Japanese alpinist Yuichiro Miura reached the summit of Mt. Fuji with his friends and family after three days of ascending in a specially designed mountaineering wheelchair.
The climb: Miura, 90, previously became the oldest person to conquer Mount Everest at age 80 in 2013. This year, he aimed to climb Mt. Fuji — the highest peak in Japan — for rehabilitation after suffering from health challenges, including paralysis from spinal hematoma.
The alpinist was supported by his loved ones as they ascended from the 5th station lodge on Tuesday. During much of the climb, the 90-year-old had to be towed in his wheelchair due to leg discomfort. Along with his 54-year-old son, they spent a night each at the 7th and 9th stations of the mountain.
Reaching the summit: Miura and his friends and family eventually reached the peak at around 7:20 a.m. local time on Thursday. His accomplishment was marked by joy at the stunning view and the support he received.
“Thanks to everyone, I was able to fulfill my wish of reaching the summit,” Miura said, according to Kyodo News. “It’s wonderful. I was able to climb with fun company. The view was so stunning that I will never forget it.”
Miura was also greeted at the top of the mountain by 40 students from Clark Memorial International High School, where he serves as the honorary principal.
“It made me realize that he’s admired by so many people,” said an 18-year-old student.
