From heart failure to high altitudes, 102-year-old's inspiring Fuji ascent

At the remarkable age of 102 years and 51 days, Kokichi Akuzawa has etched his name in the history books, becoming the oldest male to conquer the iconic Mount Fuji!

This isn't just a story of reaching the summit of Japan's tallest peak at 3,776 metres (12,388 ft); it's a testament to resilience, determination and an unyielding love for the mountains. Just months after battling heart failure and recovering from shingles, Kokichi, an honorary chairman of the Gunma Mountaneering Club, proved that age is truly just a number.

The weather worked in his favor: despite cool winds, not a single cloud appeared in the sky during the entire climb. He was accompanied on the journey by several people, including his 70-year-old daughter, Moto.

With a lifetime of climbing under his belt, including a previous ascent of Fuji at 96, he set his sights on a new record, embarking on a three-day journey up the Yoshida route, proving that even after facing significant health challenges, the spirit of adventure can soar higher than any peak.