It's hard to put into words how proud I am of Natsuki for doing this. Everything indicated this was going to be a disaster in the run up to the climb given his lack of preparation. But as per usual, he completely surprised us and blew us all away. This was one of our most epic adventures together yet and we're both keen to embark on a few more expeditions following on from this! Where would you like to see us tackle next? (Preferably not Everest). And don't forget to grab a signed Mount Fuji copy of the Abroad in Japan book! We carried them up there for you. Now see if you can get one over here! ⭐ www.abroadinjapan.com/book-competition
I think is really adorable to see how Chris cares about Natsuki, trying to make him smoke less, taking him on adventures, and all in all, making him have a fuller life. You are an amazing friend Chris! Cheers!
Climbed Mt Fuji in 1996, what an amazing view from the top. 2 hours 45 minutes from station 5 (I was a 7 minute mile runner so I had plenty of wind and legs). On our way down the volcanic rock/dust route side we (10 Marines) stumbled upon 3 Japanese guys and one had a broken leg. We used our Fuji Climbing sticks and ponchos to make a litter and carried the injured guy for 2 1/2 hours until we saw the tracked mountain vehicle in the distance. Put the guy in the tracked vehicle and off he went. Months later KDD (phone company) thanked us for rescuing their employee.
Natsuki’s genuine concern for Chris when he was feeling sick and Chris being so proud of Natsuki was really heartwarming. Their friendship is so wholesome.
@@johnny5805 If anything, becoming a Best-Selling Author (tm) would make Chris even more arrogant than he was, so probably not (for the purposes of internet, this was a joke)
@@AbroadinJapanim just imaging a crew of people behind you, bent over, feverishly climbing muddy rocks with a stack of books teetering backwards and forwards on their backs.
I don't understand how you found Natsuki, but he is one of the best humans I've ever seen. He just seems like one of the most amazing people I've ever seen. I'm glad I get to see your adventures together.
Its generally kinda simple. Japan has a collectivist society and they other people who don't conform. In comes the foreigners who don't care about that, so naturally Natsuki is attracted by the idea of hanging out with them. Because he doesn't have to behave in a manner expected of him. He can just be himself. I see lots of Japanese finding that kind of appealing.
He wanted to show it was possible to overcome the odds against Natsuki. At times you must be willing to be with your friend, especially when others would call you a "fool" for doing so. But it's the trip with your friends that make it worth it (and the content it provides) :)
Love that Natsuki was having a lot of trouble at first but the higher you got and the more Chris got disheartened, the more Natsuki seemed completely unbothered by it all. What a specimen.
This has to be one of my favorite videos you've posted yet. Congratulations all on the big achievement of not only climbing up, but filming the process and putting it together so spectacularly!
Chris has come a long way from starting life near a rice field to getting married, living in Tokyo and climbing Mt. Fuji. Congrats Chris on your amazing career and accomplishments.
22:17 Chris and Natsuki having a brotherly bond moment, encouraging each other “We are strong” “You’re strong”, Natski in a serene genuinely voice : “You’re strong” 😭 Best part of the video by far, although entire video is great! We done crew! 👏🏽
SO FUCKING SUNSHINE!! 🌄 おめでとうございます！！ if natsuki were to tell to himself, him 4 years back, pretty sure he wouldn't believe it 🤪 thank you as well, Chris, for another amazing video. Surely, had the climb been done alone, it would had been a hundredfold tougher. Having company, knowing everybody's doing their best; it is one of the things that helps everybody finish the journey. big congrats for the crew as well; I don't even want to think about the weight of the equipment 😰 お疲れ様でした！！！🗻
I enjoy Abroad in Japan for fun & laughs etc but Chris’s genuine pride at his friend climbing Mt. Fuji is really endearing. The best part(s) of this video is those moments of Chris telling Natsuki that he is proud of him & Natsuki completing something he probably didn’t think he could do & being proud of himself.
I love how Natsuki phrases things. It's easy to laugh at how silly the way he says some things, but I often feel like it's quite poetic, and has a lot of thought behind it. Sky Kings sounds simultaneously hilarious, and majestic at the same time. I want to be a Sky King. Proud of both of you. Chris, you've done so much this last year. And Natsuki gives me something to look forward to at 50. I am in my early 40's, and understand some of that concern about knee pain. But he keeps going. I love it!
It’s endearing to have a friendship like what you guys have, different languages, not a master of the other’s but you understand each other perfectly. Age gaps don’t even matter as you’re completely in sync and care for one another. Amazing to see all these years.. Cheers mate! 🍺 One of the most epic journey you have!
Yes, well observed. In the UK JPnese are still quite unknown to most people, a shame. But I (as a Brit) lived there early 90s and I found their outlook far more like ours than other Asian countries. A JPnese colleague explained it as 'We are both island nations that historically voyage and look out than in, whilst maintaining fierce traditions'.
@@smitezer3240he has said that hes probably gotten worse since becoming a youtuber and leaving the office, he may not be the greatest speaker but im sure he's more than capable
Really proud of Natsuki. I can't imagine how hard it was for him to do this, and you going all the way and helping him stay motivated is just as awesome, Chris.
