japanese Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji lies near the Pacific coast in central Honshu, one of the four main isl&s of Japan. Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, lies 60 miles (100 kilometers) to the east. The mountain rises to a height of 12,388 feet (3,776 meters). According to tradition, it was formed in 286 BC by an earthquake. The mountain, however, is much older than that. Although its exact age is uncertain, geologists believe that the first eruptions took place some 600,000 years ago. The first peaks formed about the same time.Although Mount Fuji appears to be a simple volcano, it is in fact three separate volcanoes: Komitake, Ko Fuji, & Shin Fuji. Shin Fuji, or “New Fuji,” is the most recent. It first became active about 10,000 years ago & erupted occasionally until 1707; since then, there have been no eruptions in Mount Fuji. The lava released from eruptions in Shin Fuji gradually covered the two older volcanoes, enlarging the slopes to their present size & giving the mounThe highest mountain in Japan, Mount Fuji is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world. Its name means “everlasting life.” It is also known as Fujiyama. Many hold Mount Fuji sacred. Its perfectly symmetrical, snowcapped cone has inspired many artists & writers in Japan.tain its current form.The area's abundant groundwater & streams support the operation of paper & chemical industries & farming in cities, including Fujinomiya & Fuji. Fish & dairy farming are other activities. In addition, tourism & modernization have brought prosperity to such cities as Gotemba, which has emerged as a popular recreational & tourist center.Temples & shrines surround Mount Fuji. The Sengen (Asama) Shrine, at the western foot, has been the main shrine for the worship of the mountain since the 9th century. Around it has developed the city of Fujinomiya, which also contains temples & beautiful gardens. It is popular with tourists & pilgrims alike.Climbing Mount Fuji has long been a religious practice. Women were not allowed to climb it until the 19th century. Today huge crowds, numbering more than 100,000 a year, flock there, mostly during the climbing season from July 1 to August 26. Cities such as Fuji & Gotemba, located at the foot of the mountain, serve as a base from where visitors begin the ascent.There are many popular attractions around Mount Fuji. On its northern side lie the Fuji Five Lakes, or Fuji Goko. Lake Kawaguchi is famous for the upside-down reflection of Mount Fuji on its still waters. Southeast of Mount Fuji lies the wooded volcanic Hakone region, which contains famous hot springs resorts. In addition, the mountain is the major feature of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.