Mt. Fuji Hoei Crater

Opening wide on the southeastern flank of Mt. Fuji on the Shizuoka side, the Hoei Crater is the largest side crater of Mt. Fuji, formed by the great Hoei eruption of 1707. Its crater walls are colored by bare volcanic rock, making it an overwhelming power spot where you can directly feel the power of the earth. By following the footpath from the Fujinomiya 5th Station, you can experience the energy of the land up close without making a full summit climb.

The Great Hoei Eruption

The great Hoei eruption began in December 1707, about 49 days after the Hoei earthquake, and continued for roughly two weeks. It threw up huge amounts of volcanic ash, which fell as far away as Edo, now Tokyo. It is known as a historic eruption that caused major damage to crops and had a great impact on the surrounding region. This eruption created the Hoei Crater, enormous in both diameter and depth.

Highlights

• The Hoei Crater: a vast crater gaping on the southeastern slope. The strata of its walls are an earth science textbook recording the history of Mt. Fuji eruptions.
• Mt. Hoei (2,693m): a cinder cone rising to the southeast of the crater. A majestic view of the Fuji summit spreads across the crater.
• The power of volcanic terrain: you can observe traces of a living volcano up close, such as lava flow remains and volcanic gravel.
• Views of Suruga Bay: from the crater rim you may see down over Suruga Bay and even the Izu Peninsula.

Enjoying the Seasons

Summer (July to early September) overlaps with the official climbing season of Mt. Fuji, and many hikers visit the Hoei Crater. During this period the trail is maintained and relatively easy to walk. Autumn (September to October) is popular for mountain photography, with a beautiful contrast between the coloring vegetation below and the volcanic terrain. From winter to spring (around November to April) it is dangerous for general hikers due to snow and ice, and the road to the 5th Station is closed in winter.

Practical Travel Notes

• The Hoei Crater lies on the mid slopes of Mt. Fuji, and the high elevation means temperatures far lower than on flat ground. Windproof and warm clothing is essential even in summer. The weather changes quickly, so bring rain gear too.
• The paths around the crater are slippery with volcanic gravel. Wear trekking shoes and watch your footing. Gaiters against the gravel add comfort.
• Parts of the crater rim are sheer. To prevent falls, never get too close to the edge.
• Climbing shuttle buses to the Fujinomiya 5th Station and private car restrictions change by season and year. Confirm operation and restriction details on the official website.
• To avoid altitude sickness, spend some time acclimatizing at the 5th Station before setting off. Prepare plenty of drinks and snacks.

Access and Basic Information

• Starting point: Fujinomiya 5th Station (about 2,400m elevation, Fujinomiya City, Shizuoka Prefecture)
• Train and bus: Take a bus bound for the Fujinomiya 5th Station from JR Fujinomiya Station (summer operation, about 70 minutes). Confirm the operating period and timetable.
• By car: Reach the Fujinomiya 5th Station via the Fuji Skyline from interchanges such as Shin Fuji on the Shin Tomei Expressway. During the climbing season private car restrictions apply and you transfer to a shuttle bus.
• Time required: roughly 2 to 4 hours round trip from the 5th Station to the Hoei Crater, varying by fitness and route.
• Visitors are asked to cooperate with the Mt. Fuji conservation donation. Confirm the amount and how it is collected on the official website.

A Quick Tip

For a trek to the Hoei Crater, a sensible plan and proper gear come first. Bring windproof and warm clothing, rain gear, drinks, and snacks, and have the courage to turn back when the weather looks like turning. The bare crater walls and the majestic scenery of Mt. Hoei offer a rare chance to feel the living face of Mt. Fuji.

📚 Sources

This article is based on materials published by the national government, Shizuoka Prefecture, Fujinomiya City, and others regarding Mount Fuji and the Hoei crater, along with guidance on the Mount Fuji conservation cooperation fee and the trails. The history of the Hoei eruption follows widely known records. The operating periods of the shuttle bus to the fifth station, private car restrictions, and how the cooperation fee is collected may vary by year, so please check official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: Roughly 2 to 4 hours round trip from the Fujinomiya fifth station to the Hoei crater
• What to bring: Windproof and warm clothing, rain gear, trekking shoes, plenty of water and snacks
• How to proceed: Acclimatize at the fifth station before setting off and watch for altitude sickness
• Safety notes: Do not get too close to the crater rim; watch for slippery volcanic gravel
• Seasonal notes: Winter to spring is dangerous due to snow and ice, and the road to the fifth station closes in winter
• Good to check: The status of the climbing shuttle bus and private car restrictions