The "conservation contribution" (hozen kyōryoku-kin)

Conservation contribution, or donation, is an optional fee of 1000 yen (about 10USD) requested to hikers at one of major parking lots or trail heads, for which currently no practical benefit is given in return except for a small giveaway.

The origiinal Japanese hozen kyōryoku-kin (保全協力金) literally means "conservation contribution" although it actually does not directly fund environmental conservation efforts in the mountain except for issues concerning toilet waste management.

These money are independently collected by two local prefectural governments —Yamanashi and Shizuoka— and reported to finance following projects (in 2021) simply in a way to supplement the limitted ordinary budget:

  • Repair of several private toilets
  • Patroling on trails
  • Improvement of visitor security (installation of signposts, live cameras, counters, AED etc.)
  • Operation of safety guidance centers and first-aid centers
  • Promotion of conservation awareness

Since these expenditures would be otherwise covered by the local tax revenue, it may be a good idea to donate to show appreciation for the essential services specifically provided for the sake of visitors.

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