Thailand's Hidden Green Oasis: A "Mount Fuji" Revealed When the Clouds Part

▲ A hidden gem in Thailand that turns out to be Mount Fuji? (Photo / Provided by AK Travel)

Reported by Reporter Cai Wenjun / From Thailand

The border city of Loei in Thailand is not only home to many distinctly unique aspects of Thai traditional culture but also harbors countless hidden gems so beautiful that even locals want to keep them to themselves. One of these hidden spots is about a 1.5-hour drive from Loei. After transferring to a local tractor truck and slowly ascending the mountain, all you have to do is walk onto a mid-mountain platform, hold your breath, and wait for the clouds to clear—and there it is: a "Mount Fuji" appearing right before your eyes.

▲ The only way to reach “Mount Fuji” is by riding a tractor truck. (Photo / Taken by Reporter Zhou Chengeng)

▲ The viewing platform where you can admire Thailand’s little Mount Fuji. (Photo / Taken by Reporter Zhou Chengeng)

The real Mount Fuji in Japan obviously cannot be found in Thailand. Locals say this mountain is actually named Phu Pa Poh, located within a national reserve. It only began gradually opening to visitors at the end of last year and early this year. With its mist-covered peak resembling a snow-capped Mount Fuji, locals have affectionately dubbed it Thailand’s Little Mount Fuji.

▲ The best time to view it is during the cool season. (Photo / Provided by AK Travel)

There’s only one way to climb up to “Mount Fuji”—by taking a local tractor truck. Each vehicle can seat about six people, but the best viewing spot is at the back, where your legs dangle freely as the bumpy road makes your whole body sway. Not only can you watch other tractors making their way up, but you’ll also get a 180-degree unobstructed view of the undulating mountain ranges. As your gaze moves upward, the full view gradually comes into sight.

▲ A higher-altitude viewing platform is equipped with simple swings and benches, allowing travelers to take a short rest here. (Photo / Taken by Reporter Zhou Chengeng)

On the day of the visit, the weather was poor, and Thailand’s version of Mount Fuji was shrouded in layers of clouds, reluctant to show itself. Locals say the best time to admire its most stunning appearance is during the cool season, when flower fields in front of the viewing platform are in full bloom, and in the distance lies the “Mount Fuji.” With fresh air and breathtaking scenery, it’s truly one of the most beautiful hidden green oases on Thailand’s border.

Travelers can fly to Loei Airport and then transfer by car, which takes about three hours. For those wanting a private car and guided tour, there is currently a Taiwan-operated travel agency in Thailand called AK TRAVEL that offers this itinerary. For details, you can visithttp://www.akhousebkk.com/font/index.phporthe official Facebook pagefor more information.