"Earth is beautiful." This was another fantastic video by Chris and his team, and I found the whole section during the sunrise at the summit very moving. Thanks to Chris and Natsuki for reminding us what it's all about.
I climbed Fuji back in 87 when I was 36. Took the bus to the 5th station and left at 10 pm in order to reach the summit at sunrise. I don’t remember having any breathing issues, only being tired from the constant moving forward in the climbing queue. The lights of the climbers snaking down the mountain was memorable, but emerging from the clouds and seeing the brightness, clearness and closeness of the stars was probably the most impressive sight I’ve ever seen.
This was so moving! I’m so proud of Natsuki, and proud of Chris for making the climb twice! You’re not a fool, Chris, you’re a great friend. Thank you so much for what you do.
The difference between Natsuki and other people who don’t usually walk up big hills is that Natsuki has so much positivity! I’ve been stuck with people on hikes who absolutely hate life while doing it but Natsuki is full of life the whole way! In between coughing and wheezing of course
Natsuki's awe and delight at watching the sunrise from the summit was so heartwarming! Also love Ian stone-facedly watching Natsuki dance at the end LOL
Very proud to say my bf and I climbed Mt Fuji all the way from the bottom, starting at Fujiyoshida's Sengen Shrine. To this day, the most difficult thing I have done, and the biggest achievement of my life! We started around 7am, and got the 5th station around 3pm, where we stopped for late lunch of ramen. I remember starting again, already exhausted after the morning's climb, getting lots of weird looks from middle-aged Japanese people fresh off the bus, clearly thinking "Why are those young people so tired already?" I should have had a t-shirt printed in Japanese "We climbed all the way! We didn't take the bus!!"
I was wondering if anyone started from the very bottom instead of taking the bus to the fifth station and climbing from there. You definitely deserve extra credit for that.
@@johnsilva9139 There are a few nutters like us! But we wanted to actually *climb* Fuji, not just 'go to the top'. And actually, the bottom half is WAY nicer. As you can see in Chris' video, from the 5th station is basically just volcanic rock, it's like Mars. But the bottom half is a much gentler incline (though long!) and it's through lush volcanic forest, it was beautiful!
I started from the bottom as well, in the early night, and slowly made my way up. It took many hours before in the morning I finally got to the stop where everybody else was starting! What a grind … the funny part was how little time it took to come back down, it was like an hour.
My daughter & her bf are there right now, just not sure if they climb the mountain. I'm getting worried because I didn't hear from them since then. You think it's safe to climb there? Worried mom. ;(
ive said it before and I'll say it again, the friendship between Chris and Natsuki is the most wholesome ive ever seen. congratulations to everyone involved! it genuinely made me tear up when they reached the peak together, so proud of them
This might just be my favourite Abroad in Japan video so far - it's so inspiring to see Chris and Natsuki encouraging each other on the way, the views were breathtaking and the editing was astonishingly good - especially that outro haha! All round perfection. Makes me want to conquer the climb someday too.
So proud of our boy Natsuki! Living proof that it's never too late to try new things and to push yourself to do the things you thought were too difficult when you were young. We should all want to be like Natsuki when we're 50!
I remember watching the first video climbing Mt Fuji when I was 12/13 years old and telling my older cousin all about your channel. 23 now and just as excited to watch this one
The sheer determination of Natsuki to make it to the top was inspiring to watch. Well done to the team for helping this living legend of a man make it to the top. You could see how much it meant to him just by seeing his face watching the sun rise. 🎉🎉🎉
Congratulations to Chris (Once Again), Natsuki, Ian, Paul (2/3 of Van Gang), Ellen, and Dave for such an outstanding achievement! They video was excellent and such a treat to watch! Phenomenal work!
This was incredible. Every moment, especially when Natsuki said, "Earth is beautiful," with such a wonder in his eyes. Thank you for sharing this experience ❤
Me and my Wife climbed Mount Fuji in 2019. We did the hardcore Version: Took the last Bus from Tokyo -> Started our climb at 10pm -> Reached the summit at 4:30 and watched the sunrise -> Climbed back down and took the first bus back to Tokyo at 9:30am. It was insane! One of the best things I have done in my live!
I attempted a night climb off-season. There was so much fog that I couldn't see more than 5 feet in front of me. Took so much longer than I had anticipated hahah
Having followed this channel for some years, I am so incredibly proud of Natsuki for seeing Mt Fuji through to the end. What an amazing accomplishment to celebrate 50 years with.
The friendship of Natsuki and Chris is amazingly wholesome well done on the clim! But what I think is amazing as well is the idea that ian and paul, hadn't met before the first cyclothon just over a year ago and how they have already been trough so much together 😂 vangang forever
It's so cool seeing the contrast between your first climb and your second both in terms of the quality of the video and narrative. It's a real sign of how far you have come as a TH-camr and a person :)
These are the adventure videos we've been missing! This was awesome! Natsuki killed it! Congratulations Natsuki! Way to teach the young pups you've still got it! A S O Natsuki SLAYED that volcano! 📢🎶
I climbed fuji in 2011, we started at 23:00 and restaurants were open and i was still able to check into a place to lay dawn with no reservations or issues at like 3am
I’m so glad y’all made it! As a fellow asthmatic, I can only imagine how hard this was for you, Chris. I’m sad that Natsuki fell, but I’m glad that he wasn’t injured worse than he was. Thank you for sharing this beautiful journey with us!
