An uncountable number of people visit Mount Fuji every year to climb it. Many more make an effort to visit the mountain volcano as tourists, and to be part of an experience that is rarely unmatched elsewhere. They all do it fully aware that the volcano might erupt anytime, seemingly oblivious to the dangers that face them.

What motivates them to do so? Perhaps the following might explain better why Mount Fuji remains a popular destination with the young and old, all over the world.

First of all, Mount Fuji is a popular tourist destination, but it is also a sacred symbol of Japan. There are legends attached to the mountain that show the respect and awe that it is held in the Japanese people's eyes. The fact that it is also the tallest peak in the East Asian country has made it all the more formidable.

Many might not know this, but there are other smaller mountains spread across Japan that have been labeled miniature Mount Fuji's. They were named so, as Japanese wanted to have a version of the much loved mountain in their own city or town.

Origami, the ancient but popular Japanese art form of paper folding, has also provided ways of creating a likeness of Mount Fuji, some of which can be animated for added fun. This is a sign of how fixated the local people are with the mountain volcano.

It is hard to miss the Mount Fuji peak during any visit to Tokyo. It occupies a large portion of the city's skyline, and could explain why the Japanese always mention the mountain volcano to any visitor. It is their pride and glory, as the sight of Mount Fuji's peak peeking from the surrounding clouds can be one of the most beautiful views in the world.

But this beautiful sight of Mount Fuji's peak is only clearly seen on ten days per year. On other occasions, it will be blocked due to bad weather and the haze from Tokyo's polluted skies. This has made catching a glimpse of the mountain peak an adventure in itself for many travelers.

Despite all its beauty, Mount Fuji also hangs a slightly negative cloud over the country. While it is currently dormant, weather experts have predicted that Fuji-san's next eruption will likely occur within the next few years. Under such a situation, Tokyo and neighboring parts of Japan will suffer great devastation and calamity. However, the Japanese are well prepared for it and will face up to the challenge in time. Meanwhile, they continue to admire and revere their country's greatest natural symbol, as with many others in the world.