epa11596013 Guards close the gate accessing to the Yoshida Route, one of the most famous trails to climb Mount Fuji, at Mount Fuji 5th station in Yamanashi prefecture, Japan, 10 September 2024, the day of the end of the 2024 climbing season. According to preliminary data released by Japan's Environment Ministry, the maximum daily number of hikers climbing Mt. Fuji decreased by 20 percent in 2024 compared to 2023. This season saw the implementation of measures aimed at reducing congestion on the volcano. EPA/FRANCK ROBICHON
