One of the world's "friendliest countries" is introducing a new fee for tourists to visit one of its most iconic destinations. Japan’s Yamanashi prefecture will bring in a new ¥4,000 (£26.65) toll for hikers climbing up any of the four main paths of Mount Fuji, the country's tallest peak, this summer.

It came after local authorities passed a bill today which paved the way for the levy to be in effect in time for peak season, between July and September, as per Euronews. Visitors will begin facing the fee this summer as officials look to protect the UNESCO-designated environment, which has suffered from a surge in visitors, prompting concerns over safety and pollution. This is just the latest measure introduced by authorities to tackle the problem after the prefecture introduced an unprecedented 4,000-climber cap for its most popular Yoshida Trail, as well as a ¥2,000 (£10.33) entrance fee and an optional donation.