Hiking in Japan: what the mountain accident statistics say, and why you should file a trip plan

Japan's mountains draw hikers from around the world, from day hikes near Tokyo to the high peaks of the Japan Alps. Japan's National Police Agency publishes a detailed report on mountain accidents every year. The 2025 figures, released in June 2026, are a useful reality check for anyone planning a hike there, and many of the lessons apply anywhere.

2025 at a glance

The police note that accidents rose three years in a row from 2020, dipped in 2024, and rose again in 2025. Nagano Prefecture, home to much of the Japan Alps, had the most (358), followed by Hokkaido (199) and Yamanashi (192).

What goes wrong

Together, those three account for about two-thirds of people involved. Most were hiking (79.1%), with foraging for wild plants and mushrooms next (6.5%).

Who gets hurt

• People 60 and older were 47.6% of those involved, and 66.6% of those who died or went missing.
• Solo hikers who had an accident died or went missing 15.3% of the time, compared with 5.5% for groups of two or more.
• In 76.3% of accidents, someone called for help from the scene using a phone or radio.

Trip plans (登山計画書)

Japan has a long-standing system of trip plans, called tozan keikakusho or tozan todoke. The National Police Agency says sharing a plan with family or your workplace gives rescuers a fast lead if something goes wrong, and also makes you check your plan for gaps before you go. You can submit one at the trailhead mailbox, online, or through hiking map apps, to the prefectural police or local government.

In some places it's mandatory: Nagano Prefecture requires a trip plan for its designated mountain trails. Check the rules for the prefecture you're visiting.

What to put in a plan (our checklist): route and alternatives, everyone in the group, dates and expected return time, gear, and an emergency contact.

If you think you're lost

The police advice is to stop pushing forward and retrace your steps along the trail you came on, back to the official route. Most "lost" accidents start with continuing in hope.

Our suggestions

• Hike with others where you can; the solo numbers above are stark.
• Carry a charged phone and a backup battery, and know the local emergency number (110 for police, 119 for fire and ambulance in Japan).
• Build leg strength and balance before a big trip; see Strength for the trail.
• Check the weather for thunderstorms (lightning safety) and bears (bear safety) for your area.