Mount Fuji Light Rail Line to Transform Access for Millions of Hikers Annually

The planned Mount Fuji light rail line is expected to transport over 3 million hikers annually. Yamanashi Prefecture’s proposal aims to improve tourist access and reduce environmental impacts. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Yamanashi Prefecture proposes a two-car light rail train running every six minutes for 10 hours daily to address the summer tourist surge and cut vehicle emissions, aligning with their sustainability goals.

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The light rail line will run along the Fuji Subaru Line toll road, which currently leads to Mount Fuji’s 5th station. This station is the starting point for one of the mountain’s most popular hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for the rail’s endpoint.

Investment and Economic Benefits of the Light Rail Line

Yamanashi estimates the light rail line will need ¥148.6 billion for construction, with the prefectural government funding the tracks and private operators managing the trains. This setup aims to balance public investment with private operational expertise.

Based on 3 million passengers per year and a ticket price of ¥10,000, the light rail system could generate ¥184.8 billion in profits for the prefecture and ¥420.7 billion for operators over 40 years. The project offers significant financial benefits, further strengthening its appeal.

Local Concerns and the Future of the Light Rail Line

Despite the benefits, some local residents express concerns about potential disruptions from the light rail line. To address this, Yamanashi Prefecture plans to gather public feedback before finalizing project plans by year-end.

During a press conference in October, Yamanashi Governor Kotaro Nagasaki expressed confidence, stating that although there are challenges, the project is achievable. This optimism underscores the commitment to enhancing access to Mount Fuji sustainably.

Source: japantoday.com

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