A 27-year-old Chinese student residing in Japan, who was previously airlifted from Mount Fuji due to altitude sickness last week, required a second rescue just four days later. He had returned to the mountain to find his lost cell phone, authorities reported on Monday.

The student, whose name was not released, made an emergency call on April 22, reporting altitude sickness symptoms, according to . He also mentioned his climbing irons were damaged.

He was then airlifted off the mountain.

On Saturday, he went back to the mountain, specifically the area located about 10,000 feet above sea level, to recover his cell phone and other items left behind during the initial rescue, police stated.

Another climber discovered him incapacitated, apparently suffering from altitude sickness again.

Officials are urging caution due to the severe conditions on Japan’s highest peak during the off-season. Police have warned that the mountain experiences low temperatures and snow cover, even in spring.

The official climbing season is from July to early September. However, there are no penalties for climbing outside of these dates.

Rescued climbers also do not face charges or penalties. However, the Chinese student’s situation has sparked online debate, with some calling for him to be charged, at least for the second rescue.

According to the BBC, over 220,000 people climbed Mount Fuji between July and September 2023.

The 12,388-foot-high mountain was designated a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2013. Formerly a pilgrimage site, it has become increasingly popular with hikers.

Last year, local authorities introduced an entry fee and limited the number of people allowed on the most popular trail to address overcrowding and risks associated with rushed overnight climbs on rocky slopes to see the sunrise. Similar regulations will be implemented on other main trails this year.

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