TOKYO, Japan: Kokichi Akuzawa, 102, has been certified by Guinness World Records as the oldest person to climb Mount Fuji.
A retired livestock farmer from central Gunma with a heart condition, Akuzawa reached the 3,776-metre summit in early August but downplayed the achievement, saying he had “seen the view many times” before.
Born in 1923, Akuzawa maintains a rigorous hiking routine, climbing nearby mountains almost weekly.
Earlier this year, he tripped while hiking, then fell ill with shingles and was hospitalised for heart failure.
His daughter, Yukiko, 75, said his recovery was so fast that even his doctors were surprised.
Determined to climb Mount Fuji, he resumed daily walks and weekly hikes to regain strength.
The three-day ascent included two nights in mountain huts, with support from family and travel companions, including a granddaughter who is a nurse.
Aside from hiking, Akuzawa volunteers at an elderly care centre and teaches painting.
Asked if he planned to climb Mount Fuji again, he gave a firm “no”. – AFP
