are watered from a bucket as needed.

At the expense of foam around the mouth, the specialist clarified that most likely it is just saliva, and there is no reason for concern in this regard. He also held a prophylactic conversation with the Association's staff about the incident with a horse strike, warning of responsibility.

« In my opinion, I did not see anything that could be interpreted as inhumane treatment of horses on Mount Fuji' said the veterinarian. " Since Mount Fuji is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and more foreign tourists are visiting the site, we certainly feel the need to consider the differing views on animal care in the tourism industry. If visitors have any questions about the horses, the Chairman of the Riding Association invites them to speak to the staff».

We were unable to find a public phone number for the Fuji Yoshida Riding Association. After we contacted the local city administration, the chairman of the Association allowed his mobile phone number to be released, but despite repeated attempts, we could not contact him.

In conclusion, I would like to quote a veterinarian from the Fuji-Tobu Community Center: “ Some foreign tourists may not be aware that the Fuji-Yoshida region has a culinary tradition of eating horse meat. It may seem cruel, but some horse owners look to the horse as a source of income. And when an animal reaches the end of its useful working life, it can be eaten. In this regard, the elderly horses on Mount Fuji can be considered lucky - enjoying their retirement.».

Based on online publications.

June 12, 2015, 10:21 am Exercises on Fuji: evacuation of tourists under the control of rescuers

According to the legend of the exercises, an earthquake of 4 points occurred in the prefecture. Underground vibrations triggered the Fuji eruption. There is panic among tourists, there are victims. Rescuers all day work out the scenario of a disaster that could happen.

Police, firefighters, doctors, as well as owners of shops and mountain huts, gathered at the foot of the mountain to conduct exercises. Only 150 people. In the event of a natural disaster, the prefectural authorities provided local residents with protective helmets (2,500 pieces).

Based on online publications.

On June 11, the so-called rescue map was published on the prefecture's website. This is a collection of evacuation routes for tourists and climbers in case Mount Fuji suddenly erupts. Experts analyzed possible dangerous areas and suggested escape routes.

Map idea for tourists

There are several reasons for creating such a map. Firstly, in July, the Mount Fuji climbing season begins. Thousands of tourists who want to conquer the highest point in Japan will come to the foot of the mountain. The prefectural authorities believe that amateurs and professionals should know where to run if a natural disaster strikes. Secondly, alarming reports of volcanic activity in different regions of the country have begun to appear too often lately. One of the recent cases is the Ontake eruption on the border of the prefectures and. In September 2014, 63 people became victims of the disaster.

According to experts' forecasts, with the most unfavorable development of the situation on Fuji, Yamanashi Prefecture will be in a dangerous zone: lava flow along the northeastern slope. A rescue card is now being made in the neighboring one, which is also supposed to take a hit.

The development of evacuation routes began in December 2014. And in April, experts conducted surveys of mountain trails, including those that are usually used only by foresters. From June 23, information materials will be sent to all institutions nearby, local residents, owners of mountain huts where tourists stay.

Based on online publications.

April 28, 2015, 12:35 Mount Fuji and a white rainbow: an amateur photographer captured a rare phenomenon

Amateur photographer Takemura managed to capture a rare phenomenon in the prefecture - a white rainbow. According to the man, fog suddenly appeared before sunrise. When the first rays began to break through the cloud, a brilliant white arc appeared in it. " About 5-6 years ago I saw this, but against the backdrop of Mount Fuji for the first time. Impressive spectacle", - the photographer told reporters. The white rainbow began to disappear immediately after sunrise, and after 10 minutes there was no trace of it left.

Professor of Yokohama University Hironori Fudeyasu explained the nature of this phenomenon. Daylight breaks up in drops of rainwater into 7 colors. This is our usual rainbow. But in the case of the "white" or as it is also called the "foggy rainbow", the rays of light pass through drops smaller than raindrops. For the occurrence of this natural phenomenon, two conditions are necessary: ​​bright sun and fog. Photographing this is a big deal.

