On foot... August 28, 2008 along with some friends, we started walking (or climbing) up Mt. Fuji. Japan's symbol, Mt Fuji or Fujisan to the Japanese, is Japan's highest mountain standing at 3,776 meters. It's symmetrical cone makes it beautiful and attracts people, local and foreigners alike. We started our journey at around 7pm from the 5th Station of the Fujinomiya Route, some 2400 meters in altitude. Equipped with flashlight, thick clothes, raincoat, we went up and enjoyed the first hour of walking, enjoying the beauty of the city lights below. The sky went darker as we ascended further. The city was no longer visible. It was not raining but it was getting really colder and the dampness caused by fogs made it more uncomfortable. It was cold, and tiring. We were walking, climbing, holding on to rocks and rope. We see nothing beyond what our flashlights could reach.
I for one wanted to give up. I did not think it was possible. After the 8th Station, I just wanted to stay and wait for whatever it was. But staying still was not a good idea. We have to more so bring warmth to our muscles. Physically, i was giving up. It was only my will to survive, to make it that, perhaps, helped me moved on. It was all in the mind.
Hours of walking finally brought us to the top of the mountain. Unfortunately, the rain started to fall down and the wind was blowing madly on top! It was really cold! My hands were shaking, my cheeks frozen-like, and everybody was already exhausted. We just wanted to go back.
And thank God, we came down, safely. But going down equally difficult. The wind was meeting us as we descended, and the rain was pouring still. We could see nothing ahead of us but fog.
The experience was something we cannot forget. It was not an enjoyable one, but I guess, it made us conquer some of our fears and limitations. We were able to overcome the challenge, the hard way. And maybe, that made it more memorable.
Some advices. Mount Fuji is beautiful! Admire it from a distance. If you want to experience sunrise on top of Fujisan, check the weather. :)
