Japanese town obstructs famous Mount Fuji view to discourage tourists

Authorities in a Japanese town have taken drastic measures to combat the behavior of badly behaved tourists by installing a large mesh barrier that blocks the view of Mount Fuji. The move comes after years of complaints from frustrated locals about littering, trespassing, and traffic violations by visitors seeking the perfect photo of the iconic stratovolcano.

The spot in question, which offers a view of Mount Fuji towering above a convenience store, has become a hotspot for tourists looking to capture the picturesque scene. However, the large numbers of visitors have led to illegal parking, blocked pavements, and disrespectful behavior towards residents and businesses in the area.

The black netting, measuring 20m by 2.5m, is intended to deter dangerous activities and provide relief for local establishments like the Ibishi Dental Clinic, which has faced issues with unauthorized parking and disruptive behavior from tourists.

While the move has been met with mixed reactions, with some tourists expressing disappointment at the loss of the iconic photo spot, authorities believe it is necessary to address the growing problem of overtourism in the area. With Japan seeing a surge in tourist numbers post-pandemic, the issue of poorly behaved visitors is a concern for many popular destinations.

In addition to the mesh barrier, authorities have implemented new measures such as an online booking system and daily entry caps for hikers on the Yoshida trail of Mount Fuji to manage the impact of tourism on the iconic landmark. Despite the challenges, efforts are being made to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the natural beauty of Mount Fuji and its surrounding areas.