Based on online publications.

April 21, 2015, 21:21 "Red Fuji": chocolates in the shape of a Japanese mountain

The Meiji company announced the start of the sale of chocolates "Aka Fuji" - "Red Fuji". The new product in appearance resembles the sacred Mount Fuji with a snow-covered peak. White chocolate was used for the upper part, strawberry-flavored chocolate for the middle part, and milk chocolate for the lower part. The confectioners borrowed the idea of ​​the red mountain from the Japanese artist Hokusai. On his engraving “The Victorious Wind. Clear Day" or "Red Fuji" symbol of Japan is painted bright red.

The weight of one chocolate candy is 6 grams, and the entire package is 120 grams. Boxes of sweets will be sold in the grocery section of souvenir shops for Japanese and foreign tourists. Price 800 yen.

Over 50 years of work - 1672 times. Record holder Jitsukawa told reporters about how his passion began. For the first time, an amateur climber climbed Mount Fuji in the summer of 1985. It was a typical family outing. Then he persuaded himself with the phrase: Worth a try at least once in your life". The next chance came when a new employee got a job at the company where the man worked. The young man wanted to climb the mountain. Jitsukawa agreed to accompany him. Since then, the number of rises has been steadily increasing.

The pensioner left records of ascents in special notebooks. 100 in each. Now the seventeenth notebook is almost used up. " As long as I have the strength, I will try again and again', says Jitsukawa. The Japanese retiree, who has already been nicknamed Uncle Fuji-san, has ambitious plans to conquer the highest peak - Mount Everest.

Based on online publications.

July 2, 2013, 11:21 am The season is open: climbers began climbing Mount Fuji

Since Mount Fuji has recently received World Heritage status, it has attracted additional attention: the number of climbers is increasing. In this regard, local authorities understand that they will have to face the difficult task of properly observing safety measures on the mountain and protecting the environment.

According to the prefectural administration, 350-400 thousand people climb the mountain every year. Climbing to the top along the Fujinomiya route takes 6 hours, while others take even longer. Therefore, most climbers stay overnight in mountain cabins. yamagoya to get up early in the morning and see the sunrise from the top.

In order to comply with all measures for the protection of nature and the World Heritage site, money is needed. Prefectures will conduct a kind of experiment to collect funds from tourists. Within 10 days, starting July 25, climbers will be asked to voluntarily pay a fee of 1,000 yen.

An official ceremony to mark the opening of the Mt. Fuji season was also held at Fujinomiya Shinto Shrine, which was attended by dignitaries. Prefectural Governor Heita Kawakatsu and Mayor Hidetada Sudo prayed for the safety of tourists visiting the mountain this year.

Based on online publications.

Just as there are many landscape photographers who take pictures of the nature of different countries, so there are many photographers who only take pictures of Mount Fuji. And each of them is trying to move away from clichés and clichés, trying to make their work less like pictures of other people. And although it seems that it is impossible to shoot a mountain in a new way, these photographers still manage to give individuality to their pictures - and we invite you to see how they do it.

Fujiyama is an active stratovolcano on the Japanese island of Honshu, 90 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. The height of the volcano is 3776 m (the highest in Japan). Currently, the volcano is considered weakly active, the last eruption was in 1707-1708.

The mountain has an almost perfect conical shape and is considered sacred, serves as an object of tourism, as well as religious pilgrimage for Buddhist and Shinto cults. Fuji has been a popular subject in Japanese art for centuries.


Today, Mount Fuji houses a Shinto shrine, a post office, and a weather station. The surroundings of the mountain are part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. UNESCO World Heritage Site.


The classic image of the sacred Mount Fuji is a smoking volcano with a sharp peak, forever covered with ice. The Japanese considered it a mountain of Taoist immortals; the rising smoke allegedly came from the elixir of immortality lit in the vent. Anyone who conquers the summit will acquire this immortality.


