Four Bruneians brave Mount Fuji’s terrain to reach the peak
Each year, countless locals and nature-loving tourists alike set off to tackle the 3,776-metre ascent of Mount Fuji, navigating its rugged terrain in a journey steeped in intrigue and challenge.
Among the many nationalities that conquer the summit, basking in the glow of the rising sun, is a small but determined group of Bruneians.
When it comes to outdoor pursuits like hiking and mountaineering, Brunei certainly isn’t lacking in enthusiasts eager to explore and test their limits.
The growing local enthusiasm was exemplified by the participation of four passionate climbers – Fazry bin Haji Md Talip from Team Member Club Trail Run 4 Health Crew, Haji Sahrin bin Haji Nohi of Mustaqim Travel, group leader Zubaidah binti Saidin, and Hajah Rosmah binti Haji Azahari from Petualang Rimba Team.
For Fazry, in particular, it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, as he finally conquered one of the world’s most renowned peaks. “One of the world’s iconic landmarks, it is one of my dreams which has been realised,” he shared.
“The main challenge is the rocky path filled with slippery mountain lava amid the tiredness and cold weather.”
As part of his preparations, Fazry underwent a series of intensive training sessions in several Brunei’s hills for more than a month.
Upon arrival in the Land of the Rising Sun, his priorities included ensuring that all equipment were in order and maintaining a good physical and mental state.
The journey began earnestly once they left their accommodation to head towards Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station, an hour-long drive by bus.
Once they arrived at their meeting point, Fazry and his companions were briefed on the safety procedure and route.
After going through important points, the group began their climb through the Yoshida hiking trail covering a height of 2,200 metres under freezing conditions.
Navigating through a series of obstacles associated with mountain trekking, the group passed through the sixth and seventh station before stopping by at the eighth station to rest. Feeling refreshed and recharged, their adventure continued the following day at 1.30am as they made the climb to the steep ascent towards the summit.
The group reached the summit at 4.30am and took the opportunity to witness the sunrise while at the same time resting and taking their breakfast.
Having enjoyed the picturesque views on the mountaintop that could not be described unless experienced, the group made the journey downhill through an alternate route for four hours.
Detailing the experience, Fazry shared that the route used was very challenging and slippery.
As the adventure neared to an end, the group finally arrived at the Fuji Subaru Line 5th Station at 10.30am.
After taking a break from all the rigours of climbing one of the iconic places on Earth, the group returned to the bus and headed to their accommodation.
“The biggest challenge is the journey throughout the expedition. The weather is fair but cold, so I wore a polo shirt and pants suitable for the occasion,” continued Fazry.
With extensive experience climbing mountains across Borneo – including Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, Mount Rinjani in Lombok, Indonesia, and Mount Santubong in Kuching – Fazry’s latest quest stands as his proudest achievement to date.
“Mount Fuji is my biggest challenge that I have ever faced. The difficulty lies in the elevation and the clouds passing by, affecting the route and hindering our vision completely,” he shared.
Having been involved in trail running for nine years, Fazry said what continues to draw him in is “the beauty of nature, such as seeing the waterfall, the view, and others”.
Now, with Mount Fuji checked off his list, Fazry has his sights set on future climbs in Indonesia, Korea, and even Nepal’s Everest Base Camp.
A major highlight of the trip was the unforgettable experience of witnessing the summit’s unique atmosphere, a sight he said is incomparable.
The group also enjoyed engaging with the locals, communicating in English, with the friendly encouragement of the Japanese adding to their memorable journey. – FADHIL YUNUS
