Japan Looks Into Evacuating If Mount Fuji Erupts

Above, a Shinkansen view of Mount Fuji. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Mount Fuji has been a major symbol of Japan. 

It has been a mecca for mountain climbing, tourism, photography and art. I have been to one of the Fifth Stations on the mountain (with G-Tour in 2004) and have photographed it from a Shinkansen. 

With all that being said, it is easy to forget that Mount Fuji is still an active volcano. Local municipalities are weighing on how to evacuate the areas surrounding it should it erupt.

The Japan Times reported:

Mount Fuji attracts thousands of foreign tourists each year, but many forget that Japan’s highest peak is an active volcano. With the risk of an eruption ever-present, a critical question looms: how could such visitors be evacuated safely in the event of a disaster?

On Thursday, around 150 participants from local governments, national ministries, transportation companies, airlines and foreign embassies convened in the gateway town of Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, to examine this very question.

To read more, go here. 

A Little Godzilla History In Memory Lane

The above photo taken at the Rainforest Cafe in the Chicago area after G-FEST XII (2005) shows a group of us including (from left) yours truly, Stan Hyde, Yoshikazu Ishii, Ruth Lees, J. D. Lees, Yoshimitsu Banno and Robert Scott Field. 

The photo popped up in the Memories gizmo of Facebook yesterday. It prompted a comment by Field on the significance of it.

He wrote:

Great picture. In 2000 Banno asked me to help him connect to Hollywood for a 4D version of Hedorah. No one was interested in Hedorah but in 2005 we talked again for a couple of hours about getting the rights to Godzilla and before and after this picture of the dinner at the Rain Forest in Chicago was taken. I'm guessing that no one knew (including us lol) that this is where the turning point of the Legendary G-franchise actually began… And now history!!! It’s a beautiful thing!!!

Above, director Yoshimitsu Banno addresses the 2004 G-TOUR group in Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The very first time we met Yoshimitsu Banno was at the T.G.I. Fridays dinner (above photo) in Roppongi, Tokyo of the first G-TOUR in 2004. He spoke to the group and dropped strong hints about his plans for a Hedorah movie in 3D.

He was later invited to G-FEST XII in 2005. Sadly, he passed away at age 86 in 2017.

Osaka Castle Reigns As Top Draw To Foreigners

Above, yours truly at Osaka Castle in 2015.

Over the years, I have been to Osaka Castle twice.

The first was during the 2004 G-TOUR, a tour of Japan of Godzilla fans to sites and attractions associated with "The King of the Monsters." Osaka Castle was featured in Godzilla Raids Again (1955). The second time was during my 2015 trip to Japan.

Above, Osaka Castle in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

According to an article posted by Kyodo News, Osaka Castle reigns as the top draw among foreign visitors.

It begins with:

TOKYO, Japan Wire - Osaka Castle was the most popular of Japan’s castles among foreign visitors in 2025, topping rankings for both Asian and Western tourists, according to an analysis by travel app provider Navitime Japan Co. 

While the two visitor groups showed different preferences further down the rankings due to travel styles, Osaka Castle reigned as the universal favorite between January and December last year, in rankings based on an association list of 100 notable castles in Japan.

Tokyo-based firm Navitime Japan used GPS data and survey responses gathered from users of its travel service app for foreign visitors, Japan Travel by Navitime, to compare the number and length of visits to castles between Asian and Western visitors for the analysis published in April.

Among visitors from Asia (predominantly Taiwan, Thailand, Hong Kong, South Korea, and China), Nagoya Castle and Kumamoto Castle made up the top three behind Osaka. 

Nijo Castle, in Kyoto, and Himeji Castle completed the top three for Western visitors (predominantly from the United States, Australia, and France). 

To read more, go here. 

Foreign Visitors To Japan Hits Record 3.43 Million In July

Above, Fukuoka Tower, featured in Godzilla vs. Space Godzilla. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Travel to Japan by foreigners in July hit a new record. As G-TOUR 5 took place in July, its numbers were likely included in the tally.

Nippon.com reported:

Tokyo, Aug. 20 (Jiji Press)--The estimated number of foreign visitors to Japan in July rose 4.4 pct from a year before to 3,437,000, a record high for the month, the Japan National Tourism Organization said Wednesday.

The latest figure surpassed the previous July record of 3,292,602, set last year, driven by an increase in visitors, primarily from mainland China, Taiwan, the United States and France, during school holidays.

 To read more, go here.

Travel + Leisure's Essential Guide To Kyoto

Above, a view of Kyoto from Kiyomizu-dera. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I have been to Japan eight times over the years. I usually try to see different places on each trip.

I have been to Kyoto twice. The first was with G-TOUR in 2004 and the second time was in 2015. Each visit was enjoyable and well worth a trek there.

Travel + Leisure has posted an essential guide to Kyoto.

They begin it with:

Kyoto is the very image of traditional Japan: gold-clad temples and shrines with tunnels of red torii gates, kimono-clad geisha gliding down cobblestone alleys, grassy matcha tea served by the exquisitely choreographed rules of ancient ceremony.

As the imperial capital for over a thousand years, the city was a magnet for wealth and culture, and that rich history remains alive today in traditions like kaiseki cuisine, Kyo-ware ceramics, Yuzen silk dyeing, sake brewing, and classical drama forms like kabuki and noh (a type of theatrical dance). And yet Kyoto is also a modern city with modern comforts, where people live and work amid the legacy of centuries, sustaining and sustained by a living heritage.

This tangible atmosphere of refined culture and history is why Kyoto routinely makes the top of dream destination lists. With thousands of ancient temples and shrines, retro streets lined with shops and teahouses in the city’s unique kyo-machiya townhouses, a world-class food scene with 75 Michelin-starred restaurants, and an ever-growing number of five-star hotels, Kyoto has plenty to draw in the crowds—and draw it does. The city welcomed over 56 million visitors last year, including a record high of nearly 11 million overseas travelers. 

So, how to make the most of a visit without getting bogged down in mobs of tour groups and Instagrammers jostling for the iconic shot? We talked to Cindy Bissig, a Kyoto-based photographer and sake-focused food writer, and got her recommendations on lesser-known spots to enjoy the lesser-known side of the city.

Here's what you need to know before planning a trip to Kyoto, Japan.

To read more, go here. 

Japan’s Summer Holiday Travel Rush Is Here

Above, the famous Miyajima Island torii gate. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The summer travel rush in Japan has just started. 

Tourists, foreign and locals, are flocking to places around the country and filling up bullet trains and other public transportation.

According to Travel and Tour World:

Japan’s summer travel surge is here, and it’s feeling hot literally and figuratively. Trains and planes to Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka are sold out. Families are reuniting, tourists are sightseeing, and everybody is moving, moving, moving. Long check-in lines, crammed concourses, and sold-out flights tell you this season is all systems go.

Last Saturday, JR Tokyo Station buzzed loud. Every Nozomi shinkansen seat zooming to Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka disappeared. Travelers formed long queues for unreserved seats on other lines, turning platforms into crowded waiting zones. Doesn’t stop there: expressway bumper-to-bumper jams sent drivers cursing. Many ducked into waiting rooms and concourses, seeking A/C relief from the summer furnace.

I have been to Japan during the summer once (that was the first G-TOUR in 2004) and it was very hot, especially in Kyoto. My preferred seasons for Japan travel are spring and autumn.

To read more, go here. 

G-FAN #147

Above, G-FAN #147.

A little while ago, I went down to the post office at the Flying J to pick up today's mail.

Included was the current issue (No. 147) of G-FAN magazine. 

Before leaving the parking lot, I did some perusing and some things immediately caught my eyes.

First, several articles on last year's G-TOUR 4 were published. Most of them had plenty of interesting photographs to accompany them. I am sorry to have missed the tour, but the duration was a bit too long for me to rely upon friends to cat-sit my cat Sierra. In years past, either my mom or daughter did when I still lived in California. 

Next, on a sad note, a tribute article on the passings of three prominent G-Fans: Gene Rizzardi, Michael Schlesinger and Richard Pusateri. I first met Gene back in 2000 when we worked on G-FEST 2000 in Hollywood. I knew Mike Schlesinger from the days of the American Cinemateque. I posted previously about Richard Pusateri, whom I known since G-FEST '99 in Burbank. I wasn't aware of Schlesinger's passing, so that was a sad surprise.

As this issue is number 147, that means that three more issues remain until the magazine ceases at issue number 150, unless J. D. Lees can find someone to take it over. Even if he doesn't, the magazine had a great run for a fanzine. Usually, most fold after only a few issues, if even that. 

The first issue of G-FAN I saw was issue 36 in 1998. I spotted it at Tower Records in Sherman Oaks. I perused through it and bought it. The rest is history.

Time Out: Guide To Hakone

Above, a boat cruise on Lake Ashi. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2004, the first G-TOUR to Japan took place. It was sponsored by G-FAN magazine. 60 Godzilla/Daikaiju Eiga fans went on the tour.

One of the stops (an overnighter) was Hakone. The stop included Mount Fuji, Lake Ashi and a fireworks show at Lake Kawaguchi.

Time Out Tokyo has posted a guide to Hakone, with the best things to see and do.

They begin with:

The mountainous town of Hakone lies about an hour and a half by train from Tokyo, making it a popular day trip or weekend getaway from the capital. It has had a long and illustrious tradition as a hot spring town – its name even appears in Edo-era (1603-1868) rankings of Japan’s best onsen.

But Hakone is about much more than just bathing. It’s got everything from superb art museums to an active volcano, as well as a jaw-dropping view of Mt Fuji on clear days. These are our top picks of things to do and see around the area, from central Hakone-Yumoto and beautiful Lake Ashi to posh but relaxed Gora, which is still one of the most in-demand neighbourhoods for moneyed Tokyo folks looking for a second home.

To see the guide, go here. 

Osaka World Expo 2025

Above, the time capsule from World Expo '70 at Osaka Castle.

Osaka is getting geared up for next year's World Expo.

The city last hosted the World Expo in 1970. During G-TOUR in 2004, we saw a time capsule from the 1970 World Expo on the grounds of Osaka Castle (image above). Will it be opened during next year's World Expo?

According to AP News:

OSAKA, Japan (AP) — Visitors to Tokyo and Kyoto might not realize it, but Osaka — one of Japan’s biggest and oldest cities, known more as a business hub than a tourist destination -- is gearing up to host next year’s World Exposition.

The city has been plastered with the Expo’s red-and-blue “Myaku-Myaku” mascot for months and is abuzz with preparations. For many here, the excitement is mixed with nostalgia for the last World Expo hosted by Japan, back in 1970.

There are doubters, especially outside Osaka. Construction costs are turning out to be exponentially higher than expected. Preparations have been marred by political and business infighting. And many Japanese, jaded after Tokyo’s difficult experience hosting the Olympics during the COVID pandemic, question whether the idea of a World Expo is still relevant.

Many retain vivid memories of the 1970 Expo. They remember schoolchildren attending multiple times, particularly those from the Osaka area. There were long lines to see the moon rocks on view at the U.S. pavilion; prototypes of electric cars; displays featuring the first ethernet cables (LAN); and the introduction of Western foods like yogurt and baguettes.

To read more, go here.

Nijo Castle Building Reopening After 17 Years

Above, one of the gates to Nijo Castle. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When I saw the following story, I had to think a bit about when we visited Nijo Castle in Kyoto, Japan with the first G-TOUR.

That was in 2004, 20 years ago. We toured the castle and experienced its "nightingale floors" which were designed to alert the castle's residents of possible assassins by their squeaks during Japan's feudal period.

Asahi Shimbun posted an article on the reopening of one of the palace buildings after 17 years.

They begin with:

KYOTO—One of the main buildings at Nijo-jo Castle here, a UNESCO World Heritage site, will reopen to the public on Sept. 1 after being closed for 17 years, the city government announced on June 17.

The castle’s Honmaru-goten Palace was closed to the public in 2007 due to concerns about its earthquake resilience, following damage caused by the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake.

Since 2017, the city has invested 1.56 billion yen ($9.89 million) to reinforce the structure and to restore its paintings. The renovation work was completed in March this year.

This will be the first time that the palace has been open to the public year-round. Prior to its 2007 closure, it was open only twice a year.

To read more, go here. 

Snow Day Reading and G-TOUR 4

 

Since today is a snow day, I was pleased to see the above magazines in my mailbox this morning, so I have something to read.

The post office at the Flying J did not have any postage stamps to sell, so I had to drive to Continental Divide to the post office there. But they weren't to open until 10:30. So, to kill 40 minutes until they opened, I went to the Indian Market and browsed around.

The clerk knows me and after telling her I was browsing to kill time to buy stamps at the post office, she told me she had some I could buy. So I bought them from her. For her generosity, I bought a falsa blanket (it's in the photo above). It is now on my living room sofa.

Above, G-TOUR 4 will be going to Japan to see Godzilla this coming October. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

G-FAN had a great tribute to Godzilla suit actor Kenpachiro Satsuma and many reactions to Godzilla Minus One (including one by me). It also contained all the details for the upcoming G-TOUR 4 to Japan that is set for October 25 to November 5.

I haven't been to Japan since 2015, due to my move to New Mexico and the pandemic. I am anxious to go. I am checking with a friend about going. If he can, I can swing the trip with the double-occupancy rates. 

The G-FAN website has also posted details on G-TOUR 4 including itinerary, costs, etc.

For details on G-TOUR 4, go here.

How Banno's Scrapped Godzilla Film Led To Legendary's Monsterverse

Above, Yoshimitsu Banno disclosing his plans for a Godzilla movie
 in 3D and IMAX to G-TOUR in Roppongi. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

It is hard to believe that this year marks 20 years since the first G-TOUR to Japan by Daikaiju Enterprises, Ltd. (of G-FAN magazine fame) took place in 2004. I was a part of the 60-person tour group.

While the tour was in Tokyo, a dinner was held in the Roppongi section of the city at T.G.I. Friday's. One of the guests at the dinner was Godzilla vs. Hedorah director Yoshimitsu Banno.

Banno gave a talk and divulged that he was planning on making a Godzilla movie in IMAX and 3D. A working title was Godzilla 3D To The Max. This was the first news that Godzilla fandom received of this project. Some got very excited of the prospect of a 3D and IMAX movie while others dismissed it (largely for fandom political reasons).

The movie never got off the ground, but it did lead eventually to Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Monsterverse series of movies with Banno as one of the executive producers. 

Slash Film has posted an article one how the scrapped IMAX Godzilla short led to the Monsterverse.

It begins with:

Much like any other long-running franchise, "Godzilla" is filled with a great many would-be projects that never managed to see the light of day. Perhaps no scrapped project featuring the King of the Monsters is more consequential than what is most commonly known as "Godzilla 3-D." The film, which was in development in the early 2000s, was going to be a short filmed for IMAX made with American audiences in mind. It never came to be, but development of the project indirectly led to the creation of the MonsterVerse franchise, which kicked off with 2014's "Godzilla" and is still going strong today.

So, how do we go from theatrically-released short film to blockbuster-sized, American-produced theatrical feature? It's an odd, messy journey, and one that is a little heartbreaking in some ways for both fans and one of the franchise's most unique directors. Namely, Yoshimitsu Banno, who helmed 1971's "Godzilla vs. Hedorah," which remains one of the franchise's most bizarre entries to date, yet also one of its most celebrated. The story of this big-budget short film begins with Banno and his desire to once again step behind the camera to tell a tale about Godzilla and the Smog Monster.

To read the full article, go here.

Shōgun and Osaka Castle

Above, Osaka Castle in 2015. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in the 1980s, there was a mini-series based on James Clavell's book, Shōgun. It was basically a soap opera set in feudal Japan. 

It was an enjoyable mini-series and, in 1977, I met James Clavell in Sacramento at a birthday party at the Capitol.

Above, James Clavell is at right in the background. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Shōgun is now back in the form of a new FX mini-series. It is seeing rave reviews.

One place that the new mini-series is set at is Osaka Castle. I visited Osaka Castle twice. The first was in 2004 with G-TOUR and then in 2015.

Screen Rant has posted an article on the significance of Osaka Castle in Shōgun.

They begin it with:

The new FX hit series Shōgun features Osaka Castle as a setting, and there's prominent real-world history and information that's fascinating to know about the location. Based on the 1975 novel of the same name, written by James Clavell, the 2024 TV series has been met with astounding acclaim, with critics even drawing comparisons to Game of Thrones in the show's scale and production value excellence. Set in the year 1600, Shōgun may be based on a novel, but its narrative is rooted in fascinating history.

To read more, go here. 

G-TOUR "Details Soon"

Above, Godzilla peers over the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

G-FAN magazine (i.e., Daikaiju Enterprises) is planning G-TOUR 4 in October.

According to the official website:

After multiple cancellations, we are pleased to announce that G-TOUR 4 is finally a go, expected to depart in late October of 2024. Check back soon for complete details.

However, according the current issue of G-FAN, plans are complicated due to the massive influx of foreign tourism to Japan. Thanks to the current currency exchange rate (now at ¥145.68 per dollar in Tokyo), massive numbers of tourists are flocking to Japan.

I am seriously considering joining G-TOUR 4 (I went on the first G-TOUR in 2004). It depends upon the cost and duration.

For information on G-TOUR 4, keep tabs at the offical website at http://www.g-fan.com/html/gtour4.php

G-TOUR 4 Announced

Above, the announcement page from G-FAN.

The latest issue of G-FAN (no. 141) arrived in today's mail.

One item caught my attention during my initial thumb-through of the issue. It is on page 90. It is an announcement of G-TOUR 4 to Japan. It is to take place sometime in October/November 2024. The exact dates are to be announced.

G-FAN publisher/editor J. D. Lees and I discussed G-TOUR back in April when I emailed him about the 70% increase in the prices for the Japan Rail Passes. He said at the time that he was unsure if there would be a G-TOUR 4. The price increases may affect G-TOUR. In any case, the price increases certainly were not a help.

Obviously, he has decided to go through with G-TOUR 4. 

Depending on the cost of it and the duration, I may be interested in joining it. The duration part is of concern. In years past, when my mom or daughter babysat my cat(s), it was no problem. My mom passed away in December 2010 and my daughter is in California while I am in New Mexico. I could have friends babysit Sierra, but it depends on the duration of the tour. 

My last trip to Japan was in October 2015, so I am a bit overdue for a return visit.

I have to wait and see when details are made available. 

In any case, if one has been considering a trip to Japan but are apprehensive of going alone, this would provide an opportunity to visit the Land of Godzilla with like-minded fans. We had a great time during the first G-TOUR in 2004 (Yeesh, almost 20 years ago!) I recommend it!

Keep watch at www.g-fan.com for updates.

Japan's Miyajima Island Imposes Tourist Tax

Above, Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those wanting to visit the Itsukushima Shrine on Japan's Miyajima Island, they will have to pay a little bit more to do so.

A new tourist tax will be imposed on tourists heading there.

From the South China Morning Post:

A scenic island in southwestern Japan’s Hiroshima prefecture has started to impose a tax of 100 yen (67 US cents) on all visitors to rein in overtourism after a trip by the leaders of the G7 countries to the area triggered a travel rush there.

Authorities in Miyajima, home to the Unesco-listed Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float on the waters of a narrow bay at high water, said the levy would be added to the ferry fare to the island.

They also said local residents, office workers, preschoolers and students on schools excursions were exempt from the tax that was expected to generate 300 million yen (US$2 million) in annual revenue for the city of Hatsukaichi, which oversees the tourist destination.

I visited Miyajima Island in 2004 with G-TOUR that was sponsored by G-FAN magazine. 

To read more, go here.

SoloSophie: Guide To Miyajima Island

Above, the torii gate and Itsukushima Shrine from the shuttle boat to Miyajima. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2004, a group of 60 Godzilla fans toured Japan on an organized tour by Daikaiju Enterprises, Ltd., the publisher of G-FAN magazine.

One of the tour's stops was a visit to Miyajima Island near Hiroshima. 

It was an interesting place with many deer wandering around the island's village near the Itsukushima Shrine.

SoloSophie has posted a guide to Miyajima Island for those considering a visit.

It begins with:

Wild deer, a breathtaking Torii gate that look as if its floating on the water, and one of the most breathtaking mountain hikes in Japan: there’s no shortage of things to do in Miyajima to impress even the most discerning of travellers. Easy to visit over the course of a day, here’s your guide to the best things to do on Miyajima Island.

To read the full guide, go here. 

Top 10 Things To Do In Kyoto

Above, the stage of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Over the years, I have been to Kyoto, Japan twice.

First, it was in 2004 with G-TOUR, a tour group of 60 comprised of Godzilla/kaiju fans. This was during the heat of July, but we had an enjoyable time. Next, it was in October 2015. It was equally enjoyable and the temperature was much milder.

Travel + Leisure has posted a list of the top ten best things to do in Kyoto.

They begin it with:

A sense of timelessness permeates the air as the Shinkansen Hikari Bullet Train comes to a grinding halt, marking the end of a whirlwind journey. As you wade through the milling crowds and step out into the ancient capital of Japan, you realise why Kyoto is hailed as the poster child of” Zen”. The land of 2000 temples with staggering 17 World Heritage Sites is caught in a time warp, steeped in lost traditions, and surrounded by sublime gardens, atmospheric lantern-lit lanes, wooden tea houses and postcard vistas. Nestled amidst the hills, the city of geishas and maikos is enveloped in a state of stillness and sometimes the only sound you can hear in one of the tranquil nooks is the murmuring of a brook in a lush garden.

But there is more to Kyoto than golden temples and vermillion shrines. The Imperial City with its palaces and castles takes you back to the era when Kyoto was home to emperors. The bustling markets and the varied museums vie with bamboo groves and verdant forests for your attention. Traditional tea ceremonies and rituals add to the list of fascinating experiences. Kyoto has something in it for every traveller, be it for those seeking spiritual solace or thrills and adventures. There are fun and free things to do for travellers of all ages and it is magical in every season. If you are a first-time visitor to the Japanese cultural capital, then here are the ten best things to do in Kyoto which will inspire you to plan your next trip.

To see what they are, go here. 

5 Reasons To Visit Japan In The Summer

Above, the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima during the summer of 2004. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2004, I was part of G-TOUR, a group tour of Japan by Godzilla fans. It was during the summer of that year.

We did find it hot and humid while on the tour. The coolest (temperature-wise) was while we were on the slopes of Mount Fuji. 

For those who can only travel during the summer months or have a high tolerance to heat and humidity, the following may be your cup of green tea.

Travel Off Path provides five reasons why this summer is the perfect time to visit Japan.

They begin it with:

Japan is famous for its springtime cherry blossoms, colorful autumn days, and crisp snow-capped mountains in the winter, but summer is its best-kept secret.

While most summer travelers picture dreamy beaches and charming European towns for their vacation, there are many benefits to discovering other less popular destinations during this time of year. 

With fewer tourists and better deals to be found, Japan offers some surprising reasons to visit this summer.

 To see what the five reasons are, go here.

Opposition To Mt. Fuji Railway Plan

Above, a view of Mt. Fuji from a passing Shinkansen. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Back in 2004, our G-TOUR tour group took a bus ride to one of the fifth Stations on the slopes of Mount Fuji in Japan. 

Now, one of the governing prefectures of the mountain is considering building a rail line to a fifth station. This plan is facing stiff opposition as Mount Fuji is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site and is seen as a "sacred mountain" by the Japanese. 

Above, the summit of Mt. Fuji during a stop while en route to a fifth station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Japan News (Yomiuri Shimbun) reported: 

With Thursday marking the 10th anniversary of Mt. Fuji’s designation as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, authorities are debating how to curb the number of tourists on Japan’s highest mountain and ease the environmental burden tourists create.

The government of Yamanashi Prefecture, which is located on the northern side of the 3,776-meter peak, is considering building a railway from Mt. Fuji’s foot to the fifth station on the existing Fuji Subaru Line toll road.

Although the prefecture plans to start technical surveys soon, some parties have expressed opposition, arguing that the mountain’s designation as a World Heritage site emphasizes its significance as a “sacred mountain.”

Yamanashi Prefecture is considering running a light rail transit (LRT) system on tracks to be laid on a 28-kilometer section of the Fuji Subaru Line toll road. An LRT is a low trolley with limited noise and shaking.

To read more, go here.