By Roxanne Libatique
Insurance providers and travel industry representatives in Hong Kong are alerting travellers to Japan about the importance of comprehensive travel insurance and adherence to local safety advisories amid a notable increase in bear attacks. Recent incidents have led Japanese authorities to temporarily close several tourist sites, such as Senshu Park in Akita and Shirakawa-go in Gifu, both popular for their seasonal attractions.
Data from Japan’s Environment Ministry shows a record 20,792 bear sightings between April and September, the highest since tracking began in 2009. Since April, at least 13 fatalities and over 100 injuries have been reported as a result of bear encounters. October alone accounted for 88 attacks and seven deaths, marking unprecedented monthly figures. Akita prefecture experienced the greatest impact, with 56 incidents and three deaths during the reporting period.
Chan Pui-leung, general manager at China Taiping Insurance (HK), explained that travel insurance typically covers unexpected events, including animal attacks. However, he cautioned that policyholders must comply with local warnings and avoid restricted zones. “A key caveat is that if a traveller enters an area that has been closed or marked with explicit warnings, such as those for high bear sightings, the insurance policy may be voided because the action is taken with full knowledge of the risk and is no longer considered an accident,” Chan said, as reported by The Star.
Chan recommended that travellers assess their itineraries and select insurance plans with adequate accident and risk protection, noting that medical costs abroad can be substantial. He also highlighted the value of 24-hour emergency assistance, which can facilitate medical evacuation if necessary.
Travel agencies are responding by modifying itineraries and providing safety guidance to clients. Yuen Chun-ning, CEO of WWPKG, noted that closures of certain destinations have followed official advice. “The current concern is more about the situation next spring. If the Japanese government fails to introduce effective countermeasures, we may adjust our strategies to focus on travel routes such as Kyushu and Okinawa,” Yuen said, as reported by The Star.
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Steve Huen Kwok-chuen, executive director at EGL Tours, said that while their tours do not currently include affected areas, customers are advised to avoid walking alone, particularly near rural hot spring hotels. “Although we remind them to prioritise safety, we are less worried when guests are sightseeing because they move in a full group. However, for hot spring hotels located in the suburbs, we suggest that customers remain within the hotel area,” he said.
Despite the risks, some Hong Kong travellers are continuing with their plans. Wong Hok-yuen, who is scheduled to travel to Fukuoka, shared that he will proceed with his trip but intends to exercise caution. “We plan to stay in our hotel, soaking in hot springs at night, and will not wander around. While our family urged us to postpone the trip, I believe that as long as we remain vigilant and avoid going out unnecessarily at night, I am not too worried,” Wong told The Star.
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Industry leaders are encouraging travellers to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid distractions such as mobile phones while walking, and refrain from sudden movements or loud noises if encountering a bear.