Days before the summer climbing season opens, Japanese media reported on Wednesday that three hikers were discovered near the peak of Mount Fuji without vital signs.
Though hiking paths on Japan’s highest peak officially open on Monday, authorities have long cautioned climbers to exercise caution when attempting to reach the summit.
The three were discovered close to the volcano’s crater, and it was thought that they were dead, according to national broadcaster NHK. Local police were unable to immediately confirm the reports to AFP.
In Japan, media outlets typically wait to report on a death until a doctor certifies it.
Although Mount Fuji is mostly covered in snow, more than 220,000 tourists hike up its rocky, steep slopes from July to September.
Many climbers endure the night in order to witness the sunrise, and some make the unbroken effort to reach the 3,776-meter (12,388-foot) summit, which often results in illness or injury.
Because of the mountain’s overpopulation, regional officials have expressed worries about safety and the ecology. The mountain is a symbol of Japan and was formerly a calm pilgrimage spot.
This summer, hikers who choose to ascend Mount Fuji via the Yoshida trail, the most popular way, will have to pay 2,000 yen ($13) each, with a maximum on entry at 4,000 to alleviate congestion for the first time.