@@TheClintoniomaybe because us asthmatics are used to having less air. Like we’re probably able to adapt to altitude sickness from the ability of breathing less air during an asthma attack. (Idk if this makes sense because of my autism or because I just woke up lol)
I'm in awe of Natsuki for doing this with a chargrilled lung at nearly 50 but the real trooper is Sharla who appearently never told Chris that he snores like a chainsaw. Also finally Ellen in a video again \o/
I'm so glad you ran into Natsuki all those years ago, what an absolute legend and literally a Jwell Of Japan. Funny, querky and most important of all, a real friend. Thank you Chris for sharing your journey with us. 🥰❤🙏
I wish I could express more eloquently how seeing Natsuki reach the peak made me feel, but suffice it to say I had a big smile on my face the whole time I was watching!
Honestly love Natsuki videos but a lot of the ones he's been in lately didn't really feel like they showcased the legend that is him, so having a long episode dedicated to him was a treat!
Thank god Natsuki was okay!!! The audio was gut wrenching realizing how bad that could have been. Congrats to all of you, though, on a successful and speedy climb!!
As a 53-year-old living in the mountains of Colorado at 9000 feet I am so proud of Natsuki making the 12,388 feet climb of Mt Fuji! As a former smoker would be even happier to see Natsuki kicking the cigarette habit, which is hard to do but he has the power of a superstar to do it!
Congrats to Natsuki for making it to the summit! Also, really happy to see Ellen back on the channel, even if it's just a cameo - would love to see her involved more often!
Honestly, Natsuki's looking so good! I love seeing Chris incorporate his fitness journey with people he cares about, just like how Nic did with him. So proud of Natsuki and you can see his joy and awe. There's such accomplishment in an intense journey like this, and it isn't lost on Natsuki; congrats!
I was crying imagining me and my boyfriend yuki going up there together climbing at the age of our 30’s and climbing again when were 50 like Natsuki. It was such a dream. Thank you for making this.❤
I feel for Natsuki. i took a similar tumble on a trail with a incline, its scary when tumble down, but as always Natsuki was a tank and kept going. also his words during the sunrise felt so genuine and heart felt. congrats to both of you for taking the path least traveled and overcoming such difficult hardships.
That's a full circle! First video I watched from Abroad in Japan was your climb up Fuji-san, 7 years ago, when I was planing my own climb up the mountain. Glad it went a little better this time around! Really great that Natsuki made it all the way as well! Congratulations to the both of you!
This is an instant all-time greatest episode on the channel. Wild antics and stunning sceneries with a star-studded cast. Uncle Ian should spend more time in front of the camera! Good job on the climb everyone.
I've sadly missed out on what should of been a large inheritance... which I was going to use to visit Japan. And when Natsuki said "Its not about Money, Its the sunrise right there" really hit my heart strings. Thank you so much Natsuki for being so brave and letting us view the world through your eyes. I'm forever grateful, You cool uncle
Natsuki is such a big personality, so to see you so humbled at the summit shows the other side of you. You did it! Oh yeah, you to Chris 😂 But in all seriousness, you, Natsuki, and the team did such a wonderful job of capturing the ascent, and it was wonderful seeing it. That shadow, the view from the too, the lights of climbers going up, the lights at the bottom as seen from the summit, absolutely awe inspiring.
Natsuki seems like a lot of fun! Certainly very young at heart, hard to believe he's 50! Congratulations to you both and your team on the climb, and endurance of the sleeping conditions.
Seeing the sunrise was one of the best moments of my life. Made it all worth it. I'm a half-Japanese guy that came back in my early 30's. Seeing that sun look the same color as the flag on a completely clear day made my dehydrated eyes water so damn much! The trip down SUCKS though, haha.
I loooooved this! Especially the focus on Natsuki. "Too f*cking sunshine" is gonna become one of my new catchphrases 😂 what a legend! Well done the whole team 🎉
This really touched my heart. ❤ Thank you for the inspiration. You and Natsuki have a strong, caring friendship. Together you accomplished this amazing climb! (Thank you support crew!) Be well. ❤ Be proud of everyone - we are!
Okay. This might be my new favourite video on the channel, and as a long time viewer that's watched all videos 4+times, this says something. I felt like this video offered a clearer glimpse into your beautiful friendship. Your worry,pride, and happiness for Natsuki led to a unique tone that made the video even more special. I was pretty moved. Thank you for the amazing content!
Just climbed Fuji myself yesterday and hoo boy, even if you're fully prepared, nothing can stop you fully from succumbing to altitude sickness (didn't help we students planned the trip in 4 days so no hut coffin bed for us). I didn't make it to the top (from the Yoshida trail) but I'm so glad you guys and some of my friends did!! Happy birthday Natsuki!
So proud of you Natsuki. Especially when honouring your words that you would dance. You guys are very funny together. Are you both like this off camera too? The view looks amazing. Thank you Chris & team for the amazing adventure you showed us.
