Scale the heights of Mount Fuji with Google

Google has previously sent its Maps team beneath the waves around the Great Barrier Reef, up the tallest mountain in the world, and into the mile deep depths of the Grand Canyon. Most recently the team scaled the heights of iconic Japanese landmark Mount Fuji, with the familiar Street View cameras firmly strapped to their backs.

Today the search giant rolls out images of Japan's volcano for those who either cannot get there or do not wish to climb the 3,776 meters to reach the summit. "The currently dormant volcano has inspired countless haiku and woodblock prints over many centuries, and around the world, its perfect conical shape has become one of Japan’s most iconic symbols", says Setsuo Murai, Head of Geo Partnerships for Google Japan.

Earlier this year UNESCO granted Mount Fuji, Japan’s tallest mountain, official status as a World Heritage Site because of the cultural influence it has given the nation and the world. "If you can’t get over to Mt. Fuji this summer for the big hike, you can use Street View to take a virtual trek up its peak and enjoy the views of the world below", Google announces.

So what are you waiting for? You will not even need your hiking boots or water bottle. Just sit back in your desk chair and enjoy what relatively few will ever see.