A Chinese university student has been rescued twice from the slopes of Mount Fuji in Japan over the course of a week. The 27-year-old was airlifted to safety on Tuesday after being stranded, but was later found four days later attempting to retrieve his mobile phone.
The student returned to the mountain on Friday, despite warnings not to hike during the off-season due to treacherous conditions. He was eventually spotted by another climber on Saturday and taken to hospital with suspected altitude sickness.
This incident highlights the dangers of Mount Fuji for inexperienced climbers who underestimate the challenge of traversing its steep slopes. Visitors are urged to avoid hiking during the off-season as conditions can quickly become hazardous.
The Japanese government has introduced a fee system for hikers, charging 4,000 yen ($28/£21) for access to the mountain’s four main trails starting from this summer. The move aims to combat overcrowding and ensure safer conditions for visitors.
Mount Fuji remains an active volcano, covered in snow for most of the year, with hiking season typically running from July to September.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/28/student-rescued-from-mount-fuji-twice-in-one-week