FuJET vs. Fuji

She proudly stands below Tokyo, often crowned with snow at her summit throughout the year. To me, she is the most recognizable symbol of Japan.

Mt. Fuji.

This Saturday, I'll be climbing Mt. Fuji with almost 30 other Fukushima JETs. I still can't quite grasp what I've signed up for. At about 3,800 metres tall - Fuji is considered the tallest mountain of all Japan.

I've read the websites, talked to my travel agent, and listened to the advice from my sempai/kyotou-sensei. Overall, I've learned the following:
- Bring yennies if you want to pee, because the toilets cost money.
- The descent may be more strenuous than the ascent.
- Don't give up, even when the Japanese grandmothers effortlessly sail up the mountain. (I experienced this when I climbed Mt. Misen, a small mountain near Miyajima. Grandmothers were flying up the stairs at record speed, while young ladies were teetering on their high heels).
- etc.

This is the first major task that I've handled as FuJET VP. People who've travelled with me have learned that I am a major task-master. I love to make lists when planning trips, and have an obsession with them. I love being ridiculously organized when it comes to travelling into the unknown. You definitely won't see me hitchhiking across Shikoku like some of my friends during Golden Week - it's not my steeze!

Hopefully, I'll make it to the summit! I can't say I've stayed true to my Fuji Workout Plan. I took walks and jogs around my neighbourhood, but they were mostly unsuccessful. I'd end up chatting with my neighbours or my students. And sometimes, I'd fully stop and watch the baseball practices at school. I also climbed all the way up the ruins of Nihonmatsu Castle - I broke into a light sweat, and told S. that I'm just not a hiking enthusiast!

My JTE joked that I could call his cell phone if I get lost on Fuji. Most of my staffroom was surprised that I wanted to climb it in the first place. They initially believed I have a fascination with hiking, but I quickly explained I'm not. It's all about conquering this cone-shaped mountain that is known throughout the world.