Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege

Japan Town Implements Barrier to Shield Mount Fuji from Disruptive Tourists

Image Credit : UnsplashImage Credit : Unsplash
  • Fujikawaguchiko will install a mesh net to block the view of Mount Fuji at a popular tourist spot to combat disruptive behaviors.
  • The decision comes in response to significant issues caused by overtourism, including environmental damage and disruption to local life.
  • This measure highlights the need for long-term strategies to manage tourist behavior and promote sustainable tourism practices.

The town of Fujikawaguchiko in Japan has decided to obstruct the view of the iconic Mount Fuji from a popular photo spot frequented by tourists. This decision comes as a response to the increasing number of tourists who, despite repeated warnings, have continued to exhibit disrespectful behavior, including littering and violating traffic regulations.

The Decision: A Protective Measure

The local authorities in Fujikawaguchiko are set to install a large black mesh net, measuring 2.5 meters in height and 20 meters in length, effectively blocking the view of Mount Fuji from a specific viewpoint next to a Lawson convenience store—a spot that has gained popularity on social media for its quintessentially Japanese backdrop. The installation of this barrier is scheduled to begin as early as next week.

An official from the town expressed regret over the necessity of this measure, stating, "It is regrettable to have to do this because of some tourists who can’t respect rules". The decision reflects a broader trend in Japan where local communities are taking direct actions to manage the challenges posed by increasing tourist numbers. Similar measures have been observed in Kyoto, where access to certain alleys in the geisha district has been restricted.

The Impact of Overtourism

Overtourism has become a significant issue for many popular destinations worldwide, leading to environmental degradation, disruption of local life, and cultural dilution. In Fujikawaguchiko, the influx of tourists has not only caused congestion and littering but has also affected local businesses adversely. For instance, a nearby dental clinic has faced issues with tourists parking illegally and even climbing on its roof to capture photographs.

The town official highlighted the strain on local infrastructure, noting that "the mostly non-Japanese tourists are overcrowding a stretch of pavement next to the Lawson shop". This has led to repeated interventions by security personnel, which unfortunately have been largely ignored.

Long-term Solutions and Community Response

The barrier is intended as a temporary solution, with plans to maintain it until the situation improves. However, this raises questions about the long-term strategies that need to be implemented to ensure sustainable tourism that respects both the natural environment and local communities.

Experts suggest that education and stricter enforcement of local regulations could be part of the solution. Additionally, promoting responsible tourism practices and encouraging tourists to visit less crowded and equally beautiful locations could help alleviate the pressure on hotspots like Fujikawaguchiko.

The situation in Fujikawaguchiko serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that needs to be maintained between promoting tourism for economic benefits and preserving the integrity of local communities and their environments. As this town takes a stand against disruptive behaviors by tourists, it sets a precedent for other destinations grappling with similar issues. The hope is that measures like these will foster a greater sense of responsibility among tourists and promote a more sustainable and respectful approach to travel.


Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege
Travel
Image Credits: Unsplash
TravelApril 16, 2025 at 10:00:00 PM

Weaker dollar reshapes travel costs

[WORLD] American travelers planning trips to Europe or Japan this year will face higher expenses due to a weakening U.S. dollar. Since mid-January...

Politics
Image Credits: Unsplash
PoliticsApril 15, 2025 at 7:30:00 AM

China tightens visa rules amid Tibet dispute

[WORLD] China announced on April 14, 2025, that it will impose visa restrictions on certain U.S. personnel accused of interfering in Tibet-related issues....

Insurance Europe
Image Credits: Unsplash
InsuranceApril 15, 2025 at 6:00:00 AM

What US tourists should know about European travel insurance in 2025

[EUROPE] As European travel continues to rebound in 2025, new regulations, evolving health protocols, and rising costs are prompting more U.S. travelers to...

Economy Singapore
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyApril 11, 2025 at 12:00:00 PM

Singapore aims for $50 billion tourism boom by 2040

[SINGAPORE] Singapore's tourism spending is expected to reach $47 billion to $50 billion by 2040, or 1.7 times higher than in 2024, according...

Travel
Image Credits: Unsplash
TravelApril 11, 2025 at 11:30:00 AM

How to conquer fear of flying

[WORLD] For many, the prospect of air travel evokes feelings of anxiety and fear. This common phenomenon, known as aviophobia, affects a significant...

Travel
Image Credits: Unsplash
TravelApril 9, 2025 at 10:00:00 AM

Cycling through Thailand during Songkran

[WORLD] As Thailand’s Songkran Festival approaches, cyclists across the globe are gearing up to experience one of the world’s most iconic celebrations. Known...

Travel
Image Credits: Unsplash
TravelApril 4, 2025 at 4:00:00 PM

Chinese tourists flock to cherry blossom destinations

[WORLD] As China’s long-awaited holiday weekend approaches, thousands of tourists are preparing to indulge in one of the most cherished springtime traditions: visiting...

Insurance
Image Credits: Unsplash
InsuranceApril 3, 2025 at 10:30:00 PM

How much does travel insurance cost in 2025?

[WORLD] As the travel industry continues to bounce back in 2025, many vacationers are asking: How much does travel insurance cost? While prices...

Travel
Image Credits: Unsplash
TravelApril 2, 2025 at 11:30:00 AM

Why airline seat belts are different from car seat belts

[WORLD] Have you ever wondered why the seat belts in an airplane differ from the ones in your car? While both serve the...

Travel
Image Credits: Unsplash
TravelMarch 31, 2025 at 4:30:00 PM

Travel trends in 2025 and the impact of Covid on tourism

[WORLD] The Covid-19 pandemic upended many aspects of life, with the travel industry being one of the hardest hit. However, as we move...

Economy
Image Credits: Unsplash
EconomyMarch 28, 2025 at 7:30:00 PM

How airlines are transforming travel with biometric apps

[WORLD] The aviation sector sits at the intersection of innovation and tradition. As consumers seek more seamless, efficient, and personalized experiences, airlines face...

Travel
Image Credits: Unsplash
TravelMarch 26, 2025 at 6:30:00 PM

How tourists can re-establish a connection with their history through heritage tourism

[WORLD] The second season of the TV show The White Lotus follows three generations of an American family who journey to Sicily, Italy...

Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege
Load More
Ad Banner
Advertisement by Open Privilege