Photo/Illutration A tourist takes a photo of Mount Fuji on Aug. 20 from the roadside in Fuji-Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture, where a screen blocking the view has been removed. (Yusui Munekata)

FUJI-KAWAGUCHIKO, Yamanashi Prefecture—Local authorities have removed a screen blocking an iconic view of Mount Fuji hovering over a convenience store here just three months after installing it.

The barrier was erected to deter tourists whose unruly behavior, including jaywalking and littering, had angered residents.

Officials removed the mesh screen on Aug. 15 as a precaution against Typhoon No. 7. They have no immediate plans to reinstall the barrier, but have indicated they may do so if tourist behavior worsens.

The barrier, 20 meters long and 2.5 meters high, was installed across the street from the front of the Lawson Kawaguchiko Ekimae outlet on May 21.

Before the screen was added, the site had become a popular photo spot among foreign tourists. The unique view of Mount Fuji—seemingly rising from the roof of a ubiquitous Japanese convenience store—had drawn many visitors.

After holes appeared in the screen, apparently caused by tourists attempting to take photos through them, officials reinforced the barrier on July 25 with stronger material.

They also changed the screen’s color from black to brown to better blend with the scenery.

The combination of the screen installation and local efforts to educate tourists appears to have had a positive impact. Officials report that the area has remained orderly since the barrier was removed.

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