Incredible feat Chris, Natsuki and the rest of the team!! I especially can't imagine what it must've been like to walk the trail with heavy camera's and backpacks. As a frequent hiker I do want to stress that altitude sickness is not to be underestimated!! There can be some serious, and in extreme cases life-threatening, symptoms, so if you usually reside a lot lower than the place you will suddenly ascend to, please take your body's boundaries to heart! As you've come from Tokyo, which is like about sea level, suddenly to 3000m+, that can take a serious toll on your body. My familiy experienced similar symptoms in the French Alps after ascending to almost 4000m while I normally also reside at sea level, I luckily didn't feel a lot of it though.
The scenery, the views, the commentary and the people! It felt like going to Mt.Fuji myself with you all. Amazing video as always Chris and of course, Congratulations to Natsuki :)
Natsuki, we love you and so proud of you! And to the entire team of this climb, you guys are rockstars. Carrying equipment & still able to record great scenes of the climb, making sure getting the shot, etc. Special shoutout to Paul. Thank you so much for this wonderful video, Chris!
It's hard to put into words how proud I am of Natsuki for doing this. Everything indicated this was going to be a disaster in the run up to the climb given his lack of preparation. But as per usual, he completely surprised us and blew us all away. This was one of our most epic adventures together yet and we're both keen to embark on a few more expeditions following on from this! Where would you like to see us tackle next? (Preferably not Everest). And don't forget to grab a signed Mount Fuji copy of the Abroad in Japan book! We carried them up there for you. Now see if you can get one over here! ⭐ www.abroadinjapan.com/book-competition
Yooo
How many cigarette breaks did he have? 😅😋
Congrats to both you and Natsuki!
very athlete style !! well done natsuki
Hell ye, ive waited so long for this
Genuinely wild that Natsuki is 50. He has so much energy and you an hardly tell by lookimg at him.
What! I thought he was ten years younger
You must be young! I’m 47 and just as active as I was in my 20’s. These days 50 is nothing.
He's 50?!?!?!?
No way he is 50!!!
That’s because society lies to us. 50 isn’t old.
this is a movie 😭 so touching 🥹
wow never thought TH-cam would be watching Chris' videos, that's cool
Yo wth❤
TH-cam? What the
The Abroad in Japan Japan Videos are TH-cam Blockbusters fr
bro forgot to switch accounts
I think is really adorable to see how Chris cares about Natsuki, trying to make him smoke less, taking him on adventures, and all in all, making him have a fuller life. You are an amazing friend Chris! Cheers!
@Chris Heart damn bro you need help fr. Wish you a speedy recovery of your mental ailments.
natsuki like everyones uncle
He kinda needs him tho
@thepincloud It is nice of Natsuki to help this Englishman who appears somewhat more civilized than most.
Every Batman needs his Robin
"it's not about money, it's about seeing the sun rise" is so genuinely profound. God bless Natsuki
Hahahaha 'profound', that's hilarious
@@oyuyuy
Word: Profound
/prəˈfaʊnd/
adjective
(of a state, quality, or emotion) very great or intense.
Yeah thats pretty fuckin profound mate
@@uex6317 Yeah, as profound as the things I flush down the toilet every morning 😂
@@oyuyuyan odd way to say ur hopes and dreams
A big Amen to that!
A round of applause for the behind the scenes camera guy also doing the climb with all his equipment!
True. I climbed Fuji with all my camera equipment too. cannot recommend in the slightest.
They got 3 porters tho
@@Grahamrobinsonvt802It says Paul on the credits. I don't think Sharla came with them.
I think it was a crew but all of them deserve applause for sure!
Climbed Mt Fuji in 1996, what an amazing view from the top. 2 hours 45 minutes from station 5 (I was a 7 minute mile runner so I had plenty of wind and legs). On our way down the volcanic rock/dust route side we (10 Marines) stumbled upon 3 Japanese guys and one had a broken leg. We used our Fuji Climbing sticks and ponchos to make a litter and carried the injured guy for 2 1/2 hours until we saw the tracked mountain vehicle in the distance. Put the guy in the tracked vehicle and off he went. Months later KDD (phone company) thanked us for rescuing their employee.
Yo, thats sick
Very cool story
Amazing
Yut!!!
Planning to climb Mt Fuji one day, what do you suggest?
Natsuki’s genuine concern for Chris when he was feeling sick and Chris being so proud of Natsuki was really heartwarming. Their friendship is so wholesome.
Congrats not only to Natsuki, but the whole crew. I can't imagine how hard it must have been carrying all that equipment.
Do you think Chris pays well, now that he is a Best Selling Author (tm) ? 🙂
@@johnny5805 If anything, becoming a Best-Selling Author (tm) would make Chris even more arrogant than he was, so probably not (for the purposes of internet, this was a joke)
😂They did a great job carrying all of those books
@@AbroadinJapanim just imaging a crew of people behind you, bent over, feverishly climbing muddy rocks with a stack of books teetering backwards and forwards on their backs.
dont forget the books...the booooks :P
"I haven't seen you eat anything"
"McDonal"
Natsuki is such a gem 😭
I don't understand how you found Natsuki, but he is one of the best humans I've ever seen. He just seems like one of the most amazing people I've ever seen. I'm glad I get to see your adventures together.
