MONDAY, MAY 06, 2024
Team Herald
Japanese authorities in Fujikawaguchiko town are taking drastic measures to address the unruly behaviour of foreign tourists crowding popular photo spots, particularly those seeking views of Mount Fuji. Frustrated by littering, trespassing, and traffic violations, officials have announced plans to erect a large black barrier to obstruct the iconic volcano's view from a well-known spot behind a Lawson convenience store.
The mesh net, measuring 2.5 meters (8 feet) high and approximately 20 meters long (the length of a cricket pitch), is set to be installed as early as next week, according to a town official. The decision comes as a response to the overcrowding issues faced by Fujikawaguchiko, aggravated by the popularity of the spot on social media platforms.
Despite efforts to manage the situation through signage and warnings, tourists continued to disregard regulations, leading to concerns for the environment and nearby properties. Some visitors even trespassed onto private properties in search of better vantage points.
The move reflects a broader challenge faced by tourist destinations worldwide, including Venice, Italy, which also grapples with over tourism. In Venice, a new pilot program has been introduced to address the issue, with day-trippers now required to pay a €5 entry fee to visit the city.
With over tourism increasingly becoming a global concern, destinations like Fujikawaguchiko and Venice are implementing measures to strike a balance between welcoming visitors and preserving the local environment and community. Through initiatives such as entry fees and crowd control, these destinations aim to ensure a sustainable tourism model for the future.
