Japan’s Tourism Boom Turns Mount Fuji into ‘Trash Mountain’ Amid Overtourism Woes

Japan’s tourism boom in 2024 welcomed a record-breaking 36 million visitors, but the surge has turned sacred Mount Fuji into a ‘trash mountain’, sparking new challenges. Hokuto Asano, a Japanese embassy official, described the issue as overtourism, with local communities struggling to balance hospitality and preservation.

With nearly 33.4 million travelers flocking to Japan between January and November, including three million Americans, the nation is eyeing an ambitious goal of 60 million annual visitors by 2030. Yet, the influx has strained resources, with Mount Fuji—climbed by 200,000 to 300,000 people each summer—now littered with garbage due to overcrowding.

Rising costs have also stirred tensions. Restaurants, hotels, and attractions increasingly adopt a two-tier pricing system, charging tourists more than locals. Asano noted this pricing gap reflects differing preferences but admitted it’s left some Japanese feeling priced out of domestic travel.

Japan’s limited trash cans, a counter-terrorism measure, have fueled the litter problem. Asano urged visitors to adopt local customs, like carrying their own trash, to respect cultural and sacred sites. ‘It’s not just a trip,’ he said, emphasizing tourism as a chance to share Japan’s values and traditions.

As Japan navigates this tourism tidal wave, the challenge is clear: fostering mutual respect to ensure both visitors and locals can cherish the nation’s treasures.