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Young man ignored safety warnings and suffered altitude sickness while trying to retrieve cell phone left at the summit
A 27-year-old Chinese college student had to be rescued twice on Mount Fuji in Japan, last week. The unusual situation began when the young man, inexperienced in climbing, lost part of his equipment and became trapped near the top of the mountain.
First rescue: loss of essential equipment
The first rescue took place last Tuesday. The student was found at an altitude of about 3.788 meters, according to information from authorities given to CNN.
He had lost his crampons, essential accessories that allow safe crossing of icy terrain. A helicopter was used to take him to safety.
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Risky attempt to recover cell phone
Even after the rescue, the student decided to return to the mountain. According to authorities, he climbed again to try to retrieve the cell phone he had forgotten at the summit. The new attempt, however, ended in a similar way: another rescue was necessary.
Altitude sickness worsens the situation
According to CNN, the young man managed to reach approximately 3.900 meters in altitude, equivalent to around 9.842 feet.
However, he began to suffer from altitude sickness. The condition occurs when the body cannot quickly adapt to the reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes. Symptoms include disorientation and breathing difficulties.
The student's recklessness was further highlighted by the fact that his two climbs took place outside of the official Mount Fuji climbing season.
According to the mountain's website, the 2025 season is scheduled to start in early July and end in early September. Currently, the climbing trails are closed and many of the signage has been temporarily removed.
Mount Fuji: beauty and constant risks
Mount Fuji is considered one of Japan's top tourist destinations. During the summer months, hundreds of thousands of people climb the mountain to enjoy the views and experience.
Located near Tokyo, Mount Fuji is also an active volcano, which requires constant care and monitoring by authorities.
This year, Japanese authorities have tightened safety guidelines in the event of an eruption. The presence of visitors outside the season increases the risk of accidents and complicates the work of rescue teams.
The student, whose name was not released, was rescued on both occasions without serious injuries. Authorities did not comment on whether there would be any future punishments or restrictions for the young man following the incidents.
With information from Xataka.
