Mount Fuji Black Screen: Town Blocks Scenic View to Curb Misbehaving Tourists

The town of Fujikawaguchiko, Japan, has installed a large black screen to obstruct the iconic Mount Fuji view, aiming to tackle the disruptive behavior of foreign tourists. Despite signs and security guards, residents have complained of littering, traffic violations, and property trespassing.

Known globally for its picturesque views of Mount Fuji, the town of Fujikawaguchiko has recently implemented a rather drastic measure to curb the unruly behavior of foreign tourists. On Tuesday, construction commenced on a sprawling black screen along a sidewalk, effectively blocking the once-pristine view of the iconic mountain.

Michie Motomochi, proprietor of an "ohagi" (Japanese sweet) cafe near the soon-to-be-blocked photo spot, has witnessed firsthand the alarming actions of tourists. "Kawaguchiko thrives on tourism, and we welcome visitors with open arms, but their conduct has become a significant concern," she expressed.

Motomochi recounted instances of littering, reckless road crossings, disregard for traffic signals, and unauthorized entry into private properties. Despite her business largely dependent on foreign patronage (80% of her customers), she cannot ignore the mounting complaints from residents.

The surge in foreign visitors, especially in the past two years, is attributed to the widespread social media sensation known as "Mt. Fuji Lawson." A photo taken from a specific angle, showcasing Mount Fuji perched atop a local convenience store, sparked a wave of tourists flocking to the small area.

This influx has brought with it a myriad of concerns. Residents have raised alarms about the overcrowding of the narrow sidewalk, tourists taking pictures on the busy road, and the invasion of private property. The authorities have attempted various measures, including English, Chinese, Thai, and Korean signage urging tourists to obey traffic rules, as well as the deployment of security guards for crowd control. However, these efforts have proven futile.

The black mesh net, standing at 8.2 feet high and 65.6 feet long upon its completion in mid-May, will almost entirely obscure the view of Mount Fuji. Anthony Hok, a tourist from France, expressed disapproval, deeming the screen an "overreaction." Helen Pull, however, a visitor from the U.K., empathized with the local grievances.

Japan's tourism industry has experienced a significant resurgence since the lifting of pandemic border restrictions, largely due to the weakened yen. In 2023, Japan welcomed over 25 million visitors, with the number projected to exceed 32 million this year, surpassing the record set in 2019. The government actively encourages tourism.

While the influx of tourists has stimulated the industry, it has also sparked complaints from residents in popular destinations like Kyoto and Kamakura. Kyoto recently closed off certain alleys in a renowned geisha district to address concerns.

Fujikawaguchiko, like other popular tourist destinations, faces a dilemma. Residents grapple with finding a balance between embracing tourism and preserving the tranquility of their communities. Yoshihiko Ogawa, who has operated a rice shop in the area for over half a century, expressed bewilderment at the drastic change in recent months. He noted that tourists gather in large numbers as early as 4-5 a.m., creating noise and congestion.

The long-term solution remains uncertain, leaving both residents and tourists navigating the challenges. As tourism continues to play a vital role in Japan's economy, finding a harmonious balance between the interests of various stakeholders is paramount.