IIRC Chris just randomly ran into him on the street in Sendai.
That story is in his book! :)
if what he said before is true natsuki actually found him
Its generally kinda simple. Japan has a collectivist society and they other people who don't conform. In comes the foreigners who don't care about that, so naturally Natsuki is attracted by the idea of hanging out with them. Because he doesn't have to behave in a manner expected of him. He can just be himself.
I see lots of Japanese finding that kind of appealing.
One of the best humans youve ever seen? Geez pump the brakes dude he didn't save any lives or anything 🙄
When Natsuki said "It's not about money, it's about the sunrise." I got CHILLS. You guys are so amazing for being able to do this!
He wanted to show it was possible to overcome the odds against Natsuki. At times you must be willing to be with your friend, especially when others would call you a "fool" for doing so. But it's the trip with your friends that make it worth it (and the content it provides) :)
for me it was SO FUCKING SUNSHINE
SO FUCKING SUNSHINE intensifies
There's something about Chris saying "No I'm not daijoubu" that cracked me up. Well done guys! I'm so impressed!! Happy Birthday Natsuki!!!
Not only did Natuki make to the peak, he did it whilst staying in good spirits. He is a hell of a guy. Proud of you Natsuki!!!
Absolutely brilliant, I'm 58 and can't imagine having done that at 50, smokin as I do. Natsuki is a one off original . Great video Chris and team.
Love that Natsuki was having a lot of trouble at first but the higher you got and the more Chris got disheartened, the more Natsuki seemed completely unbothered by it all. What a specimen.
Natsuki gains his strength from Chris' suffering. The more Chris suffers, the stronger Natsuki gets.
Ryotaro also gains his strength the same way hahahaha@@tigermunky
I must confess I got genuinely emotional when they reached the summit at sunrise. Plus, it didn't look like a 44min video at all. Good job, as always!
Wait.... that was 44 minutes? O.o I didnt even realize.
This has to be one of my favorite videos you've posted yet. Congratulations all on the big achievement of not only climbing up, but filming the process and putting it together so spectacularly!
Chris has come a long way from starting life near a rice field to getting married, living in Tokyo and climbing Mt. Fuji. Congrats Chris on your amazing career and accomplishments.
Wait, married?! When did that happen?
@@Cujo5Pretty sure just engaged for now. But like two months ago?
@@Cujo5 secretly married to Connor but publicly engaged to Sharla, is what shippers say
@@j134679Good one!
@@j134679 I heard he married risotoro
22:17 Chris and Natsuki having a brotherly bond moment, encouraging each other “We are strong” “You’re strong”, Natski in a serene genuinely voice : “You’re strong” 😭 Best part of the video by far, although entire video is great! We done crew! 👏🏽
Same energy as Keanu Reeves “You’re breathtaking”
@@gyuriedistodiez1211 from what movie?
@@lobodraco It was during E3 of 2019 where Keanu was promoting Cyberpunk. Really wholesome moment
SO FUCKING SUNSHINE!! 🌄
おめでとうございます！！
if natsuki were to tell to himself, him 4 years back, pretty sure he wouldn't believe it 🤪
thank you as well, Chris, for another amazing video.
Surely, had the climb been done alone, it would had been a hundredfold tougher. Having company, knowing everybody's doing their best; it is one of the things that helps everybody finish the journey.
big congrats for the crew as well; I don't even want to think about the weight of the equipment 😰
お疲れ様でした！！！🗻
SO FUCKING SUNSHINE! needs to be on a tshirt
I enjoy Abroad in Japan for fun & laughs etc but Chris’s genuine pride at his friend climbing Mt. Fuji is really endearing. The best part(s) of this video is those moments of Chris telling Natsuki that he is proud of him & Natsuki completing something he probably didn’t think he could do & being proud of himself.
I love how Natsuki phrases things. It's easy to laugh at how silly the way he says some things, but I often feel like it's quite poetic, and has a lot of thought behind it. Sky Kings sounds simultaneously hilarious, and majestic at the same time. I want to be a Sky King.
Proud of both of you. Chris, you've done so much this last year. And Natsuki gives me something to look forward to at 50. I am in my early 40's, and understand some of that concern about knee pain. But he keeps going. I love it!
So fkn sunshine!
While I do agree with you, let me part to you a Natsuki quote. “Many fucking snow” lol
When he said "it's not about the money, it's about the sunrise," it genuinely gave me chills. He's a smart man
It’s endearing to have a friendship like what you guys have, different languages, not a master of the other’s but you understand each other perfectly. Age gaps don’t even matter as you’re completely in sync and care for one another. Amazing to see all these years.. Cheers mate! 🍺 One of the most epic journey you have!
Yes, well observed. In the UK JPnese are still quite unknown to most people, a shame. But I (as a Brit) lived there early 90s and I found their outlook far more like ours than other Asian countries. A JPnese colleague explained it as 'We are both island nations that historically voyage and look out than in, whilst maintaining fierce traditions'.
