The town of Fujikawaguchiko in Japan recently took an unusual step to address the issue of over-tourism and overcrowding.
Last Tuesday, officials erected a large black screen in an attempt to prevent tourists from taking photos of the iconic Mount Fuji, which has become a popular spot for visitors to snap pictures.
However, just a day after the screen was put up, officials discovered a hole in it, and by Tuesday morning, they had found around 10 similar holes, all at eye level and seemingly the perfect size to fit a camera lens through.
One particularly popular viewing location for taking photos of Mount Fuji is outside a Lawson convenience store. When photographed from a certain angle, it appears as though the majestic mountain is sitting atop the store’s roof. This has led to a surge of visitors flocking to the area, causing congestion and inconvenience for local residents.
Residents have complained about tourists blocking the narrow sidewalk, forcing them to walk into the busy road or onto neighboring properties to get their perfect shots. In response to these concerns, the town decided to take action by installing the black mesh net, which stands 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) high and stretches 20 meters (66 feet) long. They also added additional fences along the sidewalk to further manage the flow of foot traffic.
The installation of the screen cost the town 1.3 million yen ($8,285), but officials believe it has been effective in easing congestion in the area. However, the discovery of the holes in the screen suggests that some determined tourists are still finding ways to capture their desired photos of Mount Fuji.
Over-tourism has become a growing concern not only in Fujikawaguchiko but also in other popular tourist destinations across Japan, such as Kyoto and Kamakura. As more and more people travel to these areas to experience their beauty and cultural significance, local communities are grappling with the challenges of managing the influx of visitors while preserving the integrity of their towns and cities.
The situation in Fujikawaguchiko highlights the delicate balance between promoting tourism and maintaining the well-being of local residents. While the town’s efforts to address overcrowding are commendable, the appearance of holes in the screen demonstrates the ongoing need for creative solutions and cooperation between visitors and the communities they wish to explore.
As tourism continues to grow globally, it is crucial for popular destinations to develop sustainable strategies for managing crowds, protecting the environment, and ensuring that the needs of both tourists and locals are met. This may involve implementing new regulations, investing in infrastructure improvements, and educating visitors about responsible travel practices.
Ultimately, the goal should be to foster a mutually beneficial relationship between tourists and the places they visit, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty and cultural richness of these destinations while preserving them for generations to come.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.