Blocking Mount Fuji Japanese Town Erects Massive Screen to Deter Tourists

In a bid to alleviate the overwhelming influx of tourists, a Japanese town has resorted to drastic measures by erecting a massive black screen, obstructing the picturesque view of the iconic Mount Fuji.

Fujikawaguchiko, renowned for offering stunning vistas of the majestic mountain, has been inundated with visitors, prompting locals to take action against the disruption caused by selfie-seeking crowds. The imposing 20-meter-long and 2.5-meter-high fence, adorned with a black mesh net, stands as a stark deterrent to tourists seeking the perfect photo backdrop, effectively altering the landscape of social media imagery associated with the area.

One particularly popular spot for capturing Mount Fuji's allure was outside a Lawson convenience store, where tourists ingeniously framed the mountain atop the shop's roof in their photographs, affectionately dubbing it "Mt. Fuji Lawson." However, the town's hospitality towards tourists has been overshadowed by concerns over their manners, including littering, disregarding traffic regulations, and trespassing on private property, as voiced by Michie Motomochi, owner of a local cafe.

Despite the stringent measures implemented in Fujikawaguchiko, there are alternative locations for tourists to capture memorable shots of Mount Fuji. The Yamanashi prefecture, home to the Yoshida Trail, has implemented a reservation system to manage overcrowding and mitigate environmental degradation during the climbing season.

Under the new system, a limited number of climbers are permitted to ascend the trail each day, with fees allocated towards conservation efforts. This initiative aims to preserve the natural beauty of Mt. Fuji, designated as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.

As destinations worldwide grapple with the repercussions of overtourism, the case of Fujikawaguchiko serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between preserving natural wonders and accommodating the demands of tourism.