Hidden Wonders

[Hidden Wonders of Japan] Rare 'Diamond Fuji' Dazzles Crowd in Funabashi City

Mount Fuji was bathed in a gentle orange glow when the sun aligned with its summit, treating observers in Funabashi to the magical sight of "Diamond Fuji."

Published

6 months ago

November 3, 2023

The Sankei Shimbun

"Diamond Fuji" seen from Sanbanze Seaside Park in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture on October 27. (©Sankei by Yoshinori Saito)

On October 27, lucky observers caught a glimpse of "Diamond Fuji" when the sun aligned with the summit of Mount Fuji at Funabashi Sanbanze Seaside Park in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture.

This phenomenon happens during sunrise or sunset when the sun appears to rest directly above the mountain's peak. It typically occurs between October and February.

*Observers set up tripods and cameras at Sanbanze Seaside Park in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture on October 27. (©Sankei by Yoshinori Saito)*

A Magical Sight

As the setting sun peered over the summit at around 4:40 pm, groups of people gathered on the beach with their smartphones and cameras to witness this magical sight.

*"Diamond Fuji" seen from Sanbanze Seaside Park in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture on October 27. (©Sankei by Yoshinori Saito)*

Haruka Kimura, an office worker from Kasukabe City, Saitama Prefecture, was among the spectators. "I had heard of Diamond Fuji, but this is my first time seeing it," Kimura exclaimed, her eyes beaming as she gazed at the orange "diamond."

According to the park's spokesperson, 157 people visited the park that day. The next opportunity to witness "Diamond Fuji" is expected to be on February 14, 2024.