In 2022, I climbed Mount Fuji via the Yoshida trail, a humbling experience that left a lasting impact. The simplicity of iron branding on walking sticks fascinated me, as did the warm hospitality of hut owners.
Motivated by these encounters, I began an art project to share Mount Fuji's stations and stamps with people worldwide. Please, welcome to the special edition of the ½8 journal where we navigate from the 5th station all the way to the summit.
In 2022, I climbed Mount Fuji via the Yoshida trail, a humbling experience that left a lasting impact. The simplicity of iron branding on walking sticks fascinated me, as did the warm hospitality of hut owners.
Motivated by these encounters, I began an art project to share Mount Fuji's stations and stamps with people worldwide. Please, welcome to the special edition of the ½8 journal where we navigate from the 5th station all the way to the summit.
Fuji-san Mihara shop & lodge has been a revered rest stop for climbers since 1956. After taking a bus from Tokyo, my ascending journey began here. The stamp obtained here bears the station's altitude and the phrase ”Boundary between heaven and earth,” encapsulating the spiritual essence of Mount Fuji.
A historic mountain lodge since the Edo period, serving as a base for religious mountaineering with enshrined guardian images. Since 2013, a stamp featuring Fudo Myoo, the mountain's guardian deity, has been available. Additionally, since 2022, a Tanuki stamp symbolizing blessings through Shigaraki pottery raccoon figures has been offered.
A cozy hut boasting an irori (traditional Japanese hearth). The tea kettle here dates back to the 9th year of Bunsei (1826). Since the 1980s, a stamp featuring Fuji and the sunrise at the Yoshida-guchi trail to the mountain top has been available here, enclosed within a circular frame.
This hut is among the newest mountain huts approved by the prefecture. Since 2005, it has offered two stamps: one featuring Mt. Fuji within a trapezoidal frame with a national flag, and another depicting Daikoku, a deity symbolizing prosperity and good fortune in Japanese folklore.
Located by Kamaiwakan is a small lava cave, historically linked to lactation and safe childbirth. It houses a guardian deity also revered at the hut's altar. The stamp, however, depicted Amabie, a legendary mermaid-prophet of harvests or epidemics. Amabie's popularity soared in Japan during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
It is a relatively new hut constructed in 2003 to accommodate the growing number of hikers ascending Mount Fuji. The stamp features an oval frame with the inscription 北口 Northern Entrance, 富士一館 Fuji ichi-kan, and 二千八百米 2800 meters.
Established in 1869, it is known for its distinctive red torii gate. Its scenic beauty, particularly the sunrise viewed directly in front of the gate, has left a lasting impression on many. There are two stamps available at Torii-so: one featuring the iconic Torii and another depicting Mt. Fuji with the elevation 二九〇〇米2900 meters.
Toyokan, nestled midway on the ascent trail, provides a perfect spot for altitude acclimatization. Since 2016, their stamp features a detailed dragon god illustration, symbolizing power, fortune, and protection in Japanese culture. This symbolism aims to boost climbers' spirits and wish them a safe journey.
Taishi Kan (太子館) is linked to Prince Shotoku (聖徳太子), a key figure in Buddhism's spread. The 1958 stamp, shaped like '8' with a hoof-like bottom, echoes the prince's tale. Another stamp from 2013 features the six senses (眼、耳、鼻、舌、身、意) and Purity of the senses, advocating living in the present moment.
Horai kan warns against ”Bullet mountain climbing” with its stamp design featuring a turtle, advising climbers against ascending Mt. Fuji from the 5th station at night to witness the sunrise and reaching the summit without proper rest, a practice that increases the risk of altitude sickness due to rapid altitude gain without adequate acclimatization.
The hut derives its name from its serene ambiance, as 白 (Haku) signifies white, 雲 Nan means cloud, and 荘 Sō typically denotes a small, elegant lodging or villa. The stamp design further evokes this peaceful atmosphere with imagery of white clouds, symbolizing the serenity and beauty of the surroundings.
Ganso Muro holds historical significance as the final resting place of Ito Tei, who dedicated his life to ascetic practices and enlightenment within the context of Fuji worship. The station's stamps include a Torii gate and one based on the Chinese Zodiac, marking the Year of the Tiger in 2022.
The 1st design utilizes a Mt. Fuji-shaped Rokkakkei frame, symbolizing the mountain's summit. The 2nd design includes 胸突八丁 (chest-thrusting 8 cho), denoting a challenging section on Mt. Fuji's traditional climbing route. Lastly, a simple octagonal stamp depicts the 8th station and altitude.
The 1st stamp design features a rectangular shape with the station name, while the 2nd design depicts an image of Shaka Nyorai Buddha, despite lacking a documented link to this deity. The design and inscription Hi no Miko may serve as distinctive elements for this hut stamp.
The stamp appearance is unique compared to others, as it is centered around the letter G rather than the Kanji character. Additionally, the name translating to Hall of the Coming Light, suggests that the G radiates with rays of light. This likely alludes to the spectacular sunrise views climbers can witness from the hut's location.
It is one of two shrines with the same name, the other situated at the mountain's base. It is believed that praying here can aid in curing illnesses and promoting good health. The stamps here differ from others, as they are not ironed but rather pressed together with the cavity dyed in red ink.
The stick with Fuji stamps has accompanied me on many trails since, proudly standing beside my work desk when not in use as I plan my next adventure. I hope my journey inspires you to undertake the Yoshidaguchi route. If you know what is missing in the project, feel free to reach out to me at info@halfof8.com.