Tourism Surge at Mt Fuji Dream Bridge Sparks Local Backlash

The promotion of the 'Mt Fuji Dream Bridge' in Fuji, Shizuoka Prefecture, as an ideal Instagram spot has led to significant local backlash due to overcrowding, noise, illegal parking, and trespassing. Originally built in 2016 to connect two major roads, the bridge became a viral sensation for its staircase that appears to lead directly to Mt. Fuji, attracting up to 1,000 visitors on some days. Despite city efforts including multilingual signage urging quiet and providing free parking, residents continue to face disturbances, prompting some to put up their own warning signs. Tourists like Zhu Yihao from Shanghai seek unique photos, but the influx has disrupted daily life for locals, some of whom question whether the attraction is worth the trouble. Similar issues have arisen in nearby Yamanashi Prefecture, where authorities had to install fences to prevent unsafe behavior by tourists. Tourism experts criticize local government management, emphasizing that resident welfare should be prioritized and tourist restraint encouraged.