Centenarian Japanese climber scales Mount Fuji, breaking age record for ascent
In a stunning display of determination and resilience, 102-year-old Kokichi Akuzawa from Maebashi, located approximately 241 kilometers northwest of Tokyo, has once again conquered Mount Fuji. This climb, at the age of 102, earned Akuzawa recognition by the Guinness World Records as the oldest person to scale the iconic mountain.
Akuzawa, a former engine project engineer and artificial inseminator of cattle, embarked on this challenge with a group that included his daughter Motoe, 70, his granddaughter, her husband, local hiking club friends, and six others. The group camped for two nights on the trail before ascending Mount Fuji on August 5.
Mount Fuji, standing at a towering 3,776 meters, presented a formidable challenge for Akuzawa. However, his three-month training regime, which involved waking up at 5 a.m. for hour-long walks and climbing approximately one mountain per week, prepared him well.
Akuzawa's current climbing ability is akin to Mount Akagi, a nearby peak about half the height of Fuji. Despite this, he expressed that at his age, no mountain is guaranteed, and it's better to climb while you can.
Over the six years since his previous climb, Akuzawa has overcome heart problems, shingles (herpes zoster), and pain from a hiking fall. His dedication and perseverance are evident in his achievements.
Akuzawa's daughters have a special request for the next addition to the mountain range representations in his living room. They wish for a painting of Mount Fuji at sunrise. Akuzawa himself shares this desire, as he plans to paint the mountain himself in his home studio.
Akuzawa is not planning any new specific mountaineering goals after his recent ascent. He stated, "I was there and enjoyed the view many times, it was nothing special." However, his spirit of adventure and his inspiring story continue to captivate people across Japan and beyond.
In addition to his mountaineering pursuits, Akuzawa is a volunteer at a nursing home, spending his mornings lending a helping hand. His competent nature and positive attitude are a source of inspiration for the residents there.
Akuzawa maintained his job as an artificial inseminator of cattle until he was 85. Now, he spends his time communicating with the help of his daughter Yukiko, 75, due to his hearing problems, and teaching painting to those who seek his wisdom and guidance.
Akuzawa's climb serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the human spirit. His story encourages us all to embrace challenges and to never give up, no matter our age.
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