Mt. Fuji

Why a Wonder: Mt. Fuji is world-famous for its breathtaking beauty and for the stunning surrounding environment that changes throughout the seasons. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its history as a sacred place and for its artistic influence. The famous Japanese Ukiyo-e painter, Hokusai, known for “Big Wave,” dedicated his life to painting Mt. Fuji until he passed away at the age of 88.

Where: Eighty-seven miles (140 km) from Tokyo, Japan.

When: Throughout the year, but July through September for climbing.

Photography: Mt. Fuji if often hidden by clouds or fogs. You will get clearer views from October to February due to the low humidity, and it’s best to go early in the morning.

From June to July is the rainy season. September is typhoon season. In winter, the most roads and highways there are frozen and are sometime closed. Therefore, it is very important to check the weather forecast before you set out on your adventure. It’s also important to check traffic information.

If you want to travel light, bring a 24-105mm lens. A polarizing filter can help reduce reflections on atmospheric haze, resulting in a sharper image. Dehaze in Photoshop and Lightroom can also produce a clearer photograph.

Vary your composition: take full frame shots of the mountain, but also take wider photographs that include the surrounding springs, waterfalls, and lakes. Also use a foreground element, like the branches of a tree, to add a “sense of place” to an image.

Finally, don't miss the cows!

Learn more: See more travel images here.

© Takako Grace Tobe

This post sponsored by Shimoda.