A snow forest . . .

For some reason, I totally didn't even expect there to be snow on the trail itself. On the summit yes, but I was totally surprised to see the trail covered in a good 4 inches (12cm) of snow! It made hiking up slow and wet, but also beautiful.

Unpacking for lunch . . .

About halfway up we took a snowy lunch break. Kinue takes photos of our first glimpse at Mt. Fuji as Bruno searches for something in his pack.

Fuji, in the distance

At our lunch spot we were able to see just the top of Fuji.

Fuji revealed

Once at the summit, the full view of Mt. Fuji is stunning on what was as clear a day as possible in 21st century Japan.

From the top

The group together finally at the summit after a semi-exhausting trek up in semi-deep snow.

Together with Fuji

...and the last shot. Everyone's feet were totally wet, but all were in good spirits as we stood alone at the summit.