According to the historian and Japanese scientist Alexander Meshcheryakov, this image of Fujiyama, sung in literature and fine arts, is very different from the real one.
“When the artist of the Edo period gave life to his panel by painting The True View of Mount Fuji, he did not mean at all that his painting should closely resemble a real mountain. Rather, it was a “true view” depicting its beautiful form so that people could see what Mount Fuji should be.”

Mount Fuji is a popular tourist destination in Japan and beyond. From July 1 to August 27, rescue centers and numerous yamagoya (mountain huts) are open on the mountain, where you can buy food and drinks, as well as relax on the sleeping shelves. Therefore, this period is considered the safest and most convenient for climbing. The rest of the time, Mount Fuji is covered with a thick layer of snow. Also, at the beginning of the season, some routes where there is still snow may be closed.

Mount Fuji is a national park, so throwing garbage is strictly prohibited, which is constantly reminded by signs placed all the way to the top. At the beginning of the ascent, everyone is given a free bag for any debris they see. During the ascent, when buying a bottle of water, shops allow you to throw away one empty bottle.

Fujiyama is of great importance to the locals. There is a legend according to which the one who can climb Mount Fuji will become immortal. Therefore, many residents of Japan are still convinced that the haze periodically seen above the mouth of the volcano is the smoke from the fire, which was lit by higher powers with the help of the elixir of immortality.

Description

Mount Fuji is an active volcano located on the largest island of the Japanese archipelago Honshu. From Tokyo, the capital of Japan, which is located on the same island, the sacred mountain is located nine dozen kilometers towards the southwest.

There is a forest on the slopes of the volcano and at its foot, as well as a huge number of thermal springs that form small warm lakes. True, not everyone dares to swim in them: the air temperature in summer at the foot of the mountain is only eighteen degrees Celsius, and in winter, severe cold reigns at the top of the volcano, while the thermometer fluctuates around thirty degrees Celsius below zero. The coldest was the winter of the fifteenth year of the twenty-first century, when the temperature was recorded at minus thirty-eight degrees.

Mount Fuji is home to a Zionist temple, a post office and a meteorological station. Since the highest point in Japan is located on the mountain, it is from here that it is most convenient to observe the weather.

Since the territory on which the Japanese Islands are located is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, there are a huge number of both active and extinct fire-breathing mountains. If you look closely at the map of Honshu, you will find that more than twenty volcanoes are located on this island alone.

As for Fuji, this mountain is located at the junction of several lithospheric plates at once: Philippine, Eurasian and Okhotsk. It did not appear immediately: first, Sen-Komitake was formed, and after its collapse, Komitake, but even that did not stand for a long time.

Eighty thousand years ago, "Old Fuji" appeared in its place, which, after twenty thousand years, began to show constant volcanic activity that lasted for ten centuries, and as a result, the volcano was destroyed. Instead, eleven thousand years ago, a young volcanic cone appeared, "Young Fuji", on the slopes of which more than a hundred lateral crevices subsequently formed. And some time later, the flows of basalt lava erupted by him blocked the road to the rivers, the sources of which began in the north of Fujiyama, forming the Five Lakes of Fuji.

Why Fujiyama is dangerous as a volcano

In the entire history of observing the volcano since the seven hundred and eighty-first year of our era, seismologists have recorded twelve eruptions of Fujiyama, the strongest of which occurred at the beginning of the eighteenth century. Three new craters were formed on the eastern side of the mountain, and volcanic ash covered the streets of Tokyo, located almost a hundred kilometers from Fuji, in a layer fifteen meters thick. As of its eighteenth year, this eruption is the last one, so it is currently considered an active volcano with a low eruption rate. Not everyone agrees with this definition. Recently, scientists have been talking more and more about the awakening of Fuji: special instruments have recorded that the pressure in the magma basin of the volcano as of the eighteenth year is much greater than it was during its last eruption. An important role in this was played by a nine-point earthquake in 2011, which caused a huge tsunami that flooded a number of coastal Japanese cities.

