We are comfortable in our little cubby waiting for the top of Fuji to clear.
I am very glad we didn’t push to the top for sunrise because I believe it is all cold, rain, and clouds up there. We hope things will clear and warm.
We did get an early morning coffee and step outside to enjoy the sunrise in “The Land of the Rising Sun”.
I was able to achieve another of my Japan Bucket List activities: Rajio Taiso (ラジオ体操) which is radio calisthenics with Japanese people.
Rajio Taiso is a radio program that is broadcast at 6:30 in the morning nationwide. It was first broadcast in 1928. Many Japanese still participate most or every morning.
The Japanese Morning Exercise Routine – Rajio-Taiso – JAPANKURU
The staff tuned in and lined up outside of the hut and I immediately recognized what was happening and jumped right in.
the show plays cheerful music and an announcer calls out cheerful commands. A series of arm, leg, and core stretches ensues. I just followed along with what they were doing. It was fun, uplifting, and a great way to start the day.
Hopefully, we will have pictures from the top soon. We still have a four hour climb.
Climbing
It is not an easy climb. Thankfully huts provide excellent goals for taking a break. We are about two miles from the top.
The clouds at the top seem to be clearing as we approach.
The weather got worse and worse.
We made it!
By the end, I was literally crawling up the mountain. It had started to rain steadily and was cold.
It was a great feeling but there was no visibility. We retreated into the temple to warm up, dry off, and pray for thanks.
The Hike Downhill
The hike down hill was hell. It was relentless on my knees and as soon as we reached the top of Fuji, it started dumping on us.
The driving wind and rain made a miserable downhill hike unbearable. I didn’t think that I would make it.
Owen didn’t have any issues with old legs and he booked it down to Fifth Station leaving me in the ash. He got down 2 1/2 hours before I did.
Fujikawaguchiko Onsen Konanso
I had booked a special night’s stay anticipating we would want to celebrate our accomplishment. I am so glad that I did because we needed it to recover as much as anything.
Upon arrival and the hotel / resort, we were transported to another world, one of luxury and comfort. I don’t know how to describe our experience. Hopefully some photos will fill in the details.
It was an unforgettable evening.
Owen went out to walk around and take some photos. I guess that he didn’t have a big enough day.
