Japanese police released data on June 12 showing that the number of people stranded on mountains in the country in 2025 reached 3,623 cases, marking a record high. Among them, 246 were foreign tourists, also the highest figure ever recorded.
The increase is attributed to a surge in mountaineering and adventure tourism activities, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Authorities have urged tourists and residents to follow safety measures such as checking weather forecasts, carrying full equipment, and avoiding restricted areas.
The data also shows a significant rise in mountain accidents compared to previous years, with many cases linked to getting lost, bad weather, or inadequate preparation. Police recommend that people and tourists register their itineraries with management agencies and carry emergency communication devices.