I'm pretty sure Chris can speak japanese really well. I mean he lived there for about 10 years. They only speak english with each other for the camera
@@smitezer3240he has said that hes probably gotten worse since becoming a youtuber and leaving the office, he may not be the greatest speaker but im sure he's more than capable
Really proud of Natsuki. I can't imagine how hard it was for him to do this, and you going all the way and helping him stay motivated is just as awesome, Chris.
Very glad that Natsuki wasn't seriously injured. Congrats to the Abroad In Japan team for completing this climb!
"Earth is beautiful." This was another fantastic video by Chris and his team, and I found the whole section during the sunrise at the summit very moving. Thanks to Chris and Natsuki for reminding us what it's all about.
When Natsuki said Earth is beautiful, I shed a tear. This has to be one of your best work yet Chris and Friends.
I climbed Fuji back in 87 when I was 36. Took the bus to the 5th station and left at 10 pm in order to reach the summit at sunrise. I don’t remember having any breathing issues, only being tired from the constant moving forward in the climbing queue. The lights of the climbers snaking down the mountain was memorable, but emerging from the clouds and seeing the brightness, clearness and closeness of the stars was probably the most impressive sight I’ve ever seen.
This was so moving! I’m so proud of Natsuki, and proud of Chris for making the climb twice! You’re not a fool, Chris, you’re a great friend. Thank you so much for what you do.
Poor Natsuki😕glad he's alright and I'm glad he conquered Mt. Fuji!!🎉
Every time I hear anything about Natsuki Im always baffled how this man came to be the way he is, he's genuinely such a cool dude
Dudet
Natsuki is so entertaining and fun to watch, props to him on the climb and enduring the fall. It sounded painful, he's got a lot of spirit.
The difference between Natsuki and other people who don’t usually walk up big hills is that Natsuki has so much positivity! I’ve been stuck with people on hikes who absolutely hate life while doing it but Natsuki is full of life the whole way! In between coughing and wheezing of course
You saw 44 minutes out of the whole adventure - how do you know?
you mean people like Chris? /joke.
Natsuki's awe and delight at watching the sunrise from the summit was so heartwarming! Also love Ian stone-facedly watching Natsuki dance at the end LOL
Very proud to say my bf and I climbed Mt Fuji all the way from the bottom, starting at Fujiyoshida's Sengen Shrine. To this day, the most difficult thing I have done, and the biggest achievement of my life! We started around 7am, and got the 5th station around 3pm, where we stopped for late lunch of ramen. I remember starting again, already exhausted after the morning's climb, getting lots of weird looks from middle-aged Japanese people fresh off the bus, clearly thinking "Why are those young people so tired already?" I should have had a t-shirt printed in Japanese "We climbed all the way! We didn't take the bus!!"
I was wondering if anyone started from the very bottom instead of taking the bus to the fifth station and climbing from there. You definitely deserve extra credit for that.
@@johnsilva9139 There are a few nutters like us! But we wanted to actually *climb* Fuji, not just 'go to the top'. And actually, the bottom half is WAY nicer. As you can see in Chris' video, from the 5th station is basically just volcanic rock, it's like Mars. But the bottom half is a much gentler incline (though long!) and it's through lush volcanic forest, it was beautiful!
I started from the bottom as well, in the early night, and slowly made my way up. It took many hours before in the morning I finally got to the stop where everybody else was starting! What a grind … the funny part was how little time it took to come back down, it was like an hour.
My daughter & her bf are there right now, just not sure if they climb the mountain. I'm getting worried because I didn't hear from them since then. You think it's safe to climb there? Worried mom. ;(
Did you sleep anywhere during the climb. If so, for how long?
ive said it before and I'll say it again, the friendship between Chris and Natsuki is the most wholesome ive ever seen. congratulations to everyone involved! it genuinely made me tear up when they reached the peak together, so proud of them
I'm glad Natsuki was ok after the fall, that sounded pretty scary. Congrats to you both and the whole team for conquering Mount Fuji!
This might just be my favourite Abroad in Japan video so far - it's so inspiring to see Chris and Natsuki encouraging each other on the way, the views were breathtaking and the editing was astonishingly good - especially that outro haha! All round perfection. Makes me want to conquer the climb someday too.
Natsuki dancing on the summit was the best thing I've seen in months.
Same 😂
💯
So proud of our boy Natsuki! Living proof that it's never too late to try new things and to push yourself to do the things you thought were too difficult when you were young. We should all want to be like Natsuki when we're 50!
I remember watching the first video climbing Mt Fuji when I was 12/13 years old and telling my older cousin all about your channel. 23 now and just as excited to watch this one
The sheer determination of Natsuki to make it to the top was inspiring to watch. Well done to the team for helping this living legend of a man make it to the top. You could see how much it meant to him just by seeing his face watching the sun rise. 🎉🎉🎉
Congratulations to Chris (Once Again), Natsuki, Ian, Paul (2/3 of Van Gang), Ellen, and Dave for such an outstanding achievement! They video was excellent and such a treat to watch! Phenomenal work!
This was incredible. Every moment, especially when Natsuki said, "Earth is beautiful," with such a wonder in his eyes. Thank you for sharing this experience ❤
Me and my Wife climbed Mount Fuji in 2019.
