but as close as I’ll get for now. I was at the 5th station of Mt Fuji today, surrounded by a cloud bank. Given that the climbing season ended 5 days before I could arrive, this was the best for which I could hope. The weather obviously didn’t cooperate. So, I’ll leave this for another goal in another time. 9 months ago

So it’s been about 12 hours since I got out of bed and I’m just now settling into my hotel. The 2 hour flight was a little more than that and delayed by the incoming storm to boot (I was so happy when we took off). Then there was customs and immigration and waiting for the bus. The bus ride itself was another 90 minutes (I was silly and picked a hotel further from Narita than just about any other. But now I’m here, getting settled and trying to figure out dinner. The thing it reminds me of the most is one must have a good sense of humor or risk going crazy on international travel. 9 months ago

Visited Japan last week to see family. It was too damn hot for much sight-seeing, but the one benefit of going in August was the opportunity to climb Mt. Fuji. What an experience! By far the most physically challenging thing I’ve ever done, but I did it. Going up was difficult by do-able. Coming down was cruel and unusual punishment. I never want to see volcanic gravel ever again! 10 months ago

I’ve been in Japan all year and I think I’ll finally do this before I leave, in June. Although apparently only half of the mountain is open until July/August- all well. 13 months ago

August next year will have 2 full moons, a blue moon. Seems appropriate for the climbing adventure I have planned. I will have literally done it once in a blue moon. :) Lovely. 19 months ago

I think I’ll arrange the trip, if possible, to be around the full moon! 19 months ago

This looks like it will happen next August. It is recommended to take 2 days to prevent altitude sickness and allow one to reach the summit at sunrise.

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Hiking boots or shoes (tough leather and/or expendable)
• Warm jacket or shell (something light enough to pack when it’s too hot to wear it)
• Long pants (or shorts along with some shell pants that you can pull out of your pack)
• Stocking hat and gloves (depending on how susceptible you are to cold these may optional or needed)
• Water (at least a couple of liters, unless you plan to buy drinks for high prices along the way)
• Money (for items on the way, staying in a hut, and also for emergency expenses)
• Food (for your meals and/or snacks, although plenty of food is available along the way at high prices)
• Daypack or large fanny pack (comfortable and big enough for the stuff you need to carry)
• Camera(s) to capture an incredible sunrise and outstanding view 19 months ago

I’ll be climbing on July 18!!! woot!!! 23 months ago

the State Dept has lifted the travel warnings, so the trip is back on! excited to do a small bit for helping the economy recover! 2 years ago