In brief
A Chinese university student living in Japan was rescued twice in just four days after a misguided attempt to retrieve his mobile phone from Mount Fuji, where climbing is prohibited off-season.
A 27-year-old Chinese student, residing in Japan, found himself in dire circumstances on Mount Fuji after venturing to retrieve his lost mobile phone outside of the mountain's official climbing season, which runs from July to September. Initially, he was rescued by helicopter on Tuesday while traversing the Fujinomiya trail at an elevation of approximately 3,000 meters (9,800 feet). The student, unable to descend due to losing his crampons—devices meant to enhance traction on icy surfaces—was left stranded.Despite the preceding rescue, he returned to the mountain just days later, determined to recover personal items he had abandoned, including his phone. Unfortunately, he suffered from altitude sickness during this return trip and was again rescued on Saturday; fortunately, he is now no longer in danger.Authorities warn that climbing Mount Fuji outside the designated season is ill-advised due to severe weather conditions that can arise suddenly, complicating rescue efforts. All trails to the mountain's summit are closed during this prohibited period, as highlighted by the environment ministry.The Shizuoka police reiterated warnings about the dangers of off-season climbing after the student's second rescue. They noted that medical facilities along the trails are also closed, raising concerns for climbers' safety.Public reaction on social media platforms like X has been critical, with many suggesting that the student should be held accountable and potentially required to cover the costs of the rescue operations. Known globally for its iconic shape, Mount Fuji, with its 3,776-meter (12,388 feet) elevation, remains a popular destination in Japan, leading authorities to implement measures aimed at managing the challenges of overtourism, including increased climbing fees. In 2023, over 220,000 visitors ascended Mount Fuji during the official climbing months.
