Nature, History and Culture of Mt. Fuji

Nature of Mt. Fuji

Mt. Fuji is a stratovolcano that boasts of the highest altitude (3,776 m) in Japan. Since it made a big eruption in 1707, it has been dormant. Its lava has low viscosity and flows relatively easily, forming unique geological features such as lava caves and lava tree molds.
Mt. Fuji offers a splendid vertical distribution of plants from low to high hills.
Similar to the vertical distribution of plants, the fauna also varies according to the altitude.
The whole area of Mt. Fuji is designated as a national park in order to protect such special and precious natural environment.

Since old times, Mt. Fuji has been a sacred mountain and worshipped by people. In the neighborhood of Mt. Fuji, there are many historic and cultural heritages associated with Mt Fuji worship called Fujiko, which flourished in the Edo period.
Furthermore, the graceful shape and majestic view of Mt. Fuji has inspired various works of art such as poems, paintings and literature and been admired since old times.
Mt. Fuji is designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in order to protect the beauty that gave birth to such culture.