Mt. Kumotori is located on the west end of Tokyo, at Oku-tama area, just beside Yamanashi Prefecture. The mountain (2017 meter height) is a nice mountain for hiking and climbing especially for beginners and even children. For those more experienced there is a "challenging course" that requires twice longer time than the basic course. Because it is only about two hours away from Tokyo it is a popular spot throughout the year. This year it is especially popular among winter climbers, as the weather was good even with snow falls. Christmas party was held at a cottage on the top of the mountain, where climbers can stay overnight for a rest, a drink and make themselves a simple meal before they climb down.
Click Title for link to photos taken recently at Mt. Kumotori (December, 25th, 2009), or go to :
http://picasaweb.google.co.jp/dmtjandra/2009Dec2526ClimbingMtKumotori?authkey=Gv1sRgCLbcoNOY6faOhAE#
To those visiting Japan and see Mt Fuji, come to Fujinomiya station. You may also find this 
map (in English) useful to understand what facilities are available surrounding Mt. Fuji.