Last week, a town in Japan made headlines when it set up a massive black screen to discourage tourists from taking pictures of Mount Fuji. Fujikawaguchiko, known for its stunning views of the iconic mountain, took this step in response to overcrowding in the area caused by tourists eager to capture the perfect shot.
However, shortly after the screen was erected, officials discovered a problem. There were holes in the screen—around 10 of them—all conveniently located at eye level and perfectly sized for camera lenses to poke through. This discovery came just a day after the screen was put up, prompting officials to scramble to find a solution.
One of the areas most affected by the influx of tourists is outside a Lawson convenience store. Here, visitors often gather to snap photos of Mount Fuji, sometimes in creative angles that make it appear as though the mountain is perched atop the store’s roof.
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This popularity has led to complaints from local residents about blocked sidewalks and trespassing onto private property.
To address these issues, the town invested 1.3 million yen (approximately USD 8,285) to install the 2.5-meter-high black mesh net, spanning 20 meters in length, along with additional fences along the sidewalk. While the screen initially seemed to help alleviate congestion in the area, the discovery of the holes raised concerns about its effectiveness.
Over-tourism isn’t just a problem in Fujikawaguchiko. Other popular tourist destinations in Japan, such as Kyoto and Kamakura, have also grappled with overcrowding issues.
As more and more people flock to these picturesque locations in search of Instagram-worthy photos, local authorities are increasingly challenged to find ways to manage the crowds without sacrificing the beauty and charm of these places.
In light of the discovery of the holes in the screen, officials are now working diligently to repair them and reinforce the barrier to deter tourists from intruding on private property and causing congestion on public sidewalks.
However, finding a balance between preserving the natural beauty of Mount Fuji and accommodating the desires of tourists remains a delicate challenge for the town of Fujikawaguchiko and other popular destinations across Japan.
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