Mountains: Hoverla and Fujisan
09/02/26, 03:00
Through symbols, a country can be felt as a whole — its scale, natural boundaries, and inner rhythm become visible. One such symbol for Ukraine is the mountains.
The Carpathians are among the oldest mountain ranges in Europe, formed around 65 million years ago. In Ukraine, they stretch across the western part of the country, shaping a natural boundary, the sources of rivers, and a landscape rich in ancient traditions. The highest peak of the Ukrainian Carpathians is Hoverla, rising to 2,061 meters — the highest point in Ukraine.
According to one interpretation, the mountain’s name comes from the Romanian hoverla, meaning “a hard-to-reach place” or “snowy peak.” Even in summer, small patches of snow can be seen near the summit. Hoverla’s shape resembles a pyramid — clear, composed, and instantly recognizable. Its silhouette lingers in memory.
A legend connects Hoverla with a story of love: a girl named Hoverla and a young man named Prut. An evil force separated them — the girl became a mountain, and the young man turned into a river flowing from her slopes. This story is not about loss, but about continuity — feelings that change form yet never disappear. Mountain and water remain together.
For Ukrainians, Hoverla is more than a geographical peak. Ascents to the summit have been practiced since the 19th century — first for scientific exploration, later as a symbolic and tourist route. During national holidays, climbing Hoverla takes on special meaning, becoming an act of presence, endurance, and freedom.
In Japan, a similar role is held by Fuji-san, a mountain rising 3,776 meters above sea level. Its nearly perfect conical form has become an image of harmony and balance. For centuries, Fujisan has appeared in painting, poetry, literature, and religious practice. Pilgrims climbed its slopes seeking spiritual purification and inner clarity.
In Japan, August 11 is celebrated as Mountain Day — a holiday honoring the beauty and importance of mountainous landscapes and their influence on human life. It reflects not only respect for nature, but a worldview in which height is associated with responsibility, stillness, and focus.
The silhouettes of Hoverla and Fuji-san are recognizable without words. They need no explanation, as they embody the experience of generations. These are not merely geographical summits — they are spiritual landmarks. They preserve history, nature, and the memory of the peoples to whom they belong.
Today, Ukrainians and Japanese continue to turn toward the mountains — not only as travelers. In times of trial, these symbols remind us of inner support and the upward path that demands effort yet reveals a wider horizon. Peaks are reached by those willing to walk step by step, with faith and respect for the land that sustains them.