The approaching earthquake, which can trigger a volcanic eruption, is also indicated by a rise in the water level in Sai Lake, one of the Five Lakes of the volcano, numerous steam emissions from the vent and an increase in the number of volcanic earthquakes. In the twelfth year, geologists discovered that under Fuji there was a fault line about thirty-five kilometers wide, along which an earthquake could well occur, after which an eruption would begin. The latter, according to scientists, can happen at any time before the twentieth year. The forecasts of some researchers are too pessimistic, since they assume that the eruption will be so powerful that Fuji will completely disappear from the face of the earth, and a huge number of people will be forced to leave their homes. True, not everyone agrees with this - most scientists still tend to think that the volcano wakes up gradually, and the magma moves very slowly, so if the volcano starts to show excessive activity, people will have time to evacuate, although agriculture will definitely be damaged.

The sacred Mount Fuji is striking in its beauty and perfect conical shape. Since ancient times, it was considered not only a beautiful, but also a sacred place where people who made a pilgrimage gathered.

Nowadays, many tourists come to admire the ideal features of the mountain. Even artists took its outlines as an example, creating their masterpieces.

Where is Fujiyama located?

Mount Fuji is located in Japan, on the island of Honshu, not far from Tokyo, and is the highest mountain in this country. Its height is almost 4000 meters, and if you look at it, you get the impression that the creation of nature is lost in the sky.

There are plains around the mountain, so in good and clear weather you can admire the Fujiyama volcano and hundreds of kilometers away, but if you want to enjoy the full view of the mountain, it is best to look at it from the sea, here it will win your heart once and for all .

At the top of the mountain there is a bowl-shaped depression, with a vent at the bottom, located at a depth of 100 meters, through which an eruption can occur. The diameter of this bowl is approximately 700 meters.

Many believers may say that the top of the bowl resembles lotus petals, and it is not strange, because the lotus is a sacred flower in the Buddhist religion. It symbolizes purity, because despite the fact that the flower is born in the depths of the swamp, it is born pure, captivating everyone with its beauty. The bowl of the mountain flower consists of eight petals, which are called the "eight petals of Fujiyama".

Display in art

Even famous models cannot boast of such a number of painted paintings and dedicated poems and songs as the volcanic Mount Fuji.

Here are the lines from the creation of Alexander Ustimov:

"At the sacred Mount Fuji,

Where the sakura blossomed tenderly

There lived a girl - her name was Altai,

She loved the samurai ... "

It tells about the sad story of a girl in love who never waited for her samurai. Upon learning of the death of her beloved, she turned into a beautiful sakura, which remained to admire the majestic mountain, continuing to sing songs to her dead husband, moving the flowering branches.

In poetry, as well as in the paintings of such an artist as Sano Shinkei, grief, as it were, is not given a solo meaning. She always acts as a background, but complementing the fullness of the paintings, she makes them look more majestic, filling the surrounding landscape with special spirituality and mystery.

So, Sano Shinkei created his album dedicated to Mount Fuji, drawing it from the same angle, but at different times of the year. This album consists of 25 paintings depicting the majestic mountain, but each is unique in itself.

With this collection, the artist wanted to show how timeless the creation of nature is, because regardless of the changing landscape around it, the mountain still remains great and indestructible.

The second artist, Katsushika Hokusai, also depicted the mountain in his work. He wanted to create, as it were, a guide to the island of Honshu.

In his works, Mount Fuji was not given much emphasis, but everywhere she was present, captivating the viewer with her beauty.

Tourism and religion

Until today, not only crowds of tourists converge here, but also many believing pilgrims, because Fujiyama is considered not only the greatest creation of nature, but also a sacred place. There is an opinion that the souls of the dead live in Fujiyama volcano itself. Believers believe that it is Mount Fuji-san that is the link between people living on earth and the gods who are located in heaven.

At the foot of the mountain there is a temple where Shintoists worship. Legend has it that this temple was built over two thousand years ago, during a volcanic eruption. The emperor who ruled at that time erected this temple, he wanted to appease the gods and save his people from death.