We did the hardcore Version: Took the last Bus from Tokyo -> Started our climb at 10pm -> Reached the summit at 4:30 and watched the sunrise -> Climbed back down and took the first bus back to Tokyo at 9:30am. It was insane! One of the best things I have done in my live!
I attempted a night climb off-season. There was so much fog that I couldn't see more than 5 feet in front of me. Took so much longer than I had anticipated hahah
We are all proud of you and Natsuki🥳
I teared up 🥹 when they got to the top and saw the sunrise of Mt Fuji together such a special moment for them
🗻❤️
Having followed this channel for some years, I am so incredibly proud of Natsuki for seeing Mt Fuji through to the end. What an amazing accomplishment to celebrate 50 years with.
The friendship of Natsuki and Chris is amazingly wholesome well done on the clim! But what I think is amazing as well is the idea that ian and paul, hadn't met before the first cyclothon just over a year ago and how they have already been trough so much together 😂 vangang forever
It's so cool seeing the contrast between your first climb and your second both in terms of the quality of the video and narrative. It's a real sign of how far you have come as a TH-camr and a person :)
I'm impressed by Chris' friendship. I really value people who push you on, and make you do more than you could ever do, or think of doing alone.
These are the adventure videos we've been missing! This was awesome!
Natsuki killed it! Congratulations Natsuki! Way to teach the young pups you've still got it!
A S O Natsuki SLAYED that volcano! 📢🎶
I climbed fuji in 2011, we started at 23:00 and restaurants were open and i was still able to check into a place to lay dawn with no reservations or issues at like 3am
I’m so glad y’all made it! As a fellow asthmatic, I can only imagine how hard this was for you, Chris. I’m sad that Natsuki fell, but I’m glad that he wasn’t injured worse than he was. Thank you for sharing this beautiful journey with us!
I'm asthmatic too and climbed Fuji last month, it was hard but weirdly I wasn't the one who got attitude sickness
@@TheClintoniomaybe because us asthmatics are used to having less air. Like we’re probably able to adapt to altitude sickness from the ability of breathing less air during an asthma attack. (Idk if this makes sense because of my autism or because I just woke up lol)
I'm in awe of Natsuki for doing this with a chargrilled lung at nearly 50 but the real trooper is Sharla who appearently never told Chris that he snores like a chainsaw. Also finally Ellen in a video again \o/
Did not realize Natsuki is already 50, he honestly looks like a 40 yr old. Keep the exercising up!
Oh, wow. The shadow stretching over the landscape is just breathtaking. I'm really happy y'all did this. Three cheers for Natsuki!
I'm so glad you ran into Natsuki all those years ago, what an absolute legend and literally a Jwell Of Japan. Funny, querky and most important of all, a real friend. Thank you Chris for sharing your journey with us. 🥰❤🙏
I wish I could express more eloquently how seeing Natsuki reach the peak made me feel, but suffice it to say I had a big smile on my face the whole time I was watching!
Someone tell me why I nearly cried when they reached the summit though. Natsuki is such a sweet bean.
Honestly love Natsuki videos but a lot of the ones he's been in lately didn't really feel like they showcased the legend that is him, so having a long episode dedicated to him was a treat!
So proud of Natsuki for making it!! The whole crew did great climbing together
Chris and Natsuki completing their Yama no Susume arc.
Incredible stuff. Extremely well told and a triumph of friendship all the way. Well done gents.
Chris bringing his friend/family on top of the world is so wholesome. Proud of you Natsuki.
Thank god Natsuki was okay!!! The audio was gut wrenching realizing how bad that could have been. Congrats to all of you, though, on a successful and speedy climb!!
Natsuki is a changed man after this trip. Well done Chris and all of the support crew!
As a 53-year-old living in the mountains of Colorado at 9000 feet I am so proud of Natsuki making the 12,388 feet climb of Mt Fuji! As a former smoker would be even happier to see Natsuki kicking the cigarette habit, which is hard to do but he has the power of a superstar to do it!
Congrats to Natsuki for making it to the summit! Also, really happy to see Ellen back on the channel, even if it's just a cameo - would love to see her involved more often!
Honestly, Natsuki's looking so good! I love seeing Chris incorporate his fitness journey with people he cares about, just like how Nic did with him. So proud of Natsuki and you can see his joy and awe. There's such accomplishment in an intense journey like this, and it isn't lost on Natsuki; congrats!
oh god the descent is actually the hardest imo. Kudos to you and especially Natsuki for completing Mt Fuji climb
If only Natsuki used his hiking sticks properly. He could have saved his knees a lot of stress..
I was crying imagining me and my boyfriend yuki going up there together climbing at the age of our 30’s and climbing again when were 50 like Natsuki. It was such a dream. Thank you for making this.❤
I feel for Natsuki. i took a similar tumble on a trail with a incline, its scary when tumble down, but as always Natsuki was a tank and kept going. also his words during the sunrise felt so genuine and heart felt. congrats to both of you for taking the path least traveled and overcoming such difficult hardships.
That's a full circle! First video I watched from Abroad in Japan was your climb up Fuji-san, 7 years ago, when I was planing my own climb up the mountain. Glad it went a little better this time around! Really great that Natsuki made it all the way as well! Congratulations to the both of you!
