How a Student Ended Up Needing Rescuing Twice On Mount Fuji

A student showed up on Mount Fuji when the trails were closed, and the mountain basically handed him a “nope” twice. First it took a rescue team to pull him out of a bad spot, then it took another one when he went back for something he thought was simple.

Here’s what makes it so wild, and so complicated, the climbing season is only open from early July to early September. Outside those months, the weather can turn fast, the paths can be icy, and rescue work gets harder when the basics are shut down. So when the Shizuoka police got involved again, it wasn’t just embarrassing, it was expensive, dangerous, and completely avoidable.

Now the internet is arguing about the same lesson, over and over, in the comments.

Mount Fuji’s trails are only open from early July to early September.

It’s worth noting that Mount Fuji’s climbing season officially runs from early July to early September. Outside these months, the trails are closed for a reason: dangerous weather, icy paths, and no functioning medical facilities.

According to Japan’s Environment Ministry, the off-season brings unpredictable conditions that make it risky for climbers and far more difficult for rescue teams to do their jobs. In 2023 alone, more than 220,000 people climbed Fuji during the safe season, when trails are maintained and rescue services are ready. But in April? You're on your own, and that’s no secret.

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That’s when the story went viral in Japan, because people saw the same mistake play out twice, not once, and they were not impressed.

Unsurprisingly, the double rescue story has gone viral in Japan, sparking backlash online. Many commenters are frustrated, and some are downright angry.

“Some people never learn, not even when the lesson is expensive,” one person wrote. Another added, “There is stupid, and then there is this guy…”

The Shizuoka police have since used the incident to remind people not to climb Mount Fuji during the off-season. These rescues require substantial resources, and every time someone decides to ignore the rules, they put themselves and the rescuers at risk.

The Shizuoka police used the double rescue to remind everyone that climbing Fuji during the off-season is a bad gamble for you and a brutal workload for rescuers.

Safety Precautions for Hikers

It also echoes a friend getting hurt after pregnancy news was announced publicly.

And after hearing about the second rescue, it’s hard not to think about the sheer mismatch between “I’ll just go up” and “trails are closed for a reason.”

While it's easy to shake our heads at this particular climber's choices, the incident also serves as a broader warning. The mountains don’t care how fit you are or how badly you want that summit selfie. Without the right gear, season, and respect for nature, things can go south quickly.

And going back to grab your phone? Probably not worth a second helicopter ride.

Outdoor enthusiasts often underestimate the risks associated with climbing during off-seasons, which can lead to dangerous situations.

Even if you’re tempted to grab your phone, the mountain doesn’t care, and the second helicopter ride is what really tells the tale.

The recent incidents involving hikers requiring rescues on Mount Fuji highlight a critical issue regarding safety and preparedness in outdoor activities. This situation calls for a greater commitment to understanding and respecting nature's guidelines. By fostering a culture of education and community support, we can enhance safety for all who seek to explore the beauty of Mount Fuji. With proper knowledge and resources, climbers can not only enjoy their experience but also play a role in ensuring a secure environment for fellow adventurers.

Nobody wants to spend their day rescuing the same off-season decision twice.

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