Photographer Calls Mount Fuji Home
Megumi Ueda has lived and worked at a Shinto shrine near the summit for 17 years, capturing the mountain's extreme weather and warning climbers of potential risks
For the past 17 years, Japanese photographer Megumi Ueda has called the top of Mount Fuji home, living and working at a Shinto shrine near the summit. At 3,776 metres above sea level, Ueda has a unique perspective on the mountain's extreme weather conditions, which she documents through her photography.
Ueda's day begins early, waking up at around 04:00 every morning to capture the sunrise. She is drawn to the shared experience of watching the sunrise with climbers from around the world, who all gather at the summit to take in the breathtaking views.
However, Ueda's photography is not just about capturing the mountain's spectacular views. She also documents its harsh and unpredictable weather, warning climbers about potential risks. To do this, she measures the temperature and wind speed at the summit, posting the information online along with videos showing the conditions.
The mountain's weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable due to human-caused climate change. In 2024, the summit of Mount Fuji did not receive snowfall until the beginning of November, marking the longest period without snow since records began some 130 years ago. Typically, the peaks of Mount Fuji get a sprinkling of snow by early October.
## Why it matters Ueda's work is important because it highlights the impact of climate change on the mountain's weather patterns. By documenting the extreme weather conditions and warning climbers of potential risks, Ueda is helping to raise awareness about the importance of preserving the mountain's fragile ecosystem.
Ueda first climbed Mount Fuji in her early 30s after a friend recommended the ascent. She later applied for a job at a mountain shrine, allowing her to spend more time at the summit and take photographs. Despite the challenges of living and working at high altitude, Ueda has returned to the summit for most climbing seasons, drawn by the unique perspective and breathtaking views it offers.
As Ueda continues to document the mountain's extreme weather conditions, her work serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving the natural beauty of Mount Fuji for future generations.