Natsuki is a national treasure
This is an instant all-time greatest episode on the channel. Wild antics and stunning sceneries with a star-studded cast. Uncle Ian should spend more time in front of the camera! Good job on the climb everyone.
I've sadly missed out on what should of been a large inheritance... which I was going to use to visit Japan. And when Natsuki said "Its not about Money, Its the sunrise right there" really hit my heart strings. Thank you so much Natsuki for being so brave and letting us view the world through your eyes. I'm forever grateful, You cool uncle
Natsuki is such a big personality, so to see you so humbled at the summit shows the other side of you. You did it! Oh yeah, you to Chris 😂
But in all seriousness, you, Natsuki, and the team did such a wonderful job of capturing the ascent, and it was wonderful seeing it. That shadow, the view from the too, the lights of climbers going up, the lights at the bottom as seen from the summit, absolutely awe inspiring.
Natsuki's dance at the top was an epic way to end this 👌🏻 Amaziiiing, well done all of you!
Natsuki seems like a lot of fun! Certainly very young at heart, hard to believe he's 50! Congratulations to you both and your team on the climb, and endurance of the sleeping conditions.
Seeing the sunrise was one of the best moments of my life. Made it all worth it. I'm a half-Japanese guy that came back in my early 30's. Seeing that sun look the same color as the flag on a completely clear day made my dehydrated eyes water so damn much! The trip down SUCKS though, haha.
I loooooved this! Especially the focus on Natsuki. "Too f*cking sunshine" is gonna become one of my new catchphrases 😂 what a legend! Well done the whole team 🎉
That should be the next song title, right next to Too Much Volcano!
I want nearly everything Natsuki says on a T-shirt or mug or something. My personal favorite is "spider trash. For you."
I definitely want an official Abroad In Japan…”So f*ckn Sunshine” T-shirt!
This really touched my heart. ❤ Thank you for the inspiration. You and Natsuki have a strong, caring friendship. Together you accomplished this amazing climb! (Thank you support crew!) Be well. ❤ Be proud of everyone - we are!
The friendship between the two of you is amazing.
honestly one of the best Abroad in Japan videos to date. Well done Chris and Natsuki & Team!
Always fun to see Ian make an appearance in a video and delighted to see Ellen be reunited with her Journey Across Japan and Pizza buddy Chris :)
I got teary-eyed when I saw that Natsuki made it! I'm so proud of him, and of you too, Chris!
Okay. This might be my new favourite video on the channel, and as a long time viewer that's watched all videos 4+times, this says something. I felt like this video offered a clearer glimpse into your beautiful friendship. Your worry,pride, and happiness for Natsuki led to a unique tone that made the video even more special. I was pretty moved. Thank you for the amazing content!
Just climbed Fuji myself yesterday and hoo boy, even if you're fully prepared, nothing can stop you fully from succumbing to altitude sickness (didn't help we students planned the trip in 4 days so no hut coffin bed for us). I didn't make it to the top (from the Yoshida trail) but I'm so glad you guys and some of my friends did!! Happy birthday Natsuki!
best ending ever. Natsuki cracks me up a lot. Glad to see you made it to the full summit, and no one got frostbite this time.
The power boost when Natsuki heard Ryotaro never climbed Mt. Fuji was really funny😂
I'm really impressed you guys managed to do it and happy that we got a banger video out of it.
So proud of you Natsuki. Especially when honouring your words that you would dance.
You guys are very funny together. Are you both like this off camera too?
The view looks amazing. Thank you Chris & team for the amazing adventure you showed us.
Natsuki really is the ‘Sky King’👑. Great video, thanks Chris and crew for doing this adventure.
man, Natsuki is a role model to us all xD congrats on such achievement!
lowkey thought Ian was going to dance too
I love how you two turned this into an epic adventure while a few years ago Sharla presented it almost like a fun wander.
It isn't, for anyone. If someone claims that they're faking it. The trip up, AND down is a beast (makes the Machu Pichu trek seem easy going IME).
Incredible feat Chris, Natsuki and the rest of the team!! I especially can't imagine what it must've been like to walk the trail with heavy camera's and backpacks. As a frequent hiker I do want to stress that altitude sickness is not to be underestimated!! There can be some serious, and in extreme cases life-threatening, symptoms, so if you usually reside a lot lower than the place you will suddenly ascend to, please take your body's boundaries to heart! As you've come from Tokyo, which is like about sea level, suddenly to 3000m+, that can take a serious toll on your body. My familiy experienced similar symptoms in the French Alps after ascending to almost 4000m while I normally also reside at sea level, I luckily didn't feel a lot of it though.
The scenery, the views, the commentary and the people! It felt like going to Mt.Fuji myself with you all. Amazing video as always Chris and of course, Congratulations to Natsuki :)
This is my favourite content of yours… footage is so professional.. you’re always thoroughly entertaining, plus informative.. you should be proud!
Natsuki, we love you and so proud of you! And to the entire team of this climb, you guys are rockstars. Carrying equipment & still able to record great scenes of the climb, making sure getting the shot, etc. Special shoutout to Paul. Thank you so much for this wonderful video, Chris!