Fuji ichi-kan — Local services in Fujiyoshida

After hours of climbing steadily from the 6th Station, we finally reached the 7th Station in the late afternoon.

By then, the air was noticeably cooler and thinner, and each step seemed heavier yet more rewarding. The wide gravel slopes behind us had transformed into rocky paths, some sections with chains and wooden steps guiding us upward. When the line of red-roofed teahouses finally came into view, it felt like stumbling across an oasis. Still, we couldn’t check in immediately—check-in was only allowed from 3.00 pm—so we waited, resting our tired legs and catching our breath.

At last, our group checked into Fuji Ichi-kan, one of the well-known huts at around 2,700 meters above sea level. The staff greeted us kindly, reminding us to put our boots into plastic bags before entering, and showed us the shared sleeping quarters.

Inside, futons were laid neatly in rows, packed close together. It wasn’t luxury, but at that altitude it felt like comfort itself. After climbing for hours in the thin mountain air, just seeing the warm bedding made our spirits lift.

Dinner was served surprisingly early at 4:30 pm—a steaming plate of Japanese curry rice and mineral water. It was simple but deeply satisfying, the kind of meal that restores both energy and morale. Sitting together in the small dining room, surrounded by climbers from all over the world, I felt a sense of quiet unity. Different languages floated in the air, but everyone shared the same purpose: reaching the summit before sunrise.

Stepping outside after dinner, I was greeted by one of the most beautiful sights of the entire journey. Below us, the world was hidden beneath a soft sea of clouds, while the horizon glowed faintly with the fading light of sunset. The mountain air was crisp, and as the sky darkened, stars began to reveal themselves one by one until the whole heavens glittered above us. For a moment, it felt like standing in between two worlds—earth and sky, effort and peace. Adding to the charm of the moment, one of the hut staff entertained us by skillfully playing kendama, a traditional Japanese wooden toy where the player tries to catch a ball on different parts of a wooden handle. Watching the small ball swing and land perfectly on the cup made us smile—it was a playful, human moment in the middle of this vast, solemn mountain.

Night in the hut was less restful than we hoped. The room echoed softly with the sounds of tired hikers shifting, coughing, and rustling in their sleeping bags. At this altitude, breathing felt shallow, and true sleep came only in light stretches. Yet, none of this bothered us much. Everyone knew that rest was only temporary—we would be waking up before midnight, gearing up once again, and stepping into the cold darkness to continue our climb.

The 7th Station, and Fuji Ichi-kan in particular, was more than a hut. It was a pause between effort and ambition, a place where strangers became companions, and where exhaustion quietly turned into determination. Lying there in the dim light, I felt thankful—not just for the shelter and warmth, but for the chance to experience this moment in such a special place. Tomorrow, in the stillness of the night, we would set out again, aiming for the highest...

Beautiful view. Staff were great. Very clean. Simple yet very satisfying dinner of curry rice. Good breakfast provided with dinner in a bag (calorie mate bar, apple juice, fish snack, sweet bread). Sleeping arrangements were 3 sleeping bags beside each other (may have to get cozy with strangers). Difficult to sleep due to noise and timing but warm and comfortable enough. Only downside is that you'll have to wake up a bit early to reach the summit because it's located at the 7th station. ...

Stayed here for a few hours to avoid the cold heavy rain when I was on the way up to the summit! This mountain hut is located at the 7th station of Mt.Fuji (Yoshida trail).

Good service by the staffs. I opt just for the resting place for a night for 5800¥. Meals are optional with the package. Check out time is 6am.Camping begs were comfy, the thick blankets were also warm.

You can also get your Mt Fuji hiking stick...