FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO, Japan (AP) — The town of Fujikawaguchiko has taken measures to address the issues caused by an influx of tourists, particularly foreign visitors, drawn to the scenic photo spots offering stunning views of Mount Fuji.
The town has begun constructing a large black screen along a sidewalk to block the view of the mountain due to concerns over misbehaving tourists. Complaints from residents include littering, disregarding traffic rules, trespassing on private properties, and overcrowding public areas.
The surge in tourism, especially after Japan reopened following the pandemic, has led to a significant increase in visitors to Fujikawaguchiko. The popularity of a social media sensation dubbed “Mt. Fuji Lawson” has attracted crowds to a specific photo spot, causing congestion and safety hazards in the area.
Efforts to manage the situation, such as multilingual signs and hiring a security guard, have proven ineffective. The town's latest initiative involves the installation of a 2.5-meter high, 20-meter long black mesh net to obstruct the view of Mount Fuji from the sidewalk.
While some tourists, like Anthony Hok from France, view the screen as an overreaction, others, such as Helen Pull from the U.K., understand the local concerns about overcrowding and disruptive behavior. The power of social media in promoting tourist destinations has contributed to the challenges faced by residents and businesses in managing the tourist influx.
Japan has experienced a significant rise in tourism since the easing of border restrictions, with record numbers of visitors expected this year. While the tourism boom has benefited the industry, it has also raised issues in popular destinations like Fujikawaguchiko, Kyoto, and Kamakura.
Local residents and business owners, like cafe owner Michie Motomochi and rice shop owner Yoshihiko Ogawa, are grappling with the impact of tourism on their daily lives and are uncertain about long-term solutions to address the challenges posed by the growing number of visitors.
