Japanese authorities, frustrated by crowds of poorly behaved foreign tourists, plan to install a large black barrier to block the view of Mount Fuji from a popular photo spot.
The construction of the mesh net, which will be 2.5 meters (8 feet) high and 20 meters long, is set to begin as early as next week, according to an official from Fujikawaguchiko town. “It’s regrettable we have to do this, because of some tourists who can’t respect rules,” leaving litter behind and ignoring traffic regulations,” he told AFP.
Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, is visible from many spots in the resort town of Fujikawaguchiko
The installation of a large black barrier to block the view of Mount Fuji from a popular photo spot is the latest action taken in Japan against over-tourism. Earlier this year, residents of Kyoto’s geisha district banned visitors from small private alleys. Japan has seen record numbers of overseas tourists, with monthly visitors exceeding three million in March for the first time.
Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest mountain, is visible from many spots in the resort town of Fujikawaguchiko. However, a particular viewpoint has gained popularity because the majestic volcano appears behind a Lawson convenience store.
Due to this visual juxtaposition, “a reputation has spread on social media that this spot is very Japanese, making it a popular photo location,” said the town official who declined to be named.
Tourism to Japan has surged since the lifting of pandemic-era border restrictions
Most of the tourists at this spot are non-Japanese and have been overcrowding a stretch of pavement next to the Lawson shop. Despite traffic signs and repeated warnings from security guards, the overcrowding issue persisted. As a last resort, the town in the Yamanashi region decided to install the huge screen. This measure is also intended to protect a nearby dental clinic from the influx of tourists. Some tourists have been parking at the clinic without permission and have even been seen climbing on its roof to get the perfect shot, the official added.
The town regrets that it has had to resort to this measure, and the current plan is for the screen to remain in place until the situation improves. Tourism to Japan has surged since the lifting of pandemic-era border restrictions, and the government has been actively working to increase visitor numbers.
However, this growth has not been universally welcomed, particularly in Kyoto, where locals have complained of tourists taking photos of the city’s geisha. This summer, hikers using the most popular route to climb Mount Fuji will be charged $13 each, and the number of climbers will be limited to reduce congestion. Similar issues with visitor numbers are being faced by other top destinations worldwide. In response, Venice has started charging day-trippers for entry to address mass tourism.