Mountain stranding cases in Japan reach record high

By Necva Tastan

ISTANBUL (AA) - Mountain stranding incidents in Japan reached a record high of over 3,500 in 2022 as COVID-19 restrictions eased and hiking trails reopened, according to police data released on Thursday.

Japan's National Police Agency data showed a rise of 431 cases compared to the previous year, resulting in a total of 3,015 cases recorded, the highest number since 1961, Tokyo-based Kyodo News reported.

The Tokyo metropolitan area, including the well-known hiking spot of Mount Takao, witnessed a growing number of reported incidents.

Of those stranded, 327 people died or went missing – 44 more than the previous year – with around 70% of them being aged 60 or older.

Police recommended that people plan well in advance and check the weather conditions to prevent such accidents while also urging them to carry sufficient gear.

According to the data, 1,306 individuals sustained injuries while 1,873 were successfully rescued.