ABOUT
​FUJI MOUNTAIN GUIDES

Our Company

​Fuji Mountain Guides became the first English and Japanese speaking tour guide company on Mt.Fuji in Summer 2007. We are run by the Japan Guides Group (JGG), an adventure tour company and travel agency in Japan. JGG was incorporated as a Limited Liability Company in the U.S. in 2007, and in 2015 became a Japan-registered corporation and official travel agency certified by the Nippon Travel Agents Association (ANTA Travel Agency License No. 2-6983).

Founded and operated by Japan-bred American citizens, JGG exists to design adventure tours in Japan with an emphasis on immersing our guests in Japanese culture and customs. Over the years, we have built relationships with local partners such as mountain huts, restaurants, and ryokans. With these ties our guests are sure to have a truly authentic Japanese experience.

Meet the Owners

Brent Potter

Brent is the founder of Fuji Mountain Guides. Having climbed Mt. Fuji many times as a youngster, Brent started FMG with a vision to help foreigners to Japan, in not only summiting Mt. Fuji, but also in coming away with a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and its people. Brent has been the catalyst for FMG and his guidance, humorous stories and epic mountain poses, have led to many foreigners leaving Japan with great memories of Mt. Fuji and the Japanese people.

Luke Cummings

Luke grew up in Japan as the son of Christian missionaries and has developed a deep understanding of the Japanese language, culture, and people. Monster snowfalls, post-ski onsen outings (with mandatory rolling in the snow) were second nature growing up in the mountains of Japan. Having spent his younger years with Brent going off on adventures all across Japan, Luke revels in the opportunity to now be sharing Japan’s mountains, culture, food, and history with guests from across the globe.

Mission Statement

We strive to provide our guests with the safest, most enjoyable, and unforgettable Mt. Fuji climbing experience. It is our goal to bridge the cultural gap by removing language barriers and immersing our guests in the rich history and culture of Japan. 

Our Values

Safety
At Fuji Mountain Guides, our number one priority is safety during your Mt. Fuji tour. There are significant elements of risk in alpine tours such as rock fall, slipping, high winds, and severe cold that can be managed, but not eliminated. Fuji Mountain Guides practices safe alpine travel techniques and conservative decision making to help minimize these risks while you climb.

Every guide on your climb is equipped with a first aid kit. Cell phones will be carried for emergency contact in case of evacuation. If you have any medical conditions that may put you at risk or impede your performance at high altitude please consult a physician before considering joining a tour. The trip is not recommended for those with heart related illnesses. 
Guide to Guest Ratio
We keep a strict ratio of 1 guide to every 10 guests. This ensures our guests are guided safely up the mountain.
Education
Our guests are educated about the environment in which our trips take place.  Japanese people and culture takes years to truly understand and we are proud to have guides on our team who either grew up or live here in Japan. Our guides are not only dedicated to your safety, but to teaching the various customs and traditions of Japan. Fuji Mountain Guides combine lessons in culture and basic alpine skills for a safe, successful, and enjoyable trip.
Sustainability
Fuji Mountain Guides is committed to preserving the natural environment of Japan. Each year, an increasing number of people ascend Mt Fuji and outdoor ethics are more important than ever. All employees and guests of our tours practice Leave No Trace principles and our trips stick to marked trails to avoid erosion.

Our Partners

Please consider our partners, Japan Ski Tours and Kumano Kodo Guides for your next adventure in Japan.

Japan Ski Tours

Japan Ski Tours began with a vision to create ski tours which incorporate more then just skiing Japan's renowned powder. Following the same philosophy as its predecessor Fuji Mountain Guides, Japan Ski Tours has built a platform which allows people to enjoy the sights, culture, and ski resorts in Japan. Choose from one to two weeks tours for an amazing cultural experience filled with sake breweries, hot springs, and fantastic Japanese powder.

Kumano Kodo Guides

Take a culturally immersive trip along the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes in the Kumano region, south of Kyoto. The routes you walk on have been used by emperors, spiritual leaders, aristocrats and commoners alike for more than 1,000 years. Join us and visit World Heritage-designated temples, shrines, rivers and hot springs during the day and stay at comfortable, traditional ryokan inns at night. ​

Off Season 2 Day Tour

Sep 11 - Oct 15

Enjoy a more relaxed hike. Avoid the crowds and summit Mt. Fuji during the day instead of just before dawn. All transportation fees, lodging, and three hot meals included.

In Season 2 Day Fuji Tour

June 25 - Sep 10

Our most popular summer offering. This trip will give you ample time to reach the summit for sunrise. Round trip transportation from Tokyo to Mt. Fuji, two meals, and mountain hut included.

Private & Group Tours

Contact Us for Dates

Hike with a group of friends, colleagues, or family. We can arrange custom pick ups and drop offs too.