In saying that though, there are two things:

- A stroll is one thing but a stroll up a craggy hill for 8 hours non-stop at a time when your body thinks it should be sleeping is another. You just need to be mentally prepared, I guess.
- Mid-way through my climb we were faced with strong winds and rain. We only had the last minute ponchos, just like you. After an hour of rain, we were soaking wet and cold. Sitting around a fire in an over-priced, dirty mountain hut was a luxury.

I do however look forward to taking Fuji on again someday and becoming twice the fool!

Here is some info on the climbing season: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6901.html

When I climbed it during the night, I did it on a complete whim with nothing more than a thin plastic coat that I bought last minute at a shop in the area and the hiking trainers I wear as normal footwear. I guess I was lucky! Apart from being realy cold at the top (I wore two shirts and my thin rain jacket), I really didn’t find it tough at all. Sure, I was tired, especially after being up climbing all night and then jogging back down the mountain, but it was nothing compared to the hiking I’ve done in the UK during my Duke of Edinburgh’s award.

I probably sound like a stuck up git :p haha. But really, I am honestly just surprised people find it hard after the stroll I had. I guess fortune favoured me that day. I should try it again and see if I become a fool

http://fukuokadreaming.wordpress.com

The trail is very clearly marked and you are climbing with hundreds and hundreds of other climbers making it difficult to get lost. It is not easy, but no special skills are required. I believe that the oldest person to climb Fuji is 103 years old.

One of the guys in my party was drinking in Roppongi until 8am on the morning of the climb. He really struggled for the last few hours but he still made it to the top, hangover and all.