The child had told his father he was tired at the sixth station of Mount Fuji, which is more than 2,000 m above sea level, according to local SBS TV.

Because his older brother had already gone ahead, the father told the seven‑year‑old to “wait here” and continued climbing with his other son, SBS reported.

Staff at a mountain hut noticed the boy waiting for about eight hours with only snacks and a soft drink and no money, and they alerted the police.

Police officers located the boy, rescued him, and later met his father at the eighth station, handing the child back to him.

The officer said the police gave the father a telling‑off for leaving his child behind, and the father apologized, admitting his carelessness.

This incident reminds hikers that proper supervision and careful planning are essential when climbing at high altitude, especially with children.