Tuesday, August 26, 2025 - A 102-year-old Japanese man with a serious heart condition has been officially recognised as the oldest person to climb Mount Fuji—but humbly dismissed the feat as nothing extraordinary.
Kokichi Akuzawa, born in 1923, reached the summit of Japan’s
tallest mountain earlier this month, following years of consistent training
that saw him climb a mountain almost every week. His achievement has been
certified by Guinness World Records.
“I am six years older than the last time I climbed,” Akuzawa
told AFP, referring to his previous ascent of the 3,776-metre (12,388-feet)
peak at age 96. “I have been there and seen the view many times, it wasn’t
anything special,” he added. “I reached the summit last time, too.”
Despite his modesty, the retired livestock farmer from Gunma
Prefecture remains an avid hiker, a volunteer at an elderly care centre, and a
painting instructor.
His preparation for this climb was particularly remarkable,
given that he tripped while hiking near his home in January, later fell ill
with shingles, and was hospitalised with heart failure.
“The recovery was so fast that his doctors could not believe
it,” his 75-year-old daughter, Yukiko, told AFP.
Determined to regain strength, Akuzawa resumed early morning
walks and weekly mountain hikes before attempting Mount Fuji. The climb was
spread over three days, with two nights spent in huts along the way.
Despite nearly giving up due to the high altitude, Akuzawa
persevered with the help of his travel companions, including a granddaughter
who works as a nurse.
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