What to wear to Mount Fuji in September?

Mt. Fuji Equipment List
  • Sturdy Climbing Shoes - Comfortable and waterproof.
  • Rain Jacket & Pants - Water & wind resistant with hood, Gore-Tex preferred.
  • Light Pack-Sack - with a capacity of at least 25L.
  • Socks & Base layer - wool or synthetics, cotton is not recommended.




Climbing Mount Fuji in September requires a technical layering system because the temperature difference between the base and the summit can exceed 20°C. While it may be a humid 25°C at the 5th Station, the summit can easily drop below freezing (0°C) with high winds. Your base layer should be moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool (avoid cotton, which stays wet and cold). Your mid-layer should be a warm fleece or lightweight down jacket. The outer shell must be a high-quality, waterproof, and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar). For your lower body, wear flexible hiking trousers—ideally with a waterproof over-layer in your pack. A beanie and gloves are essential for the summit, especially if you are waiting for the sunrise (Goraiko). Even though the climbing season officially ends in early September, those hiking during this transition month must prepare for sudden autumn storms and rapidly dropping light levels, making a headlamp a non-negotiable part of your "outfit."

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Fuji's peak is almost always below freezing and the annual average temperature is -7.1oC. Even on days when the temperature at level ground is 30oC, if you climb to Gogoume it drops to 16oC and is only 7oC at the peak. There is a 22oC average difference throughout the year between the level ground of Mishima and Mt.

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Altitude sickness is one of the most common reasons people give up trying to climb Mt. Fuji. To enjoy a safe and pleasant climb, try to prevent altitude sickness. Altitude sickness is a condition caused by a low oxygen level in the blood.

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Early September is still considered summer in Japan, whereas late September is autumn. Temperatures are quite high, but generally cooler than sweltering July and August. Average September highs in the major cities of Honshu and Kyushu (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Fukuoka) are around 81-84° F (27-29° C).

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Mt. Fuji can be climbed on one of four trails, the most popular being the Yoshida Trail on the Yamanashi Prefecture side. The mountain is divided into 10 “stations,” and each trail begins from its respective 5th station.

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The domestic crowds associated with August have usually dissipated by September and skies are often clear and blue, although the weather can still be hot and humid.

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