Status
Active stratovolcano
Geology
Is Mount Fuji active?
Yes. Mount Fuji is classed as an active volcano. It has not erupted since 1707 but the magma chamber is still pressurised and the mountain is monitored continuously by the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Status
Key facts
Last eruption
1707, the Hoei eruption
Eruption type
Mostly explosive, VEI 5 in 1707
Monitoring
Japan Meteorological Agency, 24/7
Alert level (current)
Level 1, normal
Major hazards
Ashfall, pyroclastic flow, lahars
History
Eruption record
781 ADFirst recorded eruption in Shoku Nihongi.
864 ADJogan eruption. Lava flows form the Aokigahara forest and cut Lake Senoumi into Lake Saiko and Lake Shoji.
1083Eihō eruption, last documented summit eruption before Hoei.
1707Hoei eruption. VEI 5. Triggered 49 days after the Hoei earthquake. Dropped 4 cm of ash on Edo (modern Tokyo).
Today300+ years quiet. Geologists consider the current quiet period unusually long.
Risk
If Fuji erupted today
Ashfall on Tokyo
A 2020 government simulation projects up to 10 cm of ash on Tokyo for a Hoei-scale event. Trains, water and power could be disrupted for weeks.
Local hazards
Lava flows could reach Gotemba and Fujinomiya. Lahars threaten the Five Lakes region. Evacuation maps cover roughly 800,000 residents.
Warning time
JMA expects days to weeks of seismic precursors before any eruption. There is no current sign of unrest. Climbing seasons are unaffected.
FAQ
Common questions
Is Mount Fuji going to erupt soon?
There is no scientific indication of an imminent eruption. The mountain is monitored 24/7 and the current alert level is 1, normal.
When was the last eruption of Mount Fuji?
The Hoei eruption of December 1707. It lasted about two weeks and was the most explosive event in Fuji's recent history.
Is Mount Fuji overdue for an eruption?
Geologists avoid the word overdue. Fuji has had quiet periods of several centuries before, but the 1707 event and recent stress changes after the 2011 Tohoku earthquake mean the system is watched closely.
Can you visit Mount Fuji safely?
Yes. Tourist areas, climbing trails and the surrounding lakes are safe to visit. Any change in activity would be announced well in advance.
Plan