The Japanese government is putting up wi-fi connection on one of Japan's best-known attractions, Mount Fuji. Now, people can stay connected even as they are going up or down the mountain.
The wi-fi connection being installed on the mountain has been criticized as catering to the vanity of Mount Fuji visitors, especially the younger ones. Having wi-fi on the mountain simply allows people to update Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram right after they have conquered the mountain, some have reportedly mocked.
But having internet connection may prove to be very beneficial and safe for anyone who intends to go to the mountain, or is already there. Hikers will be able to check weather conditions and even call for help, especially when mobile devices are out of coverage area.
"We hope people will use the service not only to tell people abroad about the attractions of Mount Fuji, but also to obtain weather and other information to ensure their safety," BBC reported a tourism official saying about the new service.
Independent.co UK reported that the wi-fi devices will be installed along the mountain's ascent. Wi-fi access will require a password. Connection will be free only for the first 72 hours of use.
Mount Fuji stands 12,000 feet above sea level. It is the tallest peak in the country, and is known around the world as a naturat tourist spot. The picturesque mount attracts an average of 200,000 to 300,000 climbers each year.
Japan's Mount Fuji or Fujisan joins other purported unlikely wi-fi locations. In 2005, North Pole already has wi-fi connection installed. With freezing temperature and hazardous winter storms, internet connection does not work very well on computers.
Israel also has free wi-fi mounted on a very unexpected location: donkeys in a theme park.
The new free wi-fi service starts today, July 10, the Asahi Shimbun website has said. It will run until September.
