Fujiyama is a steel out-and-back hypercoaster at Fuji-Q Highland in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi, Japan, in the shadow of the iconic Mount Fuji. Built by TOGO and opened in July 1996, the ride rises 259 feet and hurtles riders to 81 mph along more than 6,700 feet of track — a journey that lasts nearly three and a half minutes.
When Fujiyama debuted it simultaneously held four world records: tallest roller coaster, longest drop, fastest roller coaster, and fastest closed-circuit coaster. Those records have since been surpassed by newer giants, yet Fujiyama remains one of the longest steel coasters on the planet and a pilgrimage destination for enthusiasts visiting Japan.
Stats at a Glance
- Park: Fuji-Q Highland
- Location: Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi, Japan
- Manufacturer: TOGO
- Opened: July 1996
- Height: 259 ft (79 m)
- Drop: 230 ft (70 m)
- Top Speed: 81 mph (130 km/h)
- Length: 6,709 ft (2,045 m)
- Inversions: 0
- Duration: 3 min 36 sec
The Ride Experience
Fujiyama follows a classic hypercoaster blueprint. After a long climb to the 259-foot apex, riders plunge 230 feet at a 65-degree angle before the train sweeps through sweeping valleys, tight turns, and a series of low-to-the-ground ‘headchopper’ elements — sections where the track passes just inches beneath structural supports, creating an intense illusion of impact. The final stretch of the course features rapid-fire ‘bunny hills’ that toss riders out of their seats in sustained airtime. With a G-force of 3.5 and a capacity of 1,100 riders per hour across seven-car trains, Fujiyama is as efficient as it is thrilling.
A Record-Breaking Legacy
When Fujiyama opened in the summer of 1996, it was the most extreme roller coaster on Earth by virtually every measurable dimension. It held the title of world’s tallest coaster from July 1996 until January 1997, when it was eclipsed by Superman: The Escape at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Its record for fastest closed-circuit coaster stood until February 2000. Though modern gigacoasters have pushed the envelope further, Fujiyama’s four simultaneous world records at opening represent a benchmark few rides have ever matched, and the coaster continues to draw massive crowds to Fuji-Q Highland alongside its record-holding siblings Takabisha and the since-retired Do-Dodonpa.
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Fujiyama FAQs
Where is Fujiyama located?
Fujiyama is located at Fuji-Q Highland amusement park in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi, Japan, roughly 60 miles southwest of Tokyo near the base of Mount Fuji.
What world records did Fujiyama hold when it opened?
When it opened in July 1996, Fujiyama simultaneously held four world records: tallest roller coaster, longest drop, fastest roller coaster, and fastest closed-circuit coaster. All four were eventually surpassed by newer rides.
Does Fujiyama have any loops or inversions?
No — Fujiyama has zero inversions. It is a traditional out-and-back hypercoaster that focuses on speed, height, and airtime rather than loops or corkscrews.
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