Four bodies were recovered on Mount Fuji after a missing climber sent a photo to his family

Three bodies were discovered inside a crater at the summit of Mount Fuji, Japan's renowned mountain, with one body already retrieved and efforts ongoing to recover the remaining two. The climbers had entered Mount Fuji from Shizuoka Prefecture before the official climbing season had commenced. The bodies were found several meters apart, raising questions about whether the individuals were climbing together. The search operation was halted due to anticipated heavy rainfall, with plans to resume based on weather conditions. The official climbing season had not yet started when the climbers entered from the Shizuoka Prefecture side, where a missing person report had been filed for a 53-year-old man. Additionally, a professional climber died in a hospital after being found by police while climbing from the Yamanashi Prefecture side. Mount Fuji, a popular tourist destination, poses risks such as extreme cold, altitude sickness, and overcrowding concerns. Proper gear and caution are emphasized for trekkers attempting the ascent. The bodies of the deceased individuals were transported to a police station in Shizuoka Prefecture, as authorities work to confirm their identities. Mount Fuji, standing at 3,776 meters (12,388 feet), attracts over 220,000 visitors during the July-September hiking season. Concerns about overcrowding and sustainability on the mountain have been raised, with efforts to manage visitor numbers through measures like entry fees and caps on trail usage. The picturesque mountain, steeped in cultural significance, continues to draw climbers and tourists despite the inherent risks associated with its challenging terrain. In a tragic turn of events, the discovery of the bodies near the volcano's crater has cast a shadow over the upcoming summer climbing season on Mount Fuji. As authorities grapple with the aftermath of the incident, the need for safety precautions and responsible tourism practices on the iconic mountain remains a pressing issue. With the identities of the deceased individuals yet to be confirmed, the community mourns the loss while reflecting on the importance of preserving the natural beauty and sanctity of Mount Fuji for future generations.