Much later, already at the end of the eighteenth, beginning of the nineteenth century, one could see long columns of pilgrims dressed in all white who wanted to honor and pray to their god, and during the Second World War it was considered a mandatory visit to this place by soldiers before setting off to the front.

The foot of the mountain depicts an almost perfect circle with a diameter of 126 kilometers, which once again proves the existence of miracles created by Mother Nature herself.

Fujiyama in Japan is not only a majestic mountain, but also a volcano located on an island. Now it is considered not particularly dangerous, because the last time it erupted almost three hundred years ago.

How did Mount Fuji come about?

Scientists consider the very formation of the mountain to be rather non-standard. Initially, it was believed that Mount Fuji took on its modern appearance precisely after the expiration of its three greatest eruptions, the first of which occurred more than a hundred thousand years ago.

At that time, its height was 1500 meters lower, and after subsequent eruptions, the great mountain itself in Japan, Fujiyama, was formed. But according to the results of studies of the deeper bowels of the mountain, it was found that in fact the eruptions took place much earlier than originally dated.

According to mythology, the appearance of the majestic mountain appeared not so long ago, namely 286 BC. As the myths say, the mountain appeared when the earth opened up, and a lake called Biwa appeared in that place. Then a mountain was created from the earth around.

There is a legend that this mountain appeared from fire, and it can die only under its influence. Mount Fuji is also considered to be the place where the gods live. It also serves as a gateway to the underworld. Many Japanese consider it their duty to climb to the very top of the mountain and bow to the spirit that dwells in it. But, unfortunately, the mountain does not always give in, you can climb to its top only in the summer, when the snow covers melt.

During the Middle Ages, there were even several communities that were in charge of climbing the mountain. They saw in grief not only the connection of heaven and earth, but also the achievement of purity and harmony of the soul. The only equipment at that time was a long staff, allowing a tired traveler to lean on his elbows, and a straw hat that protected from the scorching sun.

Now, with the advent of new technologies, pilgrims and just lovers do not have to wash their sandals to toe. Nowadays, you can do most of the way by bus or by your own car, admiring the beautiful scenery around, but you will have to walk the remaining 1000 meters. But even this fascinating ascent will take you about 5-7 hours, and the descent will take even less.

It is also interesting that the top of Mount Fuji is the property of a Shinto shrine. The beauty of the mountain is complemented by its diverse landscape. When climbing, you will notice how one picture changes another, because the greatest cherry and plum orchards, rice fields lie on the mountain, in some places you can even see pieces of former forests, the trees of which are entwined with spitting and vines, and under them the ground is dotted with ferns.

There is a legend that these forests are filled with spirits flying between the trees. Climbing up, you will be able to notice how the trees growing here are also changing from broad-leaved ones, and the higher, the more coniferous trees prevail. The very top of Mount Fuji is covered with snow for ten months.

And if you have never been to the majestic mountain of Japan, then you can easily do it ..

When asked what is most beautiful in the Land of the Rising Sun, any Japanese will answer with the same word: "Fujiyama!"

This mountain, the highest in Japan (3776 meters), has been deified since ancient times by the inhabitants of the island of Honshu. The word Fuji itself is only half Japanese and means "Mount Fuji".

The mysterious and ancient people of the Ainu, who once inhabited Honshu, and Hokkaido, and the Kuril Islands, gave the mountain the name of their goddess of fire, and the Japanese retained the Ainu name.

The almost perfect, slightly truncated Fujiyama cone is really very beautiful. For many centuries it has been inspiring poets and artists, for many hundreds of years people have been climbing the steep path to its peak to pay tribute to the national shrine, which, without a doubt, is Fuji.

The great poet Basho, who lived in the 17th century, devoted more than one poem to the sacred mountain. His three-line haiku have survived the centuries, and every Japanese schoolboy can quote you by heart without hesitation, for example:

The clouds were filled with rain.

Only over the crest of the foothills

Fuji is white in the snow...

Fog and autumn rain.

But let Fuji be invisible,

How glad she is!

And the remarkable artist Hokusai, a century later, Basho immortalized his favorite mountain in a series of engravings: "36 Views of Mount Fuji" and "100 Views of Mount Fuji". A reproduction of one of these prints hangs in every Japanese home.

The main religion of Japan - Shintoism - has declared Fujiyama one of the main places of reverence and worship. Therefore, every Japanese considers it his duty to climb the sacred mountain at least once in his life.

There is a winding path to the top of Fuji with ten rest stations. At the foot of the mountain, pilgrims buy bamboo postskhi with bells, which should help during the difficult and long ascent.

At each station, a traveler will be burned on a staff with a special brand as a sign that he has reached the next stage. Some, especially the elderly, the Japanese make several attempts before they reach their cherished goal.

At the very top, next to the Fujiyama crater, a Shinto shrine was built, where monks offer prayers to the gods, along the way selling souvenirs to tourists and pilgrims.

Many tourists from abroad, for whom visiting the mountain is just an exotic entertainment, start climbing immediately from the fifth station, where the highway is laid.

But even for them, the ascent of the almost four-kilometer peak is a difficult test of muscle strength and fortitude.

The crater of the volcano is a depression with jagged edges, 500 meters in diameter and 200 meters deep. Its slightly wavy outlines resemble a lotus flower.

Eight rocky ridges, covered with snow, protrude into the crater. The people gave them the poetic name Yaksuda-Fuji ("Eight Petals of Fuji").

The upper part of the slope of the volcanic mountain is very steep (up to forty-five degrees), and below Fuji it becomes more gentle. Its base looks like a giant circle with a perimeter of 126 kilometers.

From the north, Fuji is bordered by a garland of five picturesque lakes, which add even more beauty to the surrounding landscape. The mountain is especially beautiful in spring, when the Japanese cherry-sakura blossoms.

The pink foam of the gardens, the blue sky and water, the greenery of the pines in the lower belt of the mountain and the white snowy cone of its top merge into a unique symphony of lines and colors, as if descended from an engraving by Hokusai.

However, the volcano is beautiful at any time of the year and in any weather.

And a great artist could probably paint not a hundred, but five hundred views of Fuji - either pink in the dawn rays, or reflected in the blue bowl of the lake, or peering through the fog like a gray ghost, or covered with a thick cap of clouds ...

According to Japanese chronicle legend, the gods created Mount Fuji in one night in 286 BC, and on the site where they took land for the mountain, Lake Biwa formed, the only large lake in the country, located near its ancient capital, Kyoto.

In fact, the volcano is, of course, much older. Geologists estimate its age at eight to ten thousand years. But at the base of Fujiyama lies a more ancient extinct volcano, which is sixty thousand years old, and he, in turn, grew up on the site of an even more ancient volcano, whose age is three hundred thousand years.

As the youngest and most active of the three, Fuji regularly displays his formidable disposition. Chronicles recorded eighteen eruptions of Japan's main volcano. The strongest of them were in 800, 864 and 1707. Fuji especially raged in 1707. Then even Tokyo, located a hundred kilometers northeast of the volcano, was covered with a layer of ash fifteen centimeters thick.

Now the mighty giant is dozing, only faint wisps of smoke in the crater reminding him that his strength has not yet dried up. Snow lies on the slopes of its slender, slightly concave cone for ten months a year, and even in summer the snowfields do not melt on the northern slopes.

The ancient pilgrimage trail still retains its original appearance. True, many, as already mentioned, now begin the ascent from the fifth station, from the very border of the pine forests, but even this final, most difficult stage of the ascent allows you to experience unforgettable sensations.

And although Fujiyama is not a cult object for foreign guests, the difficult way up and the view from the top really, in some incomprehensible way, set thoughts and feelings in a bright, solemn way.