Kokichi Akuzawa, aged 102 and from Maebashi in Gunma Prefecture, became the oldest climber to reach the summit of Mount Fuji, Japan’s highest peak at 3,776 meters, on August 5. His accomplishment was officially acknowledged by Guinness World Records. The group included his 70-year-old daughter, his granddaughter, her husband, and four companions from a local club. They camped for two nights before the last stage of the climb. Reports said Akuzawa almost gave up in the middle of the journey, but his companions encouraged him, and his strong fortitude helped him finish this historic challenge. The achievement was considered notable because of his age and the strong spirit he showed despite many health difficulties in the past.

This was not his first record on Mount Fuji. At age 96, he was already honored for a successful climb. In the years between, he faced illnesses like shingles and heart problems but still prepared for the new attempt. Training included long walks and climbs on smaller mountains near Nagano for three months. Akuzawa explained that this year’s climb was the hardest since his stamina had weakened, yet he still reached the top. Now, he plans to explore smaller peaks like Mount Akagi. Outside mountaineering, he volunteers at a senior center and paints the grandeur of nature. His family hopes he will next portray Fuji, perhaps showing its majestic forests and mountain paths, preserving memories of what he described as his last ascent.