Even seasoned hikers find the off-season treacherous. Hut closures, removed signage, and the absence of medical stations make the climb more dangerous. Authorities have repeatedly urged people to stay away in spring and winter months, when weather can shift abruptly and rescue teams face delays.

Police say that climber who was airlifted with altitude sickness near the peak of Mount Fuji last week returned to the slope and was rescued for a second time.