This children’s article, Mount Fuji: a kids’ guide to Japan’s famous sacred volcano, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and explore one of the most famous mountains in the world. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.
Where is Mount Fuji, and how tall is it?
Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan. It stands at about 3,776 metres above sea level. The mountain is located on the main Japanese island of Honshu, around 100 kilometres southwest of Tokyo.
Its tall, cone-shaped peak is often covered in snow during winter and spring. Because of its perfect shape, Mount Fuji is one of the most recognisable mountains on Earth. On clear days, people in Tokyo can see the mountain from far away. For many Japanese people, it is a powerful national symbol.
A sleeping volcano
Mount Fuji is not just a mountain. It is also a volcano made from layers of lava and ash that have built up over thousands of years, and it’s part of the famous Pacific Ring of Fire!
The last time Mount Fuji erupted was in 1707 during an event known as the Hoei eruption. Ash from this eruption even fell on parts of what is now Tokyo. Scientists say the volcano is still active, which means it could erupt again one day. However, it is impossible to know exactly when that might happen.
A sacred mountain
Mount Fuji has been considered sacred for centuries. In the past, many people believed the mountain was home to powerful spirits or gods. Followers of the Shinto religion often made offerings at shrines around the mountain. Some people also climbed the mountain as part of a spiritual journey.
Even today, there are many shrines and temples around Mount Fuji. Pilgrims and visitors still come to show respect and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Climbing Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is one of the most popular mountains in the world for hikers. Each year, hundreds of thousands of people travel to Japan to climb it.
The official climbing season usually takes place in July and August when the warmer weather makes it much safer. The climb to the top usually takes between five and ten hours, depending on the route and how fast people walk. Many hikers begin their journey at night so they can watch the sunrise from the summit.
A famous symbol of Japan
Mount Fuji appears in paintings, photographs and stories from Japan’s long history. Artists have painted it for hundreds of years, and it is one of the country’s most famous landmarks.
In 2013, Mount Fuji was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its cultural importance. This means it is protected as a special place for the whole world.
Today, Mount Fuji remains a place of beauty, history and adventure, attracting visitors from across the globe.
Article vocabulary list
- Volcano: A mountain that can erupt with lava, ash and gases from deep inside the Earth.
- Eruption: When a volcano explodes or releases lava, ash and gases.
- Sacred: Considered holy or very special for religious reasons.
- Shrine: A place built for prayer or worship.
- Pilgrim: A person who travels to a religious or sacred place.
- Summit: The very top of a mountain.
- Heritage: Traditions, culture and places passed down through history.
Comprehension questions
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1. How tall is Mount Fuji?
A) 2,856 metres
B) 3,776 metres
C) 5,011 metres
Answer: B) 3,776 metres
2. Where is Mount Fuji located?
A) On the island of Honshu in Japan
B) In northern China
C) In South Korea
Answer: A) On the island of Honshu in Japan
3. When did Mount Fuji last erupt?
A) 1504
B) 1707
C) 1952
Answer: B) 1707
4. Why do some people consider Mount Fuji sacred?
A) It has the tallest trees
B) It is believed to be home to spirits or gods
C) It is made of gold
Answer: B) It is believed to be home to spirits or gods
5. How long does it usually take to climb Mount Fuji?
A) 1–2 hours
B) 3–4 hours
C) 5–10 hours
Answer: C) 5–10 hours
Mark is a writer and EFL teacher from England with eight years’ experience. He’s passionate about travel, sport (especially football), animals, nature, and history, and enjoys helping children explore the world through language and learning.
