A 102-year-old Japanese man with a serious heart condition has been officially recognised as the oldest person to climb Mount Fuji—but humbly dismissed the feat as nothing extraordinary.

Kokichi Akuzawa, born in 1923, reached the summit of Japan’s tallest mountain earlier this month, following years of consistent training that saw him climb a mountain almost every week. His achievement has been certified by Guinness World Records.

“I am six years older than the last time I climbed,” Akuzawa told AFP, referring to his previous ascent of the 3,776-metre (12,388-feet) peak at age 96. “I have been there and seen the view many times, it wasn’t anything special,” he added. “I reached the summit last time, too.”
 

Despite his modesty, the retired livestock farmer from Gunma Prefecture remains an avid hiker, a volunteer at an elderly care centre, and a painting instructor.

His preparation for this climb was particularly remarkable, given that he tripped while hiking near his home in January, later fell ill with shingles, and was hospitalised with heart failure.

“The recovery was so fast that his doctors could not believe it,” his 75-year-old daughter, Yukiko, told AFP.

Determined to regain strength, Akuzawa resumed early morning walks and weekly mountain hikes before attempting Mount Fuji. The climb was spread over three days, with two nights spent in huts along the way.

Despite nearly giving up due to the high altitude, Akuzawa persevered with the help of his travel companions, including a granddaughter who works as a nurse.

When asked if he planned to climb Mount Fuji again, Akuzawa gave a firm “no.”