FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO, Yamanashi -- Tourists keen to see the morning sun rising above the peak of Mount Fuji -- a sight known as the "Diamond Fuji" -- have been gathering daily at the Fuji Motosuko resort here.

       Some 1,300 people were on hand for the New Year's Day "Diamond Fuji," almost double the 2021 turnout, as the coronavirus pandemic situation remained relatively calm this holiday season.

       A "Double Diamond Fuji," in which the sun rises over the peak of Mount Fuji and the same image is reflected in a pond, is seen in the town of Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, on Jan. 3, 2022. (Toshio Odagiri)

       On Jan. 3, about 200 people were waiting when, at 8 a.m., the sun appeared over the top of the iconic peak, and they began taking photos and praying for a safe 2022. The sun's rise above the top of the mountain was also reflected on the surface of a pond at the resort, so visitors were treated to a "Double Diamond Fuji."

       The viewings are open until Jan. 10. Admission for adults is 1,000 yen (about $9), and 500 yen (around $4) for elementary school children. Information is available at 0555-89-2127 (in Japanese).

       (Japanese original by Toshio Odagiri)

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