In response to mounting complaints from local residents regarding disruptive behaviour by tourists at a beloved Mount Fuji photo spot, Japanese authorities have announced plans to construct a tall metal fence. The initiative aims to regulate the influx of visitors who have been causing disturbances at the iconic site.
This decision comes on the heels of the recent installation of a black screen in a neighbouring town, designed to obscure a picturesque view of the snow-capped volcano that had gained fame on Instagram. Now, concerns have surfaced about the behaviour of predominantly foreign tourists who venture onto the road near the Mount Fuji Dream Bridge in pursuit of the perfect snapshot of Japan’s highest peak.
Despite its grandiose name, the Mount Fuji Dream Bridge is a pedestrian overpass spanning a river, featuring a narrow walkway separated from the road by a low concrete barrier. However, tourists have been observed jaywalking across the road to access an empty space between the lanes, where they pose for photos, capture videos, or simply relax, some even lugging their luggage along.
To discourage such risky conduct, authorities have already installed temporary metal scaffolding and posted signs warning people to refrain from accessing the stretch of road. The next step in the plan involves the construction of a 1.8-meter (5.9 feet) high metal mesh fence around the area, slated for completion by the end of June.
Haruhito Yoshizaki, a tourism official at Fuji City, emphasized that while locals embrace visitors, adherence to basic rules is imperative. The objective behind these measures is to alleviate the frustrations experienced by residents. Additionally, Yoshizaki proposed the creation of a designated sightseeing route to promote a more considerate exploration of the area.
Moreover, complaints have surfaced regarding tourists parking illegally in the serene neighbourhood or causing disturbances by shouting while taking wide-angle shots from a distance. The allure of the Dream Bridge has attracted throngs of tourists, particularly since November, as images captured at the location have proliferated across social media platforms.
In an effort to mitigate the impact on local residents, the city has recently established a designated parking area and restroom facilities at the bridge. Meanwhile, in Fujikawaguchiko, plans are underway to reinforce a black mesh barrier adjacent to the convenience store, which had been erected to deter littering, trespassing, and violations of traffic regulations. Several minor punctures have been observed in the screen, prompting the decision to upgrade its material for enhanced durability.
