Japanese Town Removes Controversial Photo Barrier
Officials in the town of Fujikawaguchiko in Japan have taken down a giant black net that had blocked a popular view of Mount Fuji. This decision comes after months of controversy and backlash from both tourists and locals. This issue highlights the problem of “overtourism” in Japan.
Photo Spot Proves Too Popular
Mount Fuji is an active volcano on the main island of Honshu in Japan. The iconic mountain is one of Japan’s national symbols. Fujikawaguchiko is a small town located at the foot of the mountain. A specific spot in the town offers a perfect view of Mount Fuji. The spot is such a popular photography location, the town has become a viral sensation on social media platforms. The view is centered just behind a convenience store and has attracted visitors from around the world who want to capture the perfect image of the mountain. However, the increase in tourism has quickly turned into a nightmare for locals. Thus, we have “overtourism” –the presence of too many tourists, which lowers the quality of life for local people.
The town’s population of just 10,000 people has been overwhelmed by the number of tourists. After taking their photos, many visitors would leave trash behind, block traffic, or trespass on private property. The situation grew to the point where local businesses reported harassment and damage caused by unruly tourists.
Barrier Causes Controversy
In response to the growing problems, Fujikawaguchiko officials made the drastic decision to erect a 66-foot-long (20-meter) black screen on May 21, 2024. The screen blocked the view of Mount Fuji from the popular photo spot. This dismayed tourists who traveled specifically for that picture-perfect moment.
The barrier sparked a wave of international controversy. Many criticized the decision, arguing that it was unfair to block access to one of Japan’s most famous landmarks. But locals and business owners supported the move. They pointed out that the town had been struggling to cope with the negative impact of overtourism.
The Problem of Overtourism
Fujikawaguchiko’s story is part of a larger trend of overtourism affecting popular destinations around the world. Since Japan reopened its borders to foreign tourists after the COVID-19 pandemic, the country has seen an upsurge in visitors. More than three million people per month travelled to Japan in March and April 2024 alone. This activity has put immense pressure on tourist hotspots like Fujikawaguchiko.
Despite the town’s efforts to control the situation, the black screen became a symbol of the tension between locals and tourists. In August, strong winds forced town officials to temporarily take down the barrier. However, what was initially intended as a temporary measure became permanent when the town decided not to put the screen back up.
Fujikawaguchiko officials have stated that the screen’s removal was effective in reducing the number of tourists lingering in the area. They have also positioned security guards to patrol the spot and ensure that visitors respect the local community. Although the town has no immediate plans to reinstall the screen, officials have not ruled out the possibility if the situation worsens.
The controversy surrounding Fujikawaguchiko highlights the challenges that small towns and popular tourist destinations face in the age of social media. Viral fame can bring economic benefits. But it can also lead to overcrowding and damage to local infrastructure. It is important to find a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving the quality of life for residents.