Japan lifts Mount Fuji barrier after tackling tourist overcrowding
Mount Fuji’s views are once again visible after Fujikawaguchiko temporarily removed a barrier that had been installed in May to manage the chaos caused by international tourists trying to photograph the volcano. The large screen was set up in resp...
By ET Online |
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Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji's majestic views are back in sight! 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.
In May, Fujikawaguchiko set up a large screen in response to local complaints about the chaos caused by large crowds of international tourists trying 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 attempt to handle the surge of disruptive tourists drew global attention as record numbers of visitors arrived in Japan over the summer, leading to some local frustration. A Fujikawaguchiko official noted that the barrier might be put back up if the influx of tourists returns and starts causing more problems.
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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.
Mount Fuji, Japan's emblematic volcano, is celebrated for its stunning beauty and cultural importance. At 3,776 meters (12,389 feet), it is the highest peak in Japan and a major national landmark. Its nearly symmetrical, snow-covered cone has become a symbol of Japan, prominently appearing in art, literature, and folklore.
7 must-visit places in Japan and what not to miss
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Japan is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, here are seven places you can't miss on your trip to Japan, along with a suggested itinerary for each destination.
Japan is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, here are seven places you can't miss on your trip to Japan, along with a suggested itinerar..
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Why Visit: Tokyo, Japan's capital, is a dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends traditional culture with futuristic innovation. From historic temples to cutting-edge skyscrapers, Tokyo offers something for every traveler.
Itinerary: Day 1: Start at the Meiji Shrine, then explore Harajuku and Takeshita Street for a taste of Tokyo's youth culture. Spend the evening in Shibuya, visiting the famous Shibuya Crossing and Hachiko Statue.
Day 2: Visit the Tokyo Tower, followed by a trip to Asakusa to see the Senso-ji Temple. In the afternoon, explore Akihabara, the hub of anime and electronics.
Day 3: Spend the day at Tokyo Disneyland or DisneySea for a magical experience.
Why Visit: Tokyo, Japan's capital, is a dynamic metropolis that seamlessly blends traditional culture with futuristic innovation. From historic temples to cutting-edge skyscrapers, Tokyo offers somet..
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Why Visit: Known as the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is home to countless temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses. The city offers a glimpse into Japan's ancient past.
Itinerary: Day 1: Begin at Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of torii gates. In the afternoon, visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and then wander through the historic Higashiyama District.
Day 2: Explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, visit the Tenryu-ji Temple, and enjoy a boat ride on the Hozu River. End the day at the serene Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).
Day 3: Visit Gion, Kyoto’s famous geisha district, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony.
Why Visit: Known as the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is home to countless temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses. The city offers a glimpse into Japan's ancient past.Itinerary:Day 1: Begin at..
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Why Visit: Known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious street food, Osaka is a lively city with a unique charm. It's also a great base for exploring nearby attractions.
Itinerary: Day 1: Visit Osaka Castle, followed by a trip to the Osaka Aquarium. In the evening, explore the lively Dotonbori area, famous for its street food and neon lights.
Day 2: Spend the day at Universal Studios Japan. Don’t miss the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the thrilling rides.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Nara to see the Todai-ji Temple and feed the friendly deer at Nara Park.
Why Visit: Known for its vibrant nightlife and delicious street food, Osaka is a lively city with a unique charm. It's also a great base for exploring nearby attractions.Itinerary:Day 1: Visit Osaka ..
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Why Visit: Hokkaido is Japan's northernmost island, known for its stunning natural landscapes, including hot springs, mountains, and lavender fields.
Itinerary: Day 1: Explore Sapporo, Hokkaido's largest city, visiting the Sapporo Clock Tower and Odori Park. In the evening, relax in a traditional onsen.
Day 2: Take a day trip to Otaru, a charming canal town known for its glassworks and seafood.
Day 3: Visit the Furano and Biei regions to see the stunning lavender fields and rolling hills, especially in summer.
Why Visit: Hokkaido is Japan's northernmost island, known for its stunning natural landscapes, including hot springs, mountains, and lavender fields.Itinerary:Day 1: Explore Sapporo, Hokkaido's large..
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Why Visit: Hiroshima is a city with a deep historical significance, as the site of the first atomic bomb attack in 1945. Today, it stands as a symbol of peace and resilience.
Itinerary: Day 1: Visit the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum to learn about the atomic bombing. Then, see the Atomic Bomb Dome, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 2: Take a ferry to Miyajima Island to visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine, famous for its floating torii gate.
Day 3: Explore the Shukkeien Garden and Hiroshima Castle before heading to Okonomimura to try Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki.
Why Visit: Hiroshima is a city with a deep historical significance, as the site of the first atomic bomb attack in 1945. Today, it stands as a symbol of peace and resilience.Itinerary:Day 1: Visit th..
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Why Visit: Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning temples, shrines, and natural beauty. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo.
Itinerary: Day 1: Start at the Toshogu Shrine, a lavishly decorated temple complex. Then, visit the Rinno-ji Temple and the Futarasan Shrine.
Day 2: Explore the beautiful Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. Take a boat ride on the lake or hike around the area.
Day 3: Visit the Edo Wonderland theme park for a glimpse of Japan's feudal past, complete with ninja shows and samurai performances.
Why Visit: Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning temples, shrines, and natural beauty. It's an easy day trip from Tokyo.Itinerary:Day 1: Start at the Toshogu Shrine, a lavishl..
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Why Visit: Okinawa offers a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, coral reefs, and a unique Ryukyu culture. It’s the perfect place for relaxation and water sports.
Itinerary: Day 1: Explore Naha, the capital of Okinawa, visiting Shuri Castle and the Okinawa Prefectural Museum. In the evening, stroll down Kokusai Street.
Day 2: Take a day trip to the Kerama Islands for snorkeling or diving in crystal-clear waters.
Day 3: Visit Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, one of the largest in the world, and explore the nearby Emerald Beach.
Why Visit: Okinawa offers a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, coral reefs, and a unique Ryukyu culture. It’s the perfect place for relaxation and water sports.Itinerary:Day 1: Explore Naha, th..