In which year was Mount Fuji designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and what is its official registered name?

Certainly! Here's the precise English translation in the requested markdown format:

Mount Fuji's Path to World Heritage

Mount Fuji was officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2013.

Its formal registered title is:

Fujisan, sacred place and source of artistic inspiration

Why "Cultural Heritage," Not "Natural Heritage"?

You might find it curious why such a magnificent natural landscape was registered not as "Natural Heritage" but as "Cultural Heritage." This uniqueness lies at the heart of Mount Fuji’s World Heritage bid and is key to understanding its value.

The formal title perfectly explains the reason:

Sacred Place: In the hearts of the Japanese, Mount Fuji has never been just an ordinary mountain; since ancient times, it has been a sacred "divine mountain." It is the center of mountain worship, where countless pilgrims (known in Japan as "kō") have climbed for worship. Many shrines, such as the renowned Asama Shrines, were built at its base and slopes to venerate the deity of Mount Fuji. Thus, it carries profound religious and spiritual significance.
Source of Artistic Inspiration: Mount Fuji’s perfect conical form has provided endless inspiration to countless artists. You have likely seen Japanese "ukiyo-e" woodblock prints? Katsushika Hokusai, one of the most famous ukiyo-e artists, created the "Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji" series, depicting the mountain's beauty from various angles. Beyond this, Mount Fuji appears in numerous poems, literary works, and paintings. It has become a core symbol of Japanese culture and art.

Simply put, UNESCO recognized that Mount Fuji's immense influence on Japanese and global culture and art transcends its value as a natural landscape. Therefore, it is protected as a Cultural Heritage site.

Heritage Extends Beyond the Mountain Itself

As a side note, this World Heritage listing is actually a "serial property." It encompasses not just the mountaintop but includes 25 component parts surrounding Mount Fuji, among them:

The volcanic body of Mount Fuji itself (from the 5th Station upwards)
The Fuji Five Lakes at its base (specific lakes)
Numerous historical shrines (e.g., Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha)
Pilgrim trails and natural landscapes (e.g., Shiraito Falls)

Hope this explanation helps you better understand Mount Fuji's World Heritage status!