Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 76° Today's Paper


News

Online map shows areas where Mount Fuji can be viewed ‘by anyone’

JAPAN NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION

The nation’s renowned 12,388-foot volcano can be observed from as far as 186 miles away.

Tokyo >> The Japan Map Center released an online guide to locations where Mount Fuji can be viewed, showing that the nation’s renowned 12,388-foot volcano can be observed from as far as 186 miles away.

The map, entitled Fuji-san Koko, which roughly translates as Mount Fuji Here, overlays red marks on a map of Japan to show where the country’s tallest peak, which straddles Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures, should be viewable if no obstacles are in the way.

The map was compiled through topographical calculations.

While the center has been collecting information on Mount Fuji for some time, the website allowed it to map out the places where it can be seen in a way “accessible to anyone,” said researcher Kazuhiro Takemura.

The project is being led by Hiroshi Tashiro, a geographer known for his love of Mount Fuji.

According to the map, the farthest point from which Mount Fuji can be observed is the Irokawa Fujimi mountain pass in Wakayama Prefecture, 200 miles southwest. It can also be seen from Hachijo Island, 168 miles to the south, or as far north as Mount Hanazuka in Fukushima Prefecture, 191 miles away.

The site also shows the kinds of photo opportunities available at certain locations, such as the so-called Diamond Fuji — a natural phenomenon that happens when the sun rises or sets behind the mountain, making the summit dazzle like a sparkling diamond.

People can also calculate the distance from their location to Mount Fuji’s peak, as well as view the map with a variety of backdrops ranging from satellite images, topographic data and prefectural and municipal borders.

The map can be viewed in English. The center plans to provide detailed English explanations on how to use it by the end of the year, Takemura said.

The map can be accessed at info.jmc.or.jp/fujisankoko/.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.