Mount Fuji, heart of Japanese culture

SSF author shares photos and travel adventures:

Today the focus of the tour is to see Mt Fuji. Since it’s still snowing in the mountains, we were advised to dress warmly with jackets on. We embarked on a two hour long drive from Shinjuku in Tokyo to Mt Fuji area. You can see still see snow on trees and ground. I saw snowflakes falling on front windshield.

Drivers in Japan drive on the right side not on left side like American drivers.

Rising 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji is located island of Honshu, 100 km(62 miles) southwest of Tokyo . Its symmetrical cone has inspired countless artists and poets, including the iconic ukiyo-e painter Hokusai, whose "Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji" immortalized its mystery.

Fuji-san's silhouette, reflected in the tranquil waters of nearby lakes, becomes a mirror of the soul, evoking a sense of peace and introspection.

In the heart of Japanese culture, Mount Fuji is more than a geographical landmark; it’s what they believe where the Buddha sits in the Pure Land with the sky and clouds

Before you embark on the cable car , tourists were advised to see the information they want to know about Fuji; the center has videos and exhibits on display.

The tour guide bought tickets for the group to ride atop the viewing tower to see the enchanted mountain. Sorry all we saw were clouds, foggy and hazy , the lakes below, the vegetation as the car climbed up to the top station. The air was cold and freezing, -2 Celsius, below zero degree. We took photos but no Mount Fuji. We took photos of photos of a clear form of Mt Fuji. A store was selling Fuji souvenirs but they only accept cash.

On the way home, the tour guide showed us how matcha green tea is made; tea leaves are grinded by a mill into powder and can be used for drinking and pastries recipes. The typical tea, you pour hot water into your cup and throw away the leaves. Japanese have been drinking matcha tea for the last 800 years.

The guide played a soothing calm music; I asked what’s the title of the CD. She said “Music that prevent diseases .” Japanese are known for having a long lifespan like the 100 years young Okinawans in the news.

Though dormant but still active, Fuji-san's volcanic past serves as a reminder of nature's power and unpredictability.

Thus, Mount Fuji stands as a testament to Japan's enduring spirit—a natural wonder that transcends time and culture, inspiring not just admiration but a deeper connection to the world and ourselves.