Japanese town quietly removes its Mount Fuji-blocking barrier
Fujikawaguchiko, a Japanese town at the base of Mount Fuji, has reversed its controversial decision to block views of the mountain with a large net. Initially installed in May to manage the overwhelming tourist influx, the barrier was taken down on August 15, with no plans to reinstall it. Residents had reported issues with littering and disruptive behavior from visitors drawn by a popular photo spot.
The town's officials noted that since the net's installation, the area has seen a decrease in lingering tourists. Security measures remain in place, and the net could be re-erected if necessary. Fujikawaguchiko, with a population of about 10,000, has implemented new regulations to manage tourism and protect the mountain, including a daily climber cap and an entrance fee for maintenance.
The town's experience highlights the challenges of balancing tourism with community well-being